Salisbury Cathedral - One Of Southern England's Prime Landmarks...  

Salisbury’s jewel in the crown is the awesome Cathedral, built between 1220 and 1258. The Cathedral has remained largely undisturbed throughout the centuries, with the exception of the addition of the towering spire – which at 404 feet is the tallest in England. The spire was added to the Cathedral in 1315, though work only initially started in 1285.

In actual fact, Salisbury Cathedral was first founded at a different location – on a hill called Old Sarum (which is a few miles north of where Salisbury is now). Unfortunately, shortly after the initial Cathedral was built in 1092, it was ravaged and destroyed by severe lightening.

Salisbury Cathedral has several interesting artefacts, tombs and monuments to enjoy. There is a suggested donation to enter, but it’s well worth the gift and your funds will help contribute towards the upkeep of the Cathedral.

One of the highlights of the Cathedral is the worlds oldest working clock, which dates back as far as 1386. Don’t expect anything that looks like a clock as you know it.

There are some tombs of interest within the Cathedral – the Tomb of St Osmund, (the second Bishop of Old Sarum) and Tomb of William dr Longespee (a general who died in the Crusades). Located in the south choir aisle is the Tomb of the Earl of Hertford. Nearby is Mompesson Tomb – representing Sir Richard Mompesson and his wife, Lady Katherine,.

The oldest part of the place is the Trinity Chapel (which used to be known as Lady Chapel). For a little inspiration, visit the Carta House which houses one of the four remaining Magna Carta scribes – possibly the most influential and important legal document in Englands history. The Magna Carta was issued by King John in 1215 and laid out a clear set of rules and rights for citizens and persons. Effectively, UK law was officially born.

Also worth a visit is the Cathedral Close – which contains many old buildings and was developed over time alongside the Cathedral to be a component of it. The Cathedral Close was walled in during 1333. Part of Cathedral Close is The Kings House which was built by the Abbots of Sherbourne. Also part of the Cathedral Close is Mompesson House, built in the 1701 by Sir Thomas Mompesson. Other landmarks of note within the Cathedral Close are Bishops Place, Malmesbury House and St Ann’s Gate.

Nearby to Salisbury Cathedral is the resplendent St Thomas Church, dating back to the twelfth century. One of the most beautiful features of this parish church is the Doom Painting over the chancel arch which must not be missed. While the church itself was built around 1220, the painting itself was completed in 1475.

A Brief History Of Salisbury

Interesting Salisbury Facts For Visitors

Getting To Salisbury & Exploring The Town

Top Salisbury Attractions:

Salisbury Cathedral

Old Sarum

Stonehenge

Off The Beaten Path

Other Salisbury Points Of Interest 

Salisbury Hotels, B&B's & Accommodation

Top Restaurants, Cafes & Eateries In Salisbury

Shopping In Salisbury