Salisbury Myths & Legends

Old Sarum and the ‘new’ city of Salisbury

The foundation of the ‘new’ city of Salisbury is based on a legend. The story has it that an archer based at Old Sarum decided where to build the city by shooting an arrow down into the valley. The modern-day Cathedral is situated around 2 miles south of Old Sarum.

There are lots of theories on how an arrow could reach that far but one that’s often heard is that the archer shot a deer and the deer landed where today’s Cathedral stands.

The card cheat

The Haunch of Venison on Minster Street has an interesting display held within this historic pub. Legend has it that one of the locals cheated at cards. His hand (with cards) can now be seen within the pub.

Ghosts

Look out for ghosts on a visit to the city. Famous residents include the Duke of Buckingham who was beheaded outside what’s now Debenham’s. He can apparently be seen still looking for his head. Find out more about the ghosts of Salisbury by joining Salisbury City Guides on one of their regular ghost walks in the summer months or booking on to their Halloween specials.

Find out more from Salisbury Information Centre.

Legends of Salisbury Cathedral

Explore Salisbury from a fresh perspective with new stories brought to you through the power of technology. Our brand-new augmented reality app and videos will transport you back in time to unveil the hidden lives of our history's most fascinating characters. 
Salisbury is one of England’s Historic Cities, to find out more and download the app click here.  

Myths and legends further afield

Find out more about myths and legends further afield in Wiltshire (including Stonehenge) on the Visit Wiltshire website.

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