About Salisbury, Wiltshire

Salisbury, often pronounced “Solsbree”, is a beautiful cathedral city set in the heart of Wiltshire, England. With a population of around 115,000, the city stands where five rivers — the Avon, Nadder, Ebble, Wylye, and Bourne — meet before flowing south to the sea at Christchurch, Dorset. This unique location has shaped Salisbury’s character for centuries, making it one of southern England’s most scenic and historic places to live and visit.

A City with Deep Roots

The story of Salisbury stretches back to the Iron Age, when the area was known as Sorviodunum. The Romans later fortified the site, and following battles between the West Saxons and Britons, it became known as Searoburh. The Normans built a castle and called it Searesbyrig or Seresberi, which evolved into Salesberie by the time of the Domesday Book in 1086.

That original settlement — now called Old Sarum — still stands on a hill overlooking the modern city. Although uninhabited today, it remains one of the most important historic sites in Wiltshire and offers spectacular views across the surrounding countryside.

From Old Sarum to New Salisbury

Relations between the clergy and the military at Old Sarum eventually broke down, prompting the decision to relocate the cathedral and establish a new city. Thus, in 1220, New Sarum — modern-day Salisbury — was founded.

The magnificent Salisbury Cathedral, built under Bishop Richard Poore, was completed in just 38 years. Its 404-foot (123-metre) spire remains the tallest in Britain. Legend says the cathedral’s site was chosen when an arrow fired from Old Sarum struck a white deer — which fell where the cathedral now stands. Whether true or not, the story captures the spirit of a city built on both faith and folklore.

Inside the cathedral lies one of only four surviving copies of the Magna Carta, preserved in the Chapter House — a must-see for history lovers.

The Name “Sarum”

The word “Sarum” was never the city’s official Roman or Norman name. It appeared when scribes shortened “Saresberie” in Latin by writing “Sar” with a small stroke over the r. That stroke was later copied as the letters “um,” creating “Sarum.” The earliest known use of this form appears on the seal of Saint Nicholas Hospital in 1239, and by the 14th century, Bishop Wyville was styling himself “episcopus Sarum.”

Art, Culture & Community

Salisbury isn’t just a city of the past — it’s also a centre for arts and culture. The city hosts the annual Salisbury International Arts Festival, held from late May to early June, offering a lively programme of theatre, dance, live music, sculpture, and exhibitions.

The Salisbury Arts Centre, located in a beautifully restored church, has become one of the region’s cultural landmarks. It features flexible performance spaces, multimedia facilities, a resident potter, and even a modern bar set beneath stunning gothic stained-glass windows.

Markets, Economy & Local Life

Salisbury’s community life revolves around its Tuesday and Saturday markets, which bring the Market Square to life each week. The centuries-old Sloe Fair, held every October, continues a tradition dating back to medieval times. By ancient law, the fair can even move to Cathedral Close if needed — a quirky reminder of the city’s deep historical roots.

Alongside its traditions, Salisbury supports a thriving modern economy, with independent shops, restaurants, and galleries forming the backbone of local business. The city remains a key hub for Wiltshire’s creative and professional communities.

Salisbury Today

Today, Salisbury offers the perfect balance of old and new — a place where medieval architecture meets a vibrant modern community. The city’s timeless cathedral dominates the skyline, while riverside walks, bustling markets, and a strong sense of local pride make it an inspiring place to visit, live, or build a business.

From ancient origins to modern creativity, Salisbury continues to embody everything that makes Wiltshire special: history, heart, and heritage.