The monument was purchased in 1770 by a local man named Mr. Dummer, who intended to move it to his estate, but local citizens prevented its removal by rioting.
The structure contains twelve distinct niches, many of which house statues added during the Victorian-era restoration.
It is built from Caen stone, a light cream-colored limestone imported from Normandy, France.
The base of the cross is octagonal, a common architectural feature for market crosses designed to accommodate multiple vendors.
During the 1865 restoration, George Gilbert Scott added statues of King Canute, Saint Amphibalus, and William of Wykeham to the monument.
The Buttercross Monument is a 15th-century Gothic spire located centrally on Winchester's High Street. It stands approximately 43 feet tall and is composed of Caen stone. The structure features twelve niches containing statues of the Virgin Mary, various saints, and local historical figures. Originally constructed between 1450 and 1475, it serves as a prominent example of a medieval market cross. In 1865, the monument underwent a major restoration led by architect George Gilbert Scott, who added several new statuettes. The site is a Grade II* listed structure protected by the United Kingdom's National Heritage List. It sits in the heart of the pedestrianized city center, functioning as a frequent meeting point for locals.
From the opposite side of the High Street, slightly back to capture the full verticality of the spire against the historic storefronts.
Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Winchester Cathedral.
Look closely at the individual statues to identify the varying craftsmanship between original medieval carvings and Victorian additions.
The site is best viewed as part of a walking tour of the historic High Street.
Do not treat it as a seating area, as the base is fragile and historically protected.
