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.
UE
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