Winchester is a very attractive English town, packed with historical buildings. After visiting the Cathedral, my partner went to earth behind The Times while I met Gerard in the bar for a glass of Champagne. Hotel Du Vin is about as close in atmosphere to a private house as a hotel can be - not a place for those who stand on ceremony. This is fine for the English who tend to feel comfortable being left to their own devices - blessed is the hostess who says 'feel free to do your own thing'. American tourists however may find this an unusual concept.
Less service equals lower prices.
The double rooms range from Stg69-Stg99. During the week the guests include many business people. Now they leave fresh milk, ground coffee and a cafetiere in the room to lubricate the executive's mortal motor en route to the early appointment. The philosophy behind the hotel and bistro is simplicity. A comfortable, elegant town house with no frills serving good food and wine at sensible prices.