Rich in culture and heritage, the medieval cathedral city of Salisbury is located in Wiltshire, England, a significant spot on the Kind Alfred’s Way route. With its quaint old buildings, historical monuments and small-town feel, a trip to Salisbury will leave you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. In fact, we’ve listed it as one of our top five historical destinations!
With so much to see and do, making a weekend of your trip to Salisbury is a good idea. Since Salisbury train station is just a stone’s throw from the city centre, getting here couldn’t be easier. Read on for the best things to do in Salisbury, including how to get there and where to eat.
Once you’ve arrived at Salisbury station, start your day with a trip to the world-famous Stonehenge. The landmark is around a 20-minute drive away, and we’d recommend booking a Stonehenge Tour to let a professional take care of the logistics. From 10:00 onwards, a regular shuttle bus picks up visitors from outside the station, getting you to Stonehenge in just half an hour.
The tour package also comes with priority tickets to get into Stonehenge, so it won’t be long before you can admire the ancient stones and sprawling countryside views. If you’re keen to explore the area, you can also find plenty of great walking trails nearby.
All that walking has probably left you with an appetite. It’s time to head to the Stonehenge Café for a bite. Choose from a range of classic dishes, including sandwiches, salads, jacket potatoes and burgers, with a refreshing homemade fruit juice to rehydrate.
The tour bus back to town stops off at Old Sarum, so you’ll have the perfect opportunity to explore another historical location. The area of Old Sarum is older than the city and cathedral, making it one of the most popular Salisbury attractions. There’s plenty to discover here.
Visit the remains of an Iron Age hillfort, then check out Salisbury’s original cathedral. Finally, explore a medieval castle built by William the Conqueror before it’s time to jump back on the bus to the train station.
Now you’ve admired Salisbury’s old cathedral, it’s time to see how the newer (yet still ancient) version compares. Salisbury Cathedral is a ten-minute walk from the station through the town centre.
As one of the city’s most popular attractions, the near 800-year-old gothic cathedral boasts the tallest church spire in England. It’s also home to the world’s oldest mechanical clock and the best-preserved copy of the 1215 Magna Carta globally.
You’ve been exploring all day, so it’s time to get some much-needed rest at Cosy Club. Located just a short walk from the cathedral, this family-friendly restaurant is housed in a stunning Grade II-listed former arts college. Fitting after your day of history and culture.
The menu offers everything from macaroni cheese and beer-battered cod to roast chicken and lamb shank. There’s also a kids’ menu perfect for little tummies. Round off your meal with a cocktail or two and toast to your trip so far.
Price range: ££
Relax and enjoy an overnight stay in the heart of Salisbury
Your first day in Salisbury has come to an end, and it’s time to put your feet up and prepare for another busy day! There are a range of hotels within the city to cater for all budgets. These include:
Luxury: Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel and The Red Lion Best Western Hotel Salisbury - Bag yourself 10% off lowest B&B rates at The Red Lion with SWR Rewards
Your second day in Salisbury will be another busy one, so head to Culture Coffee to fuel for what’s to come.
This is a perfect place to start your day with a menu of coffees and plenty of hearty breakfast and brunch options. Order the breakfast brioche with your topping of choice, or take your pick from one of the delicious freshly baked cakes and pastries on offer.
Culture Coffee is just a five-minute stroll from the train station, so it should be easy to reach if you’re staying in central Salisbury.
Discover the history of Salisbury at the Salisbury Museum. The museum is a ten-minute walk from Culture Coffee, an easy next stop after your breakfast or brunch.
There's plenty to explore, with collections ranging from archaeology to ceramics and glass. This is also a great spot to learn more about the history of Stonehenge. What’s more, you can enjoy 25% discount on admission at The Salisbury Museum with SWR Rewards.
Price range: ££
Enjoy a bite to eat at Tinga Mexican Bar & Restaurant
Inject some flavour into your day at Tinga Mexican Bar & Restaurant, a firm favourite among locals and tourists.
This vibrant Mexican eatery is in the city’s heart, just a 13-minute walk from the train station. Settle in among a leafy, blue-hued, interior and browse the extensive, traditional food and drinks menu. Those travelling with South Western Railway can enjoy 10% off their bill at Tinga—simply show your train tickets on arrival.
As the largest independent gallery in the south west, Fisherton Mill is a must-visit for all art fanatics. Its converted Victorian grain mill location is impressive in itself, while the galleries and independent shops within are the icing on the cake. Once you’ve finished exploring, why not enjoy a buy one get one free coffee and cake at the Mill’s café? You can also bag 10% off your entry by bringing along your South Western Railway train ticket.
Wander through Salisbury City Centre
You might have caught some glimpses of the city centre while walking between destinations. Now you have an opportunity to fully bask in the city’s beauty.
The compact city is set upon five rivers – the Nadder, Ebble, Wylye, Bourne and the Avon. Explore charming cobbled side streets, scenic river viewpoints and ancient architecture as you stroll around Salisbury. Explore the old and new market squares, churches, shops and restaurants that line the street, or find a well-placed bench and watch the world go by.
If you fancy some shopping, head to Salisbury’s Charter Market. The best place to browse or grab a bargain, the market is open every Tuesday and Saturday. Find everything from furniture and jewellery to clothes and local farm produce at this outdoor market, an explosion of sights and smells that can keep you entertained for an hour or two. The market is easy to get to from The New Inn, just five minutes walk through the city.
As one of the best restaurants in Salisbury, Pizza Venti is an easy dinner choice. You can’t go wrong with Italian food – especially when it’s authentic, and Pizza Venti’s menu contains plenty of favourites to suit every taste.
At Pizza Venti, the dough is made using a traditional Italian recipe. Guests have the option to create their own pizza, choosing from a variety of freshy sourced ingredients, from vibrant vegetables to a selection of flavoursome meats. Show your valid South Western Railway ticket at the till to enjoy a mega 20% off your bill.
Price range: ££
Head home with South Western Railway
With your 48 hours ending, it’s time to head back to Salisbury station, where you’ll find South Western Railway services running to many destinations across the South West. Explore our ticket types to find the best train tickets for your journey. Don’t forget, you can save even more with our Railcards and discounts. For more discounts and offers, take a look at our full list of SWR Rewards in Salisbury.
