Old Sarum

Old Sarum is a massive, multi-layered historic site where 2,000 years of English history are stacked on top of one another. Located about two miles north of modern Salisbury in Wiltshire, it is the original site of the city before it was moved into the valley in the 13th century.

What You Can Do & Visit Duration
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours exploring the site.
Walk the Ramparts: You can walk around the massive Iron Age earthworks, which offer panoramic views of the Wiltshire countryside and the distant spire of Salisbury Cathedral.
Explore the Ruins: Cross the wooden bridge to explore the remains of the Norman Royal Castle and trace the foundations of Salisbury’s first cathedral, which are marked out in the grass.
Picnic & Wildlife: With 29 acres of rare chalk grassland, it is a popular spot for picnics and spotting wildlife like butterflies and kestrels.
Family Activities: Children can enjoy seasonal “Folklore Creature Trails” and dress up in replica armour available at the gift shop.

Suitability & Best Times to Go
Best Suited To: Families with children who need space to run, dog walkers, and history enthusiasts. Note that the ground is steep and may be difficult for those with mobility issues.
Best Times:
Sunny Days: The site is almost entirely outdoors and exposed; fine weather is essential to enjoy the “unrivalled views”.
Weekdays: Admission prices are typically cheaper on weekdays if booked in advance.
Summer Evenings: The site occasionally hosts open-air theatre productions.

What Makes it Unique
Old Sarum is unique because it is the only site in England to combine an Iron Age hillfort, a Roman settlement, a Norman castle, and a cathedral all in one location. It is also famously known as a “Rotten Borough”—it continued to elect two Members of Parliament until 1832 despite having no actual residents at the time.

Membership, Offers & Booking Tips
English Heritage Membership: Members of English Heritage get free entry and free parking.
Free Access Areas: While there is a fee for the central castle ruins, you can walk the outer ramparts and the site of the old cathedral for free.
Booking Tip: It is cheaper to buy tickets online in advance than at the gate.
Group Offers: Discounted rates are available for groups of 11 or more.
Stonehenge Connection: The Stonehenge Tour Bus includes a stop at Old Sarum, making it easy to combine both sites in one trip.