Salisbury to Old Sarum via River Avon
Salisbury to Old Sarum via River Avon
4.8
(21)
80
hikers
Salisbury to Old Sarum via River Avon
02:43
10.5km
70m
Hiking
Start your hike from Salisbury and follow the River Avon, enjoying peaceful riverside views with reeds, willows, and wildflowers. Keep an eye out for kingfishers, ducks, and swans as you pass through the Avon Valley Nature Reserve. The trail covers 6.5 miles (10.5 km) with an elevation gain of 239 feet (73 metres), taking about 2 hours and 43 minutes to complete. As you approach Old Sarum, its impressive earthworks gradually appear on the horizon, marking the end of this moderate journey.
While generally moderate, some sections of the trail are accessible to all skill levels, particularly the well-maintained, flat paths along the River Avon. Be aware that certain parts, especially within the Avon Valley Nature Reserve and around Old Sarum, can become very boggy after heavy rain due to chalky clay soil. If the weather is poor, you might consider alternative, more paved routes to avoid the muddier sections. Prepare for uneven ground, especially on the ascent towards Old Sarum.
This route offers a unique journey through time, connecting the medieval splendor of Salisbury Cathedral, with its tallest spire and a Magna Carta copy, to the ancient Iron Age hill fort of Old Sarum. From Old Sarum's ramparts, you can enjoy panoramic views over the modern city. The River Avon itself is a central feature, supporting diverse wildlife and highlighting Salisbury's position at the confluence of five rivers.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
220 m
Salisbury Cathedral and Historic City Centre
Highlight • Historical Site
The city is small with a population of a little over 40,000 but it's a vibrant destination with visitors from all over the world. The remains of a Norman cathedral, Old Sarum, lie just to the north of the city whilst Stonehenge can be found 8 miles (13 km) to the northwest.
Perhaps most notable for its cathedral, inside, you can find one of the four original copies of the Magna Carta on display. The cathedral has the largest cloisters and close in the country. It also has a pair of nesting peregrine falcons and a webcam above the nest which is broadcast live online during nesting season.
Tip by
820 m
River Avon in Salisbury
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
5.34 km
Old Sarum Ruins
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
10.5 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.22 km
2.85 km
966 m
828 m
548 m
Surfaces
2.74 km
2.48 km
2.02 km
1.90 km
1.27 km
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Elevation
Highest point (110 m)
Lowest point (50 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 7 May
17°C
8°C
28 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
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Trail Reviews
This is a linear tour from Salisbury Cathedral to Old Sarum, for the most part along the banks of the River Avon. (A guided tour of the cathedral lasts about an hour and then you can spend another hour taking photos at your leisure. A viewing of the Magna Carta is included in the admission price.) The first point of interest is the North Gate that leads to the High Street. After that the Poultry Cross, the only surviving of four crosses in that area, is worth seeing. I forgot St Thomas's church and had to return to see its magnificent interior. The route from the church then followed the left bank of the River Avon. Eventually, I crossed the river and made my way across fields to Old Sarum. As it was a hill fort it is visible from some distance away. From it you can see Salisbury Cathedral. I caught a bus back to Salisbury from the main road; the buses are quite frequent.
Make sure to wear your wellies for this wallk. Lots of submerged boardwalk and muddy trails.