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Archaeological site · Salisbury, Inglaterra
Old Sarum
The fortified hill 3 km from Salisbury where the early town stood, with the Iron Age earthworks, the ruins of the Norman castle and the foundations of the first cathedral. Managed by English Heritage.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Old Sarum
Old Sarum is the hill where the first Salisbury stood, about 3 km north of the current town. The site began as an Iron Age fort around 400 BC, with large ramparts and ring ditches that still shape the landscape. Romans, Saxons and Normans later occupied the hill, and Guilherme, o Conquistador, built a castle there and summoned the kingdom’s nobles in 1086.
At the centre of the hill are the ruins of the Norman castle, with remains of walls, the bishop’s palace and the well, on an inner mound surrounded by a ditch and crossed by a bridge. On the northwest side, foundations marked on the lawn show the size of the first cathedral, consecrated in 1092. Because of lack of water, disputes between the clergy and the castle’s soldiers and the constant wind, the bishop moved the cathedral to the valley in 1220, and the new town grew around it, emptying the hill.
From the top of the ramparts there are views over the plain and, to the south, of the spire of the Catedral de Salisbury, which explains the relocation. Panels explain each phase, and a trail circles the outer ramparts.
The site is open, with strong winds and little shade; the inner castle requires an entrance fee, and the outer ramparts are free to walk.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 1h30 for the castle, the cathedral foundations and a walk around the ramparts.
Best time
On a clear day, to see the Salisbury spire from the top, preferably in the late afternoon. It is very windy; bring a coat. Check castle opening days on the English Heritage website, which reduces opening times in winter.
How to get there
It is about 3 km north of Salisbury centre, along Castle Road (A345). Local buses run from the centre, and the Stonehenge tour bus usually stops at the site. On foot, the walk along the river Avon takes about 45 minutes.
Tip
Combine with Stonehenge on the same day using the tour bus, which often offers a combined ticket. From the top of the outer rampart, look for the cathedral spire on the horizon.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Old Sarum
What is Old Sarum?
The hill where the first Salisbury stood, with an Iron Age fort, a Norman castle and the foundations of the first cathedral.
Why was the cathedral moved?
Because of lack of water on the hill, disputes between the clergy and the castle’s soldiers, and the wind. In 1220 the cathedral was re-established in the valley where it stands today.
Can it be combined with Stonehenge?
Yes, the Salisbury tour bus usually stops at both.