Winchester Tourist Information
St Cross Hospital
The hospital is beautifully situated just a short and lovely walk along the Itchen river from the centre of town. Indeed, it's location inspired Keats and set Trollope on the way to writing "The Warden" and the rest of the Barchester Chronicles.
It was never a hospital in the modern sense; the term hospital, in this context, has the same origin as 'hospitality' and for over 850 years St Cross has provided food and shelter to people in need. Bishop Henry of Blois is quoted as saying that the establishment would be for `thirteen poor men, feeble and so reduced in strength that they can scarcely or not at all support themselves without other aid´.
Founded in 1132 by the above mentioned Henri du Blois, grandson of William the Conqueror, it was extended in 1446 by Cardinal Beaufort, son of John of Gaunt, Chancellor of England and William of Wykeham's successor at Winchester. It is still home to 25 Brothers, whose apartments form one side of the historic quadrangle.
For seven hundred years masters of St Cross came and went. They were appointed by the bishops of Winchester. The most famous, and last, of the masters, was a Reverend Francis North. In 1808 he was appointed by his father, the 'Honourable' Brownlow North, Bishop of Winchester. During his long mastership he managed to steel 250,000 pounds (an enormous sum in those days) from the St Cross Funds. He was eventually 'seen off' the premises after a six year case in the Chancery Court. The stolen money and the cost of the case almost ruined the Hospital. Anthony Trollope's book, The Warden, was based on this notorious scandal.
Once linked with social care and the provision of life's essentials to the local poor and the hungry traveller, it now offers refreshment to visitors in the newly restored Hundred Men's Hall, and the traditional Wayfarer's Dole is still given at the Porter's Gate to all travellers who request it.
The hospital has beautiful, tranquil gardens and the visitor is allowed entry into many parts of the hospital. There are also tea rooms and gift shop.
Opening times
1 April - 31 October - 9.30am to 5pm Monday - Saturday and 1pm - 5pm on Sundays
1 November - 31 March - 10.30am to 3.30pm Monday - Saturday. Closed on Sundays except for church services.
Guided tours are available on request.
For enquiries contact the Porter - 01962 851375 or email: visitors@stcrosshospital.co.uk
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