Top 3 Castles around Allington

The primary historical sites in this area are Old Sarum Ruins and Clarendon Palace Ruins. Old Sarum is the site of Salisbury's original settlement, featuring the footprint of its first cathedral and a royal castle with over 2,000 years of history. Clarendon Palace was a medieval royal residence built by Henry II, known for its beautiful gardens and significant historical events.

Yes, both Old Sarum Ruins and Clarendon Palace Ruins are considered family-friendly. Old Sarum offers an action-packed day out where families can explore the ruins of the royal castle and discover the awe-inspiring landscape. It's a great place to immerse yourselves in history.

From Old Sarum, you can enjoy unrivalled views across the Wiltshire countryside. The site itself is an elevated viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas. Similarly, Castle Hill, Salisbury, which is home to the historic Salisbury Castle, provides wonderful views of the surrounding area.

The area around these castles offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as the 'Stonehenge – Woodhenge loop from Amesbury' (moderate, 15.9 km) or the 'Gravel Path Beside River Avon – Playground by the River loop from Amesbury' (easy, 6.2 km). For cycling enthusiasts, there are gravel biking and MTB trails, including the 'Gravel Track Near Stonehenge – Stonehenge loop from Old Sarum' (moderate, 36.6 km). You can explore more options in the Hiking around Allington, Gravel biking around Allington, and MTB Trails around Allington guides.

Yes, there are easy walking routes available. For instance, the 'Gravel Path Beside River Avon – Playground by the River loop from Amesbury' is an easy 6.2 km hike. Many paths around the historical sites themselves are generally accessible for walking and exploring at a leisurely pace, though specific accessibility for wheelchairs may vary on the ancient terrain.

Old Sarum is one of the most historically important sites in southern England. It was the earliest settlement of Salisbury, dating back to around 3000 BC, and lived through Roman conquest, Saxon, and Norman rule. It uniquely combines a royal castle and cathedral within an Iron Age fortification, and for 150 years, it was a major center of both secular and ecclesiastical government. William the Conqueror once hosted a great gathering here.

While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided, historical sites like Old Sarum are often best enjoyed during milder weather to fully appreciate the outdoor ruins and expansive views. Check the official English Heritage website for current opening hours, which are typically 10 am - 4 pm Friday to Sunday for Old Sarum.

Visitors frequently highlight the impressive historical immersion and the opportunity to explore a site with such a varied past. Many appreciate the walks to and from nearby areas like Laverstock and Salisbury, and the unrivalled views across the Wiltshire countryside from the ruins. It's considered a must-see for its historical depth and atmosphere.

Yes, there is an entrance fee for Old Sarum. It is managed by English Heritage. Members typically get free entry. For non-members, the adult on-the-day ticket was £6.60 in 2022. It's always advisable to check the official English Heritage website for the most current pricing and opening times.

Beyond the prominent Old Sarum, the Clarendon Palace Ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into medieval royal life. While less intact than some other sites, its historical significance as a favourite residence of Henry II and the location where the Constitutions of Clarendon were issued makes it a compelling visit for those interested in deeper historical exploration.