Who, what, why, when, where
Winchester Guildhall
Who?
The who is actually a beautiful Victorian building in
the heart of the city, one which is quite a personality in
its own right! To tell us a little more about it, however,
we asked sales and marketing manager Claire Owen
to ‘show us around’. Claire’s been working in the
Guildhall for almost two years and says: “I am lucky
to call Winchester my home as well as my workplace.
It is great to feel that I can make a difference to the
residents of the city who utilise the Guildhall for
life-changing events – one occasion that springs to
mind is a couple, now married, who met at a dance
class here. From a wedding to a naming ceremony
when the first baby arrives and milestone anniversary
parties, it’s lovely to see this prestigious building
feature in many lives throughout the years.”.
What?
What the Guildhall does is to offer a selection of
unique, adaptable and stylish rooms for diverse
occasions, from corporate events, fashion shows,
proms and cabaret to weddings and banquets. The
Courtyard features original Victorian brick archways.
The Wintonian Room’s original arched windows
provide wonderful natural daylight, whilst the King
Alfred Conference Chamber is a purpose-built tiered
lecture theatre. King Charles Hall features paintings
of this past monarch (and the present one!), wood
panelling, high-beamed ceilings and a minstrels’
gallery. Large gala events tend to suit the Bapsy Hall,
but smaller meeting rooms are to be found – the
Mayor’s Parlour features many photographs of mayors
who have served in the past century. A new extension
to the Walton Suite offers breakout rooftop vistas
too. Claire adds: “We have a great café which opens
out onto the Broadway, called Eighteen71 and named
after the first foundation stone was placed for the new
Guildhall. We have hosted some unusual events, such
as the ‘Ideal Death Show’, an expo on coffins, funeral
directors and suchlike.”
Why?
Event managers work here to ensure a hassle-free
experience, regardless of the size. People rely on
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WHO WHAT WHERE WHEN Guildhall Resident Aug Sept.indd 30
trusted suppliers, friends and word-of-mouth referrals
when tackling a project, which is why our staff are
so handy when it comes to planning, organising
bookings and liaison. Their hard work is appreciated
and reflected in repeat bookings. Regular/annual
events which have a great following include:
• Winchester Real Ale & Cider Festival;
• Winchester Wine Festival and Winchester Festivals;
• Teacher Training Conferences and Craft Fairs;
• Santa Fun Run (some 400 runners use Bapsy Hall
to change into Santa suits for this annual charity
race in aid of Naomi House);
• Winchester Business Excellence Awards and
Winchester BID Fashion Show;
• Mayor’s Retiring Dinner and Mayor Making
Ceremony;
• University of Winchester Graduation Ceremonies.
“Darren Jones is one of our long-term event
organisers and has been working for us for almost
20 years. Often mace barer at civic processions, his
friendly demeanour has won him friends in both the
council and throughout the city.”
When?
Winchester Guildhall dates back to 1871. Winchester’s
Old Guildhall is situated in the High Street (now better
known as Lloyds Bank). Above Queen Anne’s Statue,
the Jacobean city clock still tolls the curfew bell at
eight o’clock each evening. The first foundation stone
for the current building was laid in 1871. HRH The
Prince of Wales was due to undertake the ceremony,
but due to ill health, Lord Eversley took his place,
and, 18 months later in 1873, the Lord Chancellor,
Lord Selborne, opened the completed structure. The
ground floor housed a large hall, sessions’ chamber
and magistrates’ room with the town clerks’ offices.
The first floor comprised a Museum and Library whilst
the basement was the Police Station – complete with
cells – along with the hall keeper’s house.
Where?
You’ll find it on the Broadway.
www.guildhallwinchester.co.uk
www.residentmagazine.co.uk
15/07/2016 11:42