There are plenty of fun activities in Winchester and surrounding areas over the festive period for you to get involved with!
We’ve put together some local activities, budget-friendly ideas, and tips from students. You’ll also find information about external support while the University is closed.
We hope this guide helps you feel connected, supported and able to make the most of the holidays.
Student Support and Success will be open from 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday (excepting the period from 25 December4 January inclusive, when the University will be closed). If you need assistance or someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Student Journey team. For urgent, out of hours support on campus, please call the Wardens on 01962 826404 or Site Security on 01962 827666.
Click the icon below for information about library opening times, or search ‘Knowledge and Digital Services’ on the Intranet:
We have collated this range of activities from a local website search to give you an idea of what is on offer over the winter break in Winchester (and surrounding areas). We are not affiliated in any way with the following activities or providers.
At the time of searching, all activities were available, but this may be subject to change. Opening dates may vary due to closure over the festive period. Please also note that these activities have a cost attached to them. Therefore, ensure you look carefully at the details of the event for any booking or entry fees and check whether pre-booking is required.
You can click on the activity for more information.
24 October - 4 January
Various time slots available, check website for more information.
The Esplanade, Southampton, SO15
1FQ
Southampton Christmas Market
Subheading
13 November - 4 January
Opening hours vary, check website for more information
Southampton City Centre, SO14 7FP
Winchester City Mill - “A Gingerbread Christmas”
20 November - 4 January
10am - 4pm
Bridge Street, Winchester, SO23
0EJ
Winchester Christmas Market
21 November - 22 December
Opening times vary, check website for more information.
The Close, Winchester, So23 9LS
Deanery Bookstall - Preloved Book Shop
21 November - 22 December
10am - 4pm
The Close, Winchester, So23 9LS
‘Light up’ - Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
27 November - 3 January
Various time slots available, check website for more information.
Jermyns Ln, Romsey SO51 0QA FREE
28 November - 3 January
10am - 4pm
Marwell Wildlife, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1JH
Steam Illuminations - Alresford
28 November - 4 January
Various times available, check website for more information. The Railway Station, Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9JG
19 December and 30 December
Check website for times Online
After Dark - Starlight Cinema: ET
28 December
5.15pm for 5.45pm
Winchester Science Centre, Telegraph Way, Winchester, SO21 1HZ
Below are some ideas for activities which will help you stay connected, be creative or immerse yourself in everything Winchester has to offer during this time.
A reminder that we are not affiliated in any way with the following activities or providers.
Winter break is a great time to give back to the community!
Supporting a local cause can also help you meet new people, feel more connected and develop new skills. Over the break, you could volunteer in:
Food banks or community kitchens
A charity shop
A care home
Or help out at a local festive community event!
Have a look on CareerConnect, or search for volunteering opportunities on the internet.
Why not organise a fun catch up with your university networks, in person or online!
Spending time outside can lift your mood, boost your energy and help you to feel grounded. Winchester is home to plenty of country walks and stunning scenery. Have you visited these places yet?
Get Creative! Brighten the break with some crafting, cooking or learn a new skill.
(The walk to the Christmas Market is on the official university’s Instagram @uniwinchester, if you need directions!)
Student Space from Student Minds has a range of support available for students during the holidays. This includes resources, such as articles on ‘Staying at University over the Christmas break’ and ‘Preparing to go back to University’.
Click the image below to access their website.
Here are some additional support services which are open over the break and can help students in need, 24/7.
For more information, please click on the icons below to access their websites.