Plan Your Visit To Stonehenge Today: Tips & Booking Information

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Prepare for an unforgettable journey to Stonehenge, one of Europe’s most iconic prehistoric landmarks. This guide provides essential information to help you plan your visit and enjoy the site to the fullest.

Stonehenge: Visitor Guidelines

Access Restrictions: To preserve the ancient stones, direct contact with the monument is generally not permitted. Visitors are asked to respect all signage and barriers.

Photography: Photography and mobile phone use are allowed throughout the site for personal use. However, tripods or professional equipment may require prior permission.

Food and Drink: Outside food and drinks can be enjoyed in designated picnic areas around the visitor centre but are not permitted near the stone circle itself.

Smoking: Smoking is prohibited within the Stonehenge site and visitor centre, ensuring a clean and pleasant environment for all guests.

Dress Code: As much of Stonehenge’s site is outdoors, visitors are recommended to wear suitable clothing and footwear for the weather and walking conditions.

Stonehenge: Location

Stonehenge is situated at Salisbury SP4 7DE, United Kingdom, approximately 2 miles west of Amesbury and 8 miles north of Salisbury. The prehistoric monument is surrounded by open countryside and ancient burial mounds, offering a glimpse into the Neolithic landscape. Nearby landmarks include the Avebury stone circle and the River Avon, both notable historical sites in the region.

Stonehenge: Opening Hours

Stonehenge welcomes visitors daily throughout the year, with opening and closing hours that vary seasonally to accommodate daylight changes and visitor demand.

Opening Hours:

- 1st January to 27th March: 9:30 AM - 5 PM (last entry is at 3 PM)

- 28th March to 6th September: 9:30 AM - 6 PM (last entry is at 4 PM)

- 7th September to 16th March: 9:30 AM - 5 PM (last entry is at 3 PM)

Please note that Stonehenge is closed on December 25th.

Visitors can also enjoy the on-site restaurant, which operates during Stonehenge’s opening hours, providing a convenient place to dine or refresh. The restaurant’s opening times align closely with the venue’s schedule to cater to visitors before, during, and after their visit.

Good To Know Before Your Visit To Stonehenge

Facilities provided at Stonehenge

Visitors to Stonehenge can take advantage of a range of facilities designed to enhance their experience.

- On-site amenities include modern restrooms with baby-changing facilities, accessible toilets, and free Wi-Fi in designated areas.

- The site is fully accessible, with step-free routes, shuttle transport to the stone circle, and wheelchairs available to borrow.

- An exhibition space introduces the history of Stonehenge through archaeological finds and interactive displays, while outdoor areas recreate Neolithic houses to provide context to the monument.

Rules and Regulations at Stonehenge

To preserve this iconic prehistoric site, certain regulations are in place.

- Visitors are required to stay on designated paths to protect the stones and surrounding landscape.

- Touching or climbing on the stones is strictly prohibited.

- Photography is allowed; however, the use of drones is not permitted.

- Pets must be kept on a leash at all times, and littering is forbidden to maintain the site's natural beauty.

- Respectful behaviour is expected to ensure a pleasant visit for all.

Accessibility at Stonehenge

Stonehenge is committed to welcoming all visitors, including those with mobility challenges. The site features accessible parking spaces close to the visitor centre, level pathways suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, and accessible restroom facilities.

Assistance dogs are welcome. For visitors with hearing or visual impairments, informative materials are available, and guided tours can be requested in advance where possible.

Dining at Stonehenge

At the Stonehenge café, enjoy a variety of hot and cold snacks made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Choose from sandwiches, soups, hotpots, salads, and their famous Rock Cakes. For something heartier, try one of the vegan or traditional pasties, or indulge in a comforting sausage roll. Whether you prefer sweet or savoury, there’s something for everyone.

All food is served in eco-friendly, picnic-ready packaging, and the café follows a strict 'zero to landfill' recycling policy to minimise waste.

If you prefer, you’re welcome to bring your own picnic. There’s a designated picnic area in the monument field, offering a tranquil spot to enjoy your meal with one of the most iconic views in the world.

Souvenir Shop at Stonehenge

At Stonehenge, the on-site gift shop provides a variety of souvenirs including books, replicas of the stones, postcards, and locally crafted items.

Visitors can also find apparel and accessories inspired by the monument’s rich history. The shop offers quality keepsakes, perfect for remembering a meaningful visit or for gifting.

Hotels near Stonehenge

Budget-friendly: The Salisbury Red Lion Hotel, and The Pembroke Arms.

Mid-range: The Antrobus Hotel, and The Old Mill Hotel.

Luxury: The Old George Inn, and the Archway House.

Tourist Attractions nearby Stonehenge

Beyond Stonehenge, the surrounding region features several points of interest. The historic city of Salisbury boasts a magnificent cathedral with the tallest spire in the UK.

Avebury Stone Circle, another prehistoric site with larger stone circles, offers a complementary experience. Additionally, Old Sarum provides an ancient hillfort site with commanding views and extensive history to explore. These destinations are ideal for enriching your visit to the area.

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Stonehenge: Entry Ticket + Audio Guide

Highlights

Avoid long queues with priority admission.

Discover Stonehenge and its Visitor Centre.

Access an audio guide available in English and 12 additional languages.

Immerse yourself in the enigmatic atmosphere of this famous Neolithic monument.

Benefit from straightforward ticket booking and onsite pick-up options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Stonehenge

What are the opening hours for Stonehenge?

Stonehenge is generally open daily with varying hours depending on the season. The site generally opens at 9:30 AM but closes at 6 PM during summer and 5 PM during winter.

Is parking available at Stonehenge?

Yes, there is a designated car park for visitors close to the monument, with limited spaces available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can I access Stonehenge in a wheelchair?

Stonehenge is accessible to visitors with mobility issues, including wheelchair users, with appropriate facilities to assist your visit.

Is photography allowed at Stonehenge?

Visitors are welcome to take photographs of the monument for personal use; however, drone use and commercial photography require prior permission.

Are there any amenities for visitors at Stonehenge?

Visitor amenities include restrooms, a gift shop, and a cafe offering refreshments near the entrance area.

Can I touch the stones at Stonehenge?

Direct access to the stones is restricted to protect the monument. Visitors can view the stones from a close but safe distance on the designated pathways.