Discover Salisbury

Top-rated recommendations for this medieval city with a timeless feel

The Salisbury Museum

Famously forged at the confluence of four rivers, the city of Salisbury enjoys its reputation as one of Britain’s most beautiful historic cities.

Planning a long weekend? Here are our top-rated recommendations for things to do and places to eat and stay.

Things to do in Salisbury

Salisbury is a delight to wander round, with its medieval streets and alleys forming a fascinating network waiting to be explored. Buildings of all styles blend harmoniously throughout the city centre – you’ll see everything from medieval fabled houses and historic inns to stately Georgian houses (and more recent additions) on a stroll through the streets. Remember to look up at the street names for a hint of the goods that were sold there in times gone by.

The skyline is of course dominated by the magnificent spire of Salisbury Cathedral – the tallest in England. Explore the impressive nave, walk through the cloisters and admire the world’s oldest working mechanical clock. The Cathedral is also famously home to the best-preserved of the four original Magna Carta manuscripts – a must-see on your visit.

Outside, the Cathedral Close is one of the largest and finest in Britain. Enter via a medieval gateway to explore the buildings, four of which are open to the public as museums. The Salisbury Museum occupies the King’s House, and houses fantastic collections, exhibitions and events to enjoy all year round. Refuel in the café garden here and you’ll be treated to the best view of the Cathedral in town.

View from Harnham Mill

To escape the hustle and bustle, amble along the riverside through Queen Elizabeth’s Gardens and along the Town Path to Harnham Mill – soak in the fabulous view across the water meadows to the Cathedral (a sight much admired by many an artist). Walk to the north of the city to discover Old Sarum, which is the site of the original city of Salisbury. From here, Britain’s greatest prehistoric monument – Stone Henge – is just a 20-minute drive away.