View relics from the ancient Roman world and admire stunning mosaics at the Winchester City Museum. Step back in time as you explore a Victorian-era main street and try on exquisite period costumes.
Begin your visit to this charming museum by heading to the top floor gallery. This fascinating exhibition charts Roman rule in Winchester. As you enter, the first thing you will notice is the beautiful mosaic that covers a section of the floor. Marvel at the vivid colours and intricate patterns of the Roman relic. Explore the rest of the room to find ceramic pots and jugs as well as coins and weapons that have been preserved for thousands of years.
Stroll downstairs to the Wintanceaster Gallery to learn about how the area has changed through the ages. Walk through a reconstructed 19th-century street or learn about the gruesome battles fought between the Saxons and Normans as they struggled for control of England. Children and adults will both enjoy trying on a selection of costumes and imagining how life was during the Victorian period. You can also try brass rubbing or draw your own Anglo-Saxon pot design.
Leave yourself plenty of time to check out the modern history gallery on the ground floor. A particular highlight here is an exhibition of dazzling jewellery that belonged to local families. Uncover the highs and lows that the town experienced during the two World Wars and hear the inspiring stories of some of its former residents. The selection of rare early photographs of the city is not to be missed. Be sure to check out the scale model that shows how the region changed during the 20th century.
The Winchester City Museum is located in the heart of Winchester, adjacent to the cathedral. The museum is open Monday to Saturday and entry is free.
