Westgate Museum
Westgate, Winchester
One of only two surviving medieval city gates in Winchester; its upper floor once served as a prison, with prisoners' carvings on the walls, and its roof overlooks High Street.
The West Gate was built in the 12th century and remodelled in the 14th century with arrow slits, serving as the western defensive gate of the old city. The upper floor was once used as a debtors' prison, and names and drawings carved by prisoners in the 17th century can still be seen on the walls. The exhibition rooms display a Tudor timber ceiling and Winchester's standard weights and measures. Visitors can climb onto the roof for views of High Street and the cathedral. Admission is free, but opening hours are limited, so check the city council website. It is right beside the Guildhall.
Opening hours
Open weekends and holidays, about February–November
Nearby sights
- Winchester Military Museums
- The Great Hall & Round Table
- Buttercross & High Street
- Winchester Cathedral
- Winchester College
- Wolvesey Castle (Old Bishop's Palace)
- Statue of Alfred the Great
- Winchester City Mill