The medieval cathedral city of Salisbury boasts a rich history, iconic architecture and easy access to Stonehenge. Museums, gardens, cathedrals and art centres dot Salisbury’s city centre.
Things to do in Salisbury
Stroll down the ancient lanes of Salisbury’s Old City, where you’ll find architectural masterpieces dating from medieval times through the 1800s. The crowning glory is the 13th-century Gothic-style Salisbury Cathedral built with vivid limestone, Purbeck marble, stained-glass windows and a 123-metre-tall spire. Don’t miss seeing the 14th-century clock, Gabriel Loire window and an original copy of the Magna Carta document.
Stop by Salisbury Museum to explore the art and history of Wiltshire. It also houses an impressive archaeological collection in its Wessex Gallery. Special exhibits include the Amesbury Archer and the Stonehenge Archer, which both showcase bones, graves, arrowheads and gold coins.
Drive 15 minutes to the prehistoric stone circle of Stonehenge, where you’ll find the ramparts of Old Sarum along with the cathedral’s original stone foundations. Check the schedule for open-air plays, mock battles and medieval-style tournaments.
Lively public markets dating back to the 1200s still dominate the city square, where stalls sell souvenirs, antiques, produce and local crafts. Explore the surrounding lanes to find specialty items at Fish Row and Silver Street and keep an eye out for the 15th-century Poultry Cross. In the evening, enjoy theatre productions at Salisbury Art Centre or live concerts at MusicBox.
Getting around Salisbury
Buses and taxis provide transportation throughout Salisbury and around the surrounding area. You can rent a car in town or at Southampton Airport, about 37 kilometres away.