Discover Salisbury Cathedral’s hidden library
Hear the fascinating stories behind the ancient books in our collection on this one-of-a-kind tour.
A winding stone staircase above the Cloisters leads to our library, which was built in 1445. It contains over 10,000 historic books, with some more than 800 years old. An expert will show you a range of books specially selected to demonstrate the importance and variety of the collection. This is a fascinating glimpse into the Cathedral and its past.
Tickets
Prices:
Adult: £24 (when pre-booked online)
Tours last approximately one hour.
Due to access, this tour may not be suitable for everyone (the library is accessed via a small winding stone staircase with 37 steps, some of which are uneven).
Booking online in advance will give you access to the best ticket prices. Tickets may be available for tours on the day for a higher rate. However, tours are often booked up in advance so we cannot guarantee you will be able to book onto a tour on the day.
Fabulous to see such amazing documents and books!
Visitor feedback
A fantastic visit. We’ll be back!
Private Tours & Group Bookings
Get in touch if you’d like to arrange a private Library Tour, or make a booking for a group. We offer special rates and discounts for groups. Please email groups@salcath.co.uk to learn more.
Library Tour Q&A
General information
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How do I book?
You can book a Library 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.
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How much does it cost?
Adults: £22 when prebooked online
Tours are scheduled once a month and include 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 Library ticket includes 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 Library 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 Library tour – please refer to our general opening hours for opening/closing times.
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Who is this tour for?
If you’ve ever wanted explore behind-the-scenes in an ancient library, this is the tour for you!
Due to access, this tour may not be suitable for everyone (the library is accessed via a small winding stone staircase with 37 steps, some of which are uneven).
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How long to the tour last?
The Library tour lasts approximately one hour.
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When do the tours run?
Tours take place about once a month. As the tours are limited in capacity they often sell out, so we recommended booking your tour in advance.
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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.
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What are the restrictions for this tour?
Due to access, this tour may not be suitable for everyone (the library is accessed via a small winding stone staircase with 37 steps, some of which are uneven).
Please phone 01722555120 for more information. -
What happens if I’m late?
Tours start promptly at the scheduled time and if you are late you may not be able to join the tour. We recommend arriving early, and you may wish to visit the Cathedral, or the shop and restaurant, before your tour.
If you are running late please call 01722 555156 to notify our Front Desk team. -
Is photography allowed?
Photography in the Library is permitted, but without flash or any additional lighting.
