
Clarendon Palace
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
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant walking weather

Clarendon Palace
Best Time
Pleasant walking weather
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.
"The walk through the country to the palace is pretty easy, though there were a few places where the road was under shallow water."

🚶♀️ 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Clarendon Palace Ruins
Near Salisbury
Explore the remnants of a former royal residence, rich with historical significance.

The Clarendon Way Walk
Salisbury to Clarendon Palace
Enjoy a beautiful countryside hike, a key part of the Clarendon Palace experience.

Resident Llamas
Clarendon Palace Fields
Meet the friendly llamas (or alpacas!) that now call the palace grounds home.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Hike is Part of the Charm
What to Expect at the Ruins
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ 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.
🗺️ Trailhead Tips
Finding the trailhead can be tricky; look near Best's Cottage if unsure.
📚 Read the Signs
Informative signs bring the history of the palace to life.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ 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.
🗺️ Trailhead Tips
Finding the trailhead can be tricky; look near Best's Cottage if unsure.
📚 Read the Signs
Informative signs bring the history of the palace to life.
🧺 Picnic Spot
Enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst the ruins and friendly animals.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Clarendon Palace is a historical site with open access to its ruins. There are no admission fees required to visit.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
Clarendon Palace was a significant royal residence for centuries and hosted important events, including the drafting of the Constitutions of Clarendon in 1164.
The llamas are generally friendly and accustomed to visitors. However, it's always wise to maintain a respectful distance and supervise children.
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.
Yes, photography is encouraged! Capture the ruins, the countryside, and of course, the photogenic llamas.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Absolutely! Clarendon Palace is a lovely spot for a picnic. Many visitors enjoy bringing their own food and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
For a fancy tea experience, consider returning to Salisbury. Many tea rooms and cafes in the city offer traditional afternoon tea.
Clarendon Palace is in a rural area, so dining options are scarce nearby. Salisbury offers a wide range of restaurants and pubs.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the atmospheric ruins, the expansive countryside views along the Clarendon Way, and the charming resident llamas.
Yes, the surrounding countryside and the historical context of the ruins make it a great spot for landscape photography, especially during golden hour.
The llamas are very photogenic! Visitors often get great shots of them grazing or interacting. Remember to be respectful and not disturb them.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, dramatic shots of the ruins and the landscape.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography at Clarendon Palace. However, commercial photography may require permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
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.
📸 Photographers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Clarendon Palace
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.
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.
Experiencing the Clarendon Way
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.
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.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit