Venues

Acrobats performing with a large jumprope in front of a large crowd outside.

Where the magic happens

Hat Fair transforms the historic streets and green spaces of Winchester city centre into one giant, open‑air stage.

Because our festival is alive and ever‑changing, our specific venues and pitch locations can vary from year to year. We will announce this year's official festival map at the same time the full line‑up of events is available.

Exploring the festival zones

During the festival weekend, the city centre is divided into vibrant, easy‑to‑navigate festival zones — all just a short, flat stroll from one to the next.

While the map is being finalised, you can usually expect to find the fun in our favourite typical locations:

  • Winchester High Street (The bustling heart of the busking action)
  • The Broadway (Right outside the iconic Winchester Guildhall)
  • Winchester Cathedral Grounds (Beautiful grassy spots for spectacular shows)
  • Abbey Gardens (Perfect for family‑friendly performances and picnics)
  • ...and plenty of surprising hidden corners in between!

Image gallery

  • A person in an orange space suit running through a large crowd. Winchester Cathedral is in the background.
  • Acrobats performing with ropes to an outdoor crowd.
  • A person wearing sparkly gold outfit, performing to a large crowd outside.
  • A group of people dancing on a carpark rooftop.