St Catherine's Hill and Mizmaze
A scenic chalk hill with Iron Age ruins, offering panoramic Winchester views and a rare historic turf mizmaze.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
St Catherine's Hill and Mizmaze
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic chalk hill with Iron Age ruins, offering panoramic Winchester views and a rare historic turf mizmaze.
"A therapeutic spot with lovely views over Winchester, peaceful and perfect for fresh air."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paths can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the hill and mizmaze .
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Catching the sunset from the top offers incredible views over Winchester .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mizmaze
Northeast side of the hill
A unique, single-path turf labyrinth offering a meditative walking experience. One of England's last surviving historic turf mazes .
Panoramic Winchester Views
Summit of St Catherine's Hill
Stunning vistas of Winchester, the River Itchen, and surrounding countryside, especially beautiful at sunset .
Iron Age Settlement Ruins
Top of the hill
Explore the remnants of an ancient Iron Age settlement, adding a layer of history to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover the Mizmaze
Best Views of Winchester
and a peaceful escape from the city.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paths can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the hill and mizmaze.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Catching the sunset from the top offers incredible views over Winchester.
Planning a Day in Winchester: What Are the Must-See Attractions?
🧘 Meditative Mizmaze Walk
Walk the mizmaze slowly to experience its calming, meditative effect.
🐇 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for rabbits and other wildlife, especially in the meadows.
Exploring St Catherine's Hill, Winchester | Scenic Walk & Stunning Views In 4K
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
The paths can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the hill and mizmaze.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Catching the sunset from the top offers incredible views over Winchester.
🧘 Meditative Mizmaze Walk
Walk the mizmaze slowly to experience its calming, meditative effect.
🐇 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for rabbits and other wildlife, especially in the meadows.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St Catherine's Hill for its therapeutic atmosphere, stunning panoramic views of Winchester, and the unique, meditative mizmaze. It's considered a peaceful, uncrowded spot perfect for relaxation and a gentle hike, with the added charm of abundant wildlife.
"St Catherine’s Hill is an easy and therapeutic spot for a quick hike with lovely views over Winchester. It’s peaceful, not too crowded, and perfect for a bit of fresh air and relaxation close to the city."
Bloomy Loomy
"There is a labyrinth on the NE side (about 60 degrees NE) side of The Clump. The starting point is very close to the clump (see photo).
This is the largest labyrinth I have come across in the U.K. Even bigger than the one in Glastonbury (and has less crazy people).
It’s is such a pleasant surprise to discover a labyrinth here.
Walking a labyrinth is believed to have a meditative effect. A labyrinth is different from a maze in that there is only one way in, and once you reach the centre point of the labyrinth, you turn around and walk back on the same path.
Because your brain is not trying to solve problems when you’re walking a labyrinth, and it’s not in a fight or flight mode (not trying to get out of the maze), you can relax, and pay attention to how you feel and how your foot steps land on the ground.
Have fun!!"
Vivien Chong
"Decent walk and views for anyone who likes a wander, nothing too special about this hill but you can see a bit of Winchester Cathedral from the top - very peaceful on a nice sunny day"
Jem Cab
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Catherine's Hill is easily accessible from Winchester. You can walk from the city center, which takes about 20-30 minutes, or drive and park at the base. Some visitors mention a small cafe at the base.
Yes, there is parking available at the base of St Catherine's Hill, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While walking is a popular option, you can also take a bus from Winchester city center towards the general area, though direct stops might require a short walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, St Catherine's Hill is a public space managed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and is free to enter. There are no ticket requirements.
St Catherine's Hill is open year-round during daylight hours. Access is generally unrestricted.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A mizmaze, like the one on St Catherine's Hill, is a type of labyrinth with a single, winding path. It's located on the northeast side of the hill and is one of England's few surviving historic turf mazes.
From the top, you'll get fantastic panoramic views of Winchester, including the Cathedral, the River Itchen, and the surrounding water meadows and countryside.
Yes, it's a great spot for families. Children often enjoy exploring the open space, spotting rabbits, and walking the mizmaze.
While there are no extensive facilities on the hill itself, some reviews mention a small cafe located at the base of the hill.
The hill is a chalk hill with grassy slopes. The paths can be uneven, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the best panoramic shots of Winchester. The mizmaze also provides unique photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! Sunset provides a beautiful golden light over the city and countryside, making it a prime time for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring picnic supplies as there are no cafes on the hill itself, though one reviewer mentioned a cafe at the base.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
It's a safe and accessible location for a solo hike, with clear paths and the option to engage with the historical elements of the Iron Age settlement. The relatively low crowds, especially on weekday mornings, ensure a serene experience. You can easily spend a couple of hours here enjoying the fresh air and the beautiful scenery without feeling rushed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystical Mizmaze
The mizmaze is located on the northeast side of the hill, near 'The Clump'. It's larger than some other UK labyrinths, offering a substantial walk. The experience is often highlighted by visitors as a pleasant surprise and a peaceful activity, contrasting with the more 'crazy' crowds sometimes found at other historical sites.
When exploring the mizmaze, remember to walk slowly and intentionally. The lack of decision-making allows your mind to quiet down, making it a perfect spot for a moment of calm amidst your travels. It’s a simple yet profound experience that connects you to ancient traditions of walking and reflection.
Panoramic Vistas and Historical Echoes
It's a popular spot for photographers and anyone looking to appreciate the beauty of the local landscape.Beyond the scenic beauty, the hill itself holds historical significance as the site of an Iron Age settlement. While much of the original structure is gone, the earthworks and the very presence of the ruins add a layer of ancient history to your visit. This blend of natural beauty and historical depth makes St Catherine's Hill a compelling destination for a day out.
Many visitors find the walk up to be therapeutic and rewarding, especially on a nice sunny day. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the expansive views, makes it an ideal location for relaxation, a leisurely stroll, or a quiet moment of reflection. The presence of rabbits adds to the charm, making it a delightful spot for families too.
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