SightseeingOutdoor
Family favourite

Stonehenge

Salisbury, Wiltshire · 4.4 · 79,612 visitor reviews

Salisbury, SP4 7DE

Stonehenge - Photo 1
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About

Have you heard about Stonehedge, England? It's a world-famous prehistoric monument built as a ceremonial centre! Beginning 5000 years ago, this megalithic monument was remodelled several times in the following 1500 years.

Nestled in the rolling countryside of Wiltshire, the Stonehenge landscape stands as one of the world's most iconic prehistoric monuments. In a horseshoe-shaped setting, this ancient stone circle is steeped in mystery and history, offering families an unforgettable day out. Whether your kids are budding archaeologists or simply curious explorers, Stonehenge provides a captivating experience for visitors of all ages.

Are you ready to uncover the incredible story of one of the world's most famous places? This UNESCO World Heritage site and iconic monument are a powerful testament to human ingenuity, imagination and creativity, and a visit today offers something for everyone to enjoy. The Stonehenge Landscape is also part of the National Trust, so those with a National Trust membership can visit for free.

Stonehenge History The huge stone lintels are mortice-and-tenoned to the upright stones and are curved to follow a circle. Some stones weigh over 50 tons each, with some brought from the Preseli Mountains in Wales! When you're here, you can walk through the historic Neolithic houses of the Neolithic people who lived there 4,000 years ago.

The reason for these archaeological landscapes is unknown. The earthen monuments don't have a purpose, although according to geophysical surveys, the outer circle of sarsen stones are said to have been carefully aligned with the sun's movements. And are placed in the place of the summer solstice and winter solstice.

Only a little known is about Stonehenge, but some say it could have been used as a ceremonial landscape, and pig bones were found here. Also, human bone deposits have been found that date back to 3000 BC - it could be from a cremation burial site! There are also stone or wooden structures and burial mounds that could date back to 4000 BC.

Stonehenge now also boasts a fantastic new Stonehenge Visitor Centre and exhibition space, which includes a 360-degree virtual experience. Plus, over 250 objects of international importance will be on display, and the reconstructed face of an Early Neolithic man is a highlight. Learn the history of the British monument from 2500 BC throughout the 17th century, 18th century and beyond.

Explore why Stonehenge was reconstructed and discover the timber structures also built. The immediate surroundings of the stones are also undergoing dramatic improvement, so it's worth a visit with kids more than ever. Please also note the recent changes regarding timed bookings.

William Gowland and William Stukeley, for example, have restored the prehistoric stone circle multiple times, like straightening the 56 Sarsen stone. An interesting fact is that geologists think the ancient stones might have been brought over by ice-age glaciers instead of human agency! Either way, they're certainly key monuments that help us understand our history.

Things To Do One of Stonehenge's most intriguing aspects is the mystery surrounding its construction. Share the various theories with your kids, such as the idea that it was an ancient burial ground, a place of healing, or an astronomical calendar. This can lead to exciting family discussions and encourage kids to come up with their own theories.

The circular enclosure consists of 56 stone which are called the Aubrey Holes, which is named after John Aubrey when he identified them in 1666! They have a north-eastern entrance and a south-east entrance. Visiting this English Heritage site and neolithic monument, is more than just seeing the incredible Stonehenge.

You can also explore the Stonehenge exhibits, and tour the history and landscape of the area with an after-hours Stonehenge experience. Where you can see the prehistoric stone circle, sarsen stone, the Altar stone, burial sites and more, closer than most! Why not join the Stonehenge Tour?

These tours take place throughout the day and give you the perfect opportunity to learn all about this famous stone circle. An audio guide is also available. Bringing your little archaeologists with you?

They'd definitely love Playhenge and Kids' Dig at Stonehenge. Whether they want to build their dream play structure using natural materials or unearth the past in a special Stonehenge sandbox, they'll have an absolute blast at Stonehenge! These events happen throughout the year, so keep an eye out for them!

To avoid the crowds and make the most of your visit, plan your trip early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Stonehenge is open year-round, but summer months offer longer daylight hours, perfect for exploring the site at a leisurely pace. You might even catch the summer solstice, too!

Food & Drink Feeling peckish? You can bring your own picnic to enjoy or head to the cafe, where visitors can indulge in a range of delicious meals, including soups, hotpots, salads, sausage rolls, and more. Vegan, Vegetarian, and Gluten-free options are available, too.

Gift Shop No trip to this world-famous monument would be complete without stopping by the gift shop before you leave! Shop for souvenirs like magnets, prints, t-shirts, pendants, bracelets, and bags. There's something for every family.

With plenty for the whole family to discover, book your ticket now for the best price and prepare for an unmissable day out at this iconic attraction. It's truly an amazing experience.

Good for: babies toddlers, older children, young children

Categories

Facilities

  • Onsite Parking
  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Accessible Parking
  • Accessible Entrance

Prices

Online: Adult: £22.70 Child (5-17): £13.60 Concession: £20 Family (2+3): £59 Family (1+3): £36.30 On the day: Adult: £27.20 Child: £16.30 Members: Free

Opening times

Monday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Common questions

Is Stonehenge suitable for young children and toddlers?

Yes, Stonehenge welcomes families with babies, toddlers, and young children. There are activities like Playhenge and Kids' Dig designed especially for little ones, where they can build structures from natural materials or dig in a special sandbox.

How much does it cost to visit Stonehenge?

Buying online is cheaper — adult tickets start at £22.70 and children aged 5-17 are £13.60, with a family ticket for 2 adults and 3 children at £59. If you buy on the day, expect to pay more at £27.20 for adults and £16.30 for children, though English Heritage and National Trust members get in free.

Can I bring a picnic to Stonehenge?

You can indeed bring your own picnic to enjoy on the grounds. There's also a cafe on site if you'd rather grab something there, with options including soups, hotpots, salads, and sausage rolls, plus vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices.

Is Stonehenge wheelchair accessible?

Stonehenge is wheelchair accessible, and there is accessible parking available on site. The visitor centre and exhibition areas are designed to accommodate visitors with mobility needs.

What are the opening times for Stonehenge?

Stonehenge is open every day of the week from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM. It's worth planning to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.

What families say

4.4

79612 reviews