878 AD

About 878 AD

878 AD is a major new visitor attraction in Winchester, recreating a pivotal moment in the city’s Anglo-Saxon history. This immersive experience transports visitors back to May 878, on the eve of the Battle of Edington, where Alfred the Great defeated the Vikings.

The attraction brings history to life through:

  • The world of the video game franchise Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
  • Cinematic audio-visual projections
  • Live interactive performances

Visitors can experience:

The indoor experience:

  • Preparation for the battle for the crown
  • Authentic recreation of Anglo-Saxon Winchester’s atmosphere and daily life

Live performance:

  • Engaging scenes featuring townsfolk of Anglo-Saxon Winchester
  • Insights into life within the city walls, from swordsmiths to bards

Real artefacts:

  • Display of genuine treasures crafted over 1,000 years ago
  • The famous Winchester Reliquary

Activities and play:

  • Authentic Anglo-Saxon games for friends and family
  • Children’s rune trail
  • Scavenger hunt-style activities with Side Quests

Hands-on learning:

  • Educational, interactive podiums for a tactile learning experience

This unique attraction offers visitors a chance to explore a crucial period in England’s history as an emerging, unified nation, showcasing the significance of Winchester in shaping the country’s future.

878 AD

Facilities

  • Accessible
  • Suitable for kids
  • Guide Dogs Accepted
  • Onsite Parking
  • Cafe

Opening Times

Term time:

Saturday and Sunday: 10am – 5pm

School Holidays:

Monday – Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday 11:00am – 5:00pm

Ticket Price

Adult: £15.00

Child (5 – 15 years): £10.50

Concession: £13.50

Under 5s: Free

Family (Up to five people, max. two adults): £49.00

How long do people typically spend here

2-3 hours

How to get here

Address

15 High Street

Winchester

Hampshire

SO23 9JX

Phone

01962 854321

Email

[email protected]

Website

https://878ad.co.uk/

By Car

From London: Take M3 southwest, exit at Junction 9 for A34. Follow signs to Winchester city center.

From Southampton: Take M3 north, exit at Junction 11. Follow B3335 into Winchester.

Parking:

Winchester Park and Ride offers several parking locations throughout the city, with a convenient stop just a short walk from the venue. For more information, visit the Winchester City Council website. Parking is also available at The Brooks Shopping Centre car park and various other car parks across the city.

By Bus

Regular bus services run from Southampton, Basingstoke, and Andover to Winchester Bus Station, a 5-minute walk from the site.

By Train

Direct trains run from London Waterloo to Winchester Station. The site is a 10-minute walk from the station.

Best Hotels Nearby

  1. The Winchester Hotel & Spa
  2. Mercure Winchester Wessex Hotel
  3. Hotel du Vin Winchester

Best Restaurants Nearby

  1. The Black Rat
  2. Chesil Rectory
  3. The Ivy Winchester Brasserie

For the Kids

  • Interactive Viking raid experience
  • Hands-on crafting activities
  • Children’s archaeology dig
  • Storytelling sessions
  • Costume try-on area

Why you should visit

I’ve visited 878 AD in Winchester several times, and it never fails to impress. The attention to detail in the recreated Anglo-Saxon street is stunning, and the costumed interpreters really bring the period to life. It’s fascinating to see traditional crafts being demonstrated, and the kids absolutely love the mock Viking raid. The interactive elements make history tangible and exciting for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for an engaging day out, 878 AD offers a unique and memorable experience.