Salisbury 1 Cathedral Close

Salisbury’s ancient heart is dominated by the 13th Century medieval Cathedral, a fine example of early English Gothic architecture. Set in 80 acres and surrounded by the Close, the Cathedral has the largest cloister in England and the Chapter House is home to one of only four surviving copies of the Magna Carta. Tranquil in character, the Close reflects architectural styles from the 13th through to the 20th Century. Originally built for Canons of the Cathedral, plots remodelled over the centuries are today occupied by museums, religious and educational bodies and private residences.

Legend has it that the site of the new city and Cathedral of Salisbury was chosen by where an arrow fired from Old Sarum (the original hilltop city of Salisbury) landed in the meadows below, a distance of nearly 2 miles! Surrounded by picturesque water meadows it is easy to understand why Salisbury Cathedral and Close have inspired generations of writers and artists; John Constable’s cathedral views being particularly well known.

‘Salisbury - Cathedral Close’ is the forerunner for a series of Trails designed to feature different perspectives of a city that offers so much. With a Murder Mystery theme, this compact circular walking Trail takes in the Cloisters and explores the handsome buildings and intriguing history of the Close that surrounds Britain’s finest Gothic Cathedral.

This Trail starts at the High Street Gate to Cathedral Close. There are car parks around the city and the Park and Ride is convenient and economical. Whether you arrive by car, train or bus the Cathedral is well signed. The route is on the level and well suited for both pushchairs and wheelchairs. There is restricted vehicle access within the Close and plenty of open space for children to play. You could plan to picnic or admire the spire from under the glass roof of the Refectory Restaurant inside the Cloisters. Toilets are also located here.

Please be aware that the gates to the Close are locked every night at 11 pm. and open again at 7 am. The Cathedral opens throughout the year (7.15 am to 6.15 pm with extended summer opening); there is no entrance charge although donations are requested. Opening times and admission charges for the various museums vary.