STONEHENGE VISITING TIPS 2025
How to visit Stonehenge | Opening hours | Best time to visit Stonehenge
Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting Stonehenge
Stonehenge is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric sites, known for its massive stone circle and mysterious origins. Dating back thousands of years, it continues to fascinate archaeologists and visitors from all over the world, as its true purpose remains unknown. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top UK landmark, it attracts many tourists, especially during the summer and winter solstices. Booking tickets for Stonehenge in advance is recommended due to limited daily entry timed slots and high demand, especially during peak seasons.
Visiting Stonehenge provides a unique opportunity to connect with one of the world’s most famous and enigmatic landmarks.
About Stonehenge
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England, dating back to around 3000-2000 BCE. It consists of a circular arrangement of massive standing stones, some weighing up to 25 tons. The structure was built in stages, starting with an earthwork enclosure and later incorporating large sarsen stones and smaller bluestones transported from Wales, over 200 kilometers away.
Archaeologists believe Stonehenge served various purposes, including a ceremonial site, an astronomical observatory, and a burial ground. Its alignment with the solstices suggests it may have been used to track celestial events. Excavations have revealed cremated human remains, indicating its significance in Neolithic and Bronze Age rituals. Despite ongoing research, many aspects of Stonehenge’s construction and purpose remain unknown. Theories range from religious functions to gathering places for ancient communities. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited landmarks in the UK, attracting millions of people to explore its history and mysteries.
When can you visit Stonehenge?
Stonehenge and the Visitor Center are open almost every day of the year except for a few national holidays. Opening hours can vary depending on the time of the year.
The last admission to Stonehenge is 2 hours before the closing time.
Stonehenge Opening Hours
SUMMER SEASON
March 29th – September 29th
Monday – Sunday: 9:30 – 19:00
WINTER SEASON
September 29th – March 29th
Monday – Sunday: 9:30 – 17:00
WHEN IS STONEHENGE CLOSED FOR VISITORS?
Stonehenge is only closed on Christmas Day (December 25th). But other than that, you can visit Stonehenge every day, all year round.
Must-see Stonehenge Attractions
The Stone Circle
Historical significance: The Stone Circle is one of the most iconic and mysterious prehistoric sites, dating back over 4,000 years.
Mysterious origins: Its purpose is still debated, with theories ranging from religious use to astronomy or a burial site.
Architectural wonder: Some of the massive stones weighing over 25 tons were transported from far away and arranged with incredible precision.
Cultural impact: Stonehenge has inspired many stories, myths, and studies throughout history and remains a symbol of mystery.
Astronomical alignment: The stones align with the sun’s movements, particularly during the solstices, reflecting ancient knowledge of the cosmos.
The Heel Stone
The Heel Stone is a large, single, unshaped stone outside Stonehenge’s main stone circle. Located northeast of the monument, it aligns with the rising sun during the summer solstice, playing a key role in the site’s astronomical significance. Its appearance and solitary position add to the mystery surrounding Stonehenge’s construction and purpose.
The neolithic houses
Neolithic houses near Stonehenge provide insight into the lives of the people who built the monument. Excavations at Durrington Walls, a nearby settlement, revealed remains of circular houses made from wooden posts, wattle-and-daub walls, and thatched roofs. These homes, dating back to around 2500 BCE, suggest a thriving community that gathered for ceremonies and feasts. The discovery of pottery, animal bones, and tools indicates that Stonehenge’s builders lived in well-organized settlements, supporting large-scale construction projects. These findings help piece together the daily life of Neolithic people who played a key role in shaping Stonehenge’s history.
The Stonehenge Visitor Center
The Stonehenge Visitor Center is the starting point for exploring this prehistoric site. Located about 22.5 km from the monument, it features exhibits on Stonehenge’s history, construction, and significance, along with archaeological artifacts and interactive displays. Visitors can also see reconstructed Neolithic houses, offering an insight into the daily life of the people who built Stonehenge. A shuttle bus runs between the Visitor Center and the Stone Circle. You can also walk through the scenic landscape to reach the stones. The center has a café and a gift shop, making it a must-visit before or after a site visit.
How to get to Stonehenge
Stonehenge is approximately two hours by car from central London or about 1.5 hours by train to Salisbury. Then, you can take a taxi or bus to the site.
By train: Salisbury station is 1.5 hours from London Waterloo. From there, take a taxi or the hourly Stonehenge Tour Bus, which also stops at Old Sarum.
By bus: Buses depart daily from London Victoria and the journey takes about two hours.
By car: The drive from London takes about 2 hours. Use Sat Nav with postcode SP4 7DE and follow the tourist signs to the Visitor Center.
By organized tour: The best way to experience Stonehenge is by joining one of our guided tours! That way, you can relax and enjoy the experience to the fullest. We offer small and private group tours.
Make the most of your visit to Stonehenge with our top offers!
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Available in 16 languages
Stonehenge Audio Tour
Skip the line and explore the mysteries of Stonehenge at your own pace. This self-guided tour uses an easy-to-use app to help you explore the world-famous site. With detailed maps and information, you will walk freely around the stones. Learn about the construction, purpose, and the mysteries of Stonehenge. Perfect for those who prefer a more personal experience.
Transportation included
Stonehenge Half-Day Tour
Join our guided morning Stonehenge tour from London, departing early in the day. This tour includes an organized air-conditioned transport. Enjoy priority entry to the site and explore the monument and exhibition. Learn about Stonehenge’s history with an audio guide available in 5 languages.
FAQ - Visit Stonehenge
How long does it take to explore Stonehenge?
It takes around two hours exploring Stonehenge. You can stay at Stone Circle for as long as you wish until the closing time.Are pets allowed at Stonehenge?
Pets are only allowed at the Visitors Center but not in the field where the Stone Circle stands. Assistance dogs are welcome across all areas.How long is the bus journey from the Visitors Center to the Stone Circle?
The bus takes 5-10 minutes to transport visitors from one place to another and runs all day. You can also walk through the dedicated walker's lane from the Visitor Center to the Stone Circle. Depending on your pace, walking will take 25-40 minutes.How close can I get to the stones at the Stone Circle?
You will walk on the visitor path that goes all the way around the Circle. At specific points, you will be as close as 5 m to the Stone Circle. There will be enough space to stop, take photos, and enjoy the view.What are the opening hours at Stonehenge?
Stonehenge is open year-round except on Christmas Day, but hours can vary, especially during winter. The last admission is two hours before closing time. It's best to check ahead for exact opening and closing times.What facilities are available for visitors at Stonehenge?
For visitors with disabilities: Stonehenge is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, accessible toilets, and a shuttle bus from the Visitor Center to a dedicated viewing area near the Stone Circle. Free wheelchairs, assistance dog access, and some guided tour options are available, but visitors should check in advance for specific needs. There is also reserved parking near the entrance that is available for disabled drivers.
For families with children, Stonehenge’s Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits and activity areas designed to make history engaging and fun for children. Audio guides with storytelling bring the past to life, making learning enjoyable. Kids can also explore the outdoor landscape, walk nearby trails, and enjoy space to move around while learning. The gift shop, café, and family-friendly facilities ensure a comfortable and fun family visit.
Food and drinks: Light refreshments are available at the cafe in the Visitors Center. You can also bring your own refreshments.
Picnic area: You can picnic in the monument fields with a view of the Stone Circle or at designated points around the Visitor Center and landscape.
Gift shop: Don’t forget to check out the gift shop for souvenirs with unique Stonehenge theme items and books for anyone interested in learning more about its history.
Restroom facilities: The Visitors Center has toilets, including accessible restrooms. Please note that there are no toilets at the Stone Circle.
Stonehenge DO’s and DON’Ts
DO arrive early in the morning or late afternoon
During the high tourist season, it is advisable to visit earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
DON’T forget to wear comfortable shoes
The site is large, and the visiting involves walking, so you should wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk from the Visitor Center to the stones.
DO book tickets in advance
Stonehenge can get busy, so it’s best to book your tickets online in advance to save time and guarantee entry.
DON’T forget to check the weather
Stonehenge is outdoors and exposed, so check the weather forecast before your visit. Dress according to the weather, and bring sun protection, a hat for sunny days, and a jacket if the forecast predicts rain or a colder day.
DO respect the historical site
Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore around the stones but should avoid climbing on them or disturbing the site.
DON’T rush
Stonehenge is more than just the stones; it’s the entire surrounding landscape. Take your time to explore the area and enjoy the views. A typical visit lasts about 1.5 – 2 hours, but if you plan to explore the surrounding areas or visit exhibitions, you might want to allow more time.
DO check for special events
Stonehenge hosts special events throughout the year, such as solstice celebrations and educational talks. If you’re interested in these, check the events calendar in advance. If you plan to visit during the summer or winter solstice, be prepared for large crowds, as Stonehenge is aligned with the sun on these days. Thousands of people come to witness the sunrise or sunset, making these events popular and sometimes crowded. Planning ahead is recommended to ensure a pleasant visiting experience.
DO take an organized tour to Stonehenge
Enjoy a relaxing exploration of Stonehenge. Book our Stonehenge & Bath Tour or Stonehenge & Windsor Castle Tour.
Do you want more than just a Stonehenge tour?
Choose one of our Stonehenge combo tours and get the most out of your visit!
Skip-the-line access
Stonehenge & Bath Tour
Go on a day trip from London and see two iconic World Heritage sites. Explore the 5000-year-old ancient stones of Stonehenge with an audio guide. Then, visit Bath and walk over Pulteney Bridge and see the Bath Abbey. Choose to visit the Roman Baths or take some time for sightseeing!
Round trip transport
Stonehenge & Windsor Castle Tour
Visit two top attractions - the prehistoric monument of Stonehenge and the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world! Your expert guide will tell you why Stonehenge was built and who lived at Windsor Castle since the 11th century. Your tour also includes round-trip transportation from London for your convenience!