The Running Horse Hotel Winchester Exterior photoThe Running Horse Hotel Winchester Exterior photoThe Running Horse Hotel Winchester Exterior photo
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From129US$ /night
Check-in
23May2026Select date
Check-out
24May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

88 Main Road, Winchester, United Kingdom, SO22 6QS
-
Near Winchester Cathedral
Great
8.9
/10
5.0
4.3
/5

Stylish Rooms

The Running Horse offers 15 rooms with attached bathroom. These rooms include a flat-screen TV, Roberts DAB radio, tea and coffee making facilities, a Nespresso coffee machine, a hair dryer, and complimentary toiletries. Rooms feature distressed wooden headboards, leather armchairs, plaid throws and cushions, and shabby-chic furniture. Dog-friendly rooms are available, with dog beds, blankets, bowls, and treats for £20 per pet, per night (maximum two dogs). Some rooms offer garden views. Room amenities also include ironing facilities and heating. Room options include Comfy Super King, Comfy Twin with twin beds and outdoor seating, Comfy Family with bunk beds and a super king bed, and Comfy Double with a desk and chair.

All-Day Dining

The Running Horse features a restaurant that sources local produce for its modern British menu. Starters include twice-baked cheese soufflé with tomato relish and traditional moules marinière. Main courses range from pie and mash or burger and fries to pan-fried fillet of brill with crab and chilli risotto and samphire. The menu also includes small sharing plates, such as breaded whitebait with tartare sauce and beetroot and goat's cheese arancini. The bar serves ales (including Punter and Tipster ales on tap), fine wines, and seasonal cocktails. Breakfast includes light options such as yogurt, almonds, banana, and honey, or more filling choices like potato pancake, bacon and maple syrup, or smoked salmon and scrambled eggs. The breakfast option includes a choice from the menu of cooked breakfasts plus a range of continental items and inclusive juice and hot beverages. A children's menu is available. A midweek set menu and Mediterranean night are also available.

Leisure and Amenities

Guests can relax on the terrace and enjoy garden views. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. The pub has lots of bespoke wooden shelves with leather-bound books and wood-panelling. Flagstone tiles, a wood-burning stove, and an old piano complete the look. Refurbished bathrooms have metro tiles, rainfall showers, and Algotherm marine bath products. Sunday features a pub quiz. A window seat in the bay window at the front is a popular spot. Tables feature the odd leather Chesterfield for comfort.

Location and Transport

The Running Horse is located in the quiet village of Littleton, 4 km from Winchester and 25 km from Southampton. Southampton Airport is the nearest airport. Marwell Zoo is nearby. The pub backs onto fields with a walking track. It's easily accessible from junction 9 of the M3 and 25 minutes from the New Forest National Park. Nearby landmarks include The Great Hall (4 km), Winchester Discovery Centre (4 km), and Orams Arbour (4 km).

General Services

The Running Horse provides free onsite parking and free Wi-Fi. The property is run by Upham Brewery, located in the South Downs near Winchester. The restaurant can be hired for private dining, accommodating up to 12 seated guests or 30 standing guests. Dog walking guides are available for guests. Special packages are available for dog-friendly stays, including a dog bed, blanket, bowl, and welcome treats. The property offers a charming English pub, serving locally sourced produce. Additional amenities include book direct benefits with a complimentary welcome drink, free room upgrade if available, and late check out until 12pm. Claim Your Free Welcome Drink.

“The Running Horse strikes me as a reliably comfortable choice for families, especially those travelling with dogs; the rural setting, just outside Winchester, is appealing. I imagine the pub makes a welcome sight after a day exploring nearby attractions like Winchester Cathedral and the New Forest. I particularly appreciate the focus on sourcing local produce for their seasonal menu.”
Hotel logo
Isabella MooreSenior Editorial Director at Petfriendlyhotels
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Select your room type

Cozy rooms, spacious suites, and family-friendly homes, all with flexible cancellation policies & special deals
Family Room
2 persons
195 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Large Double or Twin Room
2 persons
175 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Coffee machine
Twin Room
2 persons
175 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Coffee machine
Double Room
2 persons
155 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Shower
Coffee machine
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Facilities

Enjoy premium amenities for a relaxing stay with your pet
Facilities: Perfect
9.1/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Pets allowed
  • Security
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Pet amenities available
  • Housekeeping
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Children

  • Children's menu

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area

Room features

  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At The Running Horse, dining transforms into a delightful experience with family-friendly options and an inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy hearty meals and local brews any time of the day, making it a perfect stop for travelers seeking comfort and authenticity.
The Running Horse Hotel Winchester Restaurant photo
The Running Horse Hotel Winchester Restaurant photo
The Running Horse Hotel Winchester Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Traditional Pub Fare
Ambiance
A warm and welcoming family-friendly pub setting, ideal for gatherings and casual dining.
Key Offerings
Guests can explore a children's menu and savor Punter and Tipster ales on tap. Highlight your Sunday evenings with a lively pub quiz and unwind with a glass of Winchester Twisted Nose gin, infused with unique botanicals like watercress.
Reservation
Not needed
Open for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

The Running Horse Hotel Location

88 Main Road, Winchester, United Kingdom, SO22 6QS
Map view
88 Main Road, Winchester, United Kingdom, SO22 6QS
Nearby
Church
Saint Catherine's Church
1100 ft
Restaurants
The Running Horse
100 ft
88 Main Road Littleton
Explore Winchester
Local Experiences
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Winchester Cathedral
Winchester Cathedral
45 minutes' walk
A magnificent example of Gothic architecture, renowned for its stunning interiors and rich history.
The Great Hall
The Great Hall
40 minutes' walk
Home to the famous Round Table, this historical site offers insights into England's medieval past.
Flowerdown Bowl Barrow
Flowerdown Bowl Barrow
10 minutes' walk
An ancient burial mound steeped in history, featuring peaceful surroundings and scenic views.
Winnall Moors Nature Reserve
40 minutes' walk
A tranquil refuge for wildlife enthusiasts, featuring a network of paths through lush wetlands.
Biking on The Watercress Way
15 minutes' drive
A scenic cycling route through the countryside, perfect for families and outdoor lovers. Bike rentals available.
Relaxation at Urban Wellness Spa
10 minutes' drive
A serene spa offering a variety of treatments, ideal for unwinding after a busy day in the city.
The Running Horse
The Running Horse
1 minute' walk
Traditional British fare with a cozy atmosphere, known for its hearty dishes and local ales.
The Olive Tree
10 minutes' drive
Mediterranean cuisine featuring fresh ingredients and an inviting ambiance. Reservations recommended.
The Bishops Waltham
12 minutes' drive
A lovely gastropub with a seasonal menu and a spacious terrace for al fresco dining.
Theatre Royal Winchester
10 minutes' drive
A vibrant venue showcasing a range of performances, from drama to comedy. Family-friendly shows available.
The Railway Inn
15 minutes' drive
A lively bar with regular live music events, perfect for a night out with friends. Check the schedule for acts.
Getting around
City Centre
Winchester7 min  ·  2.5 mi
Airports
Southampton (SOU)37 min  ·  15.2 mi
Bournemouth (BOH)104 min  ·  42.9 mi
Train
Winchester Train Station6 min  ·  2.2 mi
Winchester Railway Station6 min  ·  2.2 mi
Bus
Bus stop7 min  ·  2.8 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:30
Check-out
from 07:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
23

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Running Horse Hotel from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Running Horse, situated just a couple of miles from Winchester in the English countryside, is often praised for its comfortable rooms featuring amenities like pod coffee machines and complimentary biscuits. Many guests appreciate the unique rooms, some offering access to a patio area and the car park. Some guests in rooms near the kitchen have noted noise from staff, however, the included breakfast is frequently described as excellent, with a wide choice of freshly cooked and reasonably priced options.
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Review score
Based on 611 verified reviews
8.7/10
Great
91%
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.3/10
Staff
9.3/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.7/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.8/10
Pros
Comfortable room
Helpful staff
Good dinner
Cons
Expensive extras
Guest reviews
based on 611 reviews
8.7/10
based on 1112 reviews
8.9/10
Nick from Australia
Couple
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:February 01, 2026
7/10
horse themehelpful staffbeautiful surroundingroom maintenancelimited menudust issue
the rooms decor complemented the horse theme. staff are always helpful. i eat at the pub for dinner and the surroundings was beautiful.
my room needed maintenance. there were a lot of dusts. breakfast has limited menus and it was not replenished, i didn't like that.
0 Helpful
Elliot from United Kingdom
Couple
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 29, 2025
6/10

some issues noted

unclean roomloud children
The room could have been cleaner i spotted cobwebs near the lamps and the kettle was scaled. brown stains marked the toilet. It needed better cleaning, frankly. also children played loudly near my room making it hard to relax after traveling. i certainly expected better for the price i paid.
0 Helpful
Matthew from United Kingdom
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 13, 2025
9/10
pod coffee machinecomplimentary biscuitsgood pressure
the double room was quite nice. a pod coffee machine and complimentary biscuits were available. the shower offered good pressure..
the bathrooms lack a closing mechanism from the outside.
0 Helpful
ella from united kingdom
Business traveller
double room
1 night in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 08, 2025
9/10

convenient stay

coffee machineconvenient locationattentive staffonsite parking
the room included a coffee machine. the location was convenient for travel on the a34 and m3. staff members were attentive during my business stop. onsite parking was available.
the breakfast bacon was overcooked.
Facilities
9/10
The hotel has outdoor seating areas and a cozy bar area. the bar offers a great cocktail menu. i saw a large, convenient parking area available. It seemed well-kept and easily accessible for all guests.
0 Helpful
|
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Oliver from United Kingdom
Couple
Double Room
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed:August 06, 2025
8/10
hot foodgood size
breakfast had a good range of hot food. the beds was comfortable and the room a good size.
the room was a bit cold.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About The Running Horse
What popular attractions are close to The Running Horse?
Nearby attractions include Winchester Cathedral (4 km), Marwell Zoo (approximately 22 minutes by car), and New Forest National Park (25 minutes by car).
What time is check-in and check-out at The Running Horse?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Is parking available at The Running Horse?
Free on-site parking is available at the hotel.
What dining options are available at The Running Horse?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant serving a modern British menu and a selection of ales, wines, and cocktails.
What are the room amenities at The Running Horse?
Rooms include a flat-screen TV, Roberts DAB radio, hair dryer, Nespresso coffee machine, and complimentary toiletries.
Does The Running Horse provide breakfast?
Breakfast is offered from 8:00 to 11:00, with options including cooked dishes and a range of continental items.
Are pets allowed at The Running Horse?
Pets are welcome at the hotel, with provisions including a doggy bed and treats for an additional charge.
Is The Running Horse family-friendly?
The hotel features a children's menu and a family-friendly environment.
What are the closest airports to The Running Horse?
Southampton Airport is 25 km away, approximately a 24-minute drive.
What leisure activities are available at The Running Horse?
The hotel offers access to a golf course for guests.

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Check-in
23May2026Select date
Check-out
24May2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room