Salisbury is well known for its proximity to Stonehenge, its magnificent cathedral and medieval history. It’s also where I grew up so I know it well and although I don’t live there anymore, I love to visit family and friends in the area, especially at Christmas time. You can visit as part of a longer trip to Stonehenge and other nearby sites but I’d recommend just having a day to take in the city and the incredible Christmas atmosphere in this charming medieval city.

How to get there

It is easy to take a day trip to Salisbury from London/Southampton and other major cities depending on how you are travelling.

Car- If you have access to a car Salisbury is an easy drive from London. It has 5 park and ride car parks plus long and short term parking in the city centre. If you are staying overnight some hotels may have parking reserved for visitors.

Train- Salisbury train station is close to the City Centre (5 minute walk) and has regular trains to and from London Waterloo (and other cities including Bath and Bristol).Bus/ coach- Salisbury bus and coach station is close to the city centre and has regular National Express coaches from London, London airports, Bath, Bristol and the Midlands. Once you’ve arrived in Salisbury it is easy to get around via public transport. Alternatively you can join a coach tour that runs day trips to Salisbury and encompasses nearby sites such as Stonehenge.

9am Breakfast at The Salisbury Orangery

Situated on the river in the city centre and close to Elizabeth Gardens this is a great spot to start your day. The Salisbury Orangery is a small, and very charming building which sets the tone for a day in the city. Plus, independent cafes are becoming rarer in the city as more chains and franchises move in so this quaint, independent cafe is one to enjoy. They have a great breakfast menu, including vegetarian and vegan options, sourdough toasties and their specialty waffles. 

10am- Christmas shopping at The Fisherton Mill and Bradbeers

After a delicious breakfast it’s time to do some Christmas shopping. My first stop is The Fisherton Mill, a historic grain mill built in the 1800s, which has now been beautifully restored. The Fisherton Mill is a gallery, cafe, exhibition and studio space and is the perfect place to pick up unique gifts. The studios are home to 15 artists and designers who showcase their work, from jewellery to upcycled homeware and textile art so if you are looking for gifts that are a little unusual and bespoke then you are bound to find something.

If you’re interested in learning a creative new skill, the mill also hosts workshops (book via their website) offering wreath making, jewellery making and art classes. These would also make a wonderful experience gift or activity to do with friends.

Bradbeers has unveiled their Christmas range with lots to choose from if you need to pick up any additional gifts. They have ladieswear, menswear, sleepwear, beauty, gifting and homeware so you could finish your Christmas shopping in one go! The gifting section is a dream with chocolates, biscuits, decorations, candles and stocking fillers galore.

12.00 Christmas on the Square

During December the Guildhall Square becomes a festive pop-up in the heart of the city. There is a Santa’s Grotto, live music and entertainment as well as a christmas market and delicious food stalls. As it’s lunchtime and obviously breakfast was hours away, I’m heading to get a Yorkshire pudding wrap. It’s basically a roast dinner in a wrap and what is not to love about that?! Think tender meat, stuffing, gravy and veggies wrapped up in a giant Yorkshire pudding. Grab one for lunch, soak up the festive atmosphere and people watch while you eat. 

Santa has cleared time in his busy schedule to visit the children of Salisbury in his pop-up grotto. Book via their website for a festive family photo opportunity, some one-to-one time for your child with Santa and a gift for them to take away.

If you’re in Salisbury on one of the four Sundays leading up to Christmas there is an extra festive market showcasing local traders.

2pm Catch a matinee performance at the Salisbury Playhouse

Is there anything more festive and British than heading to your local theater to see the pantomime? As a family we love the colourful costumes, uplifting music and hilarious humour. This year Salisbury Playhouse (winner of the 2023 and 2025 Pantomime Awards) presents Jack and the Beanstalk which promises a music-hating giant, a fabulous fairy and of course, Daisy the cow. Book tickets here.

5pm Salisbury Snowglobe or wander around Cathedral Close for Evensong

After the fun of the panto, it’s time for a pre-dinner drink at the pop-up snow globe on the Guildhall Square. A mulled wine or hot chocolate, heaters and twinkling lights is everything you need to stay feeling festive.

Alternatively walk over to Salisbury Cathedral for evensong and a wander around the cathedral close. Salisbury Cathedral has lots of Christmas events (check out their website) including twilight tower tours which would be a fun activity.

7pm Christmas dinner at the Haunch of Venison

There are plenty of cosy pubs in Salisbury at Christmas but you can’t beat the Haunch of Venison. The Haunch of Venison dates back to 1320 and is one of the oldest known hostelries and is a ‘must-see’ building in Salisbury. CAMRA must agree because it has listed the pub on its  National Inventory for its historic interior, and has been recommended by the Good Pub Guide for 28 years. With its cosy atmosphere, rich history and excellent menu (food and drinks) this is a good choice for a Christmas dinner. Just make sure you book ahead as it’s popular with tourists and locals alike.

The pewter bar is thought to be one of only 6 in the UK and the former bread oven now houses a mummified hand with a gruesome history. Oh, and did I mention that the pub is haunted?!

9pm- Head to Caboose for an after dinner cocktail

Just around the corner from the Railway Station, Caboose is a 1920s themed bar which is as decadent and stylish as the cocktails are good. I went with friends a while ago and can’t wait to return. 

Where to stay

Caboose doesn’t just serve great cocktails, it’s also a boutique hotel with 8 clean, comfortable rooms and a great location. So if you’re looking for a very affordable room for the night, close to public transport and the city centre, this is a great choice.

If you’re looking for something a bit bigger, The Chapter House and The Legacy Rose and Crown are also great options. Need help booking? Drop me an email and I would be happy to help.

Have you visited Salisbury at Christmas time? Let me know in the comments below.