History outdoors / NEAR SALISBURY

Old Sarum

Read the shape of Salisbury’s earlier settlement in the earthworks, cathedral foundations and ruined castle above the modern city. The value here is the space and the relationship between the hill and the later cathedral below. Bring imagination and time to look across the landscape; the remains are an outdoor archaeological site rather than furnished castle rooms.

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The excavated foundations of the former cathedral at Old Sarum — Photo: Margaret Anne Clarke

Before you go

The shop ramp is currently unavailable for maintenance, leaving steps only into the shop. Check the access notice and weather before travelling; do not rely on the older facilities page’s description of ramp access.

The practical details

Where to find it: Off the A345, 2.1 miles north of Salisbury, SP1 3SD.
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: Budget for the ticketed castle visit and non-member parking. Check the date-specific opening calendar and admission terms before setting off. Do not treat every part of the site as an unrestricted free attraction.
Access and getting around: Approaches include gradients, gravel and a steep wooden bridge. The current shop restriction affects wheelchairs, scooters and buggies. Discuss the suitable route and any arranged set-down with staff; the accessible toilet is by the car park.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: Pushchairs are permitted on the grounds, but slopes require effort and the shop is currently inaccessible to buggies. Watch young children near steep banks and pits. Baby changing is available; there is no café, so bring food or plan a meal elsewhere.

Practical information checked 14 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 1½–2 hours on site for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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