Here Comes Springtime In Winchester

As the days lengthen and the mercury rises, Winchester is THE place to be. With a spring in her step, Viv Micklefield looks at some of its highlights for coming months.

- Viv Micklefield

WHEN it comes to the best place to live in the UK, Winchester gets the vote and that’s official, according to a nationwide survey carried out by the Halifax. Credited with a combination of above average weekly earnings, a low crime rate and good health, Government figures reveal that Wintonians are among the happiest, satisfied, and most content in the country.

However, even if we don’t live in Hampshire’s capital there’s still the opportunity to grab a slice of this good life. Whether you fancy wandering its historic streets, dipping into its fantastic shops and eateries, absorbing its vibrant arts and culture or simply chilling-out in the shadow of its magnificent cathedral. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to visit Winchester.

DRINK UP

Beer lovers know a good pint when they taste one and that’s true of the South Hampshire members of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) who organise Winchester’s annual Real Ale and Cider Festival. It returns to the Guildhall on Friday and Saturday March 17-18 and is guaranteed to feature a host of popular Hampshire brews, proof if needed that one of the county’s oldest industries is alive and well.

Those rolling out the barrel this year, will be hoping to get one over on Winchester’s very own Alfred’s Brewery, winner of the 2016 Festival’s best beer award for its pale ale. And with day and evening sessions you won’t miss a chance to sample; advance tickets and more details can be found at winchesterbeerfestival. org.uk

Or why not…