Westgate Museum
Dominating the upper end of the High Street and located close to the Great Hall, the Westgate is one of two surviving fortified gateways in Winchester. The structure shows evidence of 12th century construction, with modifications in the 13th and late 14th centuries. The portcullis and two early gunports, for use with hand-held cannon, in the western façade were part of the later remodelling.
During the 16th to 18th centuries, the Westgate was used as both a lock-up prison, for the drunken and disorderly, and as a debtors' gaol. Much of the graffiti carved in the softer stone in the upper chamber of the gate, derives from this use.
In 1898, the City Corporation acquired the Westgate and began to use it as a museum and respository for the City archives. Today, displays include the famous collection of pre-Imperial weights and measures, and a fine painted ceiling from Winchester College which was made on the occasion of Queen Mary I's marriage to Philip of Spain in Winchester in 1554.
VISITORS INFORMATION:
Opening Times
April - October
Monday - Saturday 10-5
Sunday 12-5
Closed from 1st November - 8th February 2010
February & March
Tuesday - Saturday 10-4
Sunday 12-4
Admission:
Admission Free
Disabled Access:
Due to its age this building is not wheelchair accessible and there is a considerably steep staircase from the street entrance.
Guide dogs are permitted and there is a hearing loop.
For those with visual impairments there is a 'touch and hear' information point.
Staff are very friendly and offer a high level of customer service.
Activities
Brass rubbing activities
Replica armour to try on
Children's quizzes
Small gift shop reflecting its collections
Address:
Economic and Cultural Services
Winchester City Council
Colebrook Street
Winchester
SO23 9LJ