Set within tranquil gardens, England’s oldest charitable institution features traditional 15th-century architecture and a stunning Norman church.
Stroll around the courtyard of the Hospital of St. Cross where brethren have been caring for the sick and needy for hundreds of years. Admire stained-glass windows and the carved cross inside the church or step out into the garden to find trees planted by members of the royal family.
The hospital was founded in 1132 by Henry of Blois, the grandson of William the Conqueror. It was established to care for the poor and travelling pilgrims. Today, you can still knock on the door of the porter’s lodge to receive a crust of bread and a horn of ale (swig of beer).
Make your way into the hospital grounds and wander past the brothers’ lodgings, which line one side of the complex. These lodgings were built during the mid-1400s and provide accommodation for up to 25 residents, who in return devote their time to the hospital and church. Notice the high octagonal chimneys that symbolise these homes.
Follow the path around the courtyard to reach the church. This is the only feature that remains from the original 12th-century hospital. The stone walls are more than 2 feet (1 metre) thick and were made using materials sourced from as far away as Normandy and the Isle of Wight. Tall columns stretch towards a curved ceiling inside. View stained-glass windows that depict members of the brethren and spot the carved cross of St. Cross standing on a column in the north aisle.
Don’t miss the two pretty gardens outside. The Masters Garden has leafy trees and plants that frame a lily pond, while the Compton Garden includes a tulip tree planted by the Queen Mother and a white-flowering redbud tree commemorates a visit from the Duchess of Cornwall in 2008.
The Hospital of St. Cross is a 20-minute walk south of downtown Winchester along a pretty riverside trail. The hospital is open all week through the summer and closed on Sundays between November and March.
