An invitation to walk in Keats’ footsteps
Jane Campion’s latest film ‘Bright Star’ has reignited an interest in the life and loves of the romantic poet John Keats. For the many who are inspired by the film, Winchester City Council’s tourism service has the perfect proposal – to visit Winchester and walk in the footsteps of the great poet.
Winchester Tourism is launching a modernised version of its self-guided trail known as the Keats Walk to encourage people to follow in the poet’s footsteps.
Keats visited Winchester in 1819. Letters he wrote at the time show he spent a happy period here, taking a daily walk along the river to St Cross. On
Ellen Simpson,
Cllr George Beckett , Leader of Winchester City Council and Portfolio Holder for Economy and Tourism, said: “Few urban destinations boast the benefits of leafy walks in water meadows so close to the heart of a bustling city. Winchester City Council is constantly seeking new ways to help draw visitors to the area in all seasons to sustain the local economy. Autumn has traditionally been a quieter time for visiting so we are hoping for a really good level of interest. It’s hoped that this more modern leaflet will bring our links with Keats to the attention of a new audience at a time when modern interest in his work will peak.”
To download your copy of Keats: A Winchester walk in the poet’s footsteps, please visit www.visitwinchester.co.uk or pick up a free copy from Winchester Tourist Information Centre while stocks last.
The tourist information centre is open from 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday. The team can be contacted on tel 01962 840 500, e-mail tourism@winchester.gov.uk or via the website at www.visitwinchester.co.uk.