Visiting Stonehenge: Everything You Need to Know

Visiting Stonehenge

Stonehenge is one of the world's most famous landmarks — a mysterious stone circle dating back 5,000 years. Located on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, it attracts over 1.5 million visitors a year.

What to Expect

When you arrive, you'll take a shuttle bus from the visitor centre to the stones. The walk around the circle is about 1 mile, with information panels explaining the history and theories about how and why Stonehenge was built.

Tickets and Prices

• Adult: £25 (book online for £22)
• Child (5-17): £15
• Family (2+3): £65
• English Heritage members: Free

Best Times to Visit

• Early morning — Arrive when it opens at 9:30am to avoid crowds.
• Late afternoon — The last entry slot is quieter, and sunset views are stunning.
• Solstice days — Summer and winter solstice are the only times you can walk among the stones (free but very crowded).
• Weekdays — Significantly quieter than weekends.

What's Nearby

• Old Sarum — The original site of Salisbury, with stunning views (10 minutes by car).
• Salisbury Cathedral — Home to the best surviving copy of the Magna Carta (15 minutes by car).
• Avebury — A larger stone circle that you can actually walk among (30 minutes by car).
• Woodhenge — A lesser-known Neolithic site nearby (free entry).

Practical Tips

• Book online — Saves £3 per ticket and guarantees entry.
• Allow 2-3 hours — Including the visitor centre and the walk around the stones.
• Wear sturdy shoes — The path around the stones is grass and can be muddy.
• Bring a jacket — There's no shelter on the plain.
• Download the app — The official audio guide is included in the price.

More historic sites in our castles guide and Roman Britain sites.