Historical Houses Tour (Self Guided), Salisbury
Founded more than 800 years ago, Salisbury understandably has a great number of historical, architectural, and cultural gems worthy of a visit. The medieval houses, churches, inns, and hospitals blend harmoniously with the modern sites of the city.
Your exploration of these treasures can be started at Trinity Hospital, a picturesque almshouse founded in the 14th century, offering a glimpse into medieval charity and care.
The Best Western Red Lion Hotel, dating back to 1220 AD and claimed as Britain's (if not Europe's) oldest purpose-built hotel, exudes historical charm with its creeper-clad courtyard and 18th-century facade.
John a' Port's House & William Russel’s House are quaint timber-framed dwellings, evoking the appeal of Tudor-era Salisbury. Nearby, the Hall of John Halle, now the Odeon Cinema, merges historical significance with modern entertainment, showcasing the city's dynamic evolution.
The Old George Inn, a true testament to Salisbury's coaching inn heritage, holds a rich history including visits by Oliver Cromwell, and boasts intricate interiors contrasting sharply with the modern amenities of the adjacent Mall, making it a fascinating destination blending medieval charm with contemporary convenience.
The Bishop’s Mill, Church House, and Mompesson House each tell unique tales of ecclesiastical power, community gatherings, and elegant Georgian living, respectively. The Medieval Hall & Old Deanery stand as guardians of Salisbury's religious and administrative past, their architectural grandeur echoing through the ages.
Today, these historic buildings serve as physical reminders of Salisbury's yesteryear, recounting stories of the people who lived, worked, and gathered within their walls, shaping the city's cultural fabric. You can play a part in safeguarding Salisbury's historical legacy too by visiting these locations on our self-guided tour during your next trip to the city.
Your exploration of these treasures can be started at Trinity Hospital, a picturesque almshouse founded in the 14th century, offering a glimpse into medieval charity and care.
The Best Western Red Lion Hotel, dating back to 1220 AD and claimed as Britain's (if not Europe's) oldest purpose-built hotel, exudes historical charm with its creeper-clad courtyard and 18th-century facade.
John a' Port's House & William Russel’s House are quaint timber-framed dwellings, evoking the appeal of Tudor-era Salisbury. Nearby, the Hall of John Halle, now the Odeon Cinema, merges historical significance with modern entertainment, showcasing the city's dynamic evolution.
The Old George Inn, a true testament to Salisbury's coaching inn heritage, holds a rich history including visits by Oliver Cromwell, and boasts intricate interiors contrasting sharply with the modern amenities of the adjacent Mall, making it a fascinating destination blending medieval charm with contemporary convenience.
The Bishop’s Mill, Church House, and Mompesson House each tell unique tales of ecclesiastical power, community gatherings, and elegant Georgian living, respectively. The Medieval Hall & Old Deanery stand as guardians of Salisbury's religious and administrative past, their architectural grandeur echoing through the ages.
Today, these historic buildings serve as physical reminders of Salisbury's yesteryear, recounting stories of the people who lived, worked, and gathered within their walls, shaping the city's cultural fabric. You can play a part in safeguarding Salisbury's historical legacy too by visiting these locations on our self-guided tour during your next trip to the city.
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Historical Houses Tour Map
Guide Name: Historical Houses Tour
Guide Location: England » Salisbury (See other walking tours in Salisbury)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 9
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.5 Km or 0.9 Miles
Author: Sandra
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: England » Salisbury (See other walking tours in Salisbury)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 9
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.5 Km or 0.9 Miles
Author: Sandra
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Trinity Hospital
- Best Western Red Lion Hotel
- John a' Port's House & William Russel’s House
- Hall of John Halle (Odeon Cinema)
- Old George Inn & Mall
- The Bishops Mill
- Church House
- Mompesson House
- Medieval Hall & Old Deanery
1) Trinity Hospital
Trinity Hospital was established in the 1380s and is devoted to the Holy Trinity. It was built on the site of a former brothel. The hospital started as a charitable facility for poor citizens and strangers, and it also provided food and shelter for the elderly. The current building on the site was constructed in 1702 and was remodeled at the start of the 21st century. Trinity Hospital continues to serve as an almshouse.
2) Best Western Red Lion Hotel
Best Western Red Lion Hotel dates back to 1220 AD and is said to be the oldest hotel in Britain. Its creeper-clad courtyard and pleasant 18th-century facade reinforce the history and charm of the place. The hotel has a Victorian lounge, medieval-style bar, 51 rooms and 6 conference halls. Red Lion Hotel is a great place to stay the night and is a fabulous venue for celebrating special occasions as well.
3) John a' Port's House & William Russel’s House
John a’Port’s House and William Russel’s House, located in the Market Place next to Guildhall, are regarded as the oldest buildings in Salisbury. They are twinned timber-framed buildings with pointed roofs. John a’Port’s Hous was constructed in 1425 by Salisbury's mayor John a’Port. William Russel’s house was built in 1306 but appears newer because of its false facade. Both houses have remarkable interiors with dark beams, fireplaces, chiseled stairs and Elizabethan paneling. The buildings were refurbished in 1930, and they now house Watsons and a specialty china shop.
4) Hall of John Halle (Odeon Cinema)
John Halle, a merchant and mayor of Salisbury, was the first owner of this house, which was built in 1470. The building, which now serves as the Odeon Cinema, is quite out of the ordinary. Its facade and foyer were designed in the Tudor style and date back to the 15th century. Its medieval interior has a fireplace with John Halle’s coat of arms, leaded windows, tall arched ceilings and walls decorated with pikes and armor. Even though the building now is home to a modern cinema, it has maintained its medieval charm.
5) Old George Inn & Mall
This three-story building on Salisbury’s High Street now serves as the main entrance to Old George Mall—practically swallowing the ground floor in the process. But before it became a gateway to retail therapy, this place played host to some very notable characters.
Originally built in the 14th century as a coaching inn, it took its name from the Guild of Saint George, founded by Salisbury’s mayor and corporation. In 1645, Protestant leader Oliver Cromwell bunked down here on his way to join his troops. Samuel Pepys, ever the food critic, praised the fare as “very good diet” but also “very dear.” In true Pepys fashion, he got into a spat with the landlady and promptly moved somewhere cheaper.
Step inside the Old George, and you’ll find a labyrinth of crooked hallways, slanted floors, and steep, uneven stairs. A fire door from the mall reveals the Inn’s old banqueting hall, complete with wooden beams, a minstrel’s gallery, and a Jacobean mantelpiece. Overhead, the carved heads of King Edward II and Queen Isabella make for an interesting touch—though the queen allegedly murdered the king, they seem to be making amends up there.
Charles Dickens name-dropped the inn in “Martin Chuzzlewit”, and it’s said Shakespeare’s troupe once rehearsed “As You Like It” here. The 14th-century charm of the Old George stands in stark contrast to the sleek shops and cafes of the mall, but together, they make for a fascinating blend of history and modern convenience.
Originally built in the 14th century as a coaching inn, it took its name from the Guild of Saint George, founded by Salisbury’s mayor and corporation. In 1645, Protestant leader Oliver Cromwell bunked down here on his way to join his troops. Samuel Pepys, ever the food critic, praised the fare as “very good diet” but also “very dear.” In true Pepys fashion, he got into a spat with the landlady and promptly moved somewhere cheaper.
Step inside the Old George, and you’ll find a labyrinth of crooked hallways, slanted floors, and steep, uneven stairs. A fire door from the mall reveals the Inn’s old banqueting hall, complete with wooden beams, a minstrel’s gallery, and a Jacobean mantelpiece. Overhead, the carved heads of King Edward II and Queen Isabella make for an interesting touch—though the queen allegedly murdered the king, they seem to be making amends up there.
Charles Dickens name-dropped the inn in “Martin Chuzzlewit”, and it’s said Shakespeare’s troupe once rehearsed “As You Like It” here. The 14th-century charm of the Old George stands in stark contrast to the sleek shops and cafes of the mall, but together, they make for a fascinating blend of history and modern convenience.
6) The Bishops Mill
Perched along the scenic banks of Salisbury’s River Avon, this mill has seen it all. Dating back to medieval times, it began as a workhorse for the Bishops of Salisbury, grinding grain to feed the growing diocese while generating a healthy income for the church. The Avon’s steady, dependable flow powered the mill for centuries, keeping the city’s economy moving right along. While the machinery stopped turning long ago, the building’s idyllic riverside location has remained a key attraction.
Today, this historic landmark has shed its industrial past in favor of a more spirited role as one of Salisbury’s favorite pubs. It’s known for its seasonal menus, a robust selection of wines and ales, and a relaxed atmosphere that keeps patrons coming back. The Mill even weathered some unexpected notoriety—becoming a surprising centerpiece of the 2018 Novichok incident, which led to a large-scale expulsion of Russian diplomats by Britain. But like a true survivor, the venue bounced back with a stylish refurbishment: a glazed pergola, a reimagined bar, updated dining areas with fresh artwork, improved accessibility, and more space for patrons to enjoy the lively ground floor.
Now, the Mill buzzes with energy, hosting everything from live music and sports nights to quirky themed events that keep the spirit of this historic gem alive. It’s a charming spot where old-world charm and modern hospitality flow as seamlessly as the river beside it.
Today, this historic landmark has shed its industrial past in favor of a more spirited role as one of Salisbury’s favorite pubs. It’s known for its seasonal menus, a robust selection of wines and ales, and a relaxed atmosphere that keeps patrons coming back. The Mill even weathered some unexpected notoriety—becoming a surprising centerpiece of the 2018 Novichok incident, which led to a large-scale expulsion of Russian diplomats by Britain. But like a true survivor, the venue bounced back with a stylish refurbishment: a glazed pergola, a reimagined bar, updated dining areas with fresh artwork, improved accessibility, and more space for patrons to enjoy the lively ground floor.
Now, the Mill buzzes with energy, hosting everything from live music and sports nights to quirky themed events that keep the spirit of this historic gem alive. It’s a charming spot where old-world charm and modern hospitality flow as seamlessly as the river beside it.
7) Church House
This scenic stone house was built by merchant W. Lightfoot in the 15th century. Since 1628 the house served as Salisbury’s workhouse. Later several houses on Crane Street, Nos. 95, 97 and 99, were used as the diocesan Church House. Because of their importance as the city’s Diocesan Office, these houses on Crane Street were completely renovated in 1887 by Weymouth architect George Crickmay.
8) Mompesson House (must see)
Step into this Grade I listed gem, now under the care of the National Trust. Built in classic Queen Anne style and clad in the very same Chilmark stone used for Salisbury Cathedral, the house was commissioned by Sir Thomas Mompesson—MP for Salisbury three times over—and completed in 1701 by his son Charles. Even the cartouche over the front door is a replica of Charles and his wife Elizabeth’s coat of arms, lending a personal touch to the elegant facade.
Eventually, Charles’ brother-in-law took charge, adding a striking oak staircase and elaborate plaster detailing. The home then passed through a series of tenants—most famously Barbara Townsend, who called it home for nearly a century and famously resisted any 20th-century conveniences. By 1975, the house was in the hands of the National Trust: nearly empty, yet brimming with historical charm.
Today, it is fully furnished and features a prized collection of 18th-century drinking glasses, alongside fine porcelain and period furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries. Regular events and exhibitions add even more to the experience. Be sure to wander through the intimate enclosed garden, and don’t miss the tea room at the bottom. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on this little slice of Salisbury’s history.
Eventually, Charles’ brother-in-law took charge, adding a striking oak staircase and elaborate plaster detailing. The home then passed through a series of tenants—most famously Barbara Townsend, who called it home for nearly a century and famously resisted any 20th-century conveniences. By 1975, the house was in the hands of the National Trust: nearly empty, yet brimming with historical charm.
Today, it is fully furnished and features a prized collection of 18th-century drinking glasses, alongside fine porcelain and period furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries. Regular events and exhibitions add even more to the experience. Be sure to wander through the intimate enclosed garden, and don’t miss the tea room at the bottom. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on this little slice of Salisbury’s history.
9) Medieval Hall & Old Deanery
Concealed from the road by a modern college block, the Old Deanery building, situated opposite the west end of the Cathedral, was probably one of the first sites to be developed within the Close, circa 1220. In 1277, Bishop Roger de Wykehampton made over the Hall, that he had occupied as Dean, to be used as the Deanery. Ever since then and for another 700+ years, until 1922, it had served as the primary accommodations for Deans, following which it became part if the diocesan training college of Sarum St Michael.
Back in the 13th century, the property comprised an open hall with service rooms, a cross range and a chapel. It was enlarged during the late 14th or early 15th century, and further restored in 1670. Another, partial reconstruction took place in the second half of the 18th century, with further alterations followed in the early 19th century. The building was once again restored throughout 1960-63, and in 1981 was turned into a block of flats.
Today, the Deanery complex encompasses three medieval houses along the River Avon, which are in perfect condition courtesy of extensive restorations, the most recent one being in 1995. Inside the Medieval Banqueting Hall, underneath a timber-framed roof supported by stone walls, you will find the High Table, the old hearth and original 13th-century wall painting. Also in the Hall, from April to September, a 30-minute video on Salisbury’s history, called 'Secrets of Salisbury,' is demonstrated every hour.
Back in the 13th century, the property comprised an open hall with service rooms, a cross range and a chapel. It was enlarged during the late 14th or early 15th century, and further restored in 1670. Another, partial reconstruction took place in the second half of the 18th century, with further alterations followed in the early 19th century. The building was once again restored throughout 1960-63, and in 1981 was turned into a block of flats.
Today, the Deanery complex encompasses three medieval houses along the River Avon, which are in perfect condition courtesy of extensive restorations, the most recent one being in 1995. Inside the Medieval Banqueting Hall, underneath a timber-framed roof supported by stone walls, you will find the High Table, the old hearth and original 13th-century wall painting. Also in the Hall, from April to September, a 30-minute video on Salisbury’s history, called 'Secrets of Salisbury,' is demonstrated every hour.
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