Wolvesey Castle, Winchester (must see)

Wolvesey Castle, also known as the "Old Bishop's Palace," stands as a historic ruin initially constructed as the official residence of Æthelwold of Winchester, the Bishop of Winchester, around 970. The building site, initially an eyot in the River Itchen, known as Wulveseye or Wulf's island, became the foundation for this bishop's palace. Henry of Blois, the Bishop of Winchester, expanded and developed the castle primarily between 1135 and 1171.

The castle's varied history includes construction modifications and, in 1684, a new palace in the baroque style was built to the south. However, much of it was later demolished, leaving only the west wing. Over time, the remaining structure found itself repurposed for various uses. Subsequent restoration efforts in 1926 refurbished part of the structure for the bishop's residence.

The chapel, an essential part of the medieval castle's south range, remains intact and is still in active use, attached to the palace. The extensive ruins are currently under the care and ownership of English Heritage and have held Grade I listed status since March 24, 1950. While sections of the curtain wall remain, much of the castle's internal structures are gone, although traces of the hall, displaying a well-preserved round arch and a surviving Norman window, can still be identified.

Situated close to the city walls, some sections of which are still standing, Wolvesey Castle stands as a fascinating piece of Winchester's history, illustrating a compelling narrative of the region's past.