Winchester is one of Hampshire’s most sought after areas thanks to its excellent homes, great schools and access to open spaces. There’s also a real community feel, not to mention great architecture and a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes and bars to explore. But is this Hampshire city the right place for you? Here’s everything you need to know about moving to Winchester.
A brief history of Winchester
Winchester was the first capital city of England after developing from the Roman town of Venta Belgarum. It remained the most important city in the country until the Norman Conquest in the 11th century. Today, it’s one of the most desirable cities in the UK.
Where is Winchester?
Winchester is located in the county of Hampshire in the southeast of England. It lies to the western end of the South Downs National Park and is 60 miles southwest of London, 18 miles to Andover and 14 miles to Southampton on the coast.
Moving to Winchester
There’s a mix of different types of houses in Winchester, from cottages to townhouses and modern properties. The sought-after Fulflood area has cottages to choose from, while The Hyde area has many Victorian semis and terraces. St Cross is where you will find some of the most in-demand housing in the city.
Buying in Winchester
The average house value in Winchester is £604,874, with actual paid prices slightly lower at £583,429. Expect to pay an average of £784,368 for a detached home, £495,930 for a terraced house and £307,056 for an apartment.
Winchester property prices are significantly higher than the UK national average of £251,000 hence it’s not listed in the most affordable places to live. Over the last 12 months, house prices have increased by 4.8% and 15.8% in the previous five years.
There’s a varied selection of estate and letting agents in Winchester, with chain and independent options available to help you find a home.
Renting in Winchester
One-bedroom homes rent for an average of £1,000 per month in Winchester, with two-bedroom properties fetching in the region of £1,250 per month. For larger homes, expect to pay an average of £1,700 per month.
Cost of living
If you’re moving to Winchester, you can expect to pay marginally lower prices than the UK national average when it comes to everyday living. A meal for one person is around £11, while a cappuccino is about £2.75 and a pint of milk is £1.00p.
Utility bills are lower in Winchester, with the average price around £135 per month for electricity, heating, cooling, water and waste disposal (UK average £155). Broadband is also cheaper at about £26 per month.
Living in Winchester
Open spaces
The South Downs National Park is the place to start your outdoor adventure if you live in Winchester. It’s filled with wooded hills, secret valleys and plenty of trails where you can either hike or bike. South Downs Way runs for just shy of 100 miles.
Transport links
If you’re moving to Winchester, you needn’t worry about transport links. The city is well connected, with London only an hour away by train. This makes it ideal for commuters who want easy access in and out of the capital. Southampton, Portsmouth, Weymouth, Bournemouth and Birmingham are just some of the other places accessible from Winchester.
Shopping
You will find one of the largest farmers’ markets in the UK in Winchester – more than 80 producers sell all sorts of delicious foods. For everyday shoppers, the high street will serve you well with its pedestrianised shopping options. Then there’s Brooks Shopping Centre and Parchment Street, which has specialist shops, designer stores and boutiques.
Eateries
Stop by The Chesil Rectory for modern gourmet British cuisine set in an exposed beam restaurant with stripped floor dining and a fireplace. Or try Kyoto Kitchen for Japanese food in stylish settings. The Ivy Winchester Brasserie is also a favourite with its dining and champagne tea service.
Nightlife
Winchester has a good selection of nightclubs and bars whether you’re after something lively or something slightly more low-key, there are many pubs serving a range of ales.
Art & culture
The Hat Fair is the UK’s longest-running outdoor arts festival and is held every year in July. Anyone looking for cultural experiences should head to The Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium, which has more than 100 exhibits to discover.
Things to do
Winchester Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city and one of Europe’s largest mediaeval cathedrals with more than 15 centuries of history. Other historical landmarks include Wolvesey Castle, Winchester City Mill and the Winchester City Museum.
What’s not to like?
Winchester is fast becoming one of the most expensive places to live in the UK, which means homes don’t come cheap. They’re £350,000 more than the national average.
Who lives there?
Winchester has a population of more than 45,000 and a median age of 38.
Typical broadband speeds
The average broadband speed is 100mbps in Winchester, which is much faster than the UK national average of 67mbps.
Crime rates
The overall crime rate in Winchester averages around 26 crimes per 1,000 people.
Moving to Winchester?
Move iQ’s property report provides an in-depth analysis of specific properties as well as details about the local area of Winchester. If you’re thinking of moving, make sure you get one first!
Last Updated: April 12th, 2024
