Stonehenge
Discover Britain's Most Iconic Ancient Monument
Explore the mysteries of this 5,000-year-old stone circle
Welcome to Stonehenge
Stonehenge, one of the world's most famous prehistoric monuments, stands majestically on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England. This extraordinary stone circle, built between 3000 BC and 2000 BC, has captivated visitors, archaeologists, and historians for centuries with its mysterious origins and purpose.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, Stonehenge consists of massive standing stones arranged in a circular pattern. The engineering feat required to transport, shape, and erect these massive sarsen stones (some weighing up to 25 tons) and smaller bluestones (transported from Wales, over 150 miles away) demonstrates the remarkable skills and determination of its Neolithic builders.
Beyond the stone circle itself, Stonehenge sits within a rich archaeological landscape containing hundreds of prehistoric monuments, including burial mounds, earthworks, and the nearby Neolithic settlement of Durrington Walls. Together, these sites provide invaluable insights into prehistoric Britain and continue to yield new discoveries about our ancient ancestors.
Stonehenge Highlights
Must-see features and experiences at this ancient wonder
The Stone Circle
Experience the awe-inspiring main monument up close. The stone circle consists of massive standing stones arranged in a pattern that aligns with the movements of the sun. Marvel at the precision of its construction and the mysteries it still holds.
Visitor Centre & Exhibition
Explore the state-of-the-art visitor center with its comprehensive exhibition featuring over 250 archaeological treasures discovered in the landscape. Experience the 360-degree virtual experience that shows Stonehenge through the ages.
Neolithic Houses
Visit the reconstructed Neolithic houses outside the visitor center. These authentic dwellings provide insights into how the builders of Stonehenge might have lived 4,500 years ago, with demonstrations of ancient crafts and technologies.
Landscape Walking Trails
Explore the wider prehistoric landscape on foot via marked trails. Discover lesser-known monuments such as the Avenue, the Cursus, and numerous burial mounds that form part of this extraordinary archaeological complex.
Solstice Celebrations
Learn about the monument's astronomical alignments and its connection to the summer and winter solstices. During these special times, visitors can witness how the stones frame the rising and setting sun in a spectacular display.
Café & Shop
Enjoy refreshments at the café, which serves dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients, including traditional British fare. The shop offers a range of high-quality souvenirs, books, and gifts related to Stonehenge and prehistoric Britain.
Stonehenge Tour Packages
Explore our carefully crafted Stonehenge experiences
Stonehenge Express
Perfect for those with limited time, this half-day tour focuses on the main Stonehenge monument and visitor center, with expert commentary on the history and significance of this ancient wonder.
Stonehenge & Salisbury
Combine your visit to Stonehenge with the medieval city of Salisbury, home to one of England's finest cathedrals housing an original copy of the Magna Carta. A perfect day trip from London.
Ancient Britain Explorer
Discover Britain's prehistoric past with this comprehensive two-day tour covering Stonehenge, Avebury stone circle, West Kennet Long Barrow, and other ancient sites in the Wiltshire landscape.
Related Prehistoric Sites
Discover other ancient monuments in the Stonehenge landscape
Located about 20 miles north of Stonehenge, Avebury contains the largest stone circle in Europe, enclosing part of the village of Avebury. Unlike Stonehenge, visitors can walk freely among the stones, creating a more intimate experience. The site includes not just the main circle but also the West Kennet Avenue, a processional route lined with paired stones.
Highlights: The main stone circle, Alexander Keiller Museum, Avebury Manor and Garden, nearby silhouette of Silbury Hill
One of the largest and most accessible Neolithic chambered tombs in Britain, West Kennet Long Barrow was built around 3650 BC, making it older than Stonehenge. The tomb was used for burials for about 1,000 years. Visitors can enter the stone chambers and experience the atmospheric interior of this ancient burial site.
Highlights: Stone chambers, panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, proximity to Silbury Hill
The largest artificial prehistoric mound in Europe, Silbury Hill stands about 130 feet (40 meters) high and was built around 2400 BC. Its purpose remains a mystery, as no burial or significant artifacts have been found inside despite several excavations. The hill required an enormous amount of labor to construct, indicating its importance to Neolithic people.
Highlights: Impressive size and perfect conical shape, views from nearby paths (climbing the hill is not permitted to protect it)
Durrington Walls is a large Neolithic settlement where archaeologists believe the builders of Stonehenge lived. Recent excavations have revealed houses, feasting areas, and evidence of large gatherings. Nearby Woodhenge was a timber circle, now marked with concrete posts showing where the original wooden posts would have stood.
Highlights: Concrete markers at Woodhenge, massive scale of Durrington Walls earthworks, connection to Stonehenge builders
Practical Information
Essential tips for your Stonehenge visit
Visiting Information
- Opening Hours: Stonehenge is generally open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (summer) and 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM (winter), with last entry 2 hours before closing. Hours may vary seasonally and on special occasions.
- Admission: Tickets are best purchased in advance online, as entry is timed to manage visitor numbers. English Heritage and National Trust members receive free entry.
- Duration: Allow at least 2 hours for your visit to see the stone circle, exhibition, and Neolithic houses. More time is needed if you wish to explore the wider landscape on foot.
- Accessibility: The visitor center and exhibition are fully accessible. A shuttle bus runs between the visitor center and the stones, and the path around the stone circle is suitable for wheelchairs in good weather.
Getting There
- By Car: Stonehenge is located on the A303, about 2 miles west of Amesbury. It's approximately 88 miles from London, 33 miles from Bath, and 9 miles from Salisbury. Parking is available at the visitor center.
- By Public Transport: The Stonehenge Tour Bus operates from Salisbury railway station, stopping at Stonehenge and Old Sarum. Salisbury has direct train services from London Waterloo (journey time approximately 90 minutes).
- Organized Tours: Many tour operators offer day trips to Stonehenge from London, Bath, and other major cities, often combined with visits to nearby attractions.
Best Time to Visit
- Seasons: Stonehenge can be visited year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and autumn often provide the best combination of reasonable weather and fewer crowds.
- Time of Day: Early morning or late afternoon visits typically mean fewer crowds and better lighting for photography. The site can be particularly atmospheric at these times.
- Solstices and Equinoxes: The summer solstice (around June 21) and winter solstice (around December 21) are special times when access to the stone circle itself is permitted for celebrations. These events attract large crowds.
- Weather Considerations: Stonehenge is exposed with little shelter, so check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Wind can make the site feel much colder than the actual temperature.
Facilities & Tips
- Visitor Center: Includes exhibition, café, shop, and toilets. The café serves hot and cold food, drinks, and snacks using locally-sourced ingredients where possible.
- Photography: Photography is permitted for personal use. The site can be challenging to photograph due to its scale and the surrounding barriers, so consider bringing a wide-angle lens.
- Audio Guides: Available in multiple languages, providing detailed information about the monument and its landscape.
- Nearby Attractions: Consider combining your visit with Salisbury (Salisbury Cathedral, Old Sarum), Avebury Stone Circle, or the historic city of Bath, all within reasonable driving distance.
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