The bus pass group arrived in Salisbury today after an hour travelling along the A36 , with diversions to service some villages on both sides, but not many other people requiring it today. 

First stop refreshment so popped into M&S cafe for a short break before ambling off to the cathedral.  Once inside we found descriptions and a film describing its origin and how it came to be built on that site following a transfer from its first site now known as Old Sarum.  Moving on to see one of the cathedral treasures, being the oldest working clock in the world, before marvelling at the beautifully designed font which, though constantly filling and emptying, it maintained a serene surface that reflected the roof of the nave like a mirror.

Moving on round there were centuries-old regimental flags displayed from the walls before we reached the modern Magna Carta 13 metres long, designed by Cornelia Parker CBE, and stitched and embroidered by a variety of over 200 people including lawyers, Jarvis Cocker, more than 40 prisoners and even Baroness Lawrence, mother to murdered Stephen Lawrence, who chose to sew the words “justice”, “denial” and “delay”.    The embroidery in some areas was so fine that we marvelled once more at its intricacies.

Continuing our steps there was so much to see including massive pipes (there are about 3,200 in total - some hidden- that produce the sound from the organ, apparently the largest in the country.

Next, to the cafe/restaurant for a spot of lunch before diving off to the Chapter House wherein was Salisbury’s original version of the Magna Carta itself, signed by King John on the 15th June, 1215 thus making today its 808th birthday!  How’s that for a coincidence?

It’s amazing to find that many of the concessions conceded by the King are still enshrined in our laws and thinking today

Time then to stroll back through the city in good time to catch the return bus.  We were all agreed that it was an interesting day and so much cooler than being out in the sun.

Well done, Christine, for sorting it all out for us.

Ken.