Nestled in the rolling hills of south-central England, Winchcombe in Gloucestershire is an ancient village that dates to Neolithic times, as evidenced by the Belas Knap Long Barrow that sits above the town. Current census information shows a population of around 4400 persons. A primary industry in the area is tourism.
A population of Anglo-Saxon people was centralized in the Mercia kingdom with Winchcombe being one of three towns noted by King Coenwulf., who ruled 796 to 821. Winchcombe was once again prominent during a short period in the 11th century when it was the county seat of Winchcombeshire. Winchcombe was a popular pilgrimage site during the early Middle Ages.
The Benedictine abbey founded by a ruler of Mercia in 798 was home to over three hundred monks. Thousands of pilgrims visited the abbey, the burial place of two Mercian princes. In particular, St. Kenelm's tomb was one of the major pilgrimage centers. During its heyday, the Abbey owned thousands of acres spread over a multi county area. There is little left to mark the spot where this famous building was located.
Nearby Hailes Abbey is somewhat younger than Winchcombe Abbey and slightly more evidence of the original structure remains. Hailes was a pilgrimage site for those who came to view a vial of the 'Blood of Christ', donated by Henry III of England to his younger brother Richard. Most of the buildings on the site were demolished under the rule of Henry VIII in 1539.
As a tourist attraction, Sudeley Castle continues to bring visitors for day trips. The castle and grounds are well-maintained today with castle tours three days each week. The inhabited portion dates from the Elizabethan era.
A half-dozen walking trails pass through Winchcombe, making it a spot for refreshment or retirement. Cotswold Way stretches 102 miles through the mountains; Gloucestershire Way is 100 miles; Wychavon Way at 42 miles; St Kenelm's Trail runs 62 miles; Warden's Way and Windrush Way meet the long-distance criteria of 50 miles or more in length.
