With a nave that stretches more than 170 metres, Winchester Cathedral is the longest medieval cathedral in the entire world. It’s a spectacular sight to behold, even when just visiting for a few hours. But what if you could wake up in the shadow of its magnificent architecture every morning? Well, now you can.
For the first time ever, members of the public have the opportunity to stay on the cathedral grounds overnight. The holiday let isn’t actually in the cathedral itself – it’s just behind in The Deanery.
The property has five bedrooms (two of which are ensuite) and can sleep up to 10 people. While it may not be an entire cathedral, it’s still packed with history. There’s a 70ft-long gallery that was especially built for hosting King Charles II in the 17th century, and a magnificent library packed with antique books.
You’ll also find real Roman mosaic fragments in the porch and a plaque that commemorates a meeting held there between Queen Elizabeth II and prime minister Sir Anthony Eden in 1955. More artefacts dotted about the property include typical ecclesiastical vestments, a fourteenth century sculpture and artwork by a former dean. It’s not all old stuff though. The Deanery has a modern fitted kitchen and has been recently decorated and furnished by a team of local Hampshire businesses.
Guests at The Deanery will also get to make the most of ‘one of the largest and most beautiful gardens within the Cathedral Close’ with lawn games and uninterrupted views of cathedral. Plus, they’ll have exclusive access to the secret Lower Deanery Garden further down the grounds.
On its website, Winchester Cathedral says: ‘By booking a stay at The Deanery, you are guaranteed a unique and unforgettable experience.
‘Not only will you be staying in a beautiful historic home with twnety-first century features, but you will be nestled next to the Cathedral within the Inner Cathedral Close, joining the residential community of priests and virgers behind imposing locked gates at night.’ (Don’t worry, you will be given your own keys, too.)
Sounds tempting? Well, a stay at Winchester’s Deanery will set you back you £4,500 a week. You can book it for three nights or more here – but you should be quick, it’s only available for stays until the new dean moves in next year. All the money raised will go towards the daily cost of £14,000 needed to operate the cathedral and ensure it stays in top shape for decades to come.
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