Tower Tours

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Explore The Hidden Spaces


For many people, the Tower Tour is the absolute highlight of their visit to Salisbury Cathedral.

Wind your way up narrow spiral staircases climbing 332 steps in easy stages into our ancient roof spaces to the foot of our iconic spire, 68 metres above ground level.

On your tour you will enjoy spectacular sights – an uninterrupted aerial view of the inside of the Cathedral, the inside of the spire supported by medieval wooden scaffolding and panoramic views of Salisbury and surrounding water meadows. Our experienced guides will tell you all about the construction of this architectural masterpiece.

 

Prices until 31 March 2024

Adults: £18 when prebooked online

Full time Student (with ID): £14 when prebooked online

Child (7-16): £11 when prebooked online

 

Prices from 1 April 2024 to 31 March 2025

Adults: £20 when prebooked online

Full time Student (with ID): £15 when prebooked online

Child (7-16): £12 when prebooked online

 

Each child aged 7-10 must be individually accompanied by a responsible adult.

Tours are scheduled multiple times per day Monday – Sunday and include admission to the Cathedral and Chapter House with Magna Carta on the day of your visit. Tours last approximately 90-105 minutes

Book a Tower Tour

You will be climbing 332 steps to reach the base of the tower, and many of the stone stairways are very narrow with no handrails. A reasonable level of fitness is required and we advise anyone with any mobility issues or pre-existing health conditions to consider this before booking.

This tour is not suitable for children under the age of 7 or anyone under the height of 1.2m. Each child aged 7-10 must be individually accompanied by a responsible adult. For 11-17 year-olds, there must be at least one adult for every five children. 

Booking online in advance will give you access to the best ticket prices. Tickets may be available for tours on the day at a higher rate. However, tours are very popular and often book up in advance so we cannot guarantee spaces will be available.

Twilight Tower Tours (Winter months only)


Climb to the base of Salisbury’s iconic Spire after dark for unparalleled views of the city’s twinkling Christmas lights.

Twilight Tower Tours will return in November 2024.

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I loved every minute, even all the steps! An excellent perspective of a gorgeous building and city

Tripadvisor

Private Tours & Group Bookings


Get in touch if you’d like to arrange a private Tower Tour, or make a booking for a group. We offer special rates for groups. Please email groups@salcath.co.uk to learn more.

Tower Tours Q&A

General information

  • How do I book?

    You can book a tower tour online by clicking the ‘Book Now’ button at the top of this page. You can also book at our Front Desk (email: frontdesk@salcath.co.uk, phone: 01722 555156). Booking in advance is essential.

  • How much does it cost?

    Adults: £18 when prebooked online
    Full time Student (with ID): £14 when prebooked online
    Child (7-16): £11 when prebooked online

    Tours are scheduled multiple times daily and allows admission to the Cathedral and Chapter House with Magna Carta on the day of your visit.

    Booking online in advance will give you access to cheaper ticket prices. Tickets may be available for tours on the day for a more expensive rate, however tours are often booked up in advance so we cannot guarantee you will be able to book a tour on the day.

  • Is entry to the Cathedral included?

    A Tower Tour ticket allows entry to the Cathedral and Chapter House on the day of the tour only. It does not include the free re-entry (valid for 12 months) that comes with a standard Cathedral entry ticket. The cost of the Tower Tour ticket cannot be offset against the previous purchase of a standard Cathedral entry ticket.

    You can visit the Cathedral and Chapter House before or after the Tower Tour – please refer to our general opening hours for opening/closing times.

  • How long do the tour last?

    The Tower Tour lasts approximately 90-105 minutes. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour time; an essential health and safety talk takes place prior to the start of the tour. If you arrive late you will not be permitted to attend the tour.

  • When do the tours run?

    Tours take place several times each day Monday – Sunday. Popular dates can sell out quickly, so we recommended booking your tour in advance.

    Tours typically go on sale a few months in advance.

  • Who is this tour for?

    If you’ve ever wanted an exclusive, up-close look into some of the hidden spaces of the Cathedral this is for you!

    You will be climbing 332 steps to reach the base of the tower, and many of the stone stairways are very narrow with no handrails. A reasonable level of fitness is required and we advise anyone with any mobility issues or pre-existing health conditions to consider this before booking.

  • Why have I not recieved my booking confirmation?

    Please check that it hasn’t gone to your spam folder first. If you still can’t find it, please contact us by Email: frontdesk@salcath.co.uk, or Phone: 01722 555156.

  • What happens if I am late?

    You must arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour time as an essential health and safety talk takes place prior to the start of the tour. If you arrive late you will not be permitted to attend the tour.

  • What are the restrictions for this tour?

    We regret that children under the age of 7 or children under the height of 1.2m cannot participate in this tour to comply with our health and safety regulations.

    Each child aged 7-10 must be individually accompanied by a responsible adult. For 11-17 year-olds, there must be at least one adult for every five children.

    At its highest point, you’ll be 68 metres above the ground (about 223 feet!) so we suggest that anyone with a fear of heights to consider this carefully before booking.

    The tour is not recommended for people with cardiovascular, respiratory diseases, vertigos, claustrophobia, pregnant women and those over 80 years old.

    Dogs are not permitted on this tour

    Sensible footwear is essential – no high heels, bare feet or flip flops. Sandals must be securely fastened.

    Bags are not permitted and must be stored in the provided lockers. Stored bags may be no larger than 45x36x20cm.

    Food or Drink is not allowed on the tour but, water is available if required.

  • Is photography permitted?

    You are welcome to take photographs for personal use, but tripods are not permitted on the tour.