Salisbury Cathedral

Salisbury Cathedral, Salisbury, Wiltshire
Salisbury Cathedral, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Salisbury Cathedral is a heritage attraction located in Salisbury in Wiltshire, the attractive Cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is considered a great example of English Gothic architecture. The Cathedral is currently an important and influential place of worship attracting many visitors each year. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the Cathedral and its history helping to appreciate the full splendour of the building and its interesting design features. A day trip here offers a heritage attraction at one of the most attractive Cathedrals in the UK.

Attractions


Salisbury Cathedral is a medieval Cathedral located in the centre of Salisbury, it is unique amongst medieval English cathedrals in that it was built within one century and had no prominent later additions. The building itself is an attraction for visitors with many appreciating the design and structure.

Whilst the Cathedral is an important and historical monument, it is also the Cathedral Church of the Salisbury diocese, this makes it the church at the heart of several hundred parishes located in Wiltshire and Dorset.

The church is a popular one not just for tourists but for as a centre of pilgrimage for many visitors each year. The church is very much active today and plays an important role in the local area and local communities. It was built between 1220 and 1258, in one recognisable architectural style, the Cathedral is regarded as among the finest 13th century Gothic Cathedral in England..

Visitors to the Cathedral can learn more about over 750 years of history that includes the world's best preserved original Magna Carta, one of only four remaining dating back to 1215 AD. Visitors can see the tallest spire in the UK standing at over 400 feet and also there is oldest working clock in Europe here that dates back to 1386 AD. Visitors here can take a tour of the Cathedral to learn more about the history of the building and the interesting stories behind its important events.

The Chapter House displayed in an octagonal shape, inside there are scenes depicted from religious books that include Adam and Eve and Isaac and Jacob.

The Cathedral Clock was once located in a bell tower but this was demolished back in 1792, the clock was largely forgotten about until 1929 when it was discovered in the attic of the Cathedral. The clock was put back in to service in 1956 and in recent years there has been rebuilding and repair work done to the Clock.

The Choir here has auditions for boys and girls aged 8 to 9 years old each year for scholarships to the Salisbury Cathedral School, which is housed in the old Bishop's Palace. The boys’ choir and the girls’ choir both of which have 16 members sing alternate Evensong services throughout the course of the school year. There is a strong tradition of choir singing at the cathedral.

Visitors to the historic building can experience a sense of history and heritage when visiting, with the Cathedral offering a fascinating insight in to history through the 750 years of heritage here. Visitors can also see impressive period architecture of rare quality set in a scenic backdrop.


How to Get There


The house can be accessed by both car and public transport:

By Car:

Salisbury is located in the county of Wiltshire and is approx 95 miles from central London the approx journey time is 2 hours to 2 hours 20 minutes. From London take the A4 then take the M4 and drive to junction 4b and take the M25, exit the M25 at junction 12 and take the M3 towards Southampton. Exit at junction 8 on to the A303 and drive until the junction with the A345 and drive along the A345 until the Castle roundabout and take the second exit on to Castle Street. Turn left on to Blue Boar Road then continue along Winchester Street and turn right on to Brown Street. Drive along Brown Street until the right turning for St Ann Street and continue straight and you will see the cathedral on your left.

For those using Satellite Navigation systems the postcode is SP1 2EF.

By Train:

From London Waterloo Station in central London trains are available to Salisbury station, with an approx journey time of 90 minutes. From Salisbury station the cathedral is within walking distance.

By Coach:

National Express offers services from London Victoria Coach Station to Salisbury with some direct routes and others with changes at interchange stations such as Southampton. The journey time is approx 3 hours to 3 hours 30 minutes. From the bus station in Salisbury bus station, the cathedral is within walking distance.

Contact Details


Salisbury Cathedral
The Close
Salisbury
SP1 2EF
United Kingdom

Telephone: +44 (0)1722 555120

Fax: +44 (0)1722 555116

Website: Salisbury Cathedral

Facilities & Information


Opening Times:

Open from 07.15 until 18.15 (Monday to Sunday)

Open until 19.15 from early June until End of August Monday to Saturday.

Further Information:

There is no entrance fee but the cathedral relies on donations, visitors can make donations when visiting the cathedral if they wish to do so.

Facilities:

The Refectory Restaurant offers a buffet service with hot and cold snacks and lunches. There are a number of drinks and refreshments available.

The Cathedral Shop offers visitors with a range of souvenirs, gifts, books and clothing.

Map



View Larger Map

For Local Search and Directions see: Salisbury Cathedral Map

Tips & Other Considerations


There may be some variations on the opening hours depending on the time of year and other factors. It is recommended visitors double check before going to ensure the attraction you wish to see is open.

When travelling remain alert, vigilant and aware of your belongings at all times. Ensure valuables i.e. your wallet/purse are hidden away from public view. If you have a bag try to use a shoulder bag with a good quality, strong strap, that is put across your shoulder not on your shoulder making it more difficult for anyone to take your bag.

If you are travelling by car to Salisbury, ensure you are well prepared with maps and Sat Nav to aid your journey, particularly if you are not familiar with the local area and roads. Use the route planner for door to door directions. Check for traffic updates and news before starting your trip.

If you are travelling by public transport, check for service updates prior to beginning your journey for any delays, disruption or cancellations to services that may impact on your journey. Ensure you have the service timetables for the trains, buses and coaches. Remember when the last services are and ensure you make it to the train/bus/coach stops well in time.





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