Visiting Stonehenge: A Guide to Britain's Most Famous Monument

Few places capture the imagination quite like Stonehenge. This prehistoric monument, standing tall on Salisbury Plain, has been shrouded in mystery for thousands of years. Whether you're drawn to its ancient history, ethereal landscapes or the legends surrounding the Neolithic stones, visiting Stonehenge is an experience not to be missed. Here's our guide to making the most out of your trip to this iconic World Heritage Site and exploring the beautiful Wiltshire countryside.

Dating back over 4,500 years (before the Great Pyramids of Egypt), Stonehenge is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments. Its construction stands as a testament to the ingenuity and sophistication of Neolithic societies. The huge monoliths stand up to 8 m tall and weigh up to 30 tonnes. Some of the stones were transported from as far away as the Preseli Hills in Pembrokeshire, Wales. How they were moved and erected without modern technology remains an enduring mystery.
 

The purpose of Stonehenge has also been the subject of extensive research and debate. Theories range from it being a solar calendar and astronomical observatory to a ceremonial site or even a burial ground. Recent studies suggest that Stonehenge may have functioned as a political and spiritual centre, unifying various regions of Britain. Whatever the truth, it continues to inspire awe and curiosity among visitors.

Before heading to the site itself, stop in the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, which is included in the cost of your ticket. A stunning 360-degree projection immerses you in Stonehenge through the ages, while interactive displays suggest how the towering sarsen stones may have been transported and arranged. Over 300 artefacts – including flint tools, bone pins and arrowheads – offer a glimpse into prehistoric life, alongside a hauntingly lifelike model of a Neolithic man, whose body was found nearby. Outside, there's a collection of reconstructed Stone Age houses where English Heritage volunteers give live demonstrations of ancient skills like flint-knapping and rope-making.

Looking to avoid the crowds? The best times for visiting Stonehenge are early morning right after opening or late afternoon before closing. Summer (June to mid-September) is the busiest season, particularly at weekends and during school holidays. Tour buses start to arrive by 11am and the site is often heaving by mid-afternoon. Plan your trip for spring or autumn for fewer visitors and milder weather. Winter can be a peaceful and atmospheric time to visit, allowing for a deeper, more personal connection with the ancient site. Aim for early afternoon (around 2pm) for the best light and conditions.

Visiting Stonehenge during the solstice or equinox is a magical experience. On these special celestial dates, the site opens for managed open access, allowing visitors to enter for free and walk among the inner stones – something not possible at other times. Thousands gather to witness the sunrise or sunset aligning with the monument, celebrating as ancient Britons once did. Expect a lively atmosphere with druids, pagans and travellers coming from far and wide to mark the changing seasons.

The standard admission is £22-£30 for adults, with discounts for children, seniors and families. Booking online in advance is recommended to save 15% off ticket prices and to secure your preferred time slot. Entry is free with an English Heritage or National Trust (England) membership card.

The site is open every day of the year, apart from Christmas Day. Opening hours are 9:30am to 5pm (until 7pm in summer) but check the official Stonehenge website for the latest information on visiting times. Last entry is two hours before the site closes.

While there are no facilities at the stone circle itself, the visitor centre has toilets, baby changing and feeding facilities. There's also a café selling snacks and drinks. The visitor centre, car park and stone circle are accessible by wheelchair via tarmac and grass paths.

Stonehenge is located just off the A303 near Amesbury in Wiltshire, about 150 km (two hours' drive) southwest of London. The visitor centre is 2.5 km from the stones and a free shuttle bus makes the 10-minute journey, or it's a 30-minute walk.

• By car: The postcode for satnav is SP4 7DE. Parking is available at the visitor centre for a charge. English Heritage or National Trust (England) members park for free, but remember to display your sticker.
• By train: The nearest station is Salisbury, around 15 km away, which has direct trains from London Waterloo. From there, you can take the Stonehenge Tour Bus, which departs hourly from just outside the station.
• By tour: Many companies offer guided tours from London, Bath and Salisbury, often combining Stonehenge with nearby attractions.

While you're in the area, why not visit some of the other local sights? The Wiltshire region is rich with market towns and local attractions that make an enjoyable day out before or after visiting Stonehenge.

Often overshadowed by Stonehenge, Avebury is another prehistoric stone circle but much larger in scale – in fact, it's the largest stone circle in the world. Unlike Stonehenge, you can walk freely among the stones for a more intimate experience. The local village is charming, with historic pubs and a museum.

A lesser-known prehistoric site near Stonehenge, Woodhenge features circular wooden posts marking what was once a ceremonial site. It's an interesting alternative for those looking to explore more Neolithic history.

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Home to one of the four surviving copies of the Magna Carta, 800-year-old Salisbury Cathedral is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Climb the tallest church spire in Britain for breathtaking views of the city. Keen to explore this historic market town further? Book a stay in Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel, in a stunning, character-filled Grade II listed building just opposite the cathedral.

Just north of Salisbury, Old Sarum is the site of the earliest settlement of Salisbury. The Iron Age hillfort includes ruins of a castle and cathedral, providing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It’s an excellent stop for history lovers.

Scattered across Wiltshire's hills are large figures of white horses carved into the chalk hillsides. Dating back to 1778, Westbury White Horse is considered one of the most impressive, offering hiking opportunities and picturesque views.

For a change of scenery, visit Stourhead, a stunning 18th-century landscaped garden with a lake, grottoes and classical temples. It's especially beautiful in autumn when the rich seasonal colours are reflected in the water.

This grand Elizabethan stately home, with landscaped grounds by Capability Brown, offers a whole host of attractions including a world-famous safari park, maze and narrow-gauge railway. The house itself features opulent interiors, including Lord Bath's eccentric murals. In fact, Longleat tops our list of European attractions offering the best experience.

In the historic market town of Devizes, this museum is a treasure trove of local history, featuring extensive prehistoric collections, including remarkable finds from nearby sites like Avebury.

On the southern edge of the Cotswolds, Lacock's iconic 13th-century abbey has appeared in films like Harry Potter and Pride and Prejudice. Don't miss visiting the Fox Talbot Museum and exploring the unspoiled village, with its pretty stone cottages.

A picturesque riverside town known for its honey-coloured stone buildings, medieval bridge and charming canal-side walks, Bradford-on-Avon has plenty of historic buildings, independent shops and cosy cafés to explore.

Visiting Stonehenge is a journey into the depths of prehistoric Britain that will deepen your understanding of our early ancestors. By combining your trip with the exploration of nearby attractions and the scenic Wiltshire countryside, you’ll create a truly rich and immersive travel experience that leaves you with lasting memories. If you’re looking for a weekend that combines sightseeing with outdoor adventure, look no further than the South Downs National Park's hiking and biking routes.