WINCHESTER is gearing up for its annual attempt to become the Christmas capital of the nation.

The chalets are arriving, the ice rink comes soon, and Winchester Cathedral’s Chronicle-backed Christmas in Winchester brochure is about to land on 50,000 doorsteps in the district.

Published by the cathedral, in partnership with the city council and Winchester BID, it is the definitive guide to all that is good in Winchester in the run-up to Christmas.

For a decade the city has boasted an ice rink and a German-style market that has been hugely successful in attracting tens of thousands of visitors.

The ice rink opens from November 18 to January 2; the market is open from November 18 to December 20.

For the first time the ice rink will be covered so there is no repeat of the barrage of complaints when the weather is wet and the rink resembles a paddling pool.

The Rev Canon Dr Roland Riem, Acting Dean, said: “We hope that you will enjoy the Cathedral’s Christmas Market and Ice Rink. Any profits help us conserve our buildings, keep them open, and serve all those who need our care.”

Ken Macartney, chairman of Winchester Business Improvement District, urged visitors to see more of the city that just the market and ice rink.

There is concern that visitors simply visit the rink and the market and the economic benefits, especially for shops, is minimal if not actually negative as traffic congestion deters locals from coming into the city.

Mr Macartney said: “This year we look forward to our first ever covered ice rink, meaning we can enjoy skating whatever the weather.

“The city boasts an extraordinary range of independent and national businesses. Take a moment to explore the areas away from the High Street, we guarantee they are laden with festive treats. An amazing range of bars and restaurants will tempt you, and if you want to stay we have fantastic hotels and B&Bs to help you enjoy your visit.”

Highlights include:

  • Twilight Tower Tours, from Saturday November 19 – Saturday December 17 on various dates, at 3.30pm to enjoy stunning views across the city and over the Christmas Market and ice rink;
  • Military Wives Concert – Home for Christmas, Monday November 21, 7.30pm. The Military Wives Choir perform a selection of tracks from their soon-to-be-released album Home For Christmas and their two UK top ten albums In My Dreams and Stronger Together;
  • Winchester Music Club – Christmas Concert, Thursday, November 24, 7.30pm, Winchester Cathedral;
  • Christmas Lantern Procession and Community Carols, Thursday, December 1 at 6pm;
  • The Waynflete Singers – A Christmas Fantasia, Saturday, December 3, 7.30pm, Winchester Cathedral;
  • Cathedral Christmas Carol Concert, Friday, December 9, 7.30pm.