Go with the festive flow as we immerse ourselves on a varied walk, steeped in history, with lovely views of Winchester and a heart-warming finale at the Cathedral and Christmas Market. (We're doing this hike with [Variety is the Spice](https://www.meetup.com/variety-is-the-spice-meetup-group/) Meetup group.) **Hike facts** Approximately 14 km /9 miles. Duration: actual walking time, circa 4 hours. Hike grade: Easy to Moderate (there are some hills) Weather: [see here](https://www.bbc.com/weather/2633858) Donation: £5 cash on the day What to take: a packed lunch and plenty of water. **Also, we're not insured, so please have your own insurance for this type of activity.** **Walk description** Starting from the station, we'll pass the town clock and the statue of Queen Anne, presented to the city in 1713. Next, we'll visit the historic '[Butter Cross](https://www.hampshire-history.com/butter-cross-winchester/)' before moving on to King Alfred's statue. We'll then take a brief stop at the Visitor Information Centre to grab a free City Walk leaflet. With the city bridge and city mill in sight, we’ll follow the River Itchen to St [Catherine's Hill](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Catherine%27s_Hill,_Hampshire) for great views of the city. Our journey continues along the Itchen Way to our halfway point and lunch break at Shawford. After lunch, we’ll pass the medieval [Hospital of St Cross](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hospital_of_St_Cross) and the ruins of [Wolvesey Castle](https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/wolvesey-castle-old-bishops-palace/). As we head back towards the city, we'll see [Winchester College](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winchester_College) and the house where [Jane Austen](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jane_Austen) spent her final weeks. Just a few steps further, we’ll find the medieval Cheyney Court before passing through Prior's Gate and towards the Deanery. Prepare to be revitalized as we reach the [Cathedral](https://www.britannica.co

Description supplied by the event organiser.