Salisbury Cathedral
The majestic Salisbury Cathedral in beautiful Wiltshire needs no introduction!
Begun in 1220, the Cathedral was completed within forty years, and it is regarded as one of the leading examples of Early English Gothic architecture.
Its distinctive feature is off course the spire. The spire was added a century later and at 404ft is the highest in England.
The Nave
The high nave of the Cathedral is tall and narrow but there is an amazing sense of space and light.
An unusual feature of the nave is an unconventional modern font. Designed by the water sculptor William Pye, it is the largest working font in any British cathedral.
The chapter house and Magna Charta
The largest cathedral cloisters lead to the octagonal chapter house which displays a rare copy of the original Magna Charta, the best preserved of only four surviving from 1215.
The Close
Surrounding Salisbury Cathedral, the Close is the largest in Britain at 80 acres. It enables you to appreciate the Cathedral from every angle.
Peregrine Falcons
Every year a pair of peregrine falcons make the Cathedral tower their home in their breeding season. They are so popular they even have their own YouTube channel.
Salisbury
The medieval city of Salisbury is very attractive, small but spacious. Cut through by the River Avon and fringed by water meadows, this city has a lot to offer.
Most visitors combine a visit to the city with a visit to the iconic prehistoric stone circle at Stonehenge, which stands on the grassland of Salisbury Plain.
Salisbury is compact and easy to get around on foot. Whether you fancy a short stroll or a long walk, there are lots of walking options available
Avon Valley Path
Salisbury is the start of the 34-mile Avon Valley Path long distance walking route.
The route follows the River Avon south of the city to Downton, via Ringwood and edges of the New Forest National Park and then on eventually into Christchurch Harbour.
Clarendon Way
Another long-distance walking route is the 24-mile Clarendon Way that links Salisbury to another cathedral city, Winchester.
Along the way the route passes the Laverstock Downs with its rare orchids in the summer and the ruins of Clarendon Palace, a royal hunting lodge.
Cool Places to Explore: Stonehenge | Cranborne Chase AONB | New Forest National Park | Shaftesbury | Old Wardour Castle.
