Part of the Winchester Walking Weekend 2024.
Heading south from the cathedral, we'll climb St Catherine's Hill for fine views, visit an historic viaduct and pass St Cross Hospital.
We begin by walking down to the River Itchen, passing Jane Austen's final home and Winchester College. The route is then on the east side of the river and along the bed of the disused railway line. Depending on the weather conditions, there will be a steep ascent of St Catherine's Hill to see the wonderful view over Winchester.
The steep descent is via wooden steps (reputedly 333 of them)! The route continues south along the old railway line to view the splendid disused viaduct over the river. Crossing the river, the walk continues past St Cross Hospital and then back into Winchester beside the river, passing Winchester College and its playing fields.
It is possible to catch a bus back from near St Cross.