Salisbury Cardiff Train

The cathedral city of Salisbury is located in south east Wiltshire. Construction work began on the city's cathedral, the second cathedral in Salisbury, began in 1221 with the main part of the structure completed in just under 40 years. The cathedral's spire, at 123 meters, is the tallest spire in the United Kingdom. Planners began setting out the town in a grid pattern in 1220 and along with the cathedral, there is a city wall which surrounds the Close and was constructed in the 14th century. There are 5 gates in the wall: High Street Gate, St Anne's Gate, the Queen's Gate and St Nicholas's Gate are all original. A fifth gate was made in the 19th century to allow access to Bishop Wordsworth's School which was located inside the Cathedral Close. There is a room located above St Anne's Gate and is where the composer Handel wrote several works whilst staying there.

There is a market held every Tuesday and Saturday in the Saturday which has been held since 1227. In 1226, the King granted the Bishop of Salisbury a charter to hold a fair lasting 8 days from the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. The modern day fair is now a funfair and is held in the Market Place for three days from the third Monday in October.

Cardiff is the capital of Wales and is located on the south coast of Wales. The city has undergone a dramatic transformation over recent decades transforming it from an industrial city into a modern, lively, capital city. Cardiff's industrial past, where it was once one of the most important ports in the world, has been transformed by developments like Cardiff Bay (sometimes called Tiger Bay) which is home to landmarks like the National Assembly for Wales and the Wales Millennium Centre.

Although popular with visitors all year round the summer months may be the best time to visit as the city hosts festivals and the visitors and residents alike can relax in the many cafes and restaurants that offer al fresco dining. Cathays Park is perhaps one of the worlds most beautiful civic centre, comprising expensive white Portland stone buildings in a range of classical styles, all surrounding the formal gardens of Alexandra Gardens whose center contains the beautiful national war memorial of Wales. Most people stop at the first 3 buildings facing the city center (City Hall, National Museum and Law courts) and fail to experience the architectural beauty and tranquility of the park and surrounding buildings.