History

Originally the most important royal church in Anglo-Saxon England, by the turn of the 10th century Winchester was home to a community of monks who lived a peaceful life, praying eight times each day. Gradually the Bishop built the church up into a thriving Cathedral that towered over Winchester. The bones of a previous Bishop, St Swithun, were dug up and placed in a shrine, becoming widely famed for their healing powers. People would make the pilgrimage from all across Europe, and legend has it that the wall round his shrine was adorned with crutches of the people his bones had healed.

Henry VIII's reign brought many of England's monasteries to their untimely closure, so down came St Swithun's Priory to be reinstated as a Church of England Cathedral. By the early 16th century, much of the cathedral you can see today had been rebuilt, and would continue standing with the help of deep-sea diver William Walker, who worked tirelessly for six years underwater to stabilise the Cathedral's subsiding foundations.

Facilities

Winchester Cathedral is proud to offer four different reception venues for you to hire

Lawn Marquees - There are four different lawns for you to select, offering formal wedding breakfast capacity from 120 - 400 and sufficient space for an informal party of 600. The marquees offered are heated, so you can alfresco all year round! And as always, the Cathedral itself presents a stunning backdrop, perfect for wedding photos.

Capacity - 120-400 (formally seated, dining), up to 600 (informal, standing, buffet)

The Paul Woodhouse Suite - With a contemporary feel, the Paul Woodhouse Suite boasts high ceilings, wooden floors and glassed walls, for a fantastic view and protection from the elements. It has a private terrace should you wish to step outside.

Capacity - 25 - 85 (daytime), 200 (evenings) with use of the Refectory and terrace.

The Prior's Hall And Chapter Room - A 15th-century building overlooking the Cathedral gardens, Gothic in style with high, arching windows, plus a bright adjacent room - a perfect place to hold a drinks reception followed by your wedding breakfast.

Capacity - 120

The Undercroft - Originally an integral part of the monastery's private medieval cloisters, this atmospheric 13th-century room featuring vaulted stone ceilings and an imposing fireplace is perfect for more intimate gatherings of up to 40 for a formal meal.

Capacity - 40

The Wessex Centre- With its own private walled garden, this fantastically modern building is built using sustainable materials and locally sourced resources. Light floods in the room from its impressive floor to ceiling windows with views overlooking the Cathedral.

Maximum capacity - 72 guests

Catering And Services

With its stunning backdrop and variety of reception rooms to suit every couple's style, Winchester Cathedral also boasts phenomenal cuisine. Banquets, hot or cold buffets, hog-roasts, canapés, dessert bars and smoothie stations - you'll not be disappointed.

For a brief selection of what the caterers can offer, have a look at on of their sample packages.

Other Services

Along with providing such a stunning backdrop for your wedding reception, the team at Winchester Cathedral will also be able to help you with behind-the-scenes aspects, meaning you can simply relax and enjoy your day. Services include organising menu planning, general waiting staff, flowers, photography and wedding stationery printing.