Kings Arms Hotel, The

Salisbury has one attraction that stands head and shoulders above all other. Built in less than 100 years, Salisbury cathedral is often seen as one of the finest achievements of medieval England. As there have been few significant additions (except the very fine chapter house), it has a certain architechtural pedigree. Most other cathedrals are mongrels by comparison possessing a mish-mash of different styles. The cathedral 'close' helps make Salisbury a very picturesque place to be. The 'close' is a collection of various houses, museums and other building grouped around a large mainucured lawn. This gives it a quintessentially 'bucolic English' feel, although I would nominate cathedrals such as Lincoln and Durham above Salisbury, due to their more dramatic setting. The cathedral itself contains a few 'modern art' additions, whilst the chapter house contains a copy of the Magna Carta (one only four in existence). Entry cost around five quid, and despite appearance it is a voluntary contribution - so it is between you and your conscience.