Winchester College
College Street Winchester SO23 9NA
Founded in 1382 by William of Wykeham, exclusive Winchester College is one of oldest public schools in the country – ironically, established for ‘poor scholars’ – and still occupies its original medieval buildings. For an insight into the finest education (a lot of) money can buy, take one of the hour-long tours of its historic courts and cloisters, which include a visit to the original dining hall and the 17th-century school room, designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
Guided tours include daily College Tours, focusing on the school’s history and medieval architecture; War Cloister Tours, marking 100 years since the opening of the private war memorial; and Garden Tours, exploring the biodiversity and horticultural history of the extensive grounds. You can also visit the Treasury Museum and there are public events throughout the year.
It's still, of course, a working school, so access can sometimes vary and it's worth checking (and booking) ahead.
