This medieval Wiltshire city centers around its 13th-century cathedral with Britain's tallest church spire. Close to Stonehenge and filled with Tudor buildings and local pubs.
Salisbury's streets follow their original medieval layout from the 13th century, with timber-framed buildings now containing shops and pubs. Walk through the Poultry Cross market area, step into the 14th-century Haunch of Venison pub, or explore the 404-foot spire of Salisbury Cathedral. The city sits near two significant historical sites: the Iron Age hillfort of Old Sarum and the stone circles of Stonehenge.
Exploring Salisbury Cathedral
The 404-foot spire of Salisbury Cathedral rises above the city as Britain's tallest church spire. Step inside to see Europe's oldest working clock from 1386, still marking time after six centuries. In the Chapter House, you can view the best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta from 1215. The builders completed this massive structure in just 38 years, making it one of the fastest-built medieval cathedrals in England.
Walking the Medieval Streets
The city center retains its 13th-century grid pattern, with street names reflecting their past uses. Walk down Butcher Row to reach the Poultry Cross, where local vendors sell their goods during the twice-weekly Charter Market. The narrow lanes contain timber-framed buildings from different centuries, now home to independent shops and cafes.
Discovering Old Sarum
Walk the ramparts of Old Sarum, two miles north of modern Salisbury. This Iron Age settlement includes ruins of the first cathedral and a Norman castle. From the high points, you can see modern Salisbury in the valley below, giving context to why the city moved to its current location.
Visiting Stonehenge
The stone circle of Stonehenge stands 8 miles northwest of Salisbury, with regular buses connecting the two sites. Built between 3000-2000 BCE, these massive stone arrangements continue to intrigue visitors. The visitor center explains the construction techniques and various theories about why ancient peoples built this monument on Salisbury Plain.
Exploring the Rivers
Five rivers converge in Salisbury: the Avon, Nadder, Bourne, Ebble, and Wyle. Take the Town Path along these waterways to see the cathedral rising above the water meadows. During summer evenings, many locals gather in Queen Elizabeth Gardens to relax by the water.
Pubs and Markets
The Haunch of Venison pub, dating from the 14th century, overlooks the Poultry Cross and contains an unusual artifact: a mummified hand reportedly cut off during a card game. Every Tuesday and Saturday since 1227, the Charter Market brings local vendors to the main square, continuing an 800-year-old tradition.
