Old Sarum

Old Sarum is an ancient hilltop settlement located near Salisbury in Wiltshire, England. It is a remarkable archaeological site with layers of history dating back over 5,000 years, encompassing prehistoric, Iron Age, Roman, and medieval periods. The site is best known for its ruined castle and cathedral foundations that sit atop a large, fortified mound.

Today, Old Sarum offers visitors a unique glimpse into England’s early history, combining stunning panoramic views with ruins that tell stories of centuries of human settlement and conflict. It is a popular destination for history enthusiasts, hikers, and families seeking to explore England’s rich past in an open-air environment.

How to Reach Old Sarum, Wiltshire

Old Sarum is located approximately 2 miles north of Salisbury city center, making it easily accessible for visitors.

• By Car: The site is signposted from Salisbury and can be reached via the A345 road. There is a dedicated car park near the entrance to Old Sarum, with free parking available for visitors.
• By Bus: Local buses from Salisbury to Old Sarum run regularly. Check current timetables from Salisbury city center as routes may change seasonally.
• On Foot or Bicycle: For those staying in Salisbury, it is possible to walk or cycle to Old Sarum via scenic routes, which take around 30-45 minutes on foot.
• By Train: The nearest train station is Salisbury Station, located in the city center. From there, a taxi or bus can take you to Old Sarum.

Weather at Old Sarum, Wiltshire

Wiltshire has a temperate maritime climate, meaning mild summers and cool winters, with rainfall spread throughout the year.

• Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures between 10°C and 18°C (50°F - 64°F), with blooming countryside surrounding the hill.
• Summer (June to August): Warm and generally dry weather, averaging 18°C to 25°C (64°F - 77°F), ideal for outdoor exploration.
• Autumn (September to November): Cooler weather with temperatures between 10°C and 16°C (50°F - 61°F), and beautiful fall foliage.
• Winter (December to February): Chilly and damp, averaging 2°C to 8°C (36°F - 46°F), some frost and occasional snow may occur.

Opening Hours and Timing

Old Sarum is generally open all year round, as it is an outdoor historic site.

• The site is accessible during daylight hours, usually from 9:00 AM until dusk. Exact closing times vary with the seasons.
• It is advisable to visit during daylight for safety and to enjoy the views fully.
• There are no entry restrictions, but facilities like the visitor center or toilets may have specific opening times, so check locally before your visit.

Why Is Old Sarum Famous?

Old Sarum is famous for being one of England’s earliest settlements and the original site of the city of Salisbury. It served as a strategic military and administrative center for many centuries. The site was once a formidable Iron Age hillfort, later used by the Romans, and in medieval times was the location of a royal castle and the first Salisbury Cathedral.

The castle ruins at Old Sarum are particularly notable, showcasing medieval military architecture. Its position on a hill provided excellent defensive views and control over the surrounding land. The cathedral ruins reflect early ecclesiastical history before the cathedral was relocated to the present Salisbury city center.

Moreover, Old Sarum has been mentioned in historical documents dating back to the Domesday Book of 1086 and played a role in many significant events during England’s turbulent medieval period.

Entry and Visit Details

Visiting Old Sarum is a largely self-guided experience as it is an open historic site with ruins and earthworks spread across the hill.

• Entry Fee: There is generally no charge for entry to Old Sarum itself, but donations are welcomed to support conservation.
• Visitor Facilities: A small visitor car park and picnic areas are available. The nearby town of Salisbury offers additional amenities such as cafes, shops, and restrooms.
• Guided Tours: Occasionally, guided tours or educational events are available—check with local heritage organizations or the Wiltshire Council website.

History and Architecture

Old Sarum’s history spans thousands of years. Initially, it was a Neolithic and Bronze Age settlement, evidenced by archaeological finds in the area. Later, during the Iron Age, the site became a hillfort, fortified with massive earthworks and ditches.

The Romans occupied Old Sarum and likely used it as a military post due to its commanding position. In the Norman period, Old Sarum became a royal fortress, with a stone castle built around 1069 by William the Conqueror’s forces to control the region.

The castle featured a motte-and-bailey design, with impressive stone walls, towers, and a keep. The first Salisbury Cathedral was also established within Old Sarum’s walls, but due to conflicts and lack of water supply, the cathedral was moved to its current site in Salisbury in the early 13th century.

Today, visitors can see earthworks, stone foundations of the castle and cathedral, and remains of the medieval settlement, offering a fascinating insight into ancient and medieval architecture and defense.

Things to Do at Old Sarum

• Walk the perimeter and explore the ancient earthworks, ditches, and ramparts for excellent views of Salisbury Plain and the surrounding countryside.
• Explore the ruins of the castle and cathedral, learning about their strategic importance through onsite information boards.
• Enjoy picnicking in the designated areas while taking in panoramic vistas.
• Photography enthusiasts can capture stunning landscape shots and dramatic ruins.
• Join local guided walks or archaeological tours if available during special events.
• Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Salisbury, famous for its cathedral and historic streets.

Facts and Tips about Old Sarum, Wiltshire

Interesting Facts:

• Old Sarum was originally a Neolithic settlement, making it over 5,000 years old.
• The site was mentioned in the Domesday Book as an important Norman stronghold.
• The original Salisbury Cathedral at Old Sarum was built in the early 12th century but later relocated.
• The ruins visible today mainly date back to the 12th and 13th centuries.
• Old Sarum’s name means “Old Settlement” and distinguishes it from the newer Salisbury.

Visitor Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven and involves some uphill walking.
• Bring water and snacks as there are limited facilities on site.
• Check the weather forecast to dress appropriately—windy conditions are common on the hilltop.
• Visit early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during summer.
• Combine your visit with Salisbury Cathedral and other local attractions for a full historical experience.
• Use the onsite information boards or a guidebook to fully appreciate the history while walking around the site.

Old Sarum is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a deep connection to England’s ancient past, combining dramatic ruins with breathtaking views and a peaceful countryside atmosphere. Whether you are interested in archaeology, history, or simply want to enjoy a scenic walk, Old Sarum is a must-visit location in Wiltshire.