The visit to Salisbury follows what is becoming a Hayling U3A tradition of combining a visit to a Cathedral and a Christmas Market. Group tours of the Cathedral can be arranged and are free of charge although the Cathedral would welcome a voluntary donation (recommended £6.50 for over 65's) to help with its upkeep.
Salisbury Cathedral
The Cathedral was built in just 38 years in a single architectural style, early English Gothic using 70,000 tons of stone, 28,000 tons of oak and 420 tons of lead – the spire is Britain's tallest and weighs 6,500 tons! Salisbury also has Britain’s largest Close (40 hectares) and largest Cloisters and its Quire stalls are the largest and earliest complete set in Britain.
It is home to the best preserved of only four surviving original Magna Carta (AD1215) which is listed on the UNESCO ‘Memory of the World’ register. This document inspired the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, American Bill of Rights and the constitutions of many other democratic countries and is housed in a permanent interactive exhibition in our exquisite Chapter House which also has a unique 13 century stone frieze of bible stories in it.
the spectacular flowing ‘Living Water’ font by William Pye (2008) and the Gabriel Loire's 'Prisoners of Conscience' stained glass window (1980). Add to this the many beautifully carved monuments and tombs, our famous Father Willis Organ and our regular art exhibitions and you have plenty to explore in the unique atmosphere in this ancient place of worship.
Arundell’s, the home of former prime minister Sir Ted Heath, and its beautiful gardens are situated to the west of The Close. Home to much of Sir Ted Heath’s personal collections and memorabilia the house is open to the public on Sir Heath’s request so that the beauty of the house and grounds could be shared with all.
The National Trust’s Mompesson House is another fine example of the rich architecture available in Salisbury, featuring a portion of the film set to 1995’s Sense and Sensibility and an impressive collection of glassware and period furniture.
The Christmas Market
The Salisbury Christmas Market has always strongly promoted British-made products, combining the best of British with the spirit and atmosphere of the internationally recognised European Christmas Markets. We pride ourselves on supporting local businesses and locally sourced produce, focussing largely on producers in the South West. We guarantee an excellent standard of products where no two chalets are the same. All 100 of our exhibitors have been individually selected to bring you the highest quality merchandise with an outstanding range of artisan gifts, edible treats and unique fashion and home accessories for people of all ages. Whatever your taste, Salisbury Christmas Market has something for you.
Booking
This event is over.