Stonehenge
The most famous prehistoric monument in the world - a ring of colossal standing stones raised on Salisbury Plain some five thousand years ago, aligned to the sun, a UNESCO site.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
UNESCO World Heritage
Stonehenge is the most famous prehistoric monument in the world, a ring of colossal standing stones raised on Salisbury Plain in stages between about 3000 and 1500 BCE, its greatest stones dragged and hoisted with astonishing effort by a people who left no writing. Aligned to the rising and setting sun at the solstices, its purpose remains a mystery, and the UNESCO site still awes as a feat of Stone Age ambition and belief.
What you actually see
- The stone circle - the ring of colossal standing stones and lintels.
- The solstice alignment - the stones set to the midsummer and midwinter sun.
- The visitor centre - the exhibition and reconstructed Neolithic houses.
- The landscape - the ancient burial mounds across the surrounding plain.
When to go
Spring to autumn for the mildest weather on the exposed plain; the solstices draw crowds for special access to the stones. Book a timed ticket ahead, and go early or late to avoid the biggest coach-tour crowds.
Honest expectations
You normally view the stones from a path a short distance away, not among them, unless you book special early or late access; some find this distant. It is exposed and windswept, and very busy with coach tours by day. It is a quick sight, best paired with nearby Salisbury or Avebury.
Nearby
Salisbury and its cathedral, and the larger stone circle at Avebury, are close; Bath is within reach.
What to pack for Stonehenge
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
