Stonehenge

The basics

Stonehenge was built on the Salisbury Plain over many years, from the Neolithic era until the Bronze Age. The earliest part of the structure was just the outer bank and ditch, while the stones came later.

Entrance to the National Trust-managed site is via timed tickets granting 30 minutes of access. Visitors can view the stones up close and shuttle between observation areas. Travelers must book special Stonehenge tours outside regular opening hours to visit the Inner Circle and walk among the stones. Day tours from London often also stop at nearby attractions such as Oxford, Windsor Castle, Bath, Stratford-Upon-Avon, or the Cotswolds.

Things to know before you go

• Book in advance as lines can be long, and tours and tickets can sell out quickly, especially in summer.

• Audio guides are available in 10 languages.

• Free Wi-Fi is available at the visitor center.

• Be prepared for unpredictable weather, wind, and rain.

• The shuttle buses, visitor center, car park, and stone-viewing areas are wheelchair-accessible.

How to get there

Stonehenge is located in southern England, about 88 miles (142 kilometers) southwest of London, which is about two hours away by car. Most tours include round-trip transportation from London and offer pick-up from hotels or a central location. It’s also possible to take a paid shuttle bus from Salisbury’s train station.

When to get there

Stonehenge is open year-round, but the most atmospheric time to visit is during the massive summer or winter solstice celebrations when entrance is free. Although visits are timed, the attraction can get crowded in summer. Arive early or opt for a sunrise or sunset tour to experience the landmark when it's least crowded—and most photogenic. Note that the last admission is 2 hours before closing.

Unraveling the mysteries of Stonehenge

To learn more about the site, head to the visitor center. Here you can see archaeological treasures unearthed at the site, gain unique perspectives through a 360-degree audio-visual display, and step inside a series of recreated Neolithic dwellings.

How much does it cost to walk around Stonehenge?

Stonehenge ticket costs vary depending on the season and when you purchase them. If buying advance tickets online, expect to spend at least £22 per person (£20 without the optional donation). Children and families have discounted rates. Tickets sold at the landmark are typically more expensive.

Do I need to buy tickets to see Stonehenge?

While you can see Stonehenge from afar, you need tickets to visit up close. To take advantage of lower prices and guarantee your admission, purchase advance tickets online. You can also buy last-minute, day-of tickets, though you may need to wait in long lines to enter with them.

How long is a tour of Stonehenge?

English Heritage recommends at least 2.5 hours to visit Stonehenge. Keep in mind that in addition to the famous monument, there is a visitor center with museum exhibitions and multimedia displays and a recreated Neolithic village located right outside.

Can you just turn up to Stonehenge?

Yes, you can turn up at Stonehenge without buying a ticket in advance. However, you may need to navigate long lines upon arrival, depending on the time of year or the crowds. Booking in advance online is usually less expensive.

How do I plan a trip to Stonehenge?

There are many convenient ways to see Stonehenge, including organized tours from nearby hubs like London and Southampton. If traveling independently, book tickets in advance to guarantee entry. The nearest train station is Salisbury Station, located 9 miles (15 kilometers) away. From there, it’s just a quick taxi trip.

How much time should I spend at Stonehenge?

To make the most of your visit to Stonehenge, set aside at least 2.5 hours—enough time to see the best of the pre-historic marvel. You’ll want time to explore the immersive visitor center, check out the on-site living history village, and soak up the ambiance at your own pace.

Ways to explore

Stonehenge draws up to 1.3 million visitors annually and is the most famous archaeological site in Britain. Entrance to the National Trust-managed site is via timed tickets granting 30 minutes of access to view the stones up close from outside the circle. Travelers must book special Stonehenge tours outside regular opening hours to visit the Inner Circle and walk among the stones. Day tours from London often also stop at nearby attractions such as Oxford, Windsor Castle, Bath, Stratford-Upon-Avon, or the Cotswolds.

Visitors can linger inside the site for 30 minutes. Tours from London take about 6 hours, or up to 11 hours if stops at additional nearby attractions are included. The 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) trail from the visitor center to the stones takes around 30 minutes to walk, or you can catch the free shuttle bus that departs every 5 minutes.

Accessibility

The shuttle bus, visitor center, parking lot, and stone-viewing areas are wheelchair-accessible. Two wheelchairs are available at the ticket office on a first-come, first-served basis.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, windbreaker

Not allowed

Climbing on the stones, drones, large bags, smoking and alcoholic beverages, tents and camping gear

Amenities

Restrooms, café, picnic area, audio guide, souvenir shop, baby changing facility

Address

Stonehenge is located in southern England, about 88 miles (142 kilometers) southwest of London, just outside of Salisbury. Most tours include round-trip transportation from London and offer pick-up from hotels or a central location.

Driving

The site sits along the A360, with a clearly signposted exit off the A303. It’s about a 2-hour drive from London and a 15-minute drive from Salisbury. Free parking is near the visitor center, connected to the stones by a walking path or a shuttle bus.

Public transportation

Trains and public buses run from London, Bristol/Bath, and Southampton to Salisbury train station. An hourly tour bus runs between the station and the Stonehenge visitor center.

Best times to visit

Arrive early or opt for a sunrise or sunset tour to experience the landmark before the bus tours from London roll in. This is when Stonehenge is the least crowded—and most photogenic.

Best days to visit

This popular archaeological site sees a steady stream of visitors each day, but weekends and holidays are especially crowded. Opt for a weekday morning to enjoy its mystical atmosphere in relative peace. The site is closed on Christmas Day.

Best months to visit

This open-air site is exposed to the elements, so expect blustery days and bone-chilling temperatures in winter. Opt for a spring or fall visit for more mild weather without the summer crowds.

Special events

The most atmospheric time to visit is during the massive summer or winter solstice celebrations when entrance is free and thousands gather to see how the stones were placed to perfectly align with the rising sun.