Harry Mycock

The view over Winchester at 5am (courtesy of Sheena Smith) At 5am on Sunday 26th April a group of eleven early risers gathered on St Giles Hill to experience one of nature’s most uplifting joys - the dawn chorus. At first, in the darkness, the blackbirds were the first to sing, seemingly competing as if on a Britain’s Got Talent show. They were soon joined by robins improvising their short phrases tumbling into each other. Then as first light spread across the hill, the soundscape developed...

St Giles Hill Park is renowned for its views and its contribution to the city of Winchester. In 2026 we invite you to enjoy the Park and join in with some of the activities and events the Friends of St Giles Hill Park are arranging. All the heritage and nature themed events are free as we want as many people as possible to appreciate this amazing historic natural open space. In September and October we begin to focus on the future. We are creating a Strategic Framework Plan for the Park for...

Parks are places for people to be outdoors and meet the natural world. Places where they can come to exercise, play, explore, relax and enjoy fresh air and a peaceful moment of the casual company of others. They can be widely and wildly different places varying from utilitarian recreation grounds to curated natural landscapes. You may find anything from a manicured flower bed and childrens’ playground to ancient trees and havens for nature. How does one decide what sort of park is best for a...