What to do and see in Wiltshire, England: The Best Architectural Buildings

Prepare to be amazed by one of the finest cathedrals in the UK, home to Britain’s tallest spire and largest cathedral close and cloisters. Our original 1215 Magna Carta is the best-preserved copy in existence and our 14th century clock is the oldest working mechanical clock in the world. We suggest 1.5 – 3 hours for your visit, but you can see most highlights in 45 minutes if you are pressed for time. You can enjoy delicious snacks and meals prepared freshly on-site in our Refectory Restaurant and browse our unique range of souvenirs in our Gift Shop. 10-minute walk from Salisbury Train Station | 20-minute drive from Stonehenge| 1.5 hours from London. Tickets must be booked online. There is no charge, but please support our work by giving a donation.

Built during the Commonwealth period, 1653 - 1656, The Merchant's House is a rare example of a middle class silk merchant's house, containing nationally acclaimed wall paintings and decorative features. The house, and its wonderful rooms, are available to tour. Visit the main panelled chamber with a limestone carved fireplace and oak overmantle and the dining room, built around 1670. There are also bedrooms, a suite of servants rooms, a study and kitchen; some of which are furnished according to a probate inventory of 1691. An outstanding destination for anyone interested in historic buildings and the craftsmanship needed to create and restore them. We also have a garden, which has been carefully recreated in the spirit of a 17th-century town house garden, and is available to tour. There is also a lovely gift shop where you can purchase a wide range of quality gifts.

Bringing together six architectural periods, Arundells is one of the finest houses in Salisbury’s Cathedral Close, with parts of the property dating back to the 13th Century. It was acquired in 1985 by Sir Edward Heath KG MBE, Prime Minister, Statesman, sailor and musician, who bequeathed Arundells to the Charitable Foundation set up in his name following his death in 2005. Arundells is presented today as it was when Sir Edward lived here, with gifts from leaders such as Nixon, Chairman Mao and Fidel Castro sitting alongside beautiful collections of ceramics, glassware and sculpture. Arundells hosts a number of events and exhibitions throughout the year, including outdoor theatre, historical and political talks and intimate concerts. We are also available for private events and parties. Please visit our website or Facebook page for more details.

Country house with monastic roots, once home to William Henry Fox Talbot The Abbey, located at the heart of the village within its own woodland grounds, is a quirky country house of various architectural styles, built upon the foundations of a former nunnery. Visitors can experience the atmosphere of the medieval rooms and cloister court, giving a sense of the Abbey's monastic past. The museum celebrates the achievements of former Lacock resident, William Henry Fox Talbot, famous for his contributions to the invention of photography.

The Hall Estate is comprised of an historic Jacobean house - known as The Hall, seven acres of grounds including manicured lawns, shady hidden corners with well-established trees and greenery, three quirky temples/summer houses and a striking rock garden. Home to the late Dr. Alex Moulton, creator of the Moulton Bicycle, the estate is now cared for by the Alex Moulton Charitable Trust.