Welcome to Wolvesey Castle

Welcome to Wolvesey Castle. . , You are standing at the entrance to one of the greatest medieval buildings in England - the palace of the powerful and wealthy bishops of Winchester., Throughout the medieval period the bishops of Winchester held one of the highest positions of power in the English church, as well as in national politics. They owned vast estates stretching from Somerset to London which brought them great wealth., Although known today as a castle, Wolvesey was in fact a luxurious palace. The original approach was through a gate in the city wall, positioned roughly where you are standing. This led into an outer courtyard containing stables, barns, a great wool store, and the bishop's prison., As you walk along the path towards the medieval palace remains, look to your right to see the city wall of Winchester. To your left is the remaining wing of a baroque house, built in the 1680s to replace the old palace. It is still the private home of the present bishop of Winchester., In the 12th century the south-east corner of Winchester, bounded by the old Roman city wall, was dominated by the bishop's residence, the cathedral and St Mary's monastery.