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Is Stonehenge Worth Visiting? Must Know Tips And What To Expect

Stonehenge is one of the Europe’s most important Neolithic landmarks. It may be the world’s most famous stone circle. It’s older than the Egyptian pyramids and still largely a mystery.

Stonehenge was built almost 5,000 years ago. The site and its surroundings have been been a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986.

In this guide, I give you an overview of Stonehenge and its importance. I also tell you what to expect on a visit to the looming stone slabs and give you tips for visiting.

While world famous, Stonehenge sometimes draws mixed reviews from visitors. And, as I explain below, I was rather underwhelmed by the attraction.

Not by the authenticity of the place. I found the presentation lacking.

Sometimes an ancient ruin is genuinely atmospheric, like the Colosseum or the Parthenon. And sometimes a ruin requires a lot of imagination to not seem like a pile of rocks.

Being historic doesn’t necessarily make a site thrilling to visit. I’m thinking, for example, of sites like Hadrian’s Wall.

In any event, I give you tips for visiting Stonehenge and you can decide for yourself whether the iconic monument is worth visiting.

What Is Stonehenge And Why Is It important?

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument on the Salisbury plain.

In 5,000 B.C., it was just a circular ditch or henge. Around 2500 B.C., large stones were brought to the site and assembled.

At almost 5,000 years old, Stonehenge is one of the oldest things on the planet. Construction continued for almost 1,000 years until the Bronze Age.

Building of Stonehenge

The large stones are called saracens. They came from a nearby quarry. Some of them are 30 feet tall and weigh over 35 tons.

The smaller stones are called bluestones. They’re made from a variety of volcanic rock and came from 200 miles away in Wales.

The Neolithic inhabitants hammered and shaped the stones into sharply-defined smooth rectangular blocks.

They were placed in a concentric setting, with two circular and two horseshoe shapes. The outer circle of saracens may once have had 30 upright stones capped with horizontal lintels.

There is a Heel Stone that stands in isolation, surrounded by a small circular ditch. This stone was intended to mark the place on the horizon where the summer solstice sunrise appears.

There are small flat station stones. They mark the corners of a perfect rectangle with its central point in the exact center of the monument. 

The stones were presumably dragged to the site with human muscle and wooden sleds. They were then levered into place with ropes and pulleys.

Purpose of Stonehenge: Why Was It Built?

The mystery is less in how Stonehenge was built but why it was built. The alignment of the stones likely marked the passage of the sun and the changing seasons.

Experts have advanced many theories. Though Stonehenge will likely never fully divulge its secrets.

Was the monument used as a burial site, a sacred place of worship, a place for special ceremonies, an astronomical observatory, or a giant sun dial?

Or was Stonehenge a multi-purpose site, with its purpose evolving over the millennia that it has stood?

Expert seems to at least increasingly agree that Stonehenge was used for special ceremonies like burials. Human remains have been found in the stone circle itself and in ditches and hills around the periphery.

Stonehenge is also part of an ancient landscape.

In 2020, using non-invasive radar technology, archaeologists discovered another circle of trenches called the Durrington Walls henge. The site never any standing stones like Stonehenege, but there are 100 stones buried underground.

The newly-discovered henge is 2 miles northeast of Stonehenge. The discoveries at this neolithic settlement suggest that people lived at Durrington and that Stonehenge was for the dead.

From archaeological finds and bones, historians know that people from all over the country, and even from other countries, came to visit Stonehenge as a pilgrimage destination. There is evidence of feasting and barbecues.

On site, there are reconstructions of prehistoric huts in which people lived at Durrington Walls henge.

Stonehenge wasn’t built all at the same time. It was built and rearranged over 1,000 years. But, around 1,500 B.C., construction abruptly stopped. Stonehenge entered its long sleep as a city of the dead.

Excavations Of Stonehenge

The first known excavation at Stonehenge was undertaken in the 1620s by the Duke of Buckingham, instigated by King James I. 

The king subsequently commissioned the architect Inigo Jones to conduct a survey of the monument. Jones erroneously argued that Stonehenge was built by the Romans.

In the late 17th century, the antiquarian John Aubrey surveyed Stonehenge.

He was the first to record the ring of chalk pits later named after him, the “Aubrey Holes.” The holes or pits were initially used to support stones or posts. Later, they appear to have been used to bury cremated remains.

Aubrey concluded that the monument wasn’t built by Romans but by native inhabitants.

In the 18th century, William Stukeley surveyed the monument. He opined, incorrectly again, that Stonehenge was built by a Celtic priesthood called the Druid as a temple to its idols.

In late 19th century, Sir William Flinders Petrie once again surveyed Stonehenge in detail. He devised the numbering system for the stones that’s still in use today.

In the 20th century, there was a program designed to stabilize and re-erect some of the stones.

In the 21st century, excavations continued with more artifacts being found. A laser survey of Stonehenge revealed Bronze Age carvings on the stones.

Stonehenge has been damaged over the years. In fact, people used to be given chisels when they visited. People climbed on and vandalized the stones.

In 1977, the stones were roped off to prevent bad behavior. Thanks to them, we can’t have nice things like close up viewing …

In the 1960-70s, Stonehenge was thought to be imbued with magical and mystical powers. It became a hot spot for hippies, open air festivals, and New Age counterculture.

For many years, Stonehenge was privately owned. In 2018, barrister Cecil Chubb and his wife Mary gifted Stonehenge to the British nation.

What To Expect On A Visit To Stonehenge

Ideally, you will experience Stonehenge as a wonder of ancient achievement. But, to me, the presentation of the ruins leaves a lot to be desired.

Stonehenge is wedged between two very busy roads, which is less than romantic.

More importantly, unless you are on a special access tour, you’re not even allowed to get close to the stones. You’re cordoned off and see the stones only from a distance.

I mean like half the length of a football field away distance. Every photo you’ve ever seen of Stonehenge was taken with a telephoto lens. Perhaps because of this, the stones may seem smaller than you expect.

There’s a prescribed tourist route that circles clockwise around the monument. You must stay on the pathway.

Naturally, you cannot touch the stones. Though you’re not near them, so you necessarily don’t have the chance.

After vandalism in the past when access was unhindered, it’s natural that a UNESCO site is protected. But unless you use binoculars, you won’t be able to really “see” the large stones.

The only stones that you can see somewhat closely are the Heel Stone and a station stone. The center circle itself will seem far away indeed.

It’s a very different experience than visiting the Roman Forum or other ancient monuments where you can walk right in them and touch the ruins.

Stonehenge is also usually very crowded. Stonehenge is the #1 tourist attraction in the U.K.

Every year, it draws almost a million visitors. You might find it hard to even get a parking place.

The busiest time is the summer solstice in June and the winter solstice in December. This is when the stones are positioned to align with the sunrise and sunset.

The tourist buses seem to arrive mid-day. Mine did.

If you want to experience the stones without massive crowds, come early or arrive later in the day and avoid the solstices.

When you arrive, you’ll be at the visitors center . It’s 1.5 miles to the monument itself.

You can walk (40 minutes) or take the visitor shuttle bus out to the circle. The bus ride takes 5-10 minutes.

The visitors center at Stonehenge consists of an exhibition, a cafe, and a gift shop. There’s also an outdoor gallery where you can see reconstructed Neolithic houses.

You can download the free audio app or pick up an audio guide for a small fee.

Is Stonehenge Worth Visiting?

Is Stonehenge worth visiting or is it a tourist trap?

Personally, though I’m a ruin luster who loves old stones, I was disappointed on my behind the ropes visit. I’m not sure Stonehenge was worth the time, money, and bother.

If I had a do-over, I would definitely book a special access tour to get inside the circle and closer to the stones. I think the experience would be improved, though a more expensive one.

Your visit will also be enhanced if you’ve done your homework and your expectations are low. With some history on the site, you can better appreciate the pile of stones.

Check out the exhibitions at the visitors center or carry the audio guide to help enliven the site. Or read up on the monument in advance.

On the whole, I wasn’t impressed with the standard Stonehenge experience. I wouldn’t call it a tourist trap. After all, it’s a Neolithic monument.

But I would say the experience of visiting it is sub par, especially compared to many other UNESCO sites I’ve visited. I’m glad I saw it, but won’t visit again on a standard tour.

Tickets & Tours For Stonehenge

You’ll also need some tips for booking tickets and tours for Stonehenge.

Stonehenge is so popular that you should book a timed entry ticket online in advance. You can also book a ticket on Get Your Guide .

You can turn up and hope to get tickets. But the site might be sold out and it’s slightly more expensive than booking in advance.

If you don’t want to drive, you can book a guided tour to Stonehenge from London and leave the transportation to someone else.

Stonehenge is not an all day visit. A couple hours is likely enough time to explore the site.

Thus, Stonehenge is usually packaged with other attractions to get the maximum out of your sightseeing day. Here are some of your tour options:

• an 11 hour guided tour from London with Stonehenge Windsor Castle & Bath
• an 11.5 hour tour from London of Stonehenge and Bath
• a 10.5 hour tour from London of Stonehenge and Windsor Castle
• a 6 hour private tour from London to Stonehenge

Of these tours, I would especially recommend the second one because Bath is one of the most beautiful towns in England.

To help compare the sites and decide which ones to pick, here’s my one day in Bath itinerary and my guide to Windsor Castle .

Another option is to book a guided tour that combines Stonehenge and Avebury . 

Avebury is another ancient stone circle that’s less commercialized than Stonehenge. You can also visit both sites on a private tour with pick up and drop off.

You can also check out the Stonehenge special access tours. These small group tours let you walk into the circle of stones either before the monument has opened or after closing.

As I mentioned, I really wish I had booked one of these despite the cost. It’s a different experience to be so close to history. Please note, you still cannot actually touch the stones on these tours.

You can book:

• a guided early morning tour from London
• a guided evening tour from London
• a morning or evening tour that goes to Stonehenge, Bath, and Lacock
• a guided morning or evening tour that goes to Stonehenge and Windsor Castle

You can also apply to book a special access tour of Stonehenge on the English Heritage page .

Click here for information on the tours. If you’re accepted for one of the times you requested, they’ll contact you about making payment.

How To Get To Stonehenge

It’s easy to reach Stonehenge by car. It’s around a 2 hour drive from London. There’s a car park near the visitor center. It’s free for those with pre-booked tickets to Stonehenge except in peak season.

The nearest train to Stonehenge is Salisbury, which is around 12 miles away.  From the station, you can get the public  Stonehenge Tour bus , which takes you directly to the Stonehenge visitors center.

Where To Stay Near Stonehenge

The benefit of overnighting near Stonehenge is that you can arrive bright and early rather than at midday.

The pretty town of Salisbury is just 15 minutes from Stonehenge. You can also visit both Stonehenge and Avebury on a guided tour from Salisbury , instead of from London.

If you stay in or near there, you also get to see Salisbury Cathedral , which will not be a disappointment in any way. The cathedral houses one of the original copies of the magna Carta.

The Stones Hotel is a well appointed hotel that’s a foodie favorite in the area. The Barford Inn is a hotel in a quaint 16th century building.

The Millford Hotel & Spa is a pretty hotel with an excellent breakfast. And Caboose is a luxurious bed and breakfast in a historic building.

Practical information For Stonehenge

Here is some other practical information and tips for visiting Stonehenge.

Address : Near Amesbury, Wiltshire, SP4 7DE. Parking is free in off peak months.

Hours : Open daily 9:30 am to 5:00 pm for a standard visit.

Entry fee :

Timed entry tickets begin at £20.00. Ticket prices vary depending on whether you visit in the Off-Peak, Standard or Peak season.

You need to arrive within the 30 minute time slot you book, but can stay as long as you wish.

Pro Tip : Because Stonehenge is perched high on a plain, it’s very windy and can seem chilly.

Food : There is a cafe on site serving mostly fast food. I found it a bit overpriced, uninspiring, and rather like a train station.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my tips for visiting Stonehenge. You may enjoy these other London/England travel guides:

• 3 Day Itinerary for London
• 5 Day Itinerary for London
• 1 Day In Oxford Itinerary
• 1 Day In Bath Itinerary
• Best Museums in London
• Harry Potter Places in London
• Guide to the National Gallery of Art
• Guide to St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Guide to Wesminster Abbey
• London Tourist Traps To Avoid
• Guide to the Tower of London
• Guide to the Churchill War Rooms

If you need tips for visiting Stonehenge, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on June 21, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

From London to Stonehenge: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jan 3, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Thanks to its size – you could literally fit it into the United States around 70 times – England is an easy country to tour. And for those planning to spend much of their time in the nation's capital, this is especially good news. England is crisscrossed by an excellent network of roads and rails, most of which either start in London or pass by close enough to make them handy for travelers.

Take Stonehenge as an example. One of England's top places to visit , Stonehenge can easily be reached by car, guided tours, or a combination of rail and bus transportation options. Best of all, the journey itself can offer many more great sightseeing opportunities, especially if you choose to have a tour company do the driving.

To help you plan your England travel itinerary, we've put together the following list of the best ways to get from London to Stonehenge.

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From london to stonehenge by tour, from london to stonehenge by shuttle bus, from london to stonehenge by train and bus, from london to stonehenge by car.

For those wanting to see multiple attractions while in England, an organized day trip from London to Stonehenge via Windsor Castle and including Bath is a great option. This superb day-long excursion lasts approximately 11 hours and manages to allow you to tick off three of the country's most popular tourist destinations in one go (albeit a long one!).

After an early 8am departure from the Victoria Coach Station in Belgravia, London, you'll kick things off with a visit to majestic Windsor Castle. Famous as the world's oldest castle still in use by royalty, much of it can be toured when there's no one home (check whether the flag is flying; it is when the Queen's home).

There's certainly much to see and do in Windsor Castle , so the hour and 15 minutes you get to spend here is pretty crammed. Rest assured, though, your professional guide will ensure you get to see the best bits while you're here. Highlights include famous St. George's Chapel (where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle), a tour of the State Apartments, as well as catching the colorful Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Next stop is the beautiful city of Bath in Somerset. You know you've arrived when you drive past famous Pulteney Bridge (so have your cameras ready). This most romantic of English cities is fun to explore, and you'll be provided with a chance to see top Bath attractions , including a 40-minute tour of the Roman Baths. As you head to your next destination, you'll also take a drive past Bath Abbey and those famous, elegant Georgian-era Royal Crescent townhomes.

Then, it's on to your final destination: Stonehenge in Wiltshire. Here, armed with the provided audio guide headset and interactive map, you'll learn not only how this magnificent 5,000-year-old structure was built, but also its cultural significance over the centuries. Your hour-long stop here includes entrance to the excellent Stonehenge Visitor Centre, along with the chance to buy some souvenirs.

In addition to audio guides and the services of a professional tour guide, this top tour of Stonehenge from London includes ticket admissions and transportation.

For those wanting to spend more time at Stonehenge, this is another option that's well worth considering. While this one also hands the responsibility of getting you to your destination to others happy to do it for you, it allows a great deal more freedom to explore this historic attraction at your own pace.

From the moment you climb aboard your London to Stonehenge shuttle bus at Victoria Coach Station, you're free to relax and enjoy the scenery as you travel from London through the charming English countryside to your drop-off point directly at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre. The drive is around two hours each way.

With two hours to explore at your own pace, you'll have plenty of time to truly get to know this amazing landmark. To help, a handy audio-guide is provided With your admission, and you can add to the experience by enjoying the many interactive exhibits and artifacts on display at the visitor center.

In addition to your transportation, admission is included with the cost of the trip. There's also an option to add a basic one course meal to your adventure, or you can opt to pick something up for yourself in the on-site restaurant.

While there are no direct trains from London to Stonehenge - it's located in the middle of Salisbury Plain - rail travel is certainly something to consider, especially if you've got time on your hands.

The best option is to hop aboard the South Western Railway service to Salisbury at London Waterloo station. Trains depart regularly (there are usually two or three an hour), and the journey takes between 1.5 to 2 hours . The cheapest fares kick in after the morning rush hour, while savings can be enjoyed by travelers with advance purchase of a BritRail Pass , which can be acquired online.

While a bus from London to Salisbury can be cheaper, it can take longer than the train (up to three hours) and offers fewer departures. Buses leave from London's Victoria Coach Station as early as 6am.

However you get here, once in Salisbury, you'll need to have made plans to either rent a car and drive the 20 minutes to Stonehenge, grab an Uber or taxi, or take a bus. Cyclists may want to look into renting a bike, as you could even cycle to it in around an hour.

Fortunately for travelers, a company called Salisbury Red offers a convenient hop-on, hop-off shuttle bus service that connects directly from Salisbury city center to Stonehenge (admission included). An option to stop at the ruins of Old Sarum is available.

While some may enjoy driving from London to Stonehenge, it's important to remember a few key things. First, the Brits do drive on the opposite side of the road to most other countries, something that can be a little disorienting if you aren't used to it.

Their cars are also right-hand drive, meaning there's a bit of a learning curve for those traveling from places like the US, Canada, and Europe. Add to this the heavy traffic in London, plus congestion taxes, and you may want to make use of the various options mentioned above.

That said, if you're planning on taking a couple or more days, you can certainly make the most of the opportunity to explore the English countryside. And there are no end of lovely spots to visit along the way, from the beautiful Cotswolds to the charming city of Winchester . That said, journey times may be a little shorter if you pick up a car upon arrival at Heathrow Airport, so you may wish to collect a car and hit the road upon your arrival in England.

For those heading straight to Stonehenge from central London - a distance of around 88 miles - expect the journey to take between 2 to 2.5 hours , depending on traffic. From London, you'll head due west along the usually busy M3, before taking the A303 and eventually the A360 direct to Stonehenge. While parking at Stonehenge is free for those with tickets, it can be busy, especially in peak season.

An alternative that will avoid the usually heavy traffic along the approaching roads to Stonehenge is to park in Salisbury and grab the shuttle bus service mentioned in #3 above. Five park-and-stay options are available, all convenient to the city center and the shuttle bus. An added advantage is that you can also spend time exploring popular Salisbury attractions , including its magnificent cathedral.

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The Best Stonehenge Tours To Take in 2024 and Why

Brie Greenhalgh Last Updated: October 24, 2023

Whether it’s your first or third time to London, if you haven’t made the trek out to Stonehenge, it’s time to fix that. Booking one of the best Stonehenge tours is the perfect way to see these fascinating rocks up close without having to worry about how to get there. Plus, tours of Stonehenge from London usually include other cool stops along the way, like Windsor Castle or the Salisbury Cathedral. Find out which tour is right for you!

Pro Tip:  Planning what to do on your trip to London? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our  guide to London  for more planning resources, our  top Stonhenge tours  for a memorable trip, and  how to visit Stonehenge .

Should You Take a Tour to Stonehenge?

Short answer: Absolutely. Even if only to eliminate the hassle of arranging your own tickets and transportation to this incredible place outside of London.

Stonehenge sits about 90 miles west of London, so you’ll need a plan to get there. Most people opt for a guided tour since they won’t have to worry about driving, navigating, or obtaining their own tickets. We definitely recommend doing the same, but with a small group so you have more opportunities to get to know your guide and fellow travelers.

You’ll learn much more about Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, Bath, Avebury, West Kennet, Salisbury Cathedral, and much more if you book a day trip with a local guide. And depending on your preference, you could even book an early morning or evening entrance at Stonehenge when the general public has left. These are unique opportunities to see the Inner Circle of Stonehenge that you won’t forget!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Stonehenge Guide for more resources.

Three of the Best Stonehenge Tours

The origins and construction of the rocks at Stonehenge are technically unknown, but there are plenty of theories and legends. Aliens, giants, Druids. Your driver-guide will share all of these as you ride along the English countryside. All of these tours include stops at Stonehenge, so you’ll just need to decide what time of day you want to visit and what other sites interest you the most.

You can opt for a self-guided tour (tickets included) at Windsor Castle or time at Avebury to see the ancient manmade mound that’s the size of an Egyptian pyramid. Or perhaps you’d love to see an original copy of the Magna Carta that shaped the future for the rights of all mankind. Check out the best Stonehenge tours below and choose what’s best for you!

• Windsor, Stonehenge, and Bath Day Trip from London
• Early Access Stonehenge Morning Tour from London with Inner Circle
• After Hours Stonehenge Inner Circle Tour from London

1. Windsor, Stonehenge, and Bath Day Trip from London

Windsor Castle

Your first stop out of London is Windsor Castle—the late Queen’s favorite residence. There are 13,000 acres here, and you’ll have tickets to enter the castle to explore the areas open to the public. This is a self-guided tour as no tour guides are allowed inside. Not to worry! Your driver-guide will have prepped you with plenty of information about what you’ll see here and why it’s such a beloved castle for the royal family.

Then you’ll head to Stonehenge where you’ll get to walk the road leading to these famous ancient ruins. Dating back some 4,000 years, these rocks have an intriguing history that is still yet to be determined. Why and how these structures were built remains a mystery, not to mention by whom. Yes, it’s just a bunch of rocks, but they’re 20-ton rocks on average, positioned perfectly in a strange circle for some purpose. It’s worth seeing in person!

While the baths at Bath were used by the ancient Celts, they weren’t beautified and built up until the Romans arrived. They are how the city came to be named, and it’s worth planning ahead to get tickets to see them. This tour offers free time in this city so you can explore whatever interests you most whether it’s the Roman baths or the Jane Austen Museum.

Highlights:

• Round-trip transportation from London
• Entry to Windsor Castle
• Entry to Stonehenge during the day
• Free time in Bath (explore or pre-book an activity)

2. Early Access Stonehenge Morning Tour from London with Inner Circle

Early-Access Stonehenge

This tour leaves London super early so you can arrive at Stonehenge for an exclusive, early-access entry before it opens to the general public. This means you’ll visit the Inner Circle of Stonehenge around sunrise as your guide shares all we know and suspect about Stonehenge. The morning light and solitude make this an extra special experience for any early bird looking for a day trip to Stonehenge.

Salisbury Cathedral

A stop at Salisbury is up next. This historic town lays claim to two impressive things for native Britons: a cathedral with the tallest spire in England and an original copy of the Magna Carta. This document laid the foundation for human rights around the world. You’ll have time to eat lunch here and explore a little of this ancient town before heading back to London in the afternoon.

• Exclusive, early-access to Stonehenge
• Guided tour of Inner Circle (not available to general public)
• Visit to Salisbury Cathedral and Magna Carta

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if London tours are worth it .

3. After Hours Stonehenge Inner Circle Tour from London

Silbury Hill and West Kennet

Depart London in the mid-morning and head to Silbury Hill to see another mysterious piece of Britain’s past. A Neolithic man-made mound that’s roughly the size of an Egyptian pyramid and about 4,000 years old! And at West Kennet Long Barrow, you’ll see ancient burial grounds that date back even further about 5,000 years. That’s old!

You might not know that Avebury also has some monolithic rocks that resemble Stonehenge on a smaller scale. They’re another great stop that add to your overall “ancient ruins of Britain” experience on this Stonehenge tour from London. Plus, you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch in Avebury and explore this charming little town before moving on.

Stonehenge Inner Circle

Your last stop is what you’ve been waiting for: an after-hours entrance to Stonehenge. What you might not know is that the Inner Circle is closed to the public during the day, so you can only receive guided access here before or after the regular opening hours. That makes this sunset Stonehenge tour even more special and memorable. You’ll be mesmerized by the dwindling light in the late hours of the day as you explore Stonehenge without the crowds.

• Visit to Silbury Hill man-made mound
• Visit to burial grounds in West Kennet Long Barrow
• Explore Avebury and the monoliths
• Exclusive, after-hours access to Stonehenge
• Guided tour of the Inner Circle

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About Brie Greenhalgh

Writer, editor, teacher, hiker, traveler, dreamer. With a book or pen in hand and a majestic sunset on the horizon, life is never short of fulfilling moments for Brie. She has a background in history and writing, and enjoys writing and editing for BobVila.com, The Tour Guy, and her own business.

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London Tours & Experiences , Travel , UK Travel · January 4, 2024

Is Stonehenge Worth Seeing? 10 Must-Know Tips for Your Visit (2024)

Wondering if Stonehenge is worth seeing? Here’s a list of everything you need to consider if you’re thinking of visiting the mystical site — from a London Travel Blogger!

This post may contain affiliate links. Check out my  Disclosure & Privacy Policy  for more information.

It’s older than the Egyptian pyramids, it’s a modern enigma as no one knows exactly what it was used for, and, if you’re old enough, it was the Windows background you saw every time you turned on the old computer.

It’s Stonehenge , one of Europe’s most significant Neolithic landmarks and one of those sites that most people add to their travel bucket lists, sometimes without even knowing why.

But is it worth visiting?

In this blog I gave myself the task to be brutally honest by sharing my own experience and the best must-know tips if you decide to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site with your own eyes.

So let’s unravel the answer to “Is Stonehenge worth seeing?” and plan an unforgettable experience in this impressive symbol of Britain’s ancient past.

Is Stonehenge Worth Seeing?

TOP STONEHENGE TOUR

Looking to visit Stonehenge from London? The best tour is  Stonehenge Half-Day Morning or Afternoon Tour .

✔️ Choose between 8:15 and 10:45 a.m. departure ✔️ Audio guide included ✔️ Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Check rates and availability.

FAQs on Stonehenge

➡️ Why is Stonehenge so significant?

Stonehenge is highly significant as it’s one of Europe’s most important Neolithic landmarks and a key representation of the intelligent architectural abilities of the old civilisations.

➡️ Is it worth paying to see Stonehenge?

I’d say so. Paying to see Stonehenge is worth it if you love history and appreciate the mystery that surrounds its origin and purpose.

➡️ How much time do you need in Stonehenge?

You typically need around 2 hours to fully appreciate the magnificence and history of Stonehenge, including roaming in the Visitor Centre and store.

➡️ Can you walk around Stonehenge without paying?

No, you cheeky monkey! It’s not possible to walk around Stonehenge without paying, as entry is ticket-based, and access to the stones is restricted.

➡️ Can you visit Stonehenge at night?

Unfortunately, no. Regular visits to Stonehenge at night aren’t possible as it closes at sunset. But exceptions are usually made for special events, like the winter and summer solstice.

➡️ Why is Stonehenge worth visiting?

If you ask me, Stonehenge is more than worth visiting. The UNESCO World Heritage Site has a fascinating history with amazing mysteries yet to be solved, and it’s a powerful symbol of the world’s impressive ancient past.

So on that note, let’s get to the 10 must-know tips to elevate your visit to Stonehenge.

1. Before deciding, learn about Stonehenge

The problem with underwhelming experiences in Stonehenge is not necessarily the monument itself, most of the cases it’s just plain ignorance.

Let’s be honest, in the majority of places you visit you need at least some context of what you’re going to see to truly appreciate it. But with ancient sites like Stonehenge, this becomes extremely needed, as it may be kind of confusing.

So let me help you with that!

Situated in the English county of Wiltshire, Stonehenge is a majestic monumental circle of standing stones built nearly 5,000 years ago, which means they’re centuries (!) older than the famous pyramids of Egypt.

No one knows exactly how it was constructed, but it’s believed to have been the work of many generations. It’s an extremely impressive work considering the large sarsen stones weight about 25 tons each. And even the smallest are about 5 tons each.

Fun Fact: The highest standing stone on the site is 2.13 meters above the ground, but considering what’s underground it measures no less than 8.71 meters!

Another mystery surrounding the monument is the reason behind its construction. There are several hypotheses, though. Some believe it was a religious temple, others an astronomical calendar. More mystical approaches include being a healing place or a site of ancestor worship.

Honestly, I think that once you know and understand its ancient history, your curious mind will strongly motivate your feet to get to that train (or coach or car, but more on that later) and impress your eyes with the gorgeous Stonehenge.

But obviously this interest is subjective. So now that you know some of its brief origins, you can consciously decide if Stonehenge is worth seeing or not. And if it is, then…

2. Book your Stonehenge tickets in advance

Photo of the summer solstice in Stonehenge courtesy of English Heritage

Even though you can get tickets on the spot, I strongly recommend booking online if you can .

First of all, you’ll get the best price as you’ll save 10% per ticket, which means £20.90 for adults and £12.70 for children under 17.

You’ll also secure your entry beforehand, as the site is usually packed (especially during peak seasons), and they only allow 7,650 visitors per day. And you won’t have to wait to enter, as you can choose your preferred time slot and avoid the frustration of long queues.

This way, you can have more time to immerse yourself in the rich history of Stonehenge, explore the surrounding area, and make the most out of your visit!

3. Plan your trip to Stonehenge

Despite contrary belief, getting to Stonehenge is not as complicated as it seems.

Most people prefer getting there by car, which is quite easy. It takes around 2 hours from London and there’s a car park near the visitor centre, which is free for those with pre-booked tickets (except in peak season).

However, you can also get there by train. The nearest town is Salisbury , which is around 12 miles away or a less than 2 hours journey from London. And from the station you can get the public Stonehenge Tour bus , which takes you directly to the site.

Hanging a little bit in the town before or after your visit to the site also adds points if you’re wondering if Stonehenge is worth seeing.

Or if you don’t want to worry about driving or going back and fort on your own, you can book a tour to get there. With the Stonehenge Half-Day Morning or Afternoon Tour , you can even pick between 2 departure times.

4. Prepare for the Stonehenge crowds

Due to its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its profound historical significance, it’s safe to say that Stonehenge is quite popular.

However, there are ways to make your visit crowdless! Or avoid them as much as you can, anyway.

Fun Fact: Stonehenge is the #1 tourist attraction in the UK, attracting around 1.5 million visitors every year.

Like most touristy sites, early mornings are best, before all the tours arrive (which happens around midday). This will allow you to explore quietly and peacefully, while indulging in the beauty of the site with the gorgeous sunlight.

Late afternoons are also great, as the same tours leave the site around 3 p.m. Just remember that the last entry is 2 hours before closing (which is generally at 5 p.m.).

It’s also good to consider peak and off-peak seasons of the year.

The summer season (from May to September) is quite crowded, but it’s amazing for your visit if you consider the weather is relatively pleasant and the days are longer. For more quiet days, opt for the shoulder seasons (late spring and early autumn).

Exceptions to the best time are the summer and winter solstice celebrations, when Stonehenge transforms into a lively festival, creating a different, vibrant visiting experience.

5. Once you’re in Stonehenge, don’t rush

Taking your time to thoroughly explore heritage sites like Stonehenge can significantly enhance your experience, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the fascinating history and cultural significance of the attraction.

By this I don’t mean spending more time than necessary, just enough to listen to the audio guide or tour guide, and then reflecting on how that explanation can be seen in these colossal rocks. Or going to the exhibition and taking your time to comprehend what you’re seeing and reading.

This exercise not only provides a profound sense of awe, but also helps establish a personal connection to the ancient world. I like to call it mindfulness travel , where you don’t just tick boxes of things to do, but you actually immerse yourself in the world and time of the specific site.

And this is a great place to start practicing it, especially if you’re still wondering if Stonehenge is worth seeing.

6. Don’t just look at Stonehenge, imagine its people!

Photo courtesy of English Heritage

We need to understand that the magnificence of any ancient monument may not be as impressive as it was ages ago.

It’s kind of sad, but the reality is that we have lost a bit of our capacity for wonder. Things that seem impossible once are now part of our daily lives, technology makes things easier, and even visiting sites like Stonehenge is more common and affordable than before.

So when you see Stonehenge, remember what it was. Think of the creativity behind its construction. And, most importantly, imagine the lives of the people behind it.

This is extremely easy if you explore the exhibition at the Visitor Centre and look at the recreated cottages where they used to live. But also if you zone out everyone else and focus on the standing rocks in front of you.

Fun Fact: This boy built a LEGO Stonehenge from 7000 blocks.

7. For an elevated experience, listen to the Stonehenge experts

What’s better than learning the history from the same people that dedicate their life to it?

When you’re in Stonehenge, you’ll not only have access to a detailed audio guide explaining everything that’s known of the site. You’ll also have access to the knowledge of interesting people that can answer any question you have!

Don’t be shy, I promise they’ll be happy to please your curious mind with interesting stories of the people that helped create a monument that has been admired for centuries. And it’ll definitely make Stonehenge worth seeing!

8. Remember the significance of Stonehenge

Stonehenge’s significance lies in its historical prominence, architectural grandeur, and mysterious origins that continue to intrigue scholars and visitors like you and me alike.

It’s one of the best-preserved prehistoric monuments in the world, so it’s one of the most invaluable symbols of the Neolithic and Bronze Age societies that built it.

And even though it was never “discovered” in the traditional sense, given that it has almost always been a known entity, its true revelation unfolded over thousands of years, studies and efforts of countless historians, archaeologists, and scientists.

So when you’re there, remember this.

Remember that what you’re seeing, listening and discovering is the result of a long captivating journey that was just made out of the passion for humanity and its past.

9. Don’t forget the Stonehenge Museum

I’ve been mentioning it throughout the list and there’s a big reason behind it: it’s amazing!

Most people forget that the site has made tons of efforts to make an exciting exhibition that showcases almost 300 archaeological items from the Neolithic villages.

You’ll be able to come face to face with a 5,500-year-old man; step into reconstructed Neolithic houses, fully furnished with replica axes, pottery, and animal skins; and immerse in audio-visual displays that bring to life over 5,000 years of Stonehenge’s history.

Fun Fact: About 1,500 Roman artifacts have been found at Stonehenge, including coins, pins, jewelry and fragments of pottery.

There’s also a café and shop if you need a break from exploring. And the Stone Circle, a “mini-Stonehenge” for children to play around with and explore, is a great way to keep younger visitors engaged.

10. Plan the rest of the day!

You’re done with Stonehenge, what next?

To be fair, the trip to Stonehenge is considerable (4 hours in total, if you consider the round trip) and you may feel a bit disappointed if you don’t take advantage of its surroundings.

If the points above weren’t enough to convince you that Stonehenge is worth seeing, then adding other places to the day will do!

You already know the site is near the pretty town of Salisbury, so why not arrange a visit to its beautiful Cathedral and stop by a picturesque pub before you leave?

Or for easier journeys packed with the best activities you can do in a single day, there are several tours you can book from London! I wouldn’t recommend doing a lot in one day, but here are some excellent options for a balanced and enjoyable experience.

So, is Stonehenge Worth Seeing?

Well, if after all of this you still think you’re just seeing a pile of rocks, then definitely not. But I’d say it’s safe to bet that if you’re still reading is because you may be thinking otherwise.

My visit to Stonehenge was magical, enlightening and reflective. I personally thought I needed a bit more time to dwell in the exhibitions, as I came with a tour and was rushing to do it all. But it’s definitely one of the best ways to go to this site and take advantage of being out of London!

However, whether Stonehenge is worth seeing or not depends 100% on your interests and curiosity. At the end of the day, no site is for everyone. And there are still tons of places and things to do in the UK!

So don’t ask me, as I’d obviously suggest giving Stonehenge a try. Ask yourself if you think you’d appreciate a glimpse of ancient history, or if you’d rather explore another town, museum or monument.

Thanks for reading my Stonehenge Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on  Instagram !

Check out more travel guides:.

• 20+ Best Day Trips from London
• How to Do the Perfect London Day Trip to Oxford
• How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip to Cambridge from London (+ Itinerary)
• How to Do the Perfect Day Trip to Brighton from London
• The BEST Bath Day Tours from London (Handpicked w/prices)
• The BEST Lake District from London Tours (Handpicked w/prices)
• The BEST Dover Tours from London (Handpicked w/prices)

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How to Visit Stonehenge: The Ultimate Budget Guide

An ancient architectural puzzle yet to be solved, Stonehenge is a 5500 year old stone circle located in Salisbury, England. Southeast of Bath in England, it consists of about 75 stones 4 meters (13 feet) high and 2.1 meters (7 feet) wide. It is one of Europe’s most famous Neolithic monuments and has captured the imagination of the world for millennia.

History/Conspiracy

Construction of Stonehenge likely began around 3100BC. This makes it older than the pyramids in Egypt! Since the stone circle was built by a culture that had no writing system, its origin and true purpose remains shrouded in mystery. Naturally, bonkers theories abound. The biggest of Stonehenge’s stones weigh a whopping 25 tonnes – so how a stone age society could have possibly transported these objects has lead to fevered speculation. Some believe it was aliens, others say an ancient race of giants since wiped out by Noah’s flood helped the Neolithic people in their labours. 

Scientists prefer less outlandish theories, such as the use of a bridge made of tree-logs laid side by side which could be used as a kind of horizontal ramp, or greasing the ground with animal fat to decrease resistance. The arrangements of the stones lines up nicely with the sun during both the longest and shortest days of the year (Summer Solstice and Winter Solstice), so they likely had ceremonial significance, possibly were believed to have healing powers, and may have functioned as a kind of ancient observatory.

Stonehenge is such a large part of pop culture that seeing the monument in person is like meeting a celebrity. In addition to the thrill, people visit to get a clearer sense of the history of the place, and gain insight into the life and beliefs of our ancient Neolithic ancestors. Plus, the impressiveness of its staggering size and mysticism is pretty good fun.

What’s There?

In addition to the stone circle itself, there are several man-made additions and attractions designed to help you learn more about Stonehenge and the Neolithic way of life. Reconstructed Neolithic Houses stand near the monument, made with original materials and techniques. There’s also a multimedia “Standing in the Stones” experience, giving you a sense of what it would be like to be in the middle of the circle as the seasons change. The Stonehenge Exhibition lets you experience a range of Neolithic crafts and activities, and “meet” a 5500 year old man, his “real” face recreated based on bone fragments found near Stonehenge. And of course, there’s a cafe and a shop onsite. 

Getting There

Stonehenge is located 36 miles (about 58 kilometres) northeast of Bath. Bath itself is a famous tourist attraction in its own right, home of ancient Roman-era springs from which the city gets its name, gorgeous stone architecture, and a wealth of great pubs, B&Bs, and attractions. The city is also associated with Jane Austen, who lived there from 1801 to 1806 (if you’re into it – check out this website  for information on her connection to Bath, including the Jane Austen center!)

How to Visit Stonehenge from Bath

Bath is a popular access point for Stonehenge. By public transport, you can also take the Great Western Railway from Bath Spa Station to Salisbury, and change there for a bus to Stonehenge visitor’s center. The journey takes about 2 hours by public transport, or about 1 hour by private car or tour bus. Plenty of tours leave from bus and can be booked online or through your accommodation – see below for some options.

How to Visit Stonehenge from Salisbury

How to visit stonehenge from london.

London is a bit further away, though plenty of tourists do tackle Stonehenge in a day trip from the capital, and there are tours that offer this option and includes return transport to London, making for a full-day round trip, often including some time spent in the surrounding countryside.

Via public transport, you can take the South Western Railway from Waterloo station to Salisbury, and from there is a half-hour bus ride to the visitor’s center. The total journey time from Waterloo station to Stonehenge Visitor’s Center is about 2.15 hours. Be sure to book your railway ticket in advance to avoid high fees and ensure that you get a seat. Tickets cost vary radically – at the time of writing on their website , one-way fares are looking to be 28GBP or $35 USD booked on the day before travel.

Where To Stay

There is no accommodation at Stonehenge itself as it’s located in the countryside. There are B&Bs around, which can be booked through websites such as Home Away . For convenience as well as for the fun of the city itself, many tourists choose to stay in relatively nearby Bath, one of the UK’s most celebrated and photogenic towns which is more than worth the stopover in its own right. Its popularity does make it a pricey option in summer however.

Bath has several backpacker options including the popular St Christopher’s Inn chain, a bit shabby and rowdy but a great place to meet travelers. At the time of writing beds averaged 25GBP/30USD and can be booked through Hostel World . There are also a number of budget hotels and sometimes good deals can be found on Booking.com . 

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Stonehenge?

Entrance to Stonehenge costs £19.00 (~$23USD at current Brexit exchange rates). You can buy your ticket from the visitor’s center, or get it online in advance on GetYourGuide – this option gives you a mobile voucher with instant confirmation, meaning you can skip the line. You also get free cancellation with some options, meaning that, if you change your mind because… I dunno – maybe the stones weren’t… hengey -enough for you, you can get your money back.

If Stonehenge is just one of the many heritage attractions you plan to see during your visit to England, you can also get the “ English Heritage: Attractions Pass for Overseas Visitors ” on GetYourGuide for $43, giving you access to Stonehenge as over 100 castles, mansions, ruins and prehistoric sights across the country. The pass pays for itself early on, given the abundance of sights it includes and that Stonehenge entry alone is already more than half of the pass cost.

Transport from London costs around £30GBP each way if you go using public transport. Transport from Bath costs around £19GBP, and both routes can be booked in advance online . This means, going yourself from Bath and back including ticket price will cost you about 47GBP, or £80GBP from London. Train tickets can be cheaper than this if you book in advance or travel with a discount Railcard or a Eurail Pass . To determine whether a Eurail pass is worth it for your overall trip, check our other guide here . It's also useful to reiew the perks of the Eurail Pass in Britain specifically here .

Seeing Stonehenge with a Tour

You can also take a tour from London or Bath, which will include round-trip transportation and admission. Unless you have your own car , tours are generally the most cost-effective way to take in Stonehenge.

Tours from London start from $65USD or £53GBP on GetYourGuide , often including the full round trip and some sightseeing in the surrounding countryside. For example, the popular “ London: Stonehenge, Bath & West Country Day Trip ” ($79.23) bookable through GetYourGuide takes 11 hours, and includes some time in Bath, the countryside and several picturesque villages, as well as Stonehenge itself.

Tours from Bath are harder to find on GetYourGuide but can be booked with local companies such as Scarper Tours who offer round-trip tours from Bath for £40.00GBP ($49USD) including admission. Your hostel or B&B should also be able to provide information on local tour options.

Bonus: Events at Stonehenge

From an out-of-the-box experience that will make you the envy of your fellow youth-hostel guests, you may want to think about attending one of the many events that are held at Stonehenge year-round. Look ahead on English Heritage to find out what’s coming up – some give you the chance to experience Stonehenge at night, listen to lectures and participate in workshops on ancient astronomy, or learn the art of astrophotography. You can also try your luck at getting   Stone Circle Access pass, available by request only, that lets you get right inside the stone circle itself  tourists are normally restricted to the perimeter for reasons of preservation.

The Thrifty Gist

• Stonehenge can be visited independently via public transport from Bath (~1.5 hours) or London (~2+ hours). Alternatively you can visit via tour from Bath or London
• Tours typically include round-trip transportation, admission and some sight-seeing on the way, which can make for a hassle-free visit
• Admission is costs £19GBP and can also be booked online to skip the queue, it includes access to the stone circle, as well as reconstructed Neolithic houses and an informative visitor’s center

Bonus : Check out English-Heritage.org for events and opportunity to see Stonehenge at night and even to get inside to circle for a rare, up close & personal experience.

Stones ate about found (identified Stollen desien.) with evidence.

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VISITING STONEHENGE: YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

There is a lot of misinformation out there about visiting this top tourist site - I've seen gems such as 'the visit is free if you buy a ticket' or 'you can walk amongst the stones on a regular ticket' or even 'there's no way to see this site other than pony up some cash'. This is all nonsense. I have lived near Stonehenge for about 40 years and have visited it countless times - my parents once had season tickets and we would walk there what felt like nearly every weekend with house guests who all wanted to see it and I feel well placed to answer these most common questions in internet searches on the stones. So ignore the advice from the out-of-town bloggers who have visited just once to tick it off their bucket list - here we have the definitive answers.

Getting to Stonehenge:

What is the best way to visit stonehenge.

This obviously depends on where you are coming from and how much time you have, but there is really no need to take one of those hideously expensive tours - I've seem some advertised for £600 and you still have to pay entrance to the stones! The most enjoyable and flexible way, in my opinion, is to do it independently. Take the train to Salisbury and then the bus to the stones, as it gives you the option of exploring Salisbury too, which is a great place to spend an afternoon. I would say Stonehenge in the morning (free or with tickets), lunch in Salisbury, afternoon at the Cathedral and the medieval town centre, before catching a train back. Salisbury train station is very central and there will be minimal walking involved if you don't fancy it. If you're driving, there is a car park on site at Stonehenge, and it is just a short drive to Salisbury. Plan and book your train journey >> Plan and book the Stonehenge bus >>

Can you get the train to Stonehenge?

The nearest train station to Stonehenge is Salisbury, which is on the direct line from London Waterloo, and Bath, amongst other places. When you get to Salisbury you can then catch the Stonehenge Hop-On-Hop-Off bus from right outside the train station which will take you straight there. Plan and book your train journey >> Plan and book the Stonehenge bus >>

How do you get from London To Stonehenge?

You really don't have to do one of the expensive tours. Get the train from London Waterloo, there are two every hour, and it is a 90 minute journey direct to Salisbury. If you book in advance, you can get a return for £12 - £18. When you leave Salisbury train station (there is only one way out) turn left as soon as you exit and walk a few paces down the pavement to the Stonehenge bus stop. You can pre-book your tickets online: choose from -

bus + Stonehenge

bus + Stonehenge + Salisbury Cathedral.

Hop on the bus and they will take you straight there. Plan and book your train journey >> Plan and book the Stonehenge bus >>

Visiting Stonehenge:

How much does it cost to visit stonehenge.

A visit to the stones with a ticket, is not cheap. It can cost £22.80 per adult at peak times, and that's without the donation they encourage you to pay. A child is £13.70, a family of 2 adults and 3 children is £60. Tickets are a few pounds less outside peak season. With prices like that, you have to be really sure you want to go. The ticket price includes access to the visitor centre and to the recreated Neolithic huts.

Can you see Stonehenge for free?

Yes you can. There are several ways to see it for free -

Park in the car park (£5) then take the free footpath which runs just behind the path for people who have paid

Park at Woodhenge (free) and do the 5 mile circular walk which also takes in other important places in the Stonehenge landscape

Park at Fargo Road (free) and walk about half a mile to the stones

Get the bus (pay for bus ticket) but then take the free footpath

You get free entrance with National Trust membership (not NT Scotland or overseas visitor passes)

You get free entrance with English Heritage membership

I recommend the Woodhenge to Stonehenge walk as it gives you a really good idea of the wider context of the stones and it includes Woodhenge, the Cuckoo Stone, Durrington Walls Superhenge, King Barrow Ridge and Old King Barrow, as well as part of the 4000 year old Avenue.

Can you walk amongst the stones?

You can, but only on one of the VIP tours, otherwise known as the Stone Circle Experience. These take place outside regular visiting times at sunrise and sunset. They cost £47 per adult and £29 for a child and you get an hour inside the stones with a small group and a guide. You are still not allowed to touch the stones. Book in advance as they sell out quickly. Book the Stone Circle Experience >>

Can you see Stonehenge from the road?

Yes you can, but there is nowhere to pull over so you are at the mercy of the speed of the traffic. Slowing down to look at it will be very unpopular with your fellow motorists and is part of the reason why the government feel compelled to dig a huge tunnel underneath and destroy the landscape in the process. Please don't encourage them further.

Can you touch the stones?

No. Not even on the VIP tour. If you want to touch a stone that’s the same age and type as the Stonehenge stones, find the Cuckoo Stone near Woodhenge. Just don’t damage it.

How long do you need at Stonehenge?

1 - 2.5 hours. English Heritage say to allow about 2.5 hours, but they allow time for use of an audio guide, buying souvenirs in the shop, having a coffee and fighting through the crowds if it's peak season. A visit can be done in an hour if you forgo all the frills.

What is the best time to visit Stonehenge?

If you are doing a visit with a ticket, then choose the early morning or late afternoon slots to have fewer crowds. If you are visiting it the free way and want no crowds at all, visit before it opens or after it closes and you won't have people in the way of your photos.

Is parking free at Stonehenge?

Most of the time it is, but in peak season they charge £5 per car which is deducted from your ticket if you buy one. You can of course pay the £5 and then walk on the free path to look at the stones - it is still far cheaper than paying for entrance tickets. If you park at Woodhenge or Fargo Road, then parking is free but there is more walking involved.

Can you walk around Stonehenge?

You can walk around it behind the ropes and do a full circle, but you cannot get inside the stones without paying for the VIP access tour.

Is it worth it to see Stonehenge?

It depends how badly you want to see it. If you are fascinated by pre-history then you will probably love it, but when it comes down to it, it is just some rocks in a field. If you are in two minds about visiting, then probably best not to bother. There are other, far more impressive sites to see in the area such as Avebury, West Kennet Longbarrow and Salisbury Cathedral.

Can you take photos of Stonehenge?

Yes you can. If you want photos without other people in then choose your visiting time carefully (see above).

Can you visit Stonehenge at night?

You can visit it on one of the VIP tours at sunset on selected days, but if you want to see it late at night then you will have to park at either Fargo Road or Woodhenge and walk there. Take a torch as there is no street lighting.

What else is there to do near Stonehenge?

Salisbury is a medieval city which is packed with historical sites, restaurants, shops and walks. Old Sarum is the original city of Salisbury and is a beautiful place to visit. The Army Flying Museum is a short drive away. Avebury has standing stones that you can walk amongst for free.

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Is Stonehenge Worth Seeing?

Is Stonehenge worth seeing? How close can you get to Stonehenge? What else is there to do at Stonehenge? We answer these questions and more!

Visiting Stonehenge

Not far from London , is the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of over 100 stones. The drive from London to Stonehenge is approximately two hours. You can do the trip on your own or take a tour.

Personally, we didn’t feel comfortable driving on the opposite side of the road, so we chose to take a tour. The bus was comfortable and we enjoyed seeing the English countryside through the window.

Pro Tip: While you’re in England, make sure to visit some of the Best Vineyards In The UK !

History of Stonehenge

The construction of Stonehenge started roughly around 3000 BC. It was built in phases and was continuously used for over 2,000 years. And although we have been able to learn much about the site through archaeological means, there are still many unknowns about the monument.

What was Stonehenge used for?

Findings such as cremated human remains reveal that early on it was used as a cemetery. But what about later on? Some have speculated that it was a place of healing. Others, that it was a druid temple. Of course, there’s always the alien theory too.

Today, most archaeologists have come to the consensus that Stonehenge was a temple that was built in alignment with the movement of the sun. Today, there are still those who believe Stonehenge is a sacred monument and living temple, visiting during the autumn and spring equinoxes and the mid-summer and mid-winter solstices.

How did they get the stones there?

The prehistoric monument is comprised of sarsen stones and bluestones. The sarsen stones are a type of sandstone and an average stone weighs 25 tons. The sarsens most likely were brought over from an area called Marlborough Downs, approximately 20 miles away.

The smaller bluestones, weighing between 2 and 5 tons, were brought from Preseli Hills in southwest Wales which is over 150 miles away. That’s a long way to carry those heavy stones! Did they transport the stones over water? How did they move it over land? These are questions that we may never know the answers to.

So is Stonehenge worth it? We definitely say yes . We love history and we’re fascinated by what humans have been able to do and create over the centuries.

While we were there, we marveled at the stones and wondered what it must have taken to move the stones over so many miles. What drove them to do it? If we were living back then, could we have helped? Would we have wanted to?

If you’re not that into history, maybe you’d think it’s just a pile of rocks. If you don’t like crowds, maybe you’d get a little annoyed. Stonehenge is one of the most visited sites in Great Britain, with over 1 million visitors a year.

If you are expecting a towering monument; you might be a bit disappointed in the size. They’re big, don’t get me wrong. But Stonehenge has been built up so much that we think everyone has this idea in their head that they’re some huge gargantuan-sized stones. However, with all of that said, we still think it was one of the highlights of that trip to Europe.

How Close Can You Get To Stonehenge?

We’re often asked, “How close can you get to Stonehenge?” If you’re expecting to walk among the stones, sorry. To preserve the site, visitors are only allowed to walk around the stones. But you can still get pretty close.

What To Do At Stonehenge

Another reason we think Stonehenge is worth seeing is that there’s more to the site than just the stones. With your Stonehenge entrance fee , you get a free audio guide so as you’re walking around Stonehenge you get to learn about the different stones and during what phase of construction they were built.

There is also a museum with over 250 archaeological items found in the area and recreations of Neolithic houses that show visitors what homes looked like 4,500 years ago. You can also test your strength and see if you can move a sarsen stone. For more information on things to do on-site, we recommend visiting Stonehenge’s website .

Is Stonehenge Accessible?

For wheelchair users and those with mobility issues, the main areas in and around the parking lot, the visitor center, and the Stone Circle are accessible by wheelchair via tarmac and grass paths. They also have some wheelchairs available upon request.

For those who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Stonehenge offers tour transcripts and audio installation transcripts. Additionally, assistance dogs are welcome at Stonehenge.

More Info and Tips For Visiting Stonehenge:

Here is some additional information you may find useful for your trip to Stonehenge:

• Stonehenge entrance fee is £20.90 for adults and £12.70 for kids ages 5 – 17. You should book your ticket to Stonehenge online to get the best price.
• Be mindful of the weather. Any rain will make the paths extremely muddy; your shoes will get dirty.
• Because the stones are in an open field, it’s cooler and the wind can be pretty strong. Dress appropriately.
• There is a small cafe to get snacks.
• Along with your Stonehenge day trip, you might consider adding a second stop. You won’t spend the whole day in Stonehenge, so we recommend getting there early and then spending the rest of the afternoon in nearby Bath .

Pro Tip: These are some other ruins that we visited and found fascinating: Teotihuacan in Mexico, Machu Picchu in Peru,  Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Tikal in Guatemala, and Copan Ruinas in Honduras.

Stonehenge Is Worth Seeing

We definitely think Stonehenge is worth it! It’s an iconic relic with such an interesting history. We may never find answers to all of the questions we have about it, but the mystery is just part of what draws you in.

Have you been to Stonehenge? What do you think, is Stonehenge worth visiting? We’d love to read your comments below! 🙂

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35 Comments

I do think Stonehenge is worth seeing, and would love to visit. I also think other lesser known Neolithic and Paleolithic sites in the UK and Ireland are worthy. There is so much we don’t know about these eras and the fact that dolmens and temples have survived makes them worthy of our attention, in my opinion. It’s also quite humbling to know that these regions have been inhabited for eons, and that our culture is just a blip by comparison.

I completely agree Betsy! I would have loved to spend some time in nearby Avebury since it is larger and less people go there. But since we were heading to Bath we didn’t have the time. And yes, very humbling and inspiring.

I visited Stonehenge more than a dozen years ago on an overcast day. The photo turned out better than I could have imagined. It was worth the trek from London. 🙂

That’s awesome! Getting a great photo can be hard if the weather is crap. And if people keep getting in the photo lol!

I was thinking of the same. For me, it was just to say that you’ve been there but I never found anything really special about it, to be honest. Though you could be right about not planning a day trip only consisting of the Stonehenge. Thanks for the tips, Vicky! Xx

Any time Trisha! 😉

This was a great read! I have always wondered how those rocks got there. Interesting to find out they still have no idea! I would love to visit Stonehenge as I’m also fascinated by all the big rocks humans have moved over time. Stonehenge, the temples of Angkor, the pyramids in Egypt, Machu Picchu, Hampi, they are all magnificent and intriguing!

The pyramids have especially intrigued me. One day I will see those as well. 😀

Always been fascinated by Stonehenge and will surely go one day – maybe they’ll have figured out the answers to all questions by then! ?

Hi Mar! Who knows, but hopefully you do get to visit one day. 🙂

Nice review of the area. It does look really worth a visit (I would have been disappointed if you said that it wasn’t). I was just in Peru and seeing those huge stone formations was really amazing.

Thanks Jennifer, it’s amazing what we’ve been able to create.

I’m pretty local to Stonehenge coming from Bristol but i’ve never actually been inside. We’ve always been on roadtrips, driven past and taken a picture from afar! It would be good to see Stonehenge up close!

Oh you definitely should Sophie! There’s so much to see inside!

I’ll have to add your post about Stonehenge to mine, since yours is more recent! When we visited, the neolithic houses weren’t there yet, neither was the opportunity to try to “pull” a stone. I guess we’ll have to go back again! Thanks for linking to #WeekendWanderlust!

You’ll have to go back then! 🙂

I’d say it’s absolutely worth seeing but like all historical sites you will likely get the most out of your visit if you do some reading and research in advance so you can really appreciate what you’re experiencing.

That’s true Vanessa; it’s always good to do some research beforehand. At least they have the free audio guides though so you can learn as you walk through.

I’m fascinated by history, too, and I’d love to visit someday! I try to transport myself back in time and wonder how it would have looked back then compared to now, and how everything got into place.

I’m glad I’m not the only one that does that Lauren! 😉

I’ve never been to Stonehenge. Never had much of a draw for me. It is fascinating, though… all of the unanswered questions about its mere existence.

Hi Toccara! Yes, I wonder if those questions will ever be answered?

It’s an historic icon, and for that reason I’d like to visit Stonehenge someday.

While we went to Stonehenge, we actually found a great spot along the road and just read about it in our Rick Steves Book and were still able to get awesome pics (and save a boatload of $$$!!!) I think you either love it or hate it when you get there

Oh wow, I didn’t know about that! It’s cool you were still able to see it.

These are some of the reasons why history is so fascinating. I wonder how they were able to move those rocks too. Very informative read Vicky!

Hi Kayla! We may never know how they moved them. But who knows what future studies will reveal! 😉

Stonehenge is an intriguing place.I would love to visit it in spite of the crowds. Many of the famous sights actually do not live up to our fantasies. However if you understand their history and significance, you would always appreciate them and their value.

I completely agree! I think a lot of times it’s what you make of it too. If you take the time to really know what you’re looking at, like you said, you can appreciate it that much more.

Did you take a tour or did you arrange a trip to Stonehenge independently? It appears that it is more cost effective with a tour, what would you say?

Hi Lisa! Yes, we took a tour and stopped in Bath on the way back. We felt it was definitely worth it for the convenience.

We toured Stonehenge at sunset with a tour company called Evan Evans. It was worth every penny. Small group tour and we were able to get up close and personal to the rocks. You only live once and sometimes a splurge for a more costly tour is worth it.

Oh, I totally agree Suzi! So glad you had a good time and were able to get up close. 🙂

Further to your reply regarding where the stones came from, there two types of stone: the Blue Stone and the Sarson stone. The former were brought some 125 miles and were dragged mainly overground by natives who wore harnesses. Therese stones were then formed into a circle which preceded the larger (outer circle). The large Sarcen, stone came from 23 miles away being moved on large logs. As the stone left the last log that log was moved to the front of the load so on. About 50 people were used to move around 30 stones to their present locationBrani. The approximate weight was 23 tons.

Thanks for the info! 🙂

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A helpful guide to visiting Stonehenge in 2024 – including how to make it worth seeing!

Close your eyes and imagine think of the first thing that comes to mind with the words ‘ancient Britain’ – I bet Stonehenge comes to mind whether you’ve seen it in real life or not. It’s etched on so many people’s minds like the pyramids. It’s iconic.

It’s one of the most popular tourist sites in the entire world, let alone just in Great Britain, and it’s one of my favourite sites to visit. I’ve been 3 or 4 times now over a number of years and the most recent being at the beginning of December 2022 so I’ve seen it with all updated visitors centre and how it used to be too.  

This Stonehenge guide takes my knowledge over all my trips and should answer any and all your questions that you have about it. Plus if you keep reading you’ll find my tips on how to make visiting Stonehenge worth it.

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means that if you buy or book after clicking, I may get a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

It breaks my heart to hear when people feel like it’s a waste of a day trip.  It definitely doesn’t have to be!  Let’s go…

Get Tickets in Advance

Stonehenge Tickets

Tickets for Stonehenge are recommended to buy in advance especially if you’re planning to see the stones in summer or at weekends when it’s busy!

It can also be cheaper to get them in advance.

A note from the writer: Hey! I’m Kirsty and I’m probably Stonehenge’s biggest fan and expert on visiting – I’ve been so many times over the past few years!

I love encouraging people to come and see and really make the most out of their visit. Shout (or comment below) if you have any questions about visiting Stonehenge and I’ll get back to you ASAP.

Read on about one of my favourite ancient sites I’ve ever visited. I’m excited to share what I know about it with you and I hope it will help if you ever take a day trip to Stonehenge.

Need tickets to Stonehenge? It’s a good idea to book in advance as it can get busy, plus advance tickets are cheaper – you can get tickets online here . Coming from London? One easy way to enjoy Stonehenge is to come on an organized tour. Check this half day option . Or see our guide on getting from London to Stonehenge

Offer – Get 15% off English Heritage Membership when paying by annual direct debit. Use the code – EHAFF202 4

I’ve visited Stonehenge many times over the years – the first back in 2007 and my most recent trip being in December 2022 This post is based on my experiences of visiting with kids, going as a day trip and also staying overnight nearby. It was first written in 2018 and has been updated in 2024

Table of Contents

A very brief overview of Stonehenge

The stone circle at Stonehenge is around 5000 years old and it lies in the heart of the Wlltshire countryside in England.  

Nope, it’s not in Scotland (when I was searching with a well known search engine one of the questions it tried to prompt was ‘is Stonehenge in Scotland?’ now you have your answer!) but in an area called Salisbury Plain which is in central southern England.  The county that Stonehenge is in is called Wiltshire and the nearest city is Salisbury.

There are many theories as to the use of the stone circle from legends saying that the devil brought them and placed them on Salisbury plain to theories of ancient astronomers, sacrificial altars and even one saying that Merlin built it.

The fact is we’ll never know for sure, but we can have a good, educated guess based on the archaeology found there.  Human remains have been found, so possibly it was a burial site at some time.  It certainly seems that there has been some astrological significance as the stones line up with the summer and winter solstice but the actual reasons behind it are unknown.

The stones are huge and would have required some serious engineering capability to move them.  

They’re also not local stones either with the large sarsen stones, that make the trilithon (the two uprights and a lintel) coming from around 25 miles away on the Marlborough Downs – doesn’t seem far away for us now, but in days without vehicles to move large objects would have been a feat.  They also weigh up to 25 tonnes each!  

The smaller bluestones in the circle come all the way from Wales which is around 150 miles away.  Again, many theories abound as to how the stones got there – one thing is sure, it wouldn’t have been easy and means that whatever Stonehenge was built for, it was something of importance.

Despite what you might think – Stonehenge isn’t actually one of the wonders of the world.  It’s definitely old enough and mysterious enough but it didn’t make the list although it was made a long time ago, so we’ll forgive them for making the mistake.  

It is a UNESCO world heritage site nowadays, although that club isn’t as exclusive as the seven wonders!

So why is Stonehenge important and why should you visit?  

Well, it’s so ancient that we don’t have any written records of the people who were around and built the site.  So figuring out what the circle was used for and finding out what we can from the archaeology of the area can really help us to learn about our ancestors who live at that time.  

And, well it’s a huge mystery – we’re never going to know exactly what it’s absolute purpose was so it’s something that will keep experts and history buffs going for a long time!  And they love that!

Is Stonehenge worth seeing?

The eternal question seems to be whether Stonehenge is worth seeing or whether it can be missed from your travel bucket list.  Ask ten people and likely you’ll find 5 saying it was worth it and 5 saying don’t bother.  

Your mileage may vary depending on a lot of things namely whether you’re actually interested in this kind of attraction or whether you’re just looking to tick off something from your ‘seen it’ list.

Personally I’m in the ‘ YES it’s worth seeing – go now !’ camp.  

I was really expecting to be completely underwhelmed by it before I saw it for the first time and truthfully we only went as we had English Heritage passes (which made it free) and we were passing by.  

I was utterly spellbound by it and was truly impressed by the whole place.  I do enjoy history though, so that of course helps.  The feeling was the same when a few years later we visited again so it wasn’t just because we could get in for free!

(Keep reading for my tips on how you can get the most out of your visit and make your day worth it.)

My 10 tips for making Stonehenge worth a visit

So with all this in mind here’s my tips for making Stonehenge worth the visit and cost so you’re not leaving and regretting your visit!

1. Read up on it

Which you’re doing because you’re here!  Yay!  

But if you skipped it and haven’t read through this post then now is my friendly reminder to do it once you’ve finished reading these tips.  

Why?  Because knowing a little about the history of the site and the possible uses for it will give you a better understanding once you’re there on the ground and looking at the literal pile of stones on the ground.

2. Check your expectations

Know what you can and can’t do at Stonehenge.  So many times I’ve heard people complain that they couldn’t touch the stones – please don’t expect that because you can’t.  

Yes there are pictures of people who have done it, but either they’re really old pictures before the new rules came in to place or these are people who have paid extra for the special access option . (Although you still can’t touch the stones – you can just get access to the inner circle).

If you’re going on an ordinary day, using ordinary tickets, you’ll be going round the edge.  This is fine though – you still get a great appreciation for the scale of the site and to be honest, you’re still fairly close.

You might like : Top 5 Stonehenge Inner Circle Tours from London

3. Check the weather

Obviously Stonehenge is outside so if it’s pouring with rain you might find that your day and enthusiasm is slightly dampened. (sorry – bad pun!)

If you can be flexible on your dates it might well be worth keeping an eye on the weather and choosing the best day for it.  

If you have no choice make sure you have waterproofs, an umbrella and hope for a break in the clouds!  There are some inside spots at the visitor centre so if the worst happens enjoy those too!

4. Go early or late if you can 

Another gripe I hear from people is how busy it can be.  I’m not surprised – it’s almost always on a travel bucket list and it’s touted as a must see from lots of people, including me.  

It’s a big deal for lots of people so it’s going to be busy!

If that’s a problem for you then aim to either arrive early in the day as soon as it opens or late on as it’s getting nearer to closing time and the tour groups have left.  If you have no choice just be aware that it will be busy.   Last admission time to the stones is 2 hours before their closing time.

5. Check out the visitor centre

Don’t bypass the visitor centre and museum as it can help you get your head round what you’re looking at and make your visit much better.  

As I said before – get yourself armed with the facts and seeing the stones becomes part of a big story that you’re learning about.  There’s been lots of changes and additions recently – interactive exhibits, prehistoric houses that would have been contemporary with the stones and artefacts found at the site.  Definitely plenty to enrich your visit.

6. Listen to the audio guide

Again this is about making the day more than just looking at the stones.  By listening to the audio guide you can understand what the archaeologists and historians have learned about each stone as you get to it.  

Kids also enjoy the guides too so include them in it, I always find mine pick up more than I think!  

On my very first trip to Stonehenge I found them so informative and useful. On my most recent trip there wasn’t the push to have them so I imagine some people might not bother which is a shame.

The guides are available to download on your phone.   iTunes link .   Android link .

7. Take your time

If you can, just take your time and enjoy what there is at the site.  

Don’t rush to get to the next point on your audio guide – really look at the area and imagine how it would have been to see the stones in their prime or even how it was built.  

Rushing round will just amplify the feeling of ‘is that it?’

8. Get membership to English Heritage or National Trust

We’ve been members of both of these organisations in the past and find them excellent value for money if you like either history or outdoor spaces (or both!).

If you get membership your entry to Stonehenge will be included in it which makes it much more of a palatable day out.  I know for us, going with kids is always a bit hit and miss and to know we could leave early if we all hated it and not feel like we had to get our value for money made the day less of a stress.

As it was the kids enjoyed it but it definitely helped!  You can see more about membership here for English Heritage and National Trust

9. Get some added value

Add in some more of the nearby ancient England sites like Avebury or perhaps even a trip to Salisbury or Bath to your day.  

Stonehenge really won’t take up too long, a couple of hours probably, so you’ve plenty of time.  

If you do a tour then often it will include some other place to see as well but also if you’re organising your visit yourself it’s wise to have something else planned for your day so you’re not left thinking – is that it?  Here are 19 things to do near Stonehenge !

10. Go with an open mind

Finally just keep your mind open about your day at Stonehenge.  

Don’t build it up to be this amazing and wonderful spectacle but also don’t go in thinking it will be a pile of old stones and as boring as a pile of stones could be.  Try and be pleasantly surprised by it! (and come back and let me know what you thought!)

11. Walk to the stones rather than get the bus

New tip for 2024!

Now that you have to get a bus to the stones you might find that you’ll spend a great deal of time in the queue to even get on the bus.

If you can and you’re able it’s recommended to walk the short distance to the stones – it gives you an overview of the landscape and there’s actually some other ancient sites on the way too.

If you do have to get the bus be prepared for a wait!

Your questions answered about visiting Stonehenge:

How close can you get to stonehenge.

If you want to view the stones up close you’ll need to get a ticket and access to the site that way.  

If you’re an English Heritage or National Trust member you’ll be able to gain access for free, but be aware you might still need to book a timed slot to visit.  As the site is very busy it’s recommended to do so but if you’re visiting outside the busiest times then you might get away with it. When I recently visited in winter it was busy but I was able to just turn up.

As a regular visitor you will NOT be able to get up close to Stonehenge.  There’s a pathway that runs around the circle which visitors must keep to.  You cannot touch the stones.

If you want to get that up close feeling you can request special access tickets from English Heritage which allow a visit outside of normal hours and lets you inside the stone circle – these do come at a cost.  

We’ve never done it so I can’t comment on how easy or not it is, but there’s the option so give it a shot if you fancy it.  

An easier way is to book on to a tour that allows you to do it which will guarantee you access if your dates are fixed –   this one is worth checking out .

When is the best time to visit Stonehenge?

It gets really busy at Stonehenge, as you might imagine, so you must be prepared for an onslaught of tourists, groups and all that that entails (we all know those annoying tourist stories – you’ll likely encounter some here).

Arriving early in the day or very late on will give you the best chance of seeing the stones without too many crowds along side you.  The last entry to the stones is 2 hours before closing time so don’t go too late if you are thinking of doing it that way.

Weekends are also very busy as is any time during the summer months of July and August while the schools are on holiday.  If you visit outside these times you might do a little better but I’d still stick to the get there early or late advice.

What is there to do at Stonehenge?

Once you arrive at the car park you’ll see the new visitors centre – this has all changed since we were there but it definitely looks like it was for the better! You can go straight to the stone circle either by the shuttle they provide (takes 10 mins) or by walking.

If it’s a nice day I’d definitely recommend walking if you can – it’s about 2.6 miles to walk and takes around 25-40 mins.   Once at the circle you can obviously walk round it, taking in the views and possibly listening to the audio tour guide as you do.  

Don’t skip the audio guide , it’s really helpful for knowing what you’re looking at – you could use the visitor guide book that they sell as well, but I personally preferred the audio. It’s FREE and available as an app on Apple and Android. Remember to take some headphones with you – you can purchase some in the shop if you forget.

There are also some interesting things to do at the visitor centre which you can do before or after visiting the stones – there’s an exhibition about Stonehenge and also an 360 degree ‘Standing in the Stones’ experience which helps you see the stones as time passes.  

Outside are some neolithic houses that were built so you can see exactly how people lived at the time that Stonehenge was built.

A shop and a cafe are standard for these kinds of sites of course – they can get busy though!

How long to spend at Stonehenge?

Another good question I get is how long do you need to spend there?  I think you can definitely have a good trip and feel you’ve ‘done it’ with just a couple of hours at the site.  

If you have a bit longer and it’s a good weather day you can definitely expand that by taking in some walks in the area and really taking your time which I definitely recommend.

If you want to spend a couple of days in the area there’s lots to do with other historic sites like Avebury nearby and also the city of Salisbury as well that you can explore with its medieval cathedral.

Will kids enjoy visiting Stonehenge?

As with all travelling with kids your mileage will definitely vary depending on what your kids are like, whether they enjoy history and what age they are.  We have visited twice with kids – once when they were around 6 and 7 and again when they were 12 and 13 – and each time they’ve enjoyed it.  

We normally don’t make a big deal out of making sure they learn things and read everything, but we do make a habit of going to these places and being excited and interested in the history ourselves and I think that helps.  

Even kids can do the audio tours and mine certainly enjoyed that – it’s a bit different to your parents telling you about it! Very easy nowadays with them being able to be added to your phone too.

It’s not a long day out to Stonehenge so if you have kids and you’re worried about them not enjoying it then I’d recommend finding something fun and less historical to do afterwards or at the very least have a nice ice cream at the cafe.

How much is Stonehenge?

Tickets for Stonehenge vary in cost depending on when you visit. Prices for an adult will be between £20 and £23.60 in 2023.

See below for more details on ticket prices.

When does Stonehenge open?

Stonehenge opens at around 9.30am every day for regular visitors.

The closing time varies throughout the year but is 7pm in the summer and around 5pm in winter.

Want to visit Avebury too? Here’s our  in depth guide  to this other part of the World Heritage Site.

How to get tickets to Stonehenge

Unless you just want to explore the countryside around the stones, you’ll need to get a ticket to visit .  If you go on an organised tour like this one then these will be included in the price.

If you’re visiting independently you’ll need to get tickets and they’ve changed how they do it recently which is that it’s recommended to buy tickets in advance where you’ll get a timed slot. You can turn up and hope to get tickets but it’s not guaranteed and it is slightly more expensive than booking in advance.

You only get a 30 minute window to arrive for your slot so it’s important that you give yourself ample time to get to the site – once you’re there you can take as long as you want to explore so no worries on that score.  

There is currently a three tier pricing system whereby some dates are more expensive than others.

• Off peak is cheapest – mostly mid week outside of high season
• Standard is mid priced – weekends outside of high season and midweek in high season
• Peak is most expensive – mostly weekends in high season and Bank Holidays

These advance prices are correct as at February 2024 (peak prices aren’t available yet – will update when they are!):

I highly recommend getting the tickets in advance as it’s not only cheaper but you can be sure to get admission. In busy times it may well be too busy for walk up admittance or you could be waiting in the queue for quite a while (it was busy for me in the winter and first thing in the morning!)

You can buy tickets through Get Your Guide at no extra cost – they have a great cancellation policy in case you can’t make it.

Get tickets in advance here:

Stonehenge admission ticket 

It’s also worth considering getting either English Heritage membership or National Trust membership as they both allow free admission to the site – I’ve had both over the years and we’ve made lots of use out of it and highly recommend it.  If you’re travelling extensively around the UK or live here it’s a must! You can join English Heritage when you’re there and there’s a place to sort that out if you want to offset your ticket.

Can you visit Stonehenge for free?

Which of course brings me along to my next question to answer – can you visit Stonehenge for free?  I guess the answer depends on your definition of visiting it but actually, yes you can.

You can see Stonehenge while driving along in the car – the A303, for now, passes right by the site – it’s not the best view though and not the safest if the driver wants to get a glimpse too.

You can also go for a walk in the area and get views of the land and stones too – this might be the best option if you have a dog with you as they aren’t allowed in the Stone Circle Monument Field and visitor centre.  You can get quite close, I was recently surprised at how close you can get without a ticket!

We’ve recently just spent some time exploring the area around Stonehenge and have written a guide on how to visit for free

How to get to Stonehenge

Stonehenge is in the county of Wiltshire in Southern England – the nearest town in called Amesbury and the largest city nearby is Salisbury.

It’s easy to reach by car and there’s a good car park at the site so no worries once you get there.  It’s around 2 hours from London and of course you have the whole countryside to explore if you come by car!  

The car park is large and free to those with tickets to visit Stonehenge and English Heritage members (£5 may be payable at peak times but is refunded when you get tickets) – if you’re not actually wanting to visit the monument you can still park there but it will cost you £5.

The car park does get busy so allow time to park up.

The nearest train to Stonehenge is Salisbury which is around 12 miles away.   Trainline is your best bet to find trains from all over the UK.  You can get the public Stonehenge Tour bus from there which takes you direct to the visitors centre.

If you’re coming from Swindon, Devizes, Marlborough or Salisbury or areas near there, there are local buses that can take you to Amesbury.  From there it’s a 2 mile walk to the stones.

How to visit Stonehenge from London

Many people are based in London and want to visit the stones so if that’s you this is your section.

I’ve just completed a post outlining how to get to Stonehenge from London  so do go there for an in depth look at it – for a brief overview, read on!

In my opinion, the best way to visit is by going on one of the many Stonehenge tours from London as it eliminates the need for hiring a car and navigating around London.  It’s all done for you, you can relax and enjoy the day and you can choose between a direct there and back trip  or even go on tours that go other places too like perhaps Bath or Windsor Castle and so maximises your time.  They also are quite good value as well.

There are a lot to choose from so definitely look at the ratings, the time spent at the stones and what other people thought of them if you go this way.  I like Get Your Guide for choosing these tours as there a rating system there and you can see what other people thought of them before booking.  

If you want to go by public transport then your best bet is to get a train to Salisbury – check out Trainline which is the best resource I’ve found for getting train times for all the networks.  The train takes around an hour and a half if there’s no changes.  From Salisbury you’d get the Stonehenge Tour Bus which will take you to the visitor centre or there are local buses too.

Visiting Stonehenge from London by car is also a possibility.  Living in the UK I’ve never had to rent a car here, but many people do it with ease so it’s pretty straight forward.   Discover Cars is a favourite to compare rental prices.  

It’s around 90 miles away from the very centre of London and once you get out the city the driving should be fairly straight forward with plenty of motorway and A roads leading your straight there.  

One advantage of having your own transport is obviously being able to pick and choose your time to get there and also how long you’re there too.  You can also explore the rest of the ancient areas that are nearby like Avebury and it gives you much more options when choosing accommodation.

Where to stay when visiting Stonehenge

There are a number of options in the surrounding area with many luxury hotels near Stonehenge and also plenty of budget options too.  We’ve obviously not tried all of these (and one year we stayed in our camper van so needed no option!) but these come highly recommended.  Some of these options are better if you have your own transport to the stones so do bear in mind how you’re planning to actually get there.

If you don’t have your own transport then it’s probably best to base yourself in the city of Salisbury which is well connected to London and to the rest of the UK and where there’s plenty of bus options to the stones.  If you’re looking for top-end hotels then I also recommend looking into Salisbury.  It’s about a 20-minute drive away or easily accessible by the tour bus (see how to get there section for details) or local buses to Amesbury.

There are a number of options in all price ranges in Salisbury and I recommend looking on Booking.com (my fave – I use them all the time!) as they often can be booked without a deposit and easily cancelled (risk free!) – you can see them here .

If you want to stay very close to Stonehenge then the very local hotel called Rollestone Manor is only around 3 miles away and would be a great base to visit there and other areas.

If you’re looking for cheap hotels and you have a car then I can recommend this Travelodge which is quite near Stonehenge – only around 5 miles away on the Amesbury bypass.  We stayed there the first time we visited as we were on a budget and it’s a great no frills option.  They have improved a lot over the years too with most of their rooms being updated and really quite awesome for the price point.  You can get family rooms too at a good price so I always recommend them as a brand for families looking for a budget hotel.

If Travelodge is full or you want a different option then another good budget brand is Premier Inn and there’s one about 10 miles away from Stonehenge near to Salisbury.  Premier Inn do good breakfasts!

Unfortunately if you’re looking to wild camp in your campervan like we did one year on the byroad that is just by the stones, that option is no longer viable and the road has been shut.  Many people are petitioning for it to re-open so perhaps this will change in the future.

2023 update – You can still do this and can confirm as we also stayed there in late 2022! So pleased it’s available to those who want to.

If you do want to camp near Stonehenge then I’d look at the Stonehenge Campsite which is about 5 and a half miles away.  They accept tents, caravans and motorhomes and they also allow campfires as well so the kid and they would be worth checking out if you want to visit Stonehenge at summer solstice as they have an event on there.  If you want a bit more luxury, or if you simply don’t have a tent, they also have some glamping pods as well which look really nice and would be a great alternative to the regular hotel option.

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🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 England Travel FAQ 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

Do I need insurance for traveling to England?

YES! I always recommend people take travel insurance when exploring the world!

Check Travel Insurance Master for quote comparisons from different providers.

Do I need a car for visiting England?

YES – If you’re wanting to explore England fully then a car is worthwhile. It will get you to all the small villages, countryside sights and all on your own timetable

I recommend DiscoverCars to compare car rental prices in England

How to book accommodation in England?

For hotels I recommend Booking.com

For apartments and cottages check out VRBO

Will my phone work in England?

Perhaps – it depends if you have roaming enabled and beware this can be an expensive way to use your phone.

If you need a SIM for use in the UK I recommend GiffGaff which you can get and set up before traveling.

What’s the best guidebook for England?

I really like the Lonely Planet Guidebooks

Where to get flights for England

Skyscanner is my first port of call for finding cheap flights to England.

Do I need a visa for England?

Many countries don’t need a visa for visiting England as tourists (USA, Canada, Aus, NZ and Europe) – it’s always best to check first though .

You might also like:

• A day trip to York: one day itinerary in the historic city
• Visiting Sherwood Forest: See Robin Hood’s Tree hideout – the Major Oak
• My favourite children’s books about London

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Kirsty Bartholomew

4 thoughts on “A helpful guide to visiting Stonehenge in 2024 – including how to make it worth seeing!”

We went to Stonehenge many years ago (pre-kids), and would love to go back with the family. Thanks for all the tips!

you’re welcome!

I haven’t visited Stonehenge in many years and am ashamed to stay I was too cheap to pay to get in last time.

Thanks for writing this post, I will definitely have a more in depth look and make sure not to miss anything!

Thanks for your comment Jo! I’ve always tried to use my memberships to make it worth it. I’ve recently written a post about how to see Stonehenge for free – is that similar to how you did it? I was actually quite surprised how good the view is without paying!

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7 Best Stonehenge Tours from London in 2024 (ranked!)

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Ready to tour the mysterious Stonehenge on a Stonehenge tour from London?

You’ve come to the right place, as we’re going to explore the best 7 Stonehenge tours that depart from London – all led by expert guides who want to share the mystery of this intriguing landmark.

If you’re like, just cut to the chase already, then don’t worry.

The best Stonehenge tour from London is this Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London.

It has over 6,000 amazing reviews, so there’s no going wrong.

Stonehenge is one of the most beautiful, picturesque and incredible parts of England. People travel from all over the world to visit this attraction.

If you want to see what your other options are, here are 6 more tours, including bus tours to Stonehenge from London that are definitely worth your time.

So let’s get into the list of the best tours of Stonehenge from London so you can book it already!

PS – booking in advance is highly, highly recommended so you don’t miss out.

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best Stonehenge tour from London is this Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath tour.

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best Stonehenge Tours from London

1. stonehenge, windsor castle, and bath from london.

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 9,400+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

• Windsor Castle
• The Roman Baths
• Personal Audio Headset
• Superior Coach, Wi-Fi and USB Charging On-board

This tour has great reviews and a great price – a great Stonehenge tour from London!

You’ll spend the day with a fun group of people as you explore 3 major sites.

Before heading to Stonehenge, you’ll make 3 other stops first. Windsor Castle is a must-see attraction in England.

You’ll be glad you visited.

St. George’s Chapel is located at Windsor Castle.

You’ll make a quick stop at this beautiful gothic cathedral.

The Roman Baths are the preserved remains of ancient spas.

The unique thermal springs still flow through this landmark!

You’ll also pass by Pulteney Bridge, Bath Abbey, and the No. 1 Royal Crescent.

These stops will be gorgeous to see through your window!

Finally, you’ll come to Stonehenge.

Learn all about it from the passionate tour guides!

You’ll also be able to visit the world-class exhibition center, where you’ll be able to learn even more.

2. Windsor, Stonehenge and Bath Trip from London

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 300+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Panoramic tour of Georgian city of Bath and entry to The Pump Room
• Air-conditioned vehicle with Free Wi-fi
• Professional guide

Want a one day tour of Stonehenge from London?

Get an early start to your morning so you can spend all day exploring these British attractions!

You’ll cruise through the countryside in a comfortable vehicle.

This will allow you to see several beautiful sights!

You’ll pass by Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, and the Royal Crescent.

Have your camera ready to snap a few pictures!

These iconic attractions draw in visitors from across the world.

You’ll stop at the Roman Baths, Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and St. George’s Chapel.

Not only will you get to explore these attractions, but you’ll also learn about the history.

The professional guide on your excursion will share loads of knowledge with you throughout the day.

Their expertise makes this tour absolutely amazing. You can ask them any of your questions and they’ll have a helpful answer.

3. Stonehenge and Bath Day Trip from London 

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 1,700+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Jane Austen Museum

With only two stops, this tour – a Stonehenge day tour from London – allows ample time to explore.

You can upgrade your trip to also visit the Jane Austen Visitor Center or Roman Baths.

You’ll also pass by the No. 1 Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge.

This tour will ensure your day is full of fun sights!

Very few Stonehenge tours include a stop at the Jane Austen Museum.

If you’ve fallen in love with her stories, you’ll be captivated when you visit the museum.

The tour guides and drivers are quite knowledgeable and personable.

They receive many rave reviews from happy tourists!

If professional tour guides are important to you, you’ll appreciate touring with this company.

The other main appeal of this tour is that you’ll be able to explore Bath at your own leisure.

Instead of worrying about following a strict schedule, just keep an eye on your watch and return before the bus leaves!

4. Windsor Castle, Oxford and Stonehenge Tour from London : best Stonehenge day tours from London

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 530+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Windsor Castle (if chosen) 
• Walking tour of Oxford
• Luxury air-conditioned coach
• Friendly expert guide

History buffs will love this tour because the guides are full of English history information.

They’ll share so many fun facts while you travel to the attractions on a Stonehenge guided day trip from London.

Another exciting aspect about the tour guides: many of them are bilingual!

This makes communication easy for people whose native language isn’t English.

Like most Stonehenge tours, you’ll have the option of visiting Windsor Castle and St. George’s Chapel.

What sets this tour apart from the others is that you’ll also stop in Oxford! Oxford especially is full of history to learn about.

Guests will go on a walking tour of this historic university town.

You’ll catch a glimpse of the Radcliffe Camera and Bodleian Library.

Walk the streets of Oxford and learn even more about the city and university.

While you could easily spend a week in Oxford without running out of things to do, this tour is great for anyone who can’t schedule a vacation in Oxford.

5. Stonehenge and Bath Day Tour from London

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 320+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Admission to Stonehenge
• Walking Tour of Bath
• Luxury air–conditioned vehicle

Since this is one of the more affordable tours to Stonehenge, budget travelers should consider it.

While the price is low, the quality is high!

If you read through the reviews, you will see that most people thoroughly enjoyed their time on this tour.

Spend the morning leisurely exploring Bath.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts people from all over the globe.

You’ll pass by the Royal Crescent, get a glimpse of the Bath Abbey, and see the Roman Baths and Pump Rooms.

Most tours pass by the Pulteney Bridge.

This tour actually stops!

You’ll have a short amount of time to explore the shops along this iconic bridge.

You’ll end the day at Stonehenge, learning about its mysterious history.

The professional tour guide will have answers to all your questions throughout the day.

6. Stonehenge and Bath Guided Day Tour from London

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 340+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11-12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Live commentary on board
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Smaller groups, no double-decker coaches
• Audio commentary in multiple languages

This tour gives you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

You can spend 2 hours at Stonehenge and 3 hours in Bath.

This means you don’t have to rush at all!

The coach is air-conditioned which is a welcome relief after walking outside for hours.

The guides will share their wealth of knowledge throughout the drive, as well.

This makes for an enjoyable and relaxing drive between destinations.

You can book tickets for the Roman Baths.

Or you can just explore the local shops and eateries in Bath on your own.

With 3 hours, you could even do a little bit of both.

If your trip to London is packed full of activities, this excursion may be a good option.

You will get to see two popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites while having a mostly relaxing day.

This tour will not be as exhausting as some of the others on this list.

7. Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath from London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 160+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

• Bottled water 
• Professional guide and driver
• Hotel pickup and drop-off 
• Private tour for up to 8 guests

This tour costs just over $1k.

However, that cost is for the entire group of up to 8 people.

That makes it quite affordable if you’re traveling with a bunch of family and friends!

They’ll pick you up at your hotel, cruise port, or wherever you will be in the morning.

Then they’ll give the VIP treatment all day on this small group tour!

You’ll drive through Eton College as you head off to see the many attractions scheduled for the day.

You’ll make quick stops at Woodhenge and the Royal Crescent.

You’ll spend extra time at Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath. 

Since you’ll be traveling with a local, you’ll be able to eat at one of the best restaurants around.

The tour company suggests Crystal Palace or Sally Lunn’s.

Both of these will offer traditional grub.

You’ll have more flexibility with this tour than any of the others.

It is a great option if you want a casual sightseeing experience!

Hey! Want to use our trusty guides to the best tours in other places across the UK? Check these out!

• 11 Best Tours of the Cotswolds from London in 2023
• 11 Best Tours of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh in 2023
• 5 Best London Open Top Bus Tours
• 9 Best Scottish Outlander Tours
• 9 Best Ghost Tours in Oxford
• 5 Best Bath Ghost Tours
• 9 Best Bus Tours in Edinburgh
• 19 Most Unique London Tours
• 9 Best Day Trips to Oxford from London
• 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
• 5 Best Tours of York, England
• 11 Best Oxford Walking Tours
• 21 Best London Walking Tours
• 11 Best London Rock ‘n’ Roll Tours
• 11 Best Beatles Tours in London
• 11 Best London Museum Tours
• 3 Best Morse Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best Walking Tours in Bath
• 13 Best Harry Potter Tours in Oxford
• 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
• 9 Best London Literary Tours
• 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
• 13 Best Evening & Night Tours of Edinburgh
• 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
• 11 Best London Bus Tours for Families
• 17 Best Harry Potter Tours in London
• 17 Best London Foodie Tours
• 13 Best Ghost & Haunted Tours in Edinburgh
• 11 Best Edinburgh Walking Tours
• 11 Best Private Tours in London
• 11 Best Ghost Tours in London
• 11 Fun Tours of Royal London
• 13 Isle of Skye Tours for a Magical Time
• 13 Mysterious Tours of Loch Ness
• 7 Best James Bond Tours in London
• 7 Best Paris Tours from London
• 7 Best Stratford-upon Avon Tours from London
• 7 Best Tours of Bath from London
• 7 Best Black Cab Tours from London
• 11 Best Downton Abbey Tours in the UK

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

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Home » Travel » Destinations » 5 Ways to Visit Stonehenge for Free

5 Ways to Visit Stonehenge for Free

Stonehenge is a place that captures the imagination. Its purpose and construction still hold mysteries after 5,000 years. But with admission costing nearly £20 per person, I’m certain that some people will never experience its magic unless they can visit Stonehenge for free.

Like many travel hacks, the old tips and tricks that worked a few years ago are no longer valid. Doing a Google search for “visit Stonehenge for free” will bring up posts and threads about driving down an old gravel road or pulling off of the A303.

However, recent renovations and road blocks have shut down these budget options.

Fortunately, there are still a few different ways to see Stonehenge for free.

This travel guide is part of my  UK road trip itinerary itinerary, which includes over a dozen destinations from London to Edinburgh!

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, click here .

Walk from Woodhenge to Stonehenge for free

This method to visit Stonehenge for free is 100% legal and includes some other historical sites along the way. While it does involve an hour-long walk to Stonehenge, you won’t need to worry about getting towed or ticketed.

The National Trust has a free car park at Woodhenge, another historic Neolithic monument in the area. Simply put “Woodhenge” into your navigation app of choice and head to the site. It’s located off of A345 on Fargo Road, and the small car lot is on the corner where Fargo Road bends around the site.

Woodhenge is thought to be an ancient burial site. It features more than 150 concrete posts arranged in six concentric rings. These once-wooden posts  (hence the name) were replaced by concrete so that visitors could see the ancient arrangement long after the wood rotted away.

After you’ve explored the site, follow the paths through the back fields to walk from Woodhenge to Stonehenge (see image below):

• Head out the Woodhenge gate and follow the walking path south along the outside fence.
• Continue south towards the thicket of trees.
• Follow the curve in the path and head west towards the patch of forest.
• Continue west on the path as it passes behind the houses, where you’ll soon reach an intersection. Take a left.
• Continue south past Long Barrow. You’ll come upon an English Heritage sign for Kings Barrow. Turn right at the sign.
• Continue south pass the thicket of trees, You’ll see a gate on your right. Pass through the gate and walk westt through the field.
• Eventually, you’ll reach a sign for Stonehenge. Take a left on the path and keep walking until you get to the fence behind the site.

This free view of Stonehenge is only a few meters back from the paid one, and it’s a lot more fun than taking a bus straight to the monument! Even paying visitors cannot just walk up to Stonehenge, as there’s a rope barrier ringing the stones.

If you want a more straightforward walk back to the Woodhenge car park, you can head west towards the gravel road.

Follow it all the way north until you reach an intersection with a thicket of trees on your right. Turn right and follow this path all the way back to Woodhenge.

RELATED: How to Save Money While Traveling: 15 Easy Tips

Park on Fargo Road and visit Stonehenge for free

This is the easiest and fastest way to see Stonehenge for free. However, it’s not totally clear to me if its acceptable to park and leave your car in a pull-off spot. Regardless, plenty of people use this route to get to Stonehenge:

• Set your navigation to Stonehenge Visitors Centre.
• Assuming you’re coming from A303, take the traffic circle to A360 and continue north.
• As you approach the Visitors Center on your right, continue straight. The road will become B3086.
• At the first intersection, turn right onto The Parkway. Continue straight until you come to Willoughby Road.
• Turn right onto Willoughby Road and follow it until you reach Fargo Road.
• The road will dead end straight ahead at a metal gate. Some people park in the pull-off near here, but there’s more space farther up Fargo Road.
• If you turn left on Fargo Road and head a half mile up the street, you’ll find pull-off parking on your left, across from a row of houses.
• Once you’ve parked, walk back to the metal gate where Willoughby Road ended. Pass through the gate on the left and follow the road south. It will eventually become a gravel road (the one people used to park on for free).
• Follow this road almost until you reach an intersection where the shuttle buses drop off paid visitors. Look for the public access gate. Pass through and take the path to Stonehenge.

Depending on where you park, you’ll be able to see Stonehenge for free in under 30 minutes! Compared to the Woodhenge path, this route is much easier to complete in low light and poor weather conditions.

Save me for later!

Try your luck with an off-season day trip to Stonehenge

It usually costs £5 to park in the Visitor’s Centre lot. However, if you take a day trip to Stonehenge during the week in low season, you could get to park for free.

Generally, there’s someone at the entrance to the car lot who will collect the parking fee. But in my experience (and according to the English Heritage website), parking attendants are only there during peak times. I did the drive from London to Stonehenge at the end of September when it was fairly slow, and no one was there to collect the £5.

If you use this method to visit Stonehenge for free, you can just walk up the side of the road until you reach the shuttle bus drop-off area. Then, simply pass through the public access gate to reach the stones.

RELATED: 31 London Sightseeing Tips From a Local

See Stonehenge for free with an English Heritage membership

Using an English Heritage membership to visit Stonehenge isn’t technically free, assuming you paid your dues.

However, if you live in the UK and like to visit historical sites, I think the cost is well worth it. You can even buy a monthly membership for less than £5!

There are places run by the National Trust and Historic Scotland that give free admission to English Heritage members as well.

Pro tip: if you live in the UK and have a Barclay Premier Rewards account, it comes with a free English Heritage membership!

Party with the locals during the free Summer Solstice event

You might have heard that the stones at Stonehenge were arranged in such a way to commemorate the shortest and longest days of the year. When the sun rises behind the Heel Stone on the summer solstice, its rays shine directly into the center of Stonehenge.

Every June, thousands of people gather at Stonehenge the evening before the solstice to celebrate this special event. Admission is free, though you’ll want to plan your visit to arrive by late afternoon. Otherwise, you’ll struggle to find parking and transportation in the area.

This experience belongs at the top of any UK bucket list !

Benefits of a paid Stonehenge visit

Although an admission ticket doesn’t mean you can just walk up to Stonehenge and touch the rocks, it does come with benefits.

If you’re wondering what to do in Stonehenge (aside from the obvious), there are a few other onsite activities that come with paid tickets.

You can check out the exhibition center, a mini-museum about Stonehenge. It even has a 360 degree theater that plays a time-lapse view of the site throughout time and seasons. I enjoyed learning about the history of Stonehenge and seeing the relics and artifacts found during excavation.

Paying customers can also ride the visitor shuttle either part-way or the whole way to and from Stonehenge. If the weather is unusually cold or rainy, this will make your visit far more pleasant.

Grab your skip the line ticket to save time!

Is Stonehenge Worth Visiting?

I think filling your itinerary with tourist attractions is one of the worst international travel mistakes . However, I don’t feel that Stonehenge falls into the category of “tourist trap”.

The very creation of Stonehenge is fascinating, from the way the ancient society figured out how to arrange the stones, to how they managed to stack them. Having learned about Stonehenge from a young age, it was an amazing experience to see this wonder first-hand.

My Favorite UK Travel Planning Books

These books win my travel blogger Seal of Approval for vacation planning:

• Fodor’s Essential Great Britain: with the Best of England, Scotland & Wales
• Lonely Planet: Great Britain’s Best Trips
• Rick Steves Great Britain

Have you taken a day trip to Stonehenge? Do you have any tips for how to visit Stonehenge for free? Let me know in the comments!

14 thoughts on “5 Ways to Visit Stonehenge for Free”

Thank you so much for this article – we are thoroughly stoked to have avoided the expensive fee they charge, which wouldn’t have made it worthwhile. It is great to have checked this off the bucket list.

I’m so happy I could help you, Lynda! I hope you enjoyed your visit to Stonehenge.

Hi Lynda! Can I ask what route/method you ended up using to view Stonehenge for free? Planning a trip in July and hoping for some advice from a recent visitor! 🙂

Hello and thanks for your post.

with the last works in the accesses to the circle of Stonehenge. You think it’s still possible to go free from Woodhenge or have limited access.

We will go this july and for a family with 2 childs is too expensive.

Thanks, Francisco! If you’re referring to the proposed tunnel works, I don’t believe they’ve begun. The latest update is that they’re waiting for Brexit to be sorted before they allocate the budget for it. You should still be able to walk from Woodhenge. But if you’re concerned, you can pay to park at the Visitor’s Centre and walk the public footpath.

Brilliant information. My daughter, son in law,2 grandchildren, my wife and disabled old me are planning on going in the next week or so, it will cost a small fortune for us all to pay. I am I right in understanding you can pay to park at the visitors centre and walk to the monuments for free? Will probably visit woodhenge also but can’t walk that far. Thanks.

Thanks, David! You are correct that you can pay to park at the visitor’s centre and then use the public footpath to reach the stones. There’s also a parking lot next to Woodhenge and it’s free (last time I checked)!

Hi, I’m headed there in a week, Sept. 11th, and wondering how crowded it is for sunset? was hoping to park close, or do the hiking trailhead starting around 3-4pm.

Hello Bo! Sorry for the late reply. I’ve not been to Stonehenge at sunset, but I imagine crowds will be thin, especially mid-week. You might run into some photographers, but most tourists are long gone before the sun dips down.

Thank you soooo much for this article, you saved me 40 pounds! And nothing makes your weekend better than saving 40 pounds! I happen to have Barclay Premier Rewards account and of course I didn’t know that it might be so handy. And in case anyone is wondering – I don’t think that the ticket is worth the price – unless you are very interested in history of Stonehenge you are better spending that money on something else than seeing Stonehenge.

So happy I could help, Michal!

Thank you so much for the information! We want to get to the site in Christmas, because in London everything is closed on this day (we will be coming from abroad). Do you think we can get there on foot on this day too?

Good question, Dan! Stonehenge is closed Christmas day, so it’s possible that the public footpath gates will be padlocked. I’m not sure. You could try emailing English Heritage to ask if the public access gates will remain open for people visiting on foot.

Thanks for this guide! We went in April 2022 and I can confirm that Willoghby road is now open, so you can drive almost to Stonehenge entry gates.

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• Tours from London - Out of London Tours >

Semi-Private Stonehenge, Avebury & Glastonbury Tour from London

Our semi-private Legend of King Arthur tour  departs from Central London and visits Stonehenge, Glastonbury, and Avebury, three of England’s most impressive sites with connections to King Arthur. Your experienced tour guide, an expert storyteller, will bring to life the legends of the mythical British leader.  The tour is available  every Friday (April to October).

This semi-private tour, with a maximum of 16 people, offers a more personal experience. Travel is in a panoramic, air-conditioned executive mini-coach.

Aerial view of Stonehenge

We begin the day with a visit to Stonehenge.  We arrive at the site before the crowds when Stonehenge is at its quietest. This 5000-year-old neolithic circle has amazed generations with its mystical qualities and challenging understanding of why it was constructed and how it was constructed. It is a marvel of engineering by an ancient people who quarried, shaped, and transported these vast stone blocks hundreds of miles to this site. Your expert guide will discuss with you the theories behind the very existence of this stone complex.

There is a visitor centre displaying archaeological finds, a reconstructed Neolithic village and a cafe on site

Glastonbury

Glastonbury Tor, where legend says King Arthur was buried

From here we’ll drive through some of the most beautiful english countryside to Glastonbury, home of the King Arthur Legends.

Further West, we enter Celtic lands to King Arthur’s Avalon and the mysterious Glastonbury Tor, rising above the wetlands and marshes of the Somerset Levels. Legend has it that after the Battle of Camlann, a mortally wounded Arthur was brought here. We visit his gravesite in the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey and learn of an earlier legend of Joseph of Arimathea and the Holy Grail.

We then visit Chalice Well, the tranquil and atmospheric gardens where Joseph was said to have hidden t the cup from the Last Supper .

Next to the ancient town of Glastonbury with its great selection of New Age shopping and many cafes for lunch.

Avebury Stone Circles

The day ends with a visit to Avebury, the huge complex of stone circles over 2300 years old, surrounded by a pretty village of thatched cottages. Enjoy a guided walk and some free time at the largest stone circle in Britain before our small group tour ends, and we return to London.

Our King Arthur Tour is available from London every Friday between April and October. If you are looking to travel on other days of the week, then check out our full range of day tours from London .

highlights:

• The King Arthur tour begins with pickup from three different locations in London
• Drive through the beautiful English countryside, across the Salisbury Plain, to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Stonehenge
• Discover the ancient stone circles at Stonehenge, an ancient Neolithic site over 5,000 years old
• Head to Glastonbury, set in the beautiful Somerset countryside

Glastonbury Abbey

• Visit Chalice Well, a beautiful garden and orchards. Legend has it that Joseph of Arimathea buried the Holy Grail on this site, which then became a spring from which holy water flowed that brought eternal youth to anyone who drank it. It is also home to the country’s oldest well and is an oasis of peace and tranquillity.
• Head to Glastonbury Tor, an impressive monument that watches over the surrounding landscape. Known as the Island of Avalon, this is where King Arthur was taken to be healed of his fatal battle wounds after fighting Mordred at the Battle of Camlann.
• Drive through the rolling chalk hills of the ancient Kingdom of Wessex, arriving at Avebury, home to the largest stone circles in Britain.
• Visit the pretty village of Avebury, with a guided walking tour and a visit to the Neolithic stone circles.
• The King Arthur tour ends with a drop-off at London Victoria train station

semi-private tour Pick UP and drop off Locations

Our semi-private tours pick up from 3 convenient central London locations.

 Schedule Pick-Up Times:

• 07:15: Outside the British Museum Main Gate, Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG
• 07:30: Marble Arch, outside the Cumberland Hotel, Great Cumberland Pl, London W1H
• 07:45: Outside Gloucester Road Tube station, meet at the station exit.
• 6.30pm: Return to London with drop-off at Victoria train station

Tour includes:

• Travel is in a panoramic, air-conditioned executive minibus with a maximum of 16 people.
• A friendly and knowledgeable guide
• Entrance fees to Stonehenge, Glastonbury Abbey & Chalice Well Gardens

Tour excludes:

• Food, drink
• Gratuities (optional)

Further details:

• The tour finishes with a dropoff at London Victoria train station. This is one of the largest stations in London and is easily accessible with connections to the District, Circle and Victoria lines.
• Fully refundable up to 24 hours before travel.
• You can view the booking conditions during the booking process, prior to confirmation of any booking

Tour Booking

Stonehenge:

Stonehenge’s history is a story you will become well accustomed to on our King Arthur tour. Whilst we know that Stonehenge was built over 4,000 years ago by Neolithic man, the biggest unanswered question is  why  it was built. There are many different theories and arguments flying around, and our expert tour guide will take you through some of them! You’ll get the chance to admire the sheer beauty and magic of the stone circles, which give the impression that time stands still!

Glastonbury Abbey:

Discover the legends and spirit of Glastonbury Abbey , the earliest Christian foundation in Britain. It was first settled, according to legends, in 63AD by Joseph of Arimathea.  Visit the legendary burial place of King Arthur, wander the grounds and take in the peace and tranquility of the site. Our tour guide will bring to life some of the most dramatic Arthurian legends, including tales of the Holy Grail and the Crown of Thorns.

Chalice Well Garden:

Chalice Well is a living sanctuary and place of quiet and peace. It is the site of the oldest well in Britain which is linked to tales of the Last Supper, the blood of Christ and is seen by many as a gift from Mother Earth. You’ll have the opportunity to drink the water from the holy well and take in the breathtaking surroundings. We stop at Chalice Well for a brief 25 minutes as part of the Stonehenge, Glastonbury & Avebury Tour.

Glastonbury Tor:

One of the most famous landmarks in England, Glastonbury Tor is known for its breathtaking panoramic sweeping views of the English countryside and as a place of spiritual importance for many. It was once an island and first construction at the site began at around the same time that Stonehenge was built. There are many myths and legends associated with Glastonbury Tor including the Lord of the Underworld and King of the Fairies.

terms and conditions

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Billy Joel headed to Ford Field in March with Stevie Nicks for latest Detroit concert

Billy Joel is on his way back to Detroit: The piano-playing pop star will hit Ford Field on March 29, joined by Stevie Nicks in a show billed as "One Night, One Stage."

Tickets will go on sale at 9 a.m. Oct. 4 through Ticketmaster. A presale for Citi cardholders will run from 10 a.m. Monday through 10 p.m. Oct. 3 via citientertainment.com .

The Live Nation-produced show was announced Thursday morning by Detroit Lions officials during a media event at the downtown stadium.

It will be the first Ford Field concert for Joel, whose five-decade touring career has included metro Detroit destinations such as Pine Knob Music Theatre, the Palace of Auburn Hills and Joe Louis Arena. In summer 2022, he headlined Comerica Park in a long-awaited, hit-stocked show delayed for two years by the COVID-19 pandemic.

More: Stevie Wonder to play Detroit, Grand Rapids in October as part of swing-state tour

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But the 75-year-old has been on the Lions’ turf once before: In 1994, he performed with Elton John at the Pontiac Silverdome, before the team’s move back downtown in 2002.

Thursday’s announcement follows the release of Joel’s first new single in nearly two decades, the retrospective ballad “Turn the Lights Back On.” It preceded the conclusion of his long-running hometown concert residency at New York’s Madison Square Garden this summer.

The Ford Field concert is among several Billy Joel shows announced nationally Thursday, with the others to feature Sting as guest. Joel’s Detroit show will land on a fitting date: March 29 — the 88 th day of the year — is National Piano Day worldwide.

Joel is among the few artists these days to launch concert announcements with old-school press conferences, and Thursday’s event was a festive one, featuring Lions cheerleaders, mascot Roary and speakers including game commentator Dan Miller, Live Nation regional president Dave Clark and Detroit Deputy Mayor Todd Bettison.

As next year’s concert calendar continues coming together, Clark described the Joel-Nicks stadium date as “the biggest show of 2025 to be announced so far.”

(This story was updated to add a photo and video.)