Stonehenge

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Stonehenge: Tours & Tickets

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5 Facts About the History of Stonehenge

The history of Stonehenge is shrouded in mystery and the theories to the site's origins and purpose are as numerous as they are fanciful. Many are convinced it was built by aliens! Here are 5 hard facts about the world's most famous prehistoric monument.

  • 5000 Years Old

    1. 5000 Years Old

    Stonehenge was built in several stages. Radiocarbon dating estimates that the first constructions occurred over 5000 years ago, several centuries before the Pyramids.

  • A Prehistoric Cemetery

    2. A Prehistoric Cemetery

    Many functions have been attributed to Stonehenge. One that's been confirmed is its use as a prehistoric burial ground – discovered cremated remains date back as far as 3000 B.C.

  • Early Scientists

    3. Early Scientists

    Despite its age, the fact that Stonehenge is aligned with the trajectory of the setting and rising sun gives evidence to a very advanced understanding of mathematics and geometry.

  • Stones From Afar

    4. Stones From Afar

    The larger stones are up to 9 meters tall and weigh around 20 tons. These were transported over 20 miles. The smaller stones, weighing 3 to 4 tons, were transported over 150 miles!

  • Pesky Earthworms

    5. Pesky Earthworms

    After researching the site in the late 19th century, Charles Darwin concluded that earthworms were the main reason why the Stonehenge stones have sunk into the ground.

Planning Your Visit

  • Take Advantage of the Audio Guide

    To make the most of your time at Stonehenge and learn all about the history and the many theories surrounding the site, make sure to grab one of the audio guides, which are available for free on site. Or even better, to avoid queuing for the audio guide, you can download it for free online and listen to it on your own portable music device.

  • Stop by Salisbury

    About 13 kilometers from Stonehenge is Salisbury, a picturesque medieval city with a gorgeous cathedral. Once you've come all this way, it's worth adding a couple of hours to your trip and explore this lovely historic gem.

  • Enjoy the Sunset

    Stonehenge is a magnificent sight at any time of day, but at sunset it's quite simply magical. If you can time your visit accordingly, you won't regret it. Note that you won't be alone – Stonehenge is very popular at sunset. If a leisurly visit is more important to you, then your best bet is arriving early. The site opens to visitors at 9:30am all year except from June through August, when it opens at 9:00am.

Good to know

  • When should I visit?
    Open daily, 9:30 AM-7:00 PM
    Holiday hours may vary
  • Is it expensive?
    Standard adult; £14.50
  • Will I need a guide?
    Free audio guides are avaliable on site, or to download in advance.
  • How to get there
    By Car: Off the A360 at Airman's Corner. By Bus: The Stonehenge Tour Bus is the public bus departing from Salisbury rail and bus stations.
  • Additional information

    • Last admission is two hours before advertised closing time.

    • Advance booking is now required as entrance to Stonehenge is managed through timed tickets.

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What people are saying about Stonehenge

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 9,529 reviews

Very well organised during Covid restrictions. Good parking facilities, toilets and refreshments. Walking to the site is the best option for able people although the paths laid out are a bit uneven and makes way for uncomfortable walking some of the way. Taking the shuttle bus is worth it as it is a bit of a walk. Glad you can get close enough for close up photos.

Stonehenge Admission Ticket Reviewed by Anonymous, 10/28/2020

Helpful?

It was wonderful. Karen was an excellent guide, so nice and competent. Malcolm the driver was so sympathetic and funny. All the safe mesures were done. It was an amazing day. I recommend!!! Now I have to wait the second lockdown ends to get another tour.

Stonehenge and Bath Full-Day Tour from London Reviewed by Marco Aurélio Souza, 11/6/2020

Helpful?

Nice place. I didn't expect that I can reach that much close to the rocks. Also, there were not many people there as maybe it was the first day of re-open. It was really great :)

Stonehenge Admission Ticket Reviewed by Anonymous, 4/13/2021

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This was the best trip I have ever been on!! It was a magical day for myself and my family and worth every penny. A definite must see!!

Stonehenge Admission Ticket Reviewed by Susan, 11/2/2020

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It is a great historical feature worthy visit. We enjoyed the walk to stone henge under sunny and chilly day.

Stonehenge Admission Ticket Reviewed by Yi Man Agnes, 11/2/2020

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