About us
In the centre of Salisbury, one of the UK’s oldest, most historic and beautiful cities, sits contemporary shopping centre Old George Mall.
A comfortable and exciting shopping experience within easy reach of the city’s historic landmarks and with its own 548 space car park, Old George Mall is the perfect place to visit for a day out shopping or to call in to for some retail therapy on your next visit to Salisbury. We’ve got plenty for you to explore, with many of your favourite high street brands including M&S, Next, hmv and River Island, wonderful independent traders and plenty of places to eat, drink and relax.
Old George Mall was built in1965 and was named after the famous and historic Old Geoge Inn.
Sitting in Salisbury, a town with such a significant history, the buildings in and around Old George Mall have seen many significant historic events and famous faces from the past.
Old George Inn
Dating back to the 14th century, the Old George Inn retains many of its original features and has a fascinating and varied history within the heart of Salisbury.
1314 - Old George Inn built. It was first recorded as being owned in 1320
1579 - Trade at Old George Inn suffered with the outbreak of the Black Death
1608 - William Shakespeare and his players stayed at the Inn on route to Wilton. It is believed they rehearsed ‘As You Like It’ in the gardens of the Inn where Old George Mall now stands
1616 to 1623 - The ground floor of the building was converted into a City School. The council soon moved the school, preferring Old George Inn to host dramatics and amusements
1645 - Oliver Cromwell stayed a night at the Inn
1668 - Writer of one of the most famous diaries of all time, Samuel Pepys stayed at the Inn
1675 - The building was used for meetings for the Corporation Commission
1760 to 1858 - The Inn changed use to private dwellings
1844 - Charles Dickens visits the Old George Inn where it is believed he wrote part of ‘Martin Chuzzlewit’
1858 - The building was reverted back to an Inn by new owner J. Trowbridge. The industrial revolution and the increasing popularity of the cathedral as a tourist destination ensured good business
1947 - A fire broke out resulting in an effort to restore the building’s roof and floor as well as improving and modernising part of the interior
Present day - The fascinating and historic Old George Inn is now home to Boston Tea Party. Click here for more information
