A Win Guide to September in Winchester

So September has crept up on us.  And there are new beginnings on the Winchester horizon. The Autumn equinox is almost here and a new school term of course. As nature moves from green to reds and browns, it seems like no time since summer began.  But fear not, Winchester as always will provide a range of events and treats to delight and distract this September.

First of all, you may have spotted the yellow banners and signs announcing the Littleton & Harestock village show taking place on Saturday 3 September. It’s a gloriously traditional affair with stalls aplenty. There’s a flower show, a well stocked tombola, the Barton Stacey jazz band and the Royal Artillery marching band. Local Littleton resident Austen Hooker has written a rather delightful history of the show here. Here’s a link to the website for a full timetable of events and details about how to visit. Don’t miss the evening Barn dance and Ceilidh event, with tickets available to buy online in advance.

The Win Guide is getting very exciting about the Heritage Open Days, 8-11 September.  Over 40 free events will be taking place throughout Winchester, with both celebrated and unusual heritage spots opening their doors for special tours.  Ever wondered what goes on backstage at the Theatre Royal?  Well, Heritage Open Days will give you a chance to take a free tour.  Perhaps you’d like Adam Architects to tour you around Hyde House, part of the original Hyde Abbey complex? If you missed our Win Guide to the Heritage Open Days, you can read it here. Remember to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Wintonians will have the chance to get creative with their writing at the The Green Man pub on 22 September at 7.30pm.  Chris Van Shaick will lead a session of workshops, games and exercises to encourage wordsmithery, washed down with drinks and a buffet for £30. Places are limited so early booking is advised.

And…

What’s that sound?  The inaugural Winchester Jazz Festival is swinging into the city 22 – 25 September with rather exciting top acts and emerging artists booked into various venues across the city for 4 days. Visit the festival website for a full schedule of events. The celebration of all things jazz is working with Winchester’s arts venues as well as independent pubs, bars and cafés to offer a diverse program of ticketed and free events.

And finally, if the jazz dancing doesn’t do it, why not run your way into the Autumn with the Winchester Half Marathon on Saturday 25 September. It’s a great chance to run through the beautiful city of Winchester while also being a fantastic way to get active and a chance to raise some funds for charity.  To register now and find out more details, visit the website here.

We’ll be bringing you more updates throughout the month.  Have fun, Winchester!