Stonehenge is a major tourist attraction and is always busy whenever you visit even in winter. The stones are particularly busy during the summer solstice on June 20/21st and the winter solstice in December. At these times the stones are only open on a managed access basis. The alignment of the stones on the longest and shortest days attracts thousands of visitors and it is the only time you can actually go into the stone circle itself. How to visit stonehenge.
Can you visit Stonehenge on your own?
The landmark itself is entirely free to enjoy from afar, but you should plan to spend some money if you want to visit the museum or enjoy a close-up experience. For more details on museum access and other costs, make sure to read our full post on Stonehenge tickets and discounts.
How much time is needed at Stonehenge?
We think you need at least 2.5 hours to see Stonehenge, but you’re welcome to spend as long as you like looking around the exhibition, the Stone Circle and the wider National Trust landscape. We’ve put together some itineraries to help you plan your time with us.
Can you just walk into Stonehenge?
Can I get into the Stone Circle? Unfortunately, you can’t just walk up to Stonehenge during normal day-to-day hours, The Stone Circle has a thin rope around the perimeter in order to protect the attraction and maintain it for future visitors. The nearest you can get to the stones is roughly 15 yards away.
How do you get to Stonehenge on your own?
During normal opening hours you cannot walk up to the stones themselves. The nearest you will get to the stones is about 10 yards, the monument being roped off by a low barrier, (see picture below). However it is possible to walk up to and among the stones at Stonehenge outside public opening hours.
Can you visit Stonehenge without a tour?
The landmark itself is entirely free to enjoy from afar, but you should plan to spend some money if you want to visit the museum or enjoy a close-up experience. For more details on museum access and other costs, make sure to read our full post on Stonehenge tickets and discounts.
How much does it cost to walk Stonehenge?
The price to enter Stonehenge in 2023 is £21.80 (£24 with Gift Aid) and you also have to pay to park up at the visitor centre in peak season. That’s a maximum of £28 per ticket! That’s without the price of your travel. Last year, English Heritage made £73 million alone from Stonehenge.
What is the best time of day to see Stonehenge?
The best time of day to visit Stonehenge is before 9.30am in the morning and in the afternoon after 4pm in the summer or 2pm in the winter. The number of visitors to Stonehenge various enormously depending on the time of day.
Is it worth it to see Stonehenge?
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.
Can you go to Stonehenge without a tour?
Yes, you can definitely go to Stonehenge without a tour. If you have a car, you can drive from London to Stonehenge in about two hours. Taking public transport is another option.
How to visit stonehenge, Entrance to Stonehenge is managed through timed tickets. If you want to guarantee entry on the day and time of your choice then you will have to pre-book tickets or book a tour. Skip-the-queue tickets can be purchased through Get Your Guide (my tour operator of choice) and are highly recommended if you want to avoid the crowds and queues.