Salisbury Cathedral & Old Sarum
Salisbury Cathedral, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 2EF
The iconic Salisbury Cathedral is over 900 years old and one of the biggest tourist attractions in Britain, as well as the West Country. Since 1218, when Pope Honorius III decreed the new Salisbury Cathedral be built in its current site, people across the globe have paid pilgrimage to the medieval marvel. Salisbury Cathedral plays a huge role in Salisbury and the people who live there, additionally in the wider Christian community.
There are plenty of amazingly interesting things to see and do at Salisbury Cathedral for everyone; families, groups, solo explorers alike. With the tallest spire in England at 123m above ground and weighing a whopping 6,500 tonnes, Salisbury Cathedral offers exclusive tower tours up the 332 steps. Here you’ll learn the fascinating hidden history that lurks beneath the construction. That’s not to mention the cathedral is home to the world’s oldest mechanical clock. The mechanical clock was built in 1386, has no face and was designed to chine on the hour, every hour.
Magna Carta
Apart from the astonishing spire and religious pilgrimages, guests also flock to Salisbury Cathedral to see for themselves one of the original four remaining Magna Carter documents. The society making document established on June 15th, 1215 set the foundations for future constitutions across the world. The landmark record was brought about to settle an ongoing dispute between the English barons and King John.
The Magna Carter, although annulled by Pope Innocent III soon after signing, was drafted by the then Archbishop of Canterbury, Stephen Langton. It promised the protection of church rights, protection from unlawful imprisonment for barons, justice reforms and tax reforms for the Crown. Salisbury Cathedral keeps the Magna Carter right up to date and relevant, with a multimedia exhibition.
Plan your Salisbury Cathedral visit today by checking out their website and booking your tickets in advance.
There is so much to see and do, you’ll never be stuck for ideas.
Old Sarum, Castle Road, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 3SD
Step back in time and put yourself in the same spot as great historical figures at Old Sarum. The Iron Age hillfort settlement is a vital piece of history in the UK that is still available to visit. With estimates reporting occupation from as early as 400BC and subsequent Roman occupation in AD 43, when it was known as Sorviodunum, there is a bounty of history beneath the soil.
It wasn’t until William the Conqueror, who recognised Old Sarum’s potential after the Conquest in 1066. The hillfort’s structures and findings have suggested an ideal army base for the early stages of the Norman Conquest.
This site was soon selected as the site for a new cathedral, with literate clerks and scholars writing great texts and literature, some of which are still in existence today.
It was in 1194 that royal approval for the cathedral to be moved to its current site in Salisbury. However, work did not take place on the new build until 1220. For more detailed information about Old Sarum and its historical significance, visit English Heritage. There is an admittance fee and although you do not have to book in advance, it is advised.
