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For centuries this unique, man-made, stone circle on the Salisbury plains has confounded archaeologists and historians alike. The purpose behind the stones and their formation has been speculated over and over, but the mystery is part of what draws thousands of tourists a year. For festival goers, Stonehenge hosts one of the most popular Summer Solstice celebrations in the world.
Where is Stonehenge?
The prehistoric monument of Stonehenge is situated in Wiltshire, England, on Salisbury Plain, 8 miles north of Salisbury, and 2 miles west of Amesbury. According to historical evidence, this site has been evolved over a time of more than ten millenniums.
The present form of Stonehenge is about 5 thousand years old and was a part of an enormous stone monument, which was more than 15 times larger than the present Stonehenge. Large stones are about 30 feet tall with 25 tons of weight and are called sarsens. Smaller blue stones are called bluestones and weigh only 4 tons, believed to be brought from various sites of western Wales.
Why is Stonehenge famous?
Stonehenge can be regarded as the most famous historical monument in England. Hundreds of tourists have been visiting Stonehenge every year for decades. One of the reasons for its popularity is its unique archeological structure. The mystery related to its historical origin also makes people interested to know about it.
The question is still there about the construction.
How did the ancient people manage to get all these heavy stones here at one point from their original location, hundreds of miles away, and then arranged them in this geometrical manner such that even today, the mid-summer sun touches the altar stone.
This monument is one of the most sophisticated ancient architectural structures of the world with a lintel led stone circle. The erected stones interlock very precisely in an unobtrusive manner and are dressed with some special ancient techniques.
Who built Stonehenge?
The construction of this historical monument is still a puzzle for archeologists. Most of them agree that this used to be a burial ground hundreds of years back, but how that ancient civilization without modern technology and even without wheels, built such mighty monument with huge stones is still a mystery.
There are various theories about the construction and originality of the monument. Most famous is the version of Geoffrey of Monmouth, a famous 12th-century writer, who described the tale of King Arthur and English history's mythical account that was considered to be factual work during the middle ages.
According to him, the construction of Stonehenge is the magical work of the wizard Merlin from the fifth-century. When Saxons slaughtered hundreds of British nobles that were buried on Salisbury Plain, the King Aureoles Ambrosias sent his army to Ireland to retrieve Giant's Ring, a stone circle that was believed to be built of magical African bluestones.
He wanted to build a monument for the descendants with those stones. The soldiers defeated the Irish but were unable to move those stones. Then Merlin used his powers to bring them from across the sea, arranging them in this pattern above the mass grave.
This story was believed to be true for centuries until the 17th century when John Aubrey, an archaeologist, claimed Stonehenge to be the work of Druids, the Celtic high priests, who used the place for sacrificial ceremonies. Dr. William Stukeley also supported this theory and worked a lot to popularize the theory.
Till today, people identified who are identified to be the modern Druids come here for the summer solstice. However, this theory was rejected in the mid-20th century when the radiocarbon dating 'demonstrated' it to be more than 1,000 years old when Celts came into this region.
Most of the archeologists now agree on the theory that different tribes built Stonehenge at different times, dating back to as old as 3000 BC. It is believed that Neolithic agrarians built the first structure. Various types of bones, tools, and other artifacts got from here strongly support the hypothesis.
Best time of year to see Stonehenge
The ancient monument is a year-round destination with changing England weather. However, if you are thinking of visiting Stonehenge, then consider going during autumn or springtime. The most pleasant time is during the summer months, June to September, but it is also the busiest time.
If you plan to visit during the bustling summertime, then choose the early morning time right after the place is open, or near closing time. The two solstice sunrises, on June 21st and December 21st, are the busiest times of the year, when the place is filled with thousands of people from all around the world.
Autumn and spring are relatively better as they have the warm sun, and the crowds are less than in the summer. If you don't mind the freezing winter of England and the unexpected rain, then you can plan to visit during winter so that you can avoid the huge crowds and have the place all to yourself.
The number of people visiting Stonehenge varies according to the time of the day. If you want to have fewer people to have a clear view of the place, go their first thing in the morning or at the end of the day when people are heading back to their home. Many people come here to see the beautiful sun setting behind the enormous stones.
Getting to Stonehenge
Stonehenge is located about 87 miles from the main city of London, and most of the people plan their trip to the stone monument from there. There are several ways to cover this distance to come to this historical site. You can either book a guided bus tour or drive your own car, which would be the most convenient method as it will also let you stop and visit some other important points on the way.
The distance can be covered in about 2.5 hours easily as the road is fine between the two points. You can also take a bus to go to the site directly, but that will not stop on the way. The train is a faster option but will leave you in the main city Salisbury that is at about 10 miles of distance from the main point. From here, you will have to take the Stonehenge bus or a taxi to reach your destination.
Popular destinations and activities near Stonehenge
Stonehenge doesn't take a whole day to explore. So, here is a list of popular activities and places near Stonehenge that you could enjoy and make your day memorable.
1. Salisbury Cathedral
Built-in the typical English style, this cathedral is one of the most visited religious sites in England. Built-in the 13th century, it has an interior with bright colored limestone and gleaming dark Purbeck marble.
The chimes of the 14th-century faceless clock can be heard in the church’s triforium. Many tombstones elaborate, stained glass windows, octagonal chapterhouse, and Gothic cloister, all made it a popular tourist destination. Climb up the 404 feet tower that is undoubtedly one of the tallest church spires of the country.
2. Old City Center
Wandering through the 'quaint' streets of the Old City Center is one of the best activities to do in Salisbury. You can have a great shopping experience in the area full of the amazing architecture of medieval times to the 19th century. St. Thomas of Canterbury, Poultry Cross, Joiner's Hall, Guildhall, and Plume of Feathers Inn are some of the highlights.
You can also get a guided tour throughout the old city center. The amazing 1820s facade and beautiful inner courtyard of the Red Lion Hotel also include it on the list. You can have a fantastic view of meadows of the River Avon from the North gate.
3. The Salisbury Museum
Situated in the King's House, a building used to entertain King James I of England in 1610 and 1613, the museum has an extensive collection of local archeology. The display cover has a wide variety of unique collections related to Stonehenge, Old Sarum, and other sites. Except for the permanent displays, various special exhibitions are going on around the year related to the history and art of England and Wiltshire.
4. The Wardrobe
The elegant ancient building dates back to the 13th century and is home to the award-winning Rifles Berkshire and Wiltshire Museum. The museum covers the county's regimental history and also tells about the story of soldiers from 250 years ago.
Nearby are the beautiful gardens that will lead you to the River Avon and its stunning Water Meadows. Get into the traditional on-site tearoom to enjoy your afternoon.
5. Larmer Tree Gardens
These gardens were made in 1880 by Lieutenant-General Augustus Henry Lane Fox Pitt Rivers for public enlightenment and entertainment. They are the first-ever privately owned gardens opened in the UK for public enjoyment with free entry.
There is a Roman Temple, some native Indian buildings, and one open-air theater on this 11-acre wide land. Inhabited by peacocks, pheasants, and other beautiful birds, the gardens are a famous picnic destination as well as a popular wedding venue.
6. The Wilton House
The fascinating building is a Baroque-style masterpiece with portraits of van Dyck, Charles I, Queen Henrietta Maria, and their children. Most famous is the enormous double cube room that is decorated with gold-painted garlands of fruits and flowers and a colorfully painted ceiling.
The single cubic room is also very fascinating with painted ceilings. Surrounding the house is a huge park with beautiful old trees and various exciting trails waiting to be explored.
Stonehenge Reviews & Ratings
J
Jimmy Beyer
Oct 2023
Written on
Amazing Britain
Due to weather (Red Alert in the Highlands) the itinerary had to changed. I was impressed with the organization and leadership of the tour guide. L felt he had our b...
K
Kathleen Vance
Oct 2023
Written on
Amazing Britain
They hit on all best stops but the trip was too short. I realize add...
J
Judith Ritten
Sep 2023
Written on
Amazing Britain
It was busy but necessary to see all of the places we did. A few of the hotel...
M
Madelyn Ferris
Sep 2023
Written on
Amazing Britain
A lot of details were really covered with few exceptions. Outstanding guide and driver. Will say that I'd rather skip LIverpool (nothing to see) and spend more time...
T
Trusted Customer
Sep 2023
Written on
Amazing Britain
This trip included many places including sites that people would want to go see w...
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