Visit Salisbury

Salisbury is a beautiful cathedral city in Wiltshire, with a history stretching back many centuries. Compact and easy to explore on foot, it combines medieval streets, historic buildings, attractive green spaces and a lively market with some remarkable reminders of England’s past.

The city’s most famous landmark is, of course, Salisbury Cathedral. Its magnificent spire rises 123 metres above the city, making it the tallest church spire in Britain. Inside, visitors can see one of only four surviving original copies of the 1215 Magna Carta, as well as a remarkable medieval clock dating from around 1386.

Salisbury’s story actually began a couple of miles away at Old Sarum. The hilltop was originally an Iron Age fort before being occupied by the Romans, Saxons and Normans. In the 13th century, the cathedral and settlement were moved to the valley below, creating the Salisbury we know today. The atmospheric ruins of Old Sarum remain an impressive place to visit, with wide views across the surrounding countryside.

Back in the city, the historic Market Place remains an important part of Salisbury’s character. The market has been held here since the city received its charter in 1227, and the tradition continues with regular markets today. The surrounding streets contain a wonderful collection of medieval and later buildings, independent shops, cafés and restaurants.

Beyond the historic centre, Salisbury is surrounded by attractive countryside and water meadows, while the nearby Stonehenge is just nine miles away. This combination of history, architecture, culture and beautiful countryside makes Salisbury a particularly rewarding city to explore.

Salisbury is a city where the past is never far away — from its magnificent cathedral and medieval streets to the ancient hilltop of Old Sarum. It is a place that manages to feel both historic and very much alive.