What is Salisbury 800?
Salisbury 800 marks 800 years since Salisbury received its Royal Charter in 1227. Throughout 2027, the city will host a wide programme of events, exhibitions, performances, talks, trails and community projects that celebrate our heritage, creativity and future.
Why is it important?
Salisbury 800 is a chance for the city to come together to celebrate where we’ve come from and to showcase the creativity, people and ideas that make Salisbury what it is today, while also looking ahead to the future.
Who is organising Salisbury 800?
Salisbury 800 is guided by a voluntary Project Board, bringing together representatives from Salisbury BID, Salisbury Cathedral, Salisbury City Council, Salisbury Museum and Wiltshire Creative.
A part time Project Coordinator supports the programme day-to-day, connecting potential contributors, managing communications and helping ideas find the right partnerships.
The project is community-led, with individuals, groups and businesses shaping the programme through their own ideas and events.
How can I get involved?
Salisbury 800 is self-led, and we are seeking contributors who can independently plan and deliver their own ideas, whether these take the form of events, projects, installations, partnerships or other activity. More than 100 collaborators have already joined us and the Project Board is working to connect groups, share ideas and support partnerships so we can create something truly special together.
There are lots of ways to take part:
Host an event, exhibition, workshop or performance
Create a display, installation or trail
Partner with other organisations or artists
Offer space, equipment, skills or sponsorship
Join our volunteer network
Develop ideas inspired by one of our five programme strands
If you have an idea but aren’t sure where it fits, we can help.
I would need help with my project and idea, can I still take part?
Yes! We are building a database of people who want to take part in lots of different ways. We will then try to match up ideas and projects where relevant to help support and enhance ideas. If you are looking for a performer, skill, venue, or something else to compliment your idea, tell us and we can connect you.
When should I talk to you about my idea?
As soon as possible, we are putting together a programme of events for 2027 so to be a part of the S800 celebrations you need to let us know your plans now.
Is there funding available?
Yes, a total of £20,000 has been set aside from a sum generously donated to the Salisbury 800 celebrations by John Glen MP, to support the heart of the programme - events created and delivered by the people who live, work and create in Salisbury. Find out more about the S800 Small Grants.
What do I need to submit to get involved?
Please email salisbury2027@gmail.com with your ideas and upload your event to the Experience Salisbury website using the Salisbury 800 category!
What’s in it for my organisation?
Salisbury 800 creates a range of benefits:
Increased visibility - Your event or activity can be featured as part of a city-wide programme with coordinated marketing, listings and communications.
More footfall and visitor engagement - A major anniversary year will attract residents and visitors into the city, supporting increased footfall across venues, shops and cultural spaces.
Partnership opportunities - We can connect you with organisations, artists, businesses or community groups who may complement your ideas.
Legacy and community impact - Salisbury 800 aims to strengthen pride in the city, create lasting partnerships, support skills development and grow a volunteer network that continues beyond 2027.
Contributing to a once-in-a-generation celebration - This is a milestone moment for Salisbury. Being part of it places your organisation at the heart of a major cultural event.
Do events have to take place in the city centre?
We are focusing on activity which broadly sits within two miles of Salisbury City Centre. We welcome events across the wider area as long as they connect meaningfully to one of the strands and help celebrate the city.
Does my event need to relate to Salisbury’s history?
Not necessarily. Your project might be creative, wellbeing-focused, environmental, skills-based, or something entirely new. If it reflects the spirit of Salisbury and contributes to community life, it may be a great fit.
Can individuals take part, or is it only for organisations?
Anyone can be involved – individuals, artists, performers, educators, community groups, charities, schools, businesses and neighbourhood groups.
Can I volunteer?
Yes. We’re building a team of Changemakers, volunteers who will help during 2027 and form a legacy network for years to come. All skills and ages are welcome. More details will be available later in the year. In the meantime, if you've told us you'd like to be a volunteer, please make sure you let us know if you have specific skills such as IT or marketing.
How will events be promoted?
Our partners will run a coordinated marketing campaign alongside Experience Salisbury including:
website and event listings
social media
printed materials
press and PR activity
signage and trails
This shared visibility helps raise the profile of participating organisations and encourages residents and visitors to explore the full programme.
Please note: inclusion in specific marketing materials or campaigns will depend on timing, eligibility and programme capacity. While we aim to showcase a broad range of events, we can’t guarantee every activity will feature in every strand of promotion.
How do I contact the team?
For support, questions or collaborations:
Project Lead – Susi Mason
📧 experiencesalisbury@gmail.com
Project and Marketing Coordinator – Jenny Grene
📧 salisbury2027@gmail.com
We're here to help you shape your involvement and make Salisbury 800 something truly special.