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A mini guide to
Salisbury and Old Sarum: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
Check the cathedral first
As a working church, the cathedral's visiting hours vary; check its site and book admission ahead. Magna Carta is included in the ticket.
Free tours
The cathedral runs free guided tours and demonstrations during the day, and sells separate behind-the-scenes tours.
Mompesson House in November
The house closes in early November while it is decorated for Christmas and reopens on Friday 20 November 2026.
Walk the Town Path
From Queen Elizabeth Gardens the Town Path crosses the water meadows to Harnham, with views back to the cathedral.
Old Sarum on the way
The Stonehenge Tour bus can stop at Old Sarum, so the hillfort fits into a Stonehenge day.
Events
Salisbury & Stonehenge event seasons
Dates come from the organisers: confirm on their sites before booking.
Winter solstice at Stonehenge
22 December 2026
English Heritage marks the solstice at the stones; on that day the site opens as normal from about 1pm.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Salisbury and Old Sarum?
Salisbury and Old Sarum is in Salisbury & Stonehenge, England. The cathedral and Magna Carta, the Close, the Market Place and the hillfort of Old Sarum. Nearby stops and stations include Salisbury station, Stonehenge Tour bus.
How long do I need in Salisbury and Old Sarum?
One day; add half a day for Old Sarum. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include Salisbury Cathedral, Magna Carta in the Chapter House, The Close. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: Salisbury station (South Western Railway (station manager)); Stonehenge Tour bus (Salisbury Reds). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 31 places to eat and drink in and around Salisbury and Old Sarum, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 11 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is Salisbury and Old Sarum accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in Salisbury and Old Sarum
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
The Rifles Berkshire and Wiltshire Museum
Regimental museum with over 65,000 objects in The Wardrobe, a Close building once used to store the bishop's robes.
Arundells
Home of Prime Minister Sir Edward Heath from 1985 to 2005: a former medieval canonry with his collections and a two-acre garden.
St Thomas's Church
City-centre parish church rebuilt by Salisbury's merchants in the 15th century, with a large Doom painting above the chancel arch.
Salisbury & Stonehenge
More areas to explore
Stonehenge and Amesbury
The stones, Woodhenge, Durrington Walls and the barrows of the Stonehenge landscape
Open the mini guide →
Avebury and Marlborough
The Avebury stone circles, Silbury Hill, West Kennet Long Barrow and the market town of Marlborough
Open the mini guide →Photo credits
- The Salisbury Museum: SalisburyMuseum1, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
- The Rifles Berkshire and Wiltshire Museum: Neil Owen, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Arundells: David Kemp, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- St Thomas's Church: Chris Talbot, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Stonehenge and Amesbury: Julie Anne Workman, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
- Avebury and Marlborough: Bo&Ko, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
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