The Chapter House occupies a pair of old buildings on St John's Street, in the heart of the old city and only a short walk from the cathedral gates. The property dates back to the sixteenth century, and its timber frames, uneven floors and low corridors belong to a genuinely historic inn, though the interiors have been modernised with comfortable beds, good bathrooms and a contemporary finish. Rooms range from a compact double and a twin up to premium and executive doubles with more space, and an executive suite that can sleep four with a sofa bed. All rooms have free wifi, a flat-screen television, a desk and tea and coffee facilities, along with bottled water and good-quality bedding. Downstairs, the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, there is a bar and lounge, and a terrace offers a place to sit outside in good weather. A full breakfast is often included in the room rate, so check the terms when you compare prices. Because it is a four-star inn with a lot of character, it suits couples and anyone who likes a hotel with a story, and it is one of the better choices in the old city for a weekend break.
Location and getting around
The great advantage of the Chapter House is that nearly everything is within a few minutes on foot. The cathedral and the Close are about six minutes away, the Magna Carta in the Chapter House is within a short stroll, and the market square, the shops and the old streets with their pubs and restaurants lie all around.
The railway station is about fifteen minutes on foot, or a short taxi ride with luggage. For Old Sarum you can take a taxi, and for Stonehenge you will want a tour, a taxi or a car, since the monument is about ten miles away, though tours and buses that serve the stones run from the city.
Things to know
The building is old, so there is no lift and the rooms are reached by stairs, which is worth checking if anyone in your party has difficulty with steps. There is no car park at the hotel, but a public car park is a short walk away and guests who drive can use it for a nightly charge, so plan parking in advance, especially at weekends.
Reception is staffed most of the day but not around the clock, so tell the hotel if you expect to arrive late. The hotel does not accept pets, and children are welcome but extra beds and cots are not provided, so families should confirm room arrangements before booking.
Who it suits
Couples, history lovers and first-time visitors who want to walk to the main sights and enjoy an atmospheric place to return to in the evening. It is a good base for evensong at the cathedral, for a day in the museum and the Close, and for exploring the restaurants of the old town on foot. If you prefer a larger hotel with its own parking, consider the White Hart opposite the cathedral, and if you want a quiet riverside setting, the Rose and Crown in Harnham is a good alternative.
For those who value character and a central address, the Chapter House is a strong choice, and rooms in the older parts of the building have the most charm.
Why stay here
- ✓Historic sixteenth-century inn
- ✓Restaurant, bar and lounge
- ✓Terrace
- ✓Free wifi
- ✓Tea and coffee in rooms
- ✓Executive suite and double rooms
- ✓Breakfast often included
- ✓Walk to the cathedral
Good questions
How far is The Chapter House from Salisbury Cathedral?+
It is on St John's Street, about a six-minute walk from the cathedral, with the market square and the old streets close by.
Does the hotel have parking?+
There is no car park at the hotel, but a public car park is a short walk away and guests can use it for a nightly charge. Plan ahead at weekends.
Is it accessible for guests who cannot manage stairs?+
The building is old and has no lift, so rooms are reached by stairs. Contact the hotel before booking if you have mobility needs.
