Planning on visiting Stonehenge? Right here’s every little thing it’s essential to learn about discovering one of many world’s most mysterious historical monuments…
Stonehenge is a kind of locations I assumed is likely to be a bit overrated… till I truly went. Standing in entrance of these large stones, with the wind whipping throughout the plain, I lastly obtained it. There’s a wierd, nearly otherworldly feeling in regards to the place – and it’s not simply the myths and mysteries that encompass it.
That stated, it may also be heaving with folks. The primary time I went, I wasn’t fairly ready for the crowds and I positively discovered a number of classes about timing (and endurance!). Since then, I’ve discovered the very best methods to expertise Stonehenge with out it feeling like a theme park queue.
On this submit, I’m sharing every little thing I’ve picked up alongside the way in which – from when to go to if you would like some peace and quiet, to little suggestions that can show you how to benefit from your journey. Whether or not you’re there for the historical past, the thriller, or simply the images, I’ll show you how to discover your personal magic on this historical website.
BOOK YOUR DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR STONEHENGE HERE
1. Travelling to Stonehenge
Travelling to Stonehenge is a breeze.
Should you’re driving, merely observe the clearly signposted route from the A303 and park on-site. Throughout peak intervals, you could have to queue to get on-site and there’s a parking cost for those who haven’t pre-booked (though that is absolutely refundable while you purchase a Stonehenge ticket).
Alternatively, hop on a practice to Salisbury, the closest station to Stonehenge, and catch a taxi or bus to the location. The hop-on hop-off tour bus from Salisbury Reds is a good way to see the sights en path to Stonehenge. However whichever mode of transport you select, you’re in for a deal with – the journey is simply as lovely because the vacation spot!
2. The perfect time to go to Stonehenge
The perfect time to go visiting Stonehenge is both very first thing within the morning or later within the night. Should you’re an early hen and occur to be driving, it’s a good suggestion to show up when the location opens at 9.30am. You’ll beat the coach excursions, which are inclined to arrive after 10am, and will have the ability to benefit from the website in relative tranquillity.
The crowds additionally die down after 5pm on summer time evenings, when the location shuts at 7pm.
3. Get pleasure from a VIP Stonehenge go to
Should you’re keen to pay further to keep away from the crowds utterly, English Heritage’s Stone Circle Expertise is a good possibility. Tickets value £70 for adults however for that, you’ll have the ability to enter the location earlier than it opens to the general public permitting you to stand up shut and private with the stones and absorb their energy and thriller.
4. E-book forward, lower your expenses
Wish to benefit from your Stonehenge go to with out breaking the financial institution?
You’ll get the very best value by reserving your Stonehenge ticket on-line prematurely. You’ll be able to arrive inside half an hour of your chosen time and keep so long as you want. And for those who’re an English Heritage or Nationwide Belief member, you may get in without cost – simply bear in mind to convey your membership card with you.
5. Seize the second
Don’t overlook your digicam!
Stonehenge is a photographer’s dream, with beautiful landscapes and dramatic skies offering a backdrop for the enduring stones. The landmark takes on an ethereal high quality at dawn and sundown, with the sunshine casting lengthy shadows, so the sooner (or later) you could be on website, the higher your pictures!
6. Unlock the Stonehenge secrets and techniques
Having seen the stones, it’s a good suggestion to pop into the Customer Centre for those who’re nonetheless struggling to get your head across the historical monument (and belief us, you received’t be the one one).
It’s residence to an exhibition that is smart of what life was like for the builders of Stonehenge, with artefacts that embody historical jewelry, pottery and instruments, and even human stays.
7. Crack Stonehenge’s thriller with an audio information
Let’s face it – Stonehenge is fairly enigmatic. To make sure you don’t find yourself feeling utterly misplaced amongst the stones, obtain the Stonehenge audio information to your telephone prematurely. It’s free, is available in 12 languages, and gives fascinating insights into the stone circle, the encompassing panorama, and the exhibition contained in the Customer Centre.
I instructed my dad and mom to do that previous to their go to they usually have been thrilled. By the point you’ve walked out to the stones it’s good to have one thing to information you, in your ears, so that you don’t have to face and stroll round the entire website repeatedly. You’ll be able to sit on a bench and be taught, whereas trying.
8. Carry a brolly (and a solar hat)
Stonehenge is one factor – however as mysteries go, the English climate is unfathomable. The uncovered location on Salisbury Plain could make for some critically unpredictable situations. Will or not it’s sunny and heat? Will or not it’s wet and chilly? Will or not it’s each within the house of 5 minutes? Nobody is aware of, so be ready for something and pack accordingly.
It was superb final time I visited, however you won’t be so fortunate!
9. Staying fuelled at Stonehenge
If strolling amongst the stones has left you in want of a caffeine repair, the on-site cafe – which additionally serves cold and hot meals – has obtained you lined. The queues for this could get fairly loopy although. Though it wasn’t that busy on the stones final time we went, the cafe was completely rammed.
Alternatively, convey a packed lunch and a flask and revel in a snack with a view within the picnic space.
10. Look however don’t contact
Everyone knows that feeling – you see one thing unbelievable and may’t resist reaching out to the touch it. However relating to Stonehenge, combat the urge – the stones are lined in historical lichens which are essential to their preservation, and your curious fingers might trigger some severe harm. Plus, you in all probability wouldn’t endear your self to the location stewards.
11. Plan a day journey within the Stonehenge space
Positive, Stonehenge is fairly superb, however why cease there? Two hours is nearly sufficient time to absorb the majesty of the location, and for those who’re up for slightly journey, there are many different close by points of interest to discover…
Tub from Stonehenge
This historic metropolis is legendary for its Georgian structure and Roman baths, and is slightly below an hour’s drive from Stonehenge. There’s hundreds to do in Tub, I adore it there – particularly at Christmas!
Glastonbury Tor from Stonehenge
This mystical hilltop tower’s deep historical past, affiliation with King Arthur and Avalon, and ties to pagan and New Age beliefs contribute to its non secular significance and sense of mysticism. Glastonbury is simply over an hour’s drive from Stonehenge.
Go and you may go to the Tor you see within the pic above, which makes for an unbelievable spot for a picnic. You can even discover Glastonbury city – and all the brand new age outlets that make it so distinctive.
I’d positively suggest popping into Glastonbury Abbey too. Helen and I principally spent the entire time both buzzing or singing about ‘Maria within the abbey’ (a la Sound of Music).
Previous Sarum from Stonehenge
This historical hill fort and settlement is a must-visit for historical past buffs, with fascinating ruins and views over the encompassing countryside. It’s only a 15-minute drive from Stonehenge, and for those who’re visiting by public transport the tour bus from Salisbury stops at each historic websites.
Salisbury from Stonehenge
The medieval metropolis of Salisbury is residence to the beautiful cathedral, in addition to a bustling market sq. and quite a lot of outlets and cafes. It’s simply 20 minutes’ drive from Stonehenge.
Wells from Stonehenge
One of many UK’s smallest cities, Wells is huge on character and attraction. Pay a go to to the cathedral and Bishop’s Palace, and browse the numerous unbiased outlets. It’s simply over an hour’s drive from Stonehenge.
Fast listing: Suggestions for Visiting Stonehenge
Arrive early or late to keep away from the crowds
E-book English Heritage’s Stone Circle Expertise for a VIP go to
E-book tickets on-line to save cash
Obtain the free Stonehenge audio information
Don’t overlook to convey a digicam
Take a look at the Customer Centre for extra data on Stonehenge
Plan for all weathers!
Seize a espresso on the on-site cafe or convey your personal packed lunch
Look however don’t contact the stones
Plan a day journey to close by points of interest
Stonehenge Customer Info
Stonehenge FAQs
Is Stonehenge free to go to?You’ll be able to see the stones from sure viewpoints outdoors the paid space, however to stroll the customer path and entry the exhibition, you want a ticket. Entry is free for English Heritage and Nationwide Belief members.
How lengthy do you want at Stonehenge?Most individuals spend round 1.5 to 2 hours on the website, together with time on the Customer Centre and exhibitions.
Are you able to contact the stones at Stonehenge?No – the stones are protected, and touching them isn’t allowed. The one exception is throughout the particular Stone Circle Expertise, when you possibly can step contained in the circle (however nonetheless not contact).
Are you able to go to Stonehenge at dawn or sundown?Sure, however solely with the Stone Circle Expertise, which permits entry earlier than or after regular opening hours. Customary tickets don’t permit dawn or sundown visits.
What’s the very best time of yr to go to Stonehenge?Summer time brings lengthy opening hours, but additionally crowds – particularly across the summer time solstice (twenty first June). Spring and autumn are quieter and infrequently have dramatic gentle for images. Winter visits are peaceable, although chilly!
Is Stonehenge value visiting?Completely – even for those who’re sceptical, the environment is exclusive, and the encompassing Wiltshire countryside makes it an important day trip.
Extra about England from me…
I’ve written extensively about England and the UK for a variety of publications and web sites. These are three of the very best!
Expertise England
with Lonely Planet
Expertise GB
with Lonely Planet
Day Out in England
my devoted website!