Stonehenge

Stonehenge is a World Heritage Site consisting of a megalithic stone structure located in the county of Wiltshire in England. It is approximately 130 km from the capital of Great Britain. It is 3.2 km from Amesbury and 13 km from Salisbury.

History

This is one of the most famous archaeological monuments on the planet. It consists of several circular and horseshoe-shaped structures built from massive menhirs. Stonehenge is located southwest of London. The monument and its surroundings were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1986. The British Queen transferred the site to the English Heritage, while the surrounding area is owned by the National Trust.

The construction of Stonehenge began around 3000 BC and lasted for 1.5 millennia.

First, around 3100 BC, an earthwork was formed, including a circular ditch and holes in the limestone.

Around 2150 BC, 84 blue boulders weighing between 2 and 5 tonnes were brought from South Wales. They were transported along rivers along the south coast of Wales and further up the waterways of Salisbury. The stones had to be transported over a distance of 250-300 km.

Around 2000 BC, an outer circle was built from sarsen boulders quarried in North Wiltshire, 30 km from Stonehenge.

Construction work was completed in 1500 BC. The blue stones formed a horseshoe and a circle, which can still be seen today.

In 2024, scientists put forward a new theory about the purpose of Stonehenge. They claim that the ancient structure can be used to observe the lunar eclipse that occurs once every 18.5 years.

Solstice at Stonehenge

Stonehenge was built to align with the sun on the solstices. On the summer solstice, the sun rises behind the Heel Stone in the north-east part of the horizon and its first rays shine into the heart of Stonehenge. On the winter solstice, the sun sets to the south-west of the stone circle.

Interesting facts about Stonehenge

There are many interesting facts about Stonehenge, including those concerning its origin and purpose..

Construction work continued for 1,500 years

Despite ongoing debate about who built Stonehenge, scientists have a clear understanding of when it happened. The ancient components of the megalithic structure were created in 3000 BC.

(This is when the digging of 2-metre-long trenches began to form the outer contours of the structure). The installation of the stones began in 2500 BC, and Stonehenge took on its modern appearance around 1500 AD.

There are two types of stones at Stonehenge

Stonehenge is made up of two types of stones – massive vertical stones and arched boulders made of sarsen, a type of sandstone found in this area. The smaller stones are called ‘bluestones’.

This is due to the unusual bluish hue they acquire when wet. The three huge arches that made Stonehenge famous have trilithons.

Some of the stones were brought from distant lands

Local stone was hardly used in the construction of Stonehenge; the material was brought from far away. A number of relatively ‘small’ bluish stones weighing up to 4 tonnes were brought from Preseli in Wales.

The original purpose of Stonehenge was as a cemetery

Scientists still cannot agree on why Stonehenge was built. Anthropologists believe that it was used as a burial site. Researchers have discovered at least 64 Neolithic graves at Stonehenge.

Burials at Stonehenge continued in later periods

The vast majority of the remains found at Stonehenge were ashes. In 1923, archaeologists discovered the skeleton of a headless Anglo-Saxon man dating back to the 7th century AD. Everything indicates that he was a criminal and was executed for his crimes. There is also a theory that he belonged to the royal family.

Some of the rumours about Stonehenge are not true

Stonehenge's dark past is shrouded in mystery, and there are many theories about the original purpose of this monument. Some scientists believe that it was a Druid temple, others say it was an observatory, and still others claim that it was used as a place for the coronation of Danish monarchs. More bizarre theories suggest that it is a model of the solar system constructed in ancient times by aliens, which is highly unlikely.

The first mention of Stonehenge dates back to the twelfth century

According to historian and scientist Henry Huntington, the first written evidence of Stonehenge's existence is found in a letter from 1130:

Stonehenge, where stones of amazing size are set up in the manner of doorways... and no one can understand how such massive boulders were lifted, or why it was done.

In the Middle Ages, people believed that Stonehenge was the creation of the wizard Merlin

There are still no reliable theories about the origin of Stonehenge, so it is not surprising that in the Middle Ages, the English believed the version put forward by historian Jeffrey Monmouth. He claimed that the mysterious structure was created by the legendary wizard Merlin.

A common myth is that Stonehenge is the work of the devil

Magic is not the only theory about the supernatural origin of the megalithic structure. Scientists are still debating how the blue stone was transported from Wales to Wiltshire. In ancient times, people believed that it was the work of the devil.

Stonehenge is a place of religious rituals for neo-Druids

In 1905, a group of 700 members, who claimed to belong to the Ancient Order of Druids, held a religious ceremony at Stonehenge, during which they drank large quantities of alcohol.

Prohibition on climbing the stones

This ban came into effect in 1977 after it was established that the boulders were suffering severe erosion due to human interaction. In the first half of the twentieth century, visitors were able to obtain souvenirs in the form of pieces of stone chipped off with a chisel.

Interesting discoveries by Charles Darwin at Stonehenge

The famous scientist Charles Darwin also visited Stonehenge. In his old age, he studied earthworms in this area. The researcher concluded that their activity was causing the boulders to gradually sink into the ground.

Many years ago, Stonehenge was a complete circle

Not long ago, restorers noticed unusual dents in the peat within the Stonehenge enclosure. Researchers have suggested that these are traces of boulders that once formed the outer circle of the monument. They sank into the ground over the centuries.

An ordinary Englishman owned Stonehenge for three years

For almost the entire 20th century, Stonehenge was owned by the British government. In 1915, millionaire Cecil Chubb bought Stonehenge for his wife as a gift for €6,600. The woman did not like the present, and three years later, Chubb transferred the ancient structure to the British authorities, on condition that it be preserved in its original form and remain open to tourists.

STONEHENGE HIGHLIGHTS

The main attractions of Stonehenge are the stones and ancient structures.

Stone Circle

The stone circle is a significant and extremely mysterious prehistoric site, dating back more than 4,000 years. Its purpose is still debated today, with several theories ranging from religious to astronomical, and even a cemetery.

Some of the boulders weigh over 25 tonnes and were brought from far away and carefully laid in place. This is one of the main symbols of the mystery surrounding Stonehenge. The boulders correspond to the movement of the sun, which is especially noticeable during the solstices, reflecting ancient knowledge of the cosmos.

The heel stone

The heel stone is another large, solitary element located outside the main stone circle of Stonehenge. It is located to the northeast of the structure, coinciding with the sunrise during the summer solstice, playing a leading role in the astronomical purpose of this location. Its appearance and isolated location make Stonehenge even more mysterious.

Neolithic houses

Neolithic houses in the vicinity of Stonehenge provide an insight into how the people who built this monument lived. During excavations at the nearby settlement of Durrington Walls, archaeologists found the remains of circular structures built from wooden posts, wattle walls and thatched roofs. Scientists believe that these houses were built around 2500 BC. They are evidence of the prosperity of the local community. Archaeologists have found animal bones, tools and pottery. All this suggests that the creators of Stonehenge lived in well-organised communities and worked on large-scale construction projects. Such finds give an insight into the lives of the Neolithic people who played an important role in the history of this place.

Stonehenge and Royal family

Stonehenge has a complex relationship with the British royal family, encompassing both historical speculation and contemporary events. Although archaeological evidence suggests that Stonehenge may have been the burial site of prehistoric royalty or chieftains, there is no direct link to the modern royal family. However, the site has been the subject of royal visits and tributes, particularly during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

Royal visits and tributes:

• Prince Charles, now King Charles III, visited Stonehenge in 1979, leading to an accidental archaeological discovery.
• During Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee, a tribute was created by projecting images of the Queen onto Stonehenge, marking each decade of her reign.
• This event provoked a mixed reaction: some praised the tribute, while others questioned its appropriateness, given Stonehenge's connection to ancient pagan traditions.

• A 96-gun salute in honour of each year of Queen Elizabeth II's life was also held at Stonehenge.

  

• Holidaymakers passing through Stonehenge also paid their respects to the Queen during her Platinum Jubilee.

Stonehenge Visitor Centre

Those who wish can book a tour of Stonehenge. During this tour, you can learn many interesting things. Some time ago, Stonehenge was vandalised. Police arrested two people – Just Stop Oil activists who sprayed the structure with orange powder paint.

The Stonehenge tour starts at the visitor centre, which is approximately 22.5 km from the monument and contains exhibits about the history, construction and significance of Stonehenge, as well as interesting archaeological finds. There are also interactive displays. Visitors can explore reconstructed Neolithic houses that give an insight into the lives of those who designed Stonehenge. A shuttle bus takes visitors from the visitor centre to the stone circle and back. The stones can also be reached on foot through beautiful countryside.

There is a shop selling souvenirs and a café in the visitor centre.

How to get to Stonehenge

To visit Stonehenge, you will need to take a two-hour drive from London or a 90-minute train ride to Salisbury, then take a taxi or bus to your final destination.

Salisbury Station is located 1.5 hours by car from London Waterloo. Every day, tourist buses run from there to Stonehenge, stopping at Old Sarum.

Public transport runs from London Victoria – the journey takes approximately 2 hours.

The car journey from London takes about the same amount of time. Use a satnav with the postcode SP4 7DE and follow the tourist signs to reach the Visitor Centre.

Organised tours of Stonehenge for small groups are also popular, allowing you to see all the sites without rushing or jostling.

How to get there by car

You can reach Stonehenge from London by car, covering a distance of 137 kilometres via the A303 and M3 motorways. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.

If you wish to rent a car at London Gatwick Airport, take the M23 motorway, then the M25, M3, and finally the A303 Andover local road. From Heathrow Airport, drive west on the M4, then take the M25 and follow the signs.

Parking

There is a large car park next to the entrance to the visitor centre. It is free for those who wish to explore the cultural heritage. Entry is possible with a ticket reservation, if available, or by paying €5, which will be refunded upon purchase of an admission ticket.

How to get there by bus

Via Salisbury. Trains depart from Waterloo Station approximately once an hour, and the journey takes around 2.5 hours. At Salisbury station, you can change to the Stonehenge Tour bus, which will take you directly to the ticket office and museum.

Via Amesbury. The bus departs from Victoria Coach Station (Victoria underground station), and the journey time without transfers is 2.5 hours. From there, you can take a taxi or bus, or walk (approximately 40 minutes).

You can buy a bus ticket on the National Express website or at the ticket office at Victoria Coach Station.

Tickets to Stonehenge

Tickets can be booked on the official website or through a travel agency organising the trip. Admission to Stonehenge costs:

• from €20 for adults;
• from €12 for children;
• from €18 for concessions;
• from €32 for families.

The average cost of a group tour including transfer from London and back is €58. Prices may vary between travel agencies.

Discount code

The discount code allows you to visit Stonehenge at a reduced price. Travel agencies often offer discounts on admission tickets.

Stonehenge opening hours

The whole world has heard of Stonehenge, which has different opening hours in summer and winter.

Summer period (29 March to 29 September) Monday to Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Winter period (30 September to 28 March) Monday to Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The site is closed for visits on Christmas Day only – 25 December.

WHAT FACILITIES ARE AVAILABLE FOR VISITORS AT STONEHENGE?

Stonehenge has ramps, special toilets and a shuttle bus service between the Visitor Centre and a special viewing area near the stone circle for people with disabilities. Wheelchairs are available free of charge on request, as are assistance dogs and special guided tours.

There is a reserved parking area for disabled drivers near the entrance.

For families with children, the Stonehenge Visitor Centre offers interactive exhibits and activity areas to make a visit to the historic site as enjoyable as possible for young visitors. Audio guides help bring the past to life. Children can explore the surrounding footpaths.

The whole family can relax in comfort at the café, enjoying light snacks and drinks. Refreshments may be brought in.

In addition, Stonehenge offers:

• toilets (except within the Stone Circle);
• a souvenir shop selling themed items, including books about the history of this amazing place;
• a picnic area in the fields with a view of the Stone Circle.

The best time to visit Stonehenge is in late spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild.

Map

The map of Stonehenge clearly shows the location of the stone circle, the heel of the stone circle, and the Neolithic houses.

Location

Salisbury SP4 7DE

Frequently asked questions: