Westgate, Winchester

The Westgate, an enduring symbol of Winchester's medieval heritage, stands proudly as one of the two surviving fortified gateways in the city, the other being Kingsgate. Originally an integral part of Winchester City Walls, the Westgate bears witness to centuries of history, embodying a unique blend of Anglo-Saxon, 12th-century, and later architectural influences.

With its roots tracing back to Anglo-Saxon times, the Westgate underwent significant transformations over the centuries. A testament to medieval engineering, the gate was rebuilt in the 12th century, with further modifications in the 13th and late 14th centuries. Notably, the late 14th-century alterations introduced features like a portcullis in the western façade and two inverted-keyhole gunports, representing some of the earliest examples of such defensive structures designed for hand-held cannons in the country. The gate served its defensive purpose until 1959 when the High Street was redirected around it.

In the 19th century, recognizing its historical significance, the City Corporation (now Winchester City Council) acquired the Westgate. Subsequently, the gate was repurposed as a museum and repository for the city's archives. In 2014, ownership of the museum space transitioned to Hampshire Cultural Trust.

Today, the Westgate Museum stands not only as a physical remnant of Winchester's medieval past but also as a cultural repository. Visitors can explore a diverse array of exhibits, including a renowned collection of pre-Imperial weights and measures. One notable highlight is a beautifully crafted painted ceiling, created for Winchester College in anticipation of the historic visit by Mary Tudor and Philip of Spain on the occasion of their marriage in Winchester in 1554.