Hospital Of St Cross Winchester

Hello there, history buffs and fun-seekers!

Ever found yourself wandering around Winchester, wondering what lies behind those ancient walls of St Cross Hospital? Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive into a world of medieval mischief, royal connections, and a whole lot of fun!

Let's rewind, shall we?

Picture this: It's the 12th century, and a bunch of knights are returning from the Crusades. They've got a grand plan - to build a hospital for the poor and needy. But here's the twist: they want it to be a place where people can have a jolly good time too!

And so, St Cross Hospital was born. Yep, you heard it right. This wasn't your average hospital. It was a place where people could enjoy a drink (or two), share a laugh, and even play a game of bowls. Sounds like our kind of medieval hangout, right?

But wait, there's more!

Now, you might be thinking, "This all sounds a bit too good to be true." Well, hold onto your hats, because St Cross Hospital has a secret weapon - the Wayfarer.

The Wayfarer is a special kind of guest. They're travelers, seeking refuge and a warm meal. And here's the best part: every day, at precisely 9:30 am, the Wayfarers are invited to the Gatehouse for a hearty breakfast. And guess who gets to join them? You do!

That's right, folks. You can be a part of this 800-year-old tradition. Just show up at the Gatehouse, and you too can enjoy a delicious bowl of porridge, just like they've been serving since the 1300s. Talk about a breakfast of champions!

And the fun doesn't stop there...

Remember those knights we mentioned earlier? Well, they were part of a group called the Order of St John. And guess who else was a member? King Henry III himself!

Yep, that's right. The king was such a fan of the place that he even granted them a royal charter. And if that wasn't enough, he also gave them the right to brew their own ale. Now that's what we call a royal seal of approval!

So, what are you waiting for?

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just someone who loves a good story, St Cross Hospital is a must-visit. It's a place where the past meets the present, and where you can enjoy a bowl of porridge like a true medieval knight.

So, go on, grab your imaginary suit of armor, and get ready for a fun-filled adventure. Who knows, you might just find yourself feeling like a knight in shining armor too!

And remember, folks, history doesn't have to be boring. It can be fun, it can be delicious, and it can even involve a game of bowls. So, let's raise a (metaphorical) glass of medieval ale to St Cross Hospital - a place where history comes to life, one bowl of porridge at a time.