We are the Winchester Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Harry M.
Jane Austen loved Hampshire and had several connections with Winchester. Eight of her nephews went to Winchester College and her father had an account at what is now P&G Wells bookshop in College Street. She would have visited Georgian Winchester having her music teacher, George Chard, the Cathedral’s assistant organist, here as well as friends Mrs Heathcote and Miss Bigg who resided in the Cathedral Close.
Our walk takes us through Winchester and into the nearby countryside. At the end we consider the last weeks of Jane’s life, she having moved to Winchester to seek medical care. We retrace the route of the mournful procession to her funeral at the Cathedral towards the end of the walk.
This walk is free and is in conjunction with the Beyond the Bonnets: Working Women in Jane Austen’s Novels at The ARC, Winchester from 26 July to 2 November 2025 and the walk needs to be booked on the ARC’s web site, arcwinchester.org.uk. Simply scroll to the date in the What’s On section. https://www.arcwinchester.org.uk/event/winchester-jane-austen-celebration-95-45-mile-walk
Please wear appropriate footwear for a country walk. Bring the layers needed for the English summer. Bring along plenty of drink and picnic refreshments for the day. We will stop for a mid morning break and lunch.
Chesil St CP near the exit to the City (toilet end). Charges apply. Or walk 5 minutes from the bus station/ stops on foot. 10 minutes from the station.
