Avebury Stone Circle - Avebury Stone Circle
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Avebury Stone Circle

4.8
·733 reviews·Avebury, United Kingdom

Explore one of the world's largest prehistoric stone circles, where you can freely wander among ancient megaliths and a charming village.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, magical light

CrowdLow
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Avebury Stone Circle - Avebury Stone Circle

Avebury Stone Circle

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, magical light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore one of the world's largest prehistoric stone circles, where you can freely wander among ancient megaliths and a charming village.

4.8
(733 reviews)

"Older than Stonehenge and free to visit, the Avebury henge and stone circles are awe-inspiring."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk Among Giants

Unlike Stonehenge, you can touch and walk between the Avebury stones. Embrace the freedom!

🚗 Parking Pointers

National Trust car park closes early (around 5 pm). Explore after hours if you're careful.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Stones

The Great Stones

Avebury Henge

Wander freely among colossal sarsen stones, feeling their ancient energy. Older and larger than Stonehenge!

West Kennet Long Barrow

West Kennet Long Barrow

Near Avebury

Step inside this Neolithic tomb, a truly awe-inspiring and ancient burial site. A profound historical experience.

Avebury Village

Avebury Village

Within the Henge

A charming village nestled within the ancient stone circle, offering a unique blend of history and rural life.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Openness

Unlike Stonehenge, Avebury allows you to walk among the massive stones. Plan for ample time to explore the entire henge and surrounding sites like the West Kennet Long Barrow. Consider comfortable walking shoes for navigating the fields and uneven terrain.

Timing is Key for Atmosphere

While free to visit, parking can be an issue. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene experience, especially for photography. Be aware of National Trust car park closing times, though the site itself is accessible.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, magical light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings (after car park closes)
Why
Quiet, atmospheric, stargazing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Eoins Stones Episode 1 - The Pipers Stones. Athgreany, Co. Wicklow. #ireland #history #bronzeage #megalithic #stonecircle #granite #busy #crossbarry #folklore #heritage #monument
@pintofplane
15.9K likes • 207.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk Among Giants

Unlike Stonehenge, you can touch and walk between the Avebury stones. Embrace the freedom! Reddit

🚗 Parking Pointers

National Trust car park closes early (around 5 pm). Explore after hours if you're careful. Reddit

reddit.com

Avebury day trip

reddit.com

Paleolithic/ancient sites within 2-3 hours from London by train?

✨ Magical Night Visits

Evenings are quiet and perfect for photos. The stones feel even more mystical after dark. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

You'll be walking a lot on grass and uneven ground. Good shoes are a must! TikTok

reddit.com

Avesbury- detour worth the time lost in Salisbury?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk Among Giants

Unlike Stonehenge, you can touch and walk between the Avebury stones. Embrace the freedom! Reddit

🚗 Parking Pointers

National Trust car park closes early (around 5 pm). Explore after hours if you're careful. Reddit

✨ Magical Night Visits

Evenings are quiet and perfect for photos. The stones feel even more mystical after dark. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

You'll be walking a lot on grass and uneven ground. Good shoes are a must! TikTok

🗺️ Explore the Wider Complex

Don't miss the West Kennet Long Barrow and Silbury Hill for a complete prehistoric experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(733 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Avebury's immersive experience, allowing free access to its massive stones, a stark contrast to Stonehenge. The expansive henge, charming village, and nearby prehistoric sites like the West Kennet Long Barrow are highly praised. Some note the National Trust car park's early closing time as a minor inconvenience.

"Some of the most incredible prehistoric sites all within walking distance. The circles and West Kennett long barrow are awesome inspiring, older than Stonehenge and free to visit (apart from parking at Avebury which is fair enough). 100% worth visiting."

Ben Powell (Sinistapenguin)

"Avebury henge and stone circles isn't Stonehenge by a long shot, but it is worth the visit if you are nearby. The setting is picturesque -- a field beside a quaint village -- and you can walk right next to the stones. Avebury stones are known as the largest stone circle in the UK, so you can have a pleasant walk around to view each. NT car park is nearby. However, I had to scramble to retrieve the car because the car park apparently closes fairly early (5pm?).

Visited in October 2024"

Steve M

"Great place to go to, good food, good museum, you can touch the stones unlike Stonehenge. If you go in the night, it's still possible to go. Only the national trust car park shuts, but in the evening it's very quiet, and perfect for photos. Grandad hates the hippie shop, though."

Tate Sartin

What People Like

Freedom to walk among stones
Vast, open henge complex
Magical atmosphere

What People Dislike

Car park closing time

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach Avebury Stone Circle from London is by train to Swindon or Pewsey, followed by a bus or taxi. Driving is also an option, with parking available near the village. Reddit

Yes, you can reach Avebury by public transport. Buses run from Swindon and Marlborough, though services can be infrequent. Check local bus timetables in advance. Reddit

While they are both significant prehistoric sites, they are not close. Driving is the most convenient way to travel between Avebury and Stonehenge, taking about 45 minutes. Reddit

Yes, there is a National Trust car park near the village. However, it closes relatively early, so be mindful of the time if you plan to stay late. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to visit Avebury Stone Circle as a day trip from London, but it will be a long day. Consider an early start and prioritize your time. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Avebury Henge and Stone Circles are free to visit and explore. You can walk among the stones and through the village without an entry fee. Reddit

There is no entrance fee for the Avebury Stone Circle itself. The only cost is typically for parking if you use the National Trust car park. Reddit

The stone circle is accessible 24/7. However, the National Trust car park has specific opening and closing times, usually closing around 5 pm. Reddit

Yes, you can visit Avebury Stone Circle at night. The site is always open, and many find the atmosphere particularly magical after dark, though the car park will be closed. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available, especially during certain times. Some visitors highly recommend private tours for a more in-depth and unhurried experience. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Avebury is a much larger henge and stone circle complex where you can walk among the stones, while Stonehenge has restricted access with visitors viewing from a distance. Avebury is also older. Reddit

Yes, unlike Stonehenge, you are allowed to walk among and touch the stones at Avebury, which many visitors find to be a more intimate experience. Reddit

The Avebury complex includes the village, the West Kennet Long Barrow, and Silbury Hill. These are all within walking distance or a short drive and offer a comprehensive prehistoric experience. Reddit

Yes, children often enjoy the freedom to explore the open spaces and walk among the stones. It's a great place for them to connect with history in a hands-on way. TikTok

To fully appreciate the Avebury complex, including the village, stones, and nearby barrows, allocate at least 3-4 hours. Some visitors spend a full day. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with fewer crowds. Golden hour can create a magical atmosphere around the stones. Reddit

Yes, night photography at Avebury can be stunning, especially with clear skies for stargazing. The stones take on a mysterious aura in the dark. Reddit

Generally, photography is permitted throughout the site. However, always be respectful of the ancient monument and other visitors. TikTok

Experiment with different perspectives, including wide shots of the entire henge, close-ups of the sarsen stones, and incorporating the village or surrounding landscape. Instagram

Drone usage may be restricted or require permission. It's best to check with the National Trust or local authorities before flying a drone over the site. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Avebury is a fantastic destination for families, offering a more hands-on experience than many historical sites. Children can freely roam among the massive stones, sparking their imagination about ancient peoples. The open fields provide space for them to run around, making it an engaging outing. TikTok

Key recommendations for families:
* Wear sturdy shoes: Essential for navigating the terrain.
* Pack snacks and drinks: There are limited facilities within the immediate stone circle area.
* Explore the Long Barrow: A short walk away, this ancient tomb is fascinating for curious minds.
* Visit the village museum: Offers insights into the history and archaeology of the site. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Avebury Stone Circle is a dream for budget travelers as it's free to enter and explore. The main cost you'll encounter is parking, which is generally reasonable. Reddit

Tips for budget visitors:
* Pack a picnic: Save money by bringing your own food and enjoying it amidst the stones.
* Utilize public transport: If feasible, taking a train and then a bus can be more economical than driving and parking. Reddit
* Focus on the free sites: The main stone circle, village, and surrounding landscape are all accessible without charge. Consider the West Kennet Long Barrow as a free addition to your visit. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Avebury offers incredible photographic opportunities, especially for those interested in ancient landscapes and atmospheric shots. The ability to get close to the stones and explore the vast henge provides unique perspectives. InstagramReddit

Photography tips:
* Sunrise/Sunset: The 'golden hour' light is spectacular for illuminating the stones and surrounding landscape. Reddit
* Night Photography: With minimal light pollution, Avebury is excellent for astrophotography and capturing the mystical feel of the stones under the stars. Reddit
* Wide-angle lenses: Ideal for capturing the scale of the henge and the arrangement of the stones.
* Include elements of the village: The juxtaposition of ancient stones and the quaint village adds an interesting dimension to your shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Avebury Henge and Stone Circles: A Prehistoric Marvel

Avebury is not just a single circle, but a vast henge monument encompassing a village and multiple stone circles. Dating back to the Neolithic period, it's one of the largest stone circles in the world, predating Stonehenge. The site features a massive ditch and bank, with a diameter of over 400 meters, enclosing a complex arrangement of standing stones. Unlike the more famous Stonehenge, Avebury offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to walk freely among the colossal sarsen stones and even touch them. This direct interaction with the ancient monument is a key reason for its appeal. TikTokReddit

The stones themselves are impressive, with some weighing many tons. They are arranged in two main circles and two avenues leading away from the henge. The village of Avebury is uniquely situated within the outer stone circle, creating a fascinating juxtaposition of ancient history and modern life. Exploring the entire complex, including the nearby West Kennet Long Barrow and Silbury Hill, provides a comprehensive understanding of the prehistoric landscape and the people who built these monumental structures. Reddit

Many visitors describe Avebury as having a profound and magical atmosphere, especially during quieter times like early mornings or evenings. The sheer scale and age of the site inspire awe and contemplation. It's a place where you can truly feel connected to the past and ponder the mysteries of its creators. Reddit

Visiting Avebury: Practicalities and Best Practices

When planning your visit to Avebury Stone Circle, remember that while entry to the site is free, parking is typically managed by the National Trust and may incur a fee. The National Trust car park has specific operating hours, often closing around 5 PM, which is crucial to note if you wish to stay for sunset or explore after hours. Reddit However, the site itself remains accessible, allowing for atmospheric evening visits, though you'll need to find alternative parking or walk from the village. Reddit

Comfortable footwear is non-negotiable. You'll be walking across fields, uneven ground, and potentially muddy paths, especially if you venture to the surrounding sites like the West Kennet Long Barrow. Wearing layers is also advisable, as the weather in Wiltshire can be unpredictable. TikTok Many visitors recommend bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the ancient stones, making the most of the expansive and beautiful surroundings. Reddit

For those interested in photography, the 'golden hour' around sunrise and sunset offers spectacular light. Night visits can also be incredibly rewarding for capturing the stones under the stars, provided you are mindful of safety and the car park closure. Reddit Consider visiting during the week to avoid larger crowds, or opt for an early morning or late afternoon slot on weekends for a more tranquil experience. Reddit

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