Clarendon Palace - Image 1
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Clarendon Palace

4.5
·81 reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore the atmospheric ruins of a former royal palace, reached by a beautiful countryside walk, and meet its charming llama residents.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant walking weather

CrowdLow
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Clarendon Palace - Image 1

Clarendon Palace

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant walking weather

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the atmospheric ruins of a former royal palace, reached by a beautiful countryside walk, and meet its charming llama residents.

4.5
(81 reviews)

"The walk through the country to the palace is pretty easy, though there were a few places where the road was under shallow water."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Hike from Salisbury

The walk to Clarendon Palace is a highlight! Follow the Clarendon Way for scenic views.

🦙 Meet the Llamas

The resident llamas are a unique feature. Be mindful if you have a dog.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Clarendon Palace Ruins

Clarendon Palace Ruins

Near Salisbury

Explore the remnants of a former royal residence, rich with historical significance.

Reddit
The Clarendon Way Walk

The Clarendon Way Walk

Salisbury to Clarendon Palace

Enjoy a beautiful countryside hike, a key part of the Clarendon Palace experience.

Instagram
Resident Llamas

Resident Llamas

Clarendon Palace Fields

Meet the friendly llamas (or alpacas!) that now call the palace grounds home.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

The Hike is Part of the Charm

Clarendon Palace isn't a standalone attraction; it's a destination reached via a scenic walk, often from Salisbury Cathedral. Plan for a pleasant countryside hike, and check local conditions for any waterlogged paths before you go. Reddit

What to Expect at the Ruins

Don't expect grand structures. Clarendon Palace is primarily ruins, with interpretive signs to guide your imagination. The real stars for some visitors are the resident llamas! Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant walking weather
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
More people for a lively feel
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Another (bizarre) history delight from Salisbury Cathedral! #historytok #salisburycathedral #nationaltrust #englishheritage #britishcathedrals #whattodoinlondon
@history_alice
114.9K likes • 1M views

🚶‍♀️ Hike from Salisbury

The walk to Clarendon Palace is a highlight! Follow the Clarendon Way for scenic views. InstagramReddit

🦙 Meet the Llamas

The resident llamas are a unique feature. Be mindful if you have a dog. Reddit

#salisbury #fyp #xyzbca #viral #beats
@youisahoelikefr
7.7K likes • 63.4K views
Starting the journey on #ClarendonWay 🥾 The first stretch takes us from the iconic @salisburycathedral to the historic Clarendon Palace, the very place that gives this route its name. #hikingadventures #hikinglovers #travelcouple #historicengland
benmaghiari
10 likes • 156 views

🗺️ Trailhead Tips

Finding the trailhead can be tricky; look near Best's Cottage if unsure. Reddit

📚 Read the Signs

Informative signs bring the history of the palace to life. Reddit

Keep Exploring UK! 🇬🇧 Exploring Clarendon Palace #keepexploringuk #keepexploring #explorepage✨ #explorepage #explore #uk #hiking #explorer #exploring #walking #walks #british #hiking #hikingadventures #hikinglife #hikingtrail #hikingtrails
keepexploringuk
4 likes • 80 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Hike from Salisbury

The walk to Clarendon Palace is a highlight! Follow the Clarendon Way for scenic views. InstagramReddit

🦙 Meet the Llamas

The resident llamas are a unique feature. Be mindful if you have a dog. Reddit

🗺️ Trailhead Tips

Finding the trailhead can be tricky; look near Best's Cottage if unsure. Reddit

📚 Read the Signs

Informative signs bring the history of the palace to life. Reddit

🧺 Picnic Spot

Enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst the ruins and friendly animals. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(81 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Clarendon Palace to be a rewarding destination, particularly for its scenic countryside walk and the charming presence of resident llamas. While the ruins themselves are basic, the historical context provided by interpretive signs and the overall peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit, especially for those who enjoy a good hike. Reddit+1

"Though little remains of Clarendon Palace, it was 100% worth the hike from Salisbury Cathedral.
The palace was a royal residence for hundreds of years and witnessed some significant events. It might be best known for the Constitutions of Clarendon, Henry II’s attempt in 1164 to rein in the church that worsened his conflict with Thomas Becket.
The only residents today are some llamas. They mostly kept to themselves. Watch your step, of course.
There are several interpretive signs that provide a great deal of information and make it easy to understand what you are looking at and what the palace would have looked like in its prime.
The walk through the country to the palace is pretty easy, though there were a few places where the road was under shallow water. Don’t let that stop you from visiting the ruins, though!"

Caleb Lohr

"Lovely and peaceful ruins to visit! The ruins share the field with a bunch of beautiful llamas (or alpacas??🤔) who are very friendly and up for having their pictures taken! We enjoyed a nice picnic here and enjoyed reading the information signs which explained the interesting history of the palace."

Nicki Wood

"A nice stop along the lovely Clarendon Way walk. The palace is mostly just flints and a basic outline now, but there is still a large section of wall to see, along with some good informative signs. There are also some alpacas in the field, so be careful if walking with a dog"

Natalie Moncur

What People Like

Scenic Clarendon Way walk
Friendly resident llamas
Peaceful countryside setting

What People Dislike

Basic ruins
Potentially wet paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most popular way to reach Clarendon Palace is by hiking the Clarendon Way from Salisbury Cathedral. This scenic route takes you through the countryside. Some visitors suggest looking for the trailhead near Best's Cottage if you have trouble finding it. InstagramReddit

Clarendon Palace is primarily accessed by foot. Parking is generally available in Salisbury, from where you would begin your walk. There isn't dedicated parking directly at the ruins themselves. Instagram

While the hike is a significant part of the experience, it's possible to drive closer to the site. However, the best way to appreciate the location and its history is by walking the Clarendon Way. Reddit

The Clarendon Way is a long-distance footpath connecting Salisbury Cathedral to Winchester Cathedral, passing by Clarendon Palace. The section to the palace is a popular day hike. Instagram

Direct public transport to Clarendon Palace is limited due to its rural location. The best approach is to take public transport to Salisbury and then embark on the hike. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Clarendon Palace is a historical site with open access to its ruins. There are no admission fees required to visit. Reddit

As an open-air ruin, Clarendon Palace does not have set opening hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment. Instagram

The Clarendon Way is a public footpath and there is no fee to walk on it. You can enjoy the trail and access Clarendon Palace freely. Instagram

Dogs are generally allowed on the Clarendon Way and around the palace grounds, but it's important to keep them under control, especially due to the presence of llamas. Reddit

The ruins themselves and the surrounding fields may present challenges for wheelchairs due to uneven terrain and potential waterlogged areas. The hike along the Clarendon Way can also be difficult for wheelchair users. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find the ruins of a former royal palace, including remnants of walls and foundations. Informative signs explain its historical significance, and you'll likely encounter the resident llamas. Reddit+1

Clarendon Palace was a significant royal residence for centuries and hosted important events, including the drafting of the Constitutions of Clarendon in 1164. Reddit

The llamas are generally friendly and accustomed to visitors. However, it's always wise to maintain a respectful distance and supervise children. Reddit

Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, as you'll be walking on uneven terrain and potentially muddy paths. Dress in layers appropriate for the weather. Reddit

Yes, photography is encouraged! Capture the ruins, the countryside, and of course, the photogenic llamas. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly at Clarendon Palace. It's recommended to bring your own picnic or eat in Salisbury before or after your visit. Reddit

Absolutely! Clarendon Palace is a lovely spot for a picnic. Many visitors enjoy bringing their own food and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Reddit

For a fancy tea experience, consider returning to Salisbury. Many tea rooms and cafes in the city offer traditional afternoon tea. Reddit

Clarendon Palace is in a rural area, so dining options are scarce nearby. Salisbury offers a wide range of restaurants and pubs. Reddit

Salisbury has a diverse culinary scene, from traditional pubs to modern restaurants and cafes. You can find everything from classic British fare to international cuisine. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the atmospheric ruins, the expansive countryside views along the Clarendon Way, and the charming resident llamas. InstagramReddit

Yes, the surrounding countryside and the historical context of the ruins make it a great spot for landscape photography, especially during golden hour. Instagram

The llamas are very photogenic! Visitors often get great shots of them grazing or interacting. Remember to be respectful and not disturb them. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, dramatic shots of the ruins and the landscape. Instagram

There are no specific restrictions on personal photography at Clarendon Palace. However, commercial photography may require permission. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Clarendon Palace offers a unique adventure for families. The hike along the Clarendon Way is a great way to get kids moving and exploring the outdoors. Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site. The resident llamas are a huge hit with children, providing an exciting and memorable encounter. Reddit

Make the visit more engaging by reading the interpretive signs together, sparking conversations about history and royalty. The open fields around the ruins offer space for kids to move around safely, and the relatively easy terrain of the walk makes it manageable for most ages. It’s a fantastic way to combine a bit of history with a fun outdoor activity. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Walkers

For hikers, Clarendon Palace is a perfect destination along the Clarendon Way. The walk from Salisbury is well-regarded for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Be sure to wear appropriate walking shoes as the path can be uneven and occasionally wet. InstagramReddit

Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the ruins and the company of the llamas. The journey offers a chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in the English countryside. It's a rewarding trek that culminates in exploring a site of historical importance. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Clarendon Palace and its surroundings offer excellent opportunities for photographers. The atmospheric ruins provide a sense of history and decay, perfect for capturing evocative shots. The resident llamas are incredibly photogenic and add a unique subject to your portfolio. InstagramReddit

The Clarendon Way itself presents beautiful landscape photography potential, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The open fields and rural vistas offer a serene backdrop. Remember to check the weather for dramatic skies that can enhance your images. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of Clarendon Palace

Clarendon Palace was once a significant royal residence, playing host to monarchs and witnessing pivotal moments in English history. Its most notable association is with the Constitutions of Clarendon in 1164. This was King Henry II's attempt to assert royal authority over the Church, a move that famously escalated his conflict with Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury. The palace served as a royal hunting lodge and a place for important gatherings for centuries, reflecting the power and prestige of the English crown. Reddit

Today, the palace exists as a collection of ruins, but interpretive signs scattered throughout the site help visitors visualize its former grandeur. These signs provide context about the layout and purpose of different areas, allowing you to imagine the bustling activity that once took place here. The remnants offer a tangible connection to England's medieval past, making the visit a journey through time. Reddit

While the historical weight of Clarendon Palace is undeniable, many modern visitors find the experience enhanced by its current inhabitants. The resident llamas (or alpacas, as some visitors debate!) add a unique and charming element to the visit, often posing for photos and adding a touch of whimsy to the historical site. Reddit

Experiencing the Clarendon Way

The Clarendon Way is more than just a path to Clarendon Palace; it's an integral part of the experience. This well-maintained footpath offers a delightful countryside walk, typically starting from the iconic Salisbury Cathedral. The journey is often described as beautiful and peaceful, winding through fields and offering glimpses of rural English life. InstagramReddit

Hikers should be prepared for varied terrain. While generally easy, some sections might be under shallow water, especially after rain, so waterproof footwear is advisable. The path provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the English countryside before reaching the historical ruins. Reddit

For those looking for a complete experience, walking the Clarendon Way is highly recommended. It allows you to appreciate the setting of Clarendon Palace and enjoy a rewarding outdoor activity. The walk itself is often cited as a highlight by visitors, even more so than the ruins themselves for some. Reddit

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