Stonehenge
A prehistoric marvel shrouded in mystery, Stonehenge stands as a testament to ancient ingenuity and astronomical knowledge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Stonehenge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A prehistoric marvel shrouded in mystery, Stonehenge stands as a testament to ancient ingenuity and astronomical knowledge.
"It's an iconic, must-see landmark, but manage expectations regarding access and crowds."
Skip the Queue: Book Ahead! :ticket:
Purchase tickets online in advance to bypass ticket lines and secure your entry time.
Free Views Exist! :money_with_wings:
Explore the public footpath near Larkhill for a free, albeit distant, view of the stones.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Stone Circle
Stand in awe of these massive prehistoric stones, a UNESCO World Heritage site shrouded in mystery and ancient power.
Visitor Centre & Exhibition
Discover the history and theories surrounding Stonehenge through interactive displays and ancient artifacts.
Surrounding Landscape
Explore the vast, ancient landscape dotted with burial mounds and other Neolithic sites, offering a sense of timelessness.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Costs
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Skip the Queue: Book Ahead! :ticket:
Purchase tickets online in advance to bypass ticket lines and secure your entry time.
Free Views Exist! :money_with_wings:
Explore the public footpath near Larkhill for a free, albeit distant, view of the stones.
Consider Avebury Instead :earth_americas:
For a more hands-on, free experience, Avebury Henge offers accessible stone circles.
Dress for the Weather :cloud:
It's an exposed site; expect wind and rain, even on sunny days. Layers are recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
Skip the Queue: Book Ahead! :ticket:
Purchase tickets online in advance to bypass ticket lines and secure your entry time.
Free Views Exist! :money_with_wings:
Explore the public footpath near Larkhill for a free, albeit distant, view of the stones.
Consider Avebury Instead :earth_americas:
For a more hands-on, free experience, Avebury Henge offers accessible stone circles.
Dress for the Weather :cloud:
It's an exposed site; expect wind and rain, even on sunny days. Layers are recommended.
Audio Guide is Worth It :headphones:
Enhance your understanding of the site with the informative audio guide available at the visitor center.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Many visitors find Stonehenge awe-inspiring and a bucket-list experience, appreciating its historical significance and the mystery surrounding its purpose. However, some express disappointment with the limited access to the stones, the cost of entry, and the crowds, suggesting that alternatives like Avebury offer a more intimate experience.
"I’ve been coming here as a kids (earliest memory 30 years ago). I’ve always loved this peaceful ground, and the sound of the mini waterfall is so relaxing. Summer time you see some people swimming in the water (not recommended), and also dog jumping into the water to fetch a ball for their owner. It’s quite entertaining to watch! It’s a nice place to have picnics, and even for a peaceful walk. If you’re lucky, you’de see some exquisite birds who tend to nest here and some bunnies hopping around too! The stones remind me of Stone Henge, so I’ve been calling it that for years!"
S Rahman
"We enjoyed our trip to Nature’s Throne, having had it on my ‘bucket list’ for many, many years. Disappointed by the lack of toilets and searched high and low for the gift shop to no avail. Slightly overcrowded and left just as a coach of tourists turned up, so timed it well."
Strutcakes
"Nature's Throne is a piece of public art situated on the site of the old Middlesex Filter Beds
There are 10 granite stones, from the foundation of the Victoria Engine House, set in a circle around another granite stone, shaped like a throne.
It is known locally as London's Stonehenge and Hackney Henge.
It is a great place to sit and enjoy the surrounding nature reserve."
Daryl Gerard Morrissey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a train from London Waterloo to Salisbury (approx. 1.5 hours), then catch the Stonehenge Tour bus or a taxi. Alternatively, numerous coach tours depart from London, often combining Stonehenge with other sites like Windsor or Bath. Driving yourself is an option, but parking can be an issue. +1
While there isn't a direct public bus to Stonehenge, the Stonehenge Tour bus operates from Salisbury train station. Some Redditors suggest a public footpath near Larkhill for free viewing, accessible by parking in the area.
Yes, it's possible to see Stonehenge from a distance for free via a public footpath near Larkhill. This path follows the route of an old road and offers views without an entrance fee. +1
Day trips from London are common via organized coach tours, which can be convenient but often feel rushed. For more flexibility, consider a train to Salisbury and then arranging local transport. +1
Stonehenge is approximately 9 miles (15 km) north of Salisbury. The Stonehenge Tour bus takes about 30-40 minutes to reach the site from Salisbury train station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Standard adult tickets for Stonehenge typically range from £20-£30, with prices varying based on the season and booking time. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to save money and guarantee entry.
General public access inside the stone circle is very limited. Only on special occasions or through specific 'Stone Circle Access' tours (which are more expensive and book up far in advance) can you get close.
Yes, booking your Stonehenge tickets in advance is strongly advised. This not only secures your entry slot but also helps you avoid long queues at the visitor center. +1
Stonehenge opening hours vary seasonally, generally opening around 9:00 AM and closing between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Always check the official English Heritage website for the most up-to-date times.
While general entry is not free, there are specific dates like the Summer Solstice where access might be different, though often very crowded. The 'public footpath' offers a free viewing option from a distance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The visitor centre offers an excellent exhibition with artifacts and reconstructions of Neolithic life. You can also explore the surrounding landscape and burial mounds.
Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2 hours at Stonehenge, including time at the visitor center and walking to the stone circle. If you're taking a tour from London, your time on-site will likely be shorter.
No, you cannot touch the stones at Stonehenge. A rope barrier keeps visitors at a distance to protect the ancient monument.
The visitor centre and the path around the stone circle are generally accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Shuttle buses to the stones are also accessible.
Many recommend using the audio guide to understand the history and theories. Visiting early or late can offer a more peaceful experience. Some suggest the 'VIP' experience for closer access.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
Tripods are generally permitted for personal photography, but it's always best to check the latest regulations on the English Heritage website, especially during peak times.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited at Stonehenge due to its status as a World Heritage Site and proximity to military airfields.
The classic view from the designated path offers iconic shots. For unique perspectives, consider the surrounding landscape, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Yes, Stonehenge can get very crowded, especially during peak season and midday. Visiting early or late, or opting for a special access tour, can help you get clearer shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed family experience, especially with younger children, the nearby Avebury Henge is often recommended. It's free, allows closer interaction with the stones, and has a charming village atmosphere. This can be a great alternative or addition if the crowds and cost of Stonehenge feel overwhelming for your family.
💰 Budget Travelers
When traveling from London, look for coach tours that bundle Stonehenge with other attractions, as these can sometimes be more cost-effective than independent travel. If taking the train to Salisbury, book your tickets in advance for the best fares. Pack your own food and water to avoid expensive on-site purchases.
🚶 Solo Travelers
If you're looking for a more contemplative experience, aim for early morning or late afternoon visits to avoid the peak crowds. The public footpath offers a way to experience the monument's presence without the cost, allowing for personal reflection. Consider combining your visit with Salisbury Cathedral for a fuller day of historical exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystery of Stonehenge
Theories abound regarding the builders and their motivations. Some believe it was a sacred site for druidic rituals, while others suggest it was a complex calendar system. The lack of written records from the period leaves much to interpretation, fueling ongoing research and public fascination. The site's enduring enigma is a significant part of its appeal, drawing millions of visitors eager to ponder its ancient secrets.
Recent archaeological work continues to shed light on the surrounding landscape, revealing a network of henges, avenues, and settlements that suggest Stonehenge was part of a much larger ceremonial complex. Understanding this broader context helps paint a more complete picture of Neolithic life in Britain.
Navigating the Visitor Experience
From the visitor centre, you can walk to the stones (about a 20-30 minute walk) or take a shuttle bus. The path around the stones allows you to view them from a designated distance, offering excellent photo opportunities. Audio guides are available and highly recommended to provide context and fascinating insights into the monument's history and theories.
Be prepared for the elements. Stonehenge is an open site, and the weather can change rapidly. Wind is a common factor, so dressing in layers and wearing comfortable shoes is essential. While you can't touch the stones, the sheer presence and scale of the monument are awe-inspiring.
The 'Free' Stonehenge Debate
While this offers a free alternative, it's crucial to manage expectations. The view from the public footpath is significantly further away than what paying visitors experience. Some travelers find this sufficient, while others feel it detracts from the immersive experience. The debate highlights the tension between preserving a World Heritage site and making it accessible to all.
For those seeking a more authentic, hands-on experience with ancient stone circles, many Redditors strongly recommend visiting Avebury Henge. Located about a 45-minute drive north of Stonehenge, Avebury is free to enter, allows visitors to walk among and touch the stones, and offers a more relaxed atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit