Things to do in Salisbury

If you are the kind of holidaymaker who loves to delve into the history of the destination you are visiting, then Salisbury is certainly the city for you. The bulk of the attractions on offer here are historically themed, with everything from ancient remains and medieval architecture to classic aircraft. For many, the enigmatic Stonehenge is a priority on their sightseeing agendas.

Compton Abbas Airfield

Compton Abbas Airfield is a traditional airfield where classic aircraft from yesteryear are stored both for visitor viewing and for flying demonstrations. The airfield regularly hosts displays of aerial acrobatics performed by well-preserved vintage aircraft. The air shows can be viewed from outside or from the comfort of the restaurant or bar. An on-site museum features a variety of working aircraft that have been used in Hollywood movies such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, The Eagle has Landed, The Blue Max, The Mummy and 28 Days Later.

Salisbury Cathedral

Popularly hailed as Britains finest medieval cathedral, Salisbury Cathedral dates back as far as the 13th century with its construction having begun in 1220 and completed over three decades later in 1258. From the outside, the cathedral offers views of its magnificent soaring spire and proud Gothic architecture, while the inside is ornately decorated and kept in a good state of repair. Home of the original Magna Carta document that is considered an important aspect of English political history, tours of the cathedral and its tower are available on payment of a modest fee.

Stonehenge

Located on Salisbury Plain, Stonehenge is something of an enigma, steeped in mysticism and tales of pagan ritualism. Attracting visitors with specific New Age interests and others with a simple curiosity of this unusual construction, the giant tablets of stone were laid out to create a circular structure, and are believed to have been created as a temple for sun-worshipping or as an ancient astrological calendar.

Salisbury and South Wiltshire Museum

Salisbury Museum draws its fair share of visitors, especially those with an interest in the deeper historical aspects of the city. The facility follows the history of Salisbury and the Wiltshire region from the earliest days of Roman occupation through to the arrival of the Anglo Saxons. Among the notable exhibits on display are the Warminster Jewel and the Monkton Deverill gold torch, plus an entire gallery dedicated to the mysterious Stonehenge.

Old Sarum

Old Sarum sits high on a hill above the Salisbury Plain and is the site where the original city of Salisbury was housed. The site features the remains of structures that indicate that settlers were in the area as early as 3000 BC. Visitors making a trip to Old Sarum will find themselves amid the remnants of ancient settlement made by the Romans, Saxons and the Normans.

Old Wardour Castle

Dating back to the late 14th century when it was built on behalf of John, the fifth Lord Lovel; Old Wardour Castle is a medieval structure with the unique feature of having a total of six sides. The castle came under attack during the English Civil War and sustained heavy damage, but was later partially restored by the Arundell family. Hailed as one of Englands most romantic ruins, the castle is a must for anyone with an interest in Wiltshire heritage. There are some grand views over the county and some good photo opportunities.

Museums

Salisbury is home to a couple of museums including the Royal Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Regiment (Salisbury) Museum which details the history of regional County Regiments, offering the chance to see regimental war diaries and artefacts related to the regiments. Phone: +44 1722 419419.