Christmas in Winchester
Winchester’s Christmas festivities began on Thursday 20 November when the new Christmas lights were switched on by the Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Michael Read, and BBC South Today’s Georgie Palmer. There are plenty of festive events on offer in Winchester this Christmas, including the return of the famous Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink and Christmas Market.
Click here to see BBC South’s coverage of Winchester’s Christmas preparations, including the switching on of the lights.
Here are just a few of the things to enjoy in Winchester this Christmas:
Winchester Christmas Market
27 Nov 2008 - 14 Dec 2008
Situated in the grounds of Winchester's historic cathedral, the German-style Christmas market comprises 80 wooden chalets surrounding the Winchester Cathedral ice rink. A wonderful range of interesting, tasteful and unusual gifts and foods, including locally produced crafts, will satisfy the most discerning of shoppers.
Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink: Skating in Paradise
27 Nov 2008 - 4 Jan 2009
Don your hat and gloves and head to Winchester's Christmas ice rink. With an adjoining café offering stunning views of the cathedral and the surrounding Christmas Market, there's fun to be had both on and off the ice.
One-hour sessions include free skate hire and fitting.
Prices and tickets are available via the cathedral's online booking system or from the box office, tel 01962 857 276.
Mayor’s Christmas Carol Service
7 Dec 2008 at 6.30pm
For those in search of a festive musical treat this Christmas, why not go along to the Mayor's Carol Service taking place on Sunday 7 December at the Guildhall in Winchester.
The Winchester Singers, part of the Winchester City Festival Choir, will be offering a range of carols, music and readings in celebration of Christmas.
The concert will begin at 6.30pm until 7.45pm. Tickets are available from the Tourist Information Centre and are completely FREE. A collection will be made after the Carol Service in aid of the Mayor's Charities.
For more details of these and other festive treats in Winchester this year, visit our official tourism website www.visitwinchester.co.uk . The website contains all the information you need to enjoy a magical Christmas in Winchester.