Things to do in Salisbury

Activities, attractions and tours

Salisbury Cathedral showing tranquil scenes and heritage architecture
Salisbury Cathedral showing tranquil scenes and heritage architecture
Salisbury which includes street scenes
Salisbury Cathedral featuring interior views
Salisbury featuring a river or creek and heritage architecture
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Top places to visit

1. Stonehenge

Stonehenge is a mysterious ring of monolithic stones that has confused archaeologists for centuries. Admire this fascinating structure against the haunting backdrop of Salisbury Plain and discover what’s known about its puzzling history at the modern visitors’ center.
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Stonehenge showing building ruins and heritage elements

2. Salisbury Cathedral

Home to England’s best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta, Salisbury Cathedral is a fine example of Early English architecture from the 1200s. Its spire, which reaches a height of 404 feet (123 meters), is hollow and accessible via a spiral staircase. The church is a venue for art exhibitions and concerts as well as a place for prayer. Inspect what is said to be the oldest working modern clock in the world, dating back to 1386.
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Salisbury Cathedral which includes a church or cathedral and religious elements

3. Old Sarum

Among the earliest settlements in the region, Old Sarum is a protective hilltop fort with evidence of humans dating back to around 3,000 B.C. The hilltop has an inner and outer moat-like ditch, an impressive feat that was created around 400 B.C. Later, the Normans built a castle and a cathedral on this historic land. After exploring the intriguing ramparts, hike with your family in the picturesque countryside.
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Old Sarum which includes building ruins, tranquil scenes and heritage elements

4. Wilton House

Wilton House is a grand mansion in the green setting of Wiltshire’s countryside. Elegant gardens include a playground area for kids and surround the large gray house. It has an intriguing history, having belonged to the estate of the Earl of Pembroke for four centuries. Meander through the halls of this impressive structure to learn about its individual chambers and their stories.
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Wilton House featuring a park and heritage architecture

5. Woodhenge

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Woodhenge showing outdoor art, tranquil scenes and a monument

6. Salisbury Museum

The region’s famous archeological sites are the main elements featured in Salisbury Museum. Relics from the iconic historical settlements of Old Sarum and Stonehenge decorate the walls of the majestic building, the King’s House. The structure itself dates back to the early 1600s, when it lodged King James I during royal visits to Salisbury. Learn about these Bronze Age and Iron Age items and make a trip to their nearby prehistoric homes.
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Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum showing heritage architecture

What to do in Salisbury

Popular places to visit

Stonehenge featuring heritage elements

Stonehenge

This powerful prehistoric structure is one of England’s most visited monuments and an important UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stonehenge
Salisbury Cathedral which includes a church or cathedral and religious elements

Salisbury Cathedral

Climb to the top of the country’s tallest spire and check the time on the hands of a 14th-century clock.

Salisbury Cathedral
Feeling lucky at the races #springfun

Salisbury Racecourse

You can take time to visit Salisbury Racecourse during your travels to Netherhampton. Visit the stunning cathedral and cosy cafes in this walkable area.

Salisbury Racecourse
Old Sarum which includes heritage elements and building ruins

Old Sarum

Climb to the top of this Iron Age hilltop monument and cross the wooden bridge to see a castle built by William the Conqueror.

Old Sarum
Salisbury Cathedral, England

Cathedral Close

You can study the exhibits at Cathedral Close, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Salisbury. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.

Cathedral Close
Wilton House featuring a park and heritage architecture

Wilton House

Listen to the story of the earls of Pembroke and the former priory on this site. Take the children to the playground in the pleasant gardens.

Wilton House
Woodhenge showing outdoor art, tranquil scenes and a monument

Woodhenge

Humans built this ring-shaped structure millennia ago. Learn about their culture and imagine their reasons for creating the site.

Woodhenge
Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum featuring interior views and heritage elements

Salisbury Museum

See copper objects from thousands of years ago and one of Britain’s largest meteorites in this 17th-century mansion.

Salisbury Museum
Magna Carta House in Salisbury Ireland.

Magna Carta Chapter House

You can find out about the history of Salisbury when you stop by Magna Carta Chapter House. Amble around this culturally rich area's riverfront and enjoy its lively bars.

Magna Carta Chapter House

Frequently asked questions

Is Salisbury worth visiting?
With a blend of walking trails and camping, there are plenty of things to do in Salisbury. While you're here, head to Cathedral Close, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Salisbury?
Cathedral Close and Boscombe Down Aviation Collection are two awesome places to start your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Salisbury while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Salisbury?
Don't go home without visiting Cathedral Close, ranked the top tourist attraction in Salisbury.
Is three days enough to stay in Salisbury?
Three days in Salisbury is plenty of time to enjoy the city's key attractions. Many travellers spend two days on average. Cathedral Close, Magna Carta Chapter House and Boscombe Down Aviation Collection are top-rated sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a bit longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Southampton.
What are some activities to do in Salisbury with kids?
Deciding what to do in Salisbury with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or toddlers, there's no shortage of family-friendly sights to keep them happy here.

What to do in Salisbury for adults?
Old Sarum and Durrington Walls are just a few of the things to do in Salisbury. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Salisbury?
One of the simplest ways to find free things to do in Salisbury is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can visit without opening your wallet. Cathedral Close is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

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