The great earthwork of Old Sarum stands near Salisbury on the edge of Wiltshire's chalk plains. Its ramparts were raised in about 500 BC by Iron Age peoples, and later occupied by the Romans, the Saxons and, most importantly, the Normans. Today, the remains of the prehistoric fortress and of the Norman palace, castle and cathedral evoke memories of thousands of years of history, which are interpreted by graphic panels throughout the site.
History & Anthropology Archaeology Castle Religion Religious building
#3 History & Anthropology in Salisbury #40 Archaeology museums in England #49 Castle in England #31 Religion museums in England #18 Religious buildings in England #52 Archaeology museums in United Kingdom #70 Castle in United Kingdom #38 Religion museums in United Kingdom #22 Religious buildings in United Kingdom #161 Religious buildings in Europe
Monday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 10:00 – 17:00 |
Castle Road, Salisbury
No exhibitions in Old Sarum have been found.
Old Sarum has 1 rating.
Old Sarum, located near Salisbury in England, is an important historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the area's rich past. This Iron Age hill fort, which later became a medieval settlement, provides an interesting look at the layers of history that have shaped the region. The site features the ruins of a royal castle, cathedral, and the remains of the original Salisbury settlement.
Visitors appreciate the panoramic views of the surrounding Wiltshire countryside from the elevated position of Old Sarum. The site's layout allows for self-guided exploration, with informative panels providing context to the visible remains. Many find the experience educational and enjoy imagining what life might have been like in different historical periods.
However, some visitors note that the site is relatively small and may not take long to explore fully. The lack of intact structures means that some imagination is required to visualize how the settlement once looked. Additionally, as an outdoor site, the experience can be weather-dependent, with some finding it less enjoyable on windy or rainy days.
The on-site museum, while small, offers additional context and artifacts that help bring the history to life. However, some visitors feel that more interactive elements or reconstructions could enhance the overall experience.
Despite these minor drawbacks, many visitors find Old Sarum to be a worthwhile stop, particularly for those interested in English history or archaeology. Its connection to the development of nearby Salisbury adds an extra layer of interest to the site.
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