Salisbury Cathedral

The Cathedral was begun in 1220, and finished, with the exception of the tower and spire, in 1258.

Salisbury Cathedral was built after the clergy abandoned the Cathedral at Old Salisbury (Old Sarum) on the hill above modern day Salisbury. Moving down into the valley by the River Avon.

Because of the relative speed in which the Cathedral was built it is unusually complete in one style. One of the amazing facts about the Cathedral is that the foundations are only 4 feet deep. Astounding when you stand next to the immense stone structure.

The Cathedral was built as a Catholic Church but after Henry VIII the Cathedral it became Church of England.

Today it is very much a working Cathedral, opening hours are frequently changed for religious events so do check in advance.

Magna Carta at Salisbury Cathedral

Especially for US visitors, the highlight of a trip to Salisbury Cathedral is often seeing the Magna Carta in the Chapter House.

Salisbury Cathedral’s Magna Carta is one of only four surviving original documents from 1215. The Magna Carta is over 800 years old and is still today a powerful symbol of social justice.

An original document drawn up to proclaim the freedoms and rights of individuals under the rule of law; this practice went on to be adopted across the globe. Magna Carta established the right of trial by jury and ensured that no one, including the crown, was above the law.

Mechanical clock

In the nave you can see what is probably the oldest working mechanical clock in the world, dating to 1386. There are no hands and no clock face; rather, it rings a chime of bells every hour. It was originally built to call the bishops to services.

Just as there is more to the cathedral than the spire, so there is more to the city than the cathedral. A wide green space, The Close, surrounds the Cathedral. The Close, essentially a walled city within the city, is ringed by wonderful period houses, many of them now museums you can enter.

Mompesson House (National Trust)

A perfect example of Queen Anne architecture and was built for Charles Mompesson in 1701. It is noted for its elegant and spacious interior, especially the magnificent plasterwork and fine oak staircase. See the important Turnbull collection of 18th century drinking glasses, fine period furniture and charming walled garden with its garden tea room.

Mompesson House featured as Mrs Jennings' London home in the award-winning film `Sense and Sensibility.'

Mompesson House is now owned by the National Trust.

The Rifles Berkshire and Wiltshire Museum (The Wardrobe)

This popular museum displays with a vast collection of artefacts from the Berkshire and Wiltshire Regiments. The Wardrobe dates from 1254 and was known as the Wardrobe having been used as a clothing and document store by bishops in the 14th century.

In addition to the museum there is a lovely mature garden with established trees, planted areas and a lawn flowing down to the river.

You can buy a ticket just to enter the garden, and an annual garden membership (for just a few pounds) is used by many locals so they can take time out in the beautiful surroundings.

The Rifleman's Table Cafe is situated next to the museum offering coffee, cake, lunches and more.

Salisbury Museum

Salisbury Museum is the home of the award-winning, redesigned Stonehenge Gallery, the Monkton Deverill gold torch, and the now famous Warminster Jewel and the famous `Amesbury Archer.'

Displays include Early Man, the Romans and Saxons, history of Old Sarum and Salisbury (with the renowned Giant and Hob Nob), the Pitt Rivers collection, pottery, porcelain and Wedgwood in beautiful 17th century rooms, a pre-NHS surgery, costume, lace and embroidery.