In the heart of Salisbury’s magnificent Cathedral Close lies Arundells, a historic house that offers visitors a unique glimpse into centuries of English history, architecture, and politics. While the property itself dates back over 700 years, its most famous resident in recent times was Sir Edward Heath, the former Prime Minister (1970–1974). Today, Arundells is not just a historic home but also a museum, gallery, and cultural treasure that beautifully blends personal legacy with national heritage.
For anyone visiting Salisbury, a trip to Arundells provides an experience quite unlike any other—intimate, inspiring, and steeped in both local and national significance.
The Origins of Arundells
The story of Arundells begins in the 13th century. Originally built as a medieval canonry around 1291, the house was part of the ecclesiastical buildings associated with Salisbury Cathedral. Over the centuries, it saw many transformations, both architectural and social, reflecting the changing tides of English history.
During the Tudor period, Arundells was owned by Sir Richard Mompesson, who rebuilt and remodeled parts of the house. By the 18th century, Arundells had undergone significant Georgian updates, giving it the elegant proportions and classical details we see today. Its position on the edge of the Cathedral Close meant it enjoyed one of the most picturesque settings in Salisbury, with gardens stretching down to the River Avon.
A Prime Minister’s Residence
While its medieval and Georgian heritage is impressive, what makes Arundells especially intriguing is its association with Sir Edward Heath (1916–2005). Heath purchased the property in 1985, after his years in politics, and made it his home for two decades until his death.
As Prime Minister, Heath was known for leading Britain into the European Economic Community (EEC), his handling of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, and his management of the early 1970s energy crises. But he was also a man of many passions outside politics—an accomplished musician, an art collector, a keen yachtsman, and a lover of culture.
All of these personal interests are reflected in Arundells. Unlike many stately homes where the rooms feel roped off or staged, Arundells feels lived-in, personal, and authentic. It is as if Heath has just stepped out of the room, leaving his belongings, books, and artworks behind for us to explore.
Inside Arundells: What to Expect
A tour of Arundells is an intimate experience. Each room tells a story, not only of the house itself but also of Heath’s life and interests.
The Entrance Hall
Visitors are welcomed with a display of Heath’s extensive political memorabilia. From gifts presented by world leaders to photographs capturing key moments in his career, the hall sets the tone for the house as both a personal archive and a slice of modern British history.
The Drawing Room
Elegantly furnished, the drawing room showcases Heath’s taste in art and design. Paintings and ceramics collected during his travels line the walls and shelves. The room demonstrates his appreciation of both European and Asian art, a reflection of his international outlook.
The Study
Perhaps the most fascinating room for political history enthusiasts, Heath’s study contains his desk, personal library, and countless documents. Here, one can imagine the former Prime Minister writing letters, composing speeches, or perhaps reflecting on his career. The study emphasizes Heath’s scholarly side—he was known for his intellectual curiosity and breadth of interests.
The Music Room
Music was one of Heath’s greatest passions. He was an accomplished classical pianist, organist, and conductor, and the music room contains a grand piano along with a rich collection of scores and instruments. Heath frequently hosted small concerts in this room, demonstrating his belief that music was as important to life as politics.
The Dining Room
The dining room reflects Heath’s role as a statesman and host. Photographs and mementoes from visits with international figures—such as Richard Nixon, Mao Zedong, and Fidel Castro—hang nearby, giving a sense of the global stage on which he operated.
The Art and Collections
One of the delights of Arundells is the sheer variety of its collections. Heath was a passionate art collector, and visitors can see works by artists such as:
- Sir Winston Churchill – himself a painter as well as a Prime Minister, whose work Heath admired.
- L.S. Lowry – the renowned northern English painter, whose distinctive style captured the industrial life of Britain.
- Walter Sickert – a leading figure of the Camden Town Group, whose pieces add a modernist edge to the collection.
Alongside these are pieces of Chinese ceramics, European tapestries, and even naval memorabilia that reflect Heath’s passion for sailing. Every room feels like a gallery of both personal and national significance.
The Gardens and Setting
If the house is captivating, the gardens are no less enchanting. Stretching for two acres, they slope gently down from the house to the River Avon. With mature trees, colorful borders, and sweeping lawns, the gardens offer a peaceful retreat.
From the garden, there are views of Salisbury Cathedral’s magnificent spire—the tallest in England—rising above the trees. It is one of the most photographed and painted views in Salisbury, and standing there, it’s easy to see why Heath loved this place so much.
The riverside setting also connects to Heath’s love of sailing. While he famously skippered Morning Cloud to victory in the 1971 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, he also found tranquillity in simply sitting by the Avon, watching the wildlife and enjoying the calm.
Arundells Today
Since Heath’s death in 2005, Arundells has been preserved as a museum by the Sir Edward Heath Charitable Foundation. Its mission is to maintain the property as he left it and to share his legacy with the public.
The house is open for visitors seasonally, typically from March to October. In addition to standard tours, the foundation organizes:
- Exhibitions – exploring themes such as politics, art, or Heath’s personal passions.
- Concerts and recitals – keeping alive Heath’s love of music in the very rooms where he once hosted performances.
- Talks and lectures – on history, politics, and culture, making Arundells a lively center for intellectual engagement.
Why Visit Arundells?
Arundells is unlike most historic houses. It is not about opulent grandeur or aristocratic lineage, but about the life of one man who shaped Britain’s modern history. The personal touches—the photographs, the books, the everyday objects—make it feel accessible and relatable.
For history buffs, it’s a chance to step into the world of a Prime Minister, seeing the personal side of political life. For art lovers, the collections are remarkable. For gardeners and walkers, the grounds and views of Salisbury Cathedral are worth the visit alone.
Most of all, Arundells offers a sense of continuity—linking medieval canons, Tudor owners, Georgian renovators, and a 20th-century statesman in one beautiful house.
Final Thoughts
In a city famed for its medieval cathedral and ancient history, Arundells provides a refreshing and unique perspective. It is not only a house of architectural and historical importance but also a deeply personal space that reflects the passions and legacy of Sir Edward Heath.
Visiting Arundells feels like walking into a conversation between the past and the present—a reminder that history is not just made in parliament or on the battlefield, but also in the homes where people live, think, and dream.
If you find yourself in Salisbury, take time to wander through the gates of Arundells. Pause in the study where decisions were considered, listen to the echoes of music in the piano room, and step into the garden where the cathedral spire rises majestically above the trees. You will leave with a richer appreciation not only of Heath’s life but also of the timeless beauty of Salisbury itself.
