Roaming with Red

Sitting on the edge of the Cotswolds, Salisbury is a charming country town. It combines a certain Jane Austin charm alongside beautiful Medieval architecture and a fascinating historical background. While you won’t need more than half a day to properly get a feel for the city and enjoy some of its main attractions, it’s also a great base if you are looking to visit some of the famous historical sites in the area – there are regular buses to Stonehenge or Old Sarum (the ruins of the original Salisbury settlement) for those without a car to drive yourself there. Below are 5 must see attractions in Salisbury if you find yourself with some extra time to fill.

Sit in Awe at Salisbury Cathedral

Salisbury Cathedral is one of, if not the, major attraction in Salisbury. This imposing building was originally built in the Old Sarum area, the site of the original Salisbury town, before being moved down the hill to its current location due to a clash with the military (everyone pause for surprise here…). This building cuts a breathtaking view into the Salisbury skyline, with the spire towering into the air and visible from nearly anywhere within the centre city. In fact, this spire is one of the tallest in Europe and the tallest in the UK. Enter via the courtyard and, if you’re lucky enough, take a moment in peace to enjoy the sun streaming through the open space. The Cathedral itself is a stunning display of gothic architecture, with some interesting modern elements – ensure you take some time at the water table dominating the centre third of the church or the Salisbury clock, which dates back to AD 1386 and is considered the oldest working modern clock in the world. Enjoy the beautiful Cathedral architecture and the historical markers throughout – you can even join a free guided tour if you have the time – before visiting the Chapter House. Included as part of your entry fee, the main attraction in the Chapter House is an original copy of a Magna Carta. Marvel at this detailed document, providing a fascinating look into law and order during the 13th Century, before enjoying the detailed stone work above. The entry fee to the Cathedral is 10 pounds however provides entry for a year.

Pick Up Some Fresh Produce at Market Place

Like any good country town, Salisbury also plays host to a regular fresh food and clothing market for all to enjoy. Housed in the main town square, walk through the many stalls selling all sorts of different goods. Buy your fruit and veg for the week, splash out on some premium cold cuts and cheese if you’re that way inclined or peruse the mix of unique and locally produced gifts. I was also lucky enough to visit during Christmas time and there was a small Christmas market open as part of the wider market. While small, it did provide a lovely bit of festive atmosphere and a delicious cheese toastie made with local produce. Try to visit at lunch, while the toastie was delicious, it was one of many food choices to choose from so would gladly go back to sample more of the food options!

Enjoy the Country Air on a Walk Around the Country Side

Being so close to the Cotswolds, Salisbury is lucky enough to be surrounded by beautiful countryside. Take a walk through the major park and enjoy some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the main city area. The fresh, country air does wonders for the psyche if you ask me! On your walk, keep your eyes peeled for the old Medieval waterways which cover the fields – they were used similar to an irrigation system to ensure crops had proper access to water all year round.

Couple the above walk with a walk through the city. The old city architecture makes for wonderful exploring, with plenty of boutique coffee shops and bars within the city centre to enjoy. A small river runs around the city centre – follow the water way, crossing bridges as you go, and enjoy the peace and quiet that the flowing water brings. You may even see a swan or two if you’re a lover of nature!

Improve Your Historical Knowledge at Salisbury Museum

I almost didn’t visit this museum but I am so glad I did in the end! Extremely informative, the museum takes you through the history of Salisbury as well as including special exhibitions on things such as fashion or famous women of the area. For 10 pounds this museum was extremely informative and extremely fascinating, housed in the King’s House directly opposite the Cathedral. It has an incredible collection of archeological artefacts found within the area, including the Warminster Jewel, a manuscript pointer made on behalf of King Alfred for the dioceses in his Kingdom and one of only a few similar jewels in existence, and the Drainage Collection, a group of every day objects found in the old sewers of Salisbury. If you are looking to get a deeper idea of the history of this area and how the people lived and died throughout the centuries this museum is an absolute must. It also combines additional exhibitions, focussed on art and fashion, which provide added content away from the usual artefacts and historical facts and figures

Enjoy Some Retail Therapy on the Main Street

If you’re more inclined towards some retail therapy, it doesn’t hurt to walk around Salisbury high street on your visit. The shopping scene combines big brand names with smaller, local shops so that there is something for everyone to enjoy. The centre city is also filled with many large pubs or cute restaurants and wine bars if you’re feeling peckish on your journey!

Salisbury is a charming town within proximity to the Cotswolds, combining incredible architecture, fascinating history and beautiful country side. While maybe not top of my list of places to visit again, it is well worth a day trip if you are looking for extra things to do. Otherwise, join it onto a trip to Stonehenge and enjoy all that this part of England has to offer!