War Cloister Tours - Winchester College
College Street, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 9NA
Overview:
Commemorating 100 years since the opening of the College’s tranquil private war memorial, these tours bring to life the stories of the pupils and Dons from Winchester who died in both World Wars and subsequent conflicts, as well as the architecture, symbolism, and impact of War Cloister today.
War Cloister tours last for one hour and are led by our experienced and friendly War Cloister guides. Tours start at the Porters’ Lodge on College Street, SO23 9NA.
History:
War Cloister was the vision of Headmaster Montague Rendall and was originally designed as a memorial to the 500 Wykehamists killed during the First World War, whose names are engraved on the outer walls. Wykehamists who died in World War II were subsequently listed on the inner columns, and memorials have also been added to remember Wykehamists killed in conflicts since 1945.
The great roofed quadrangle was designed by the architect Sir Herbert Baker with contributions from the Art Master R.M.Y. Gleadowe, who designed the gates and the Lombardic script that runs all the way around the cloister. Work began in 1922 and the memorial was dedicated by the Duke of Connaught on 31st May 1924. It has been described by Historic England as the largest private war memorial in Europe.
For more information about War Cloister, please visit: https://www.winchestercollegeatwar.com/warcloister.aspx
College Street, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 9NA
Winchester College is committed to making as many of its events as possible accessible to all. This tour is accessible for wheelchair users; however, please be aware that there is a not a hearing loop in War Cloister.