Settled in the beautiful rural county of Wiltshire, Stonehenge is one of the most famous landmarks in the UK. Flocked to by presidents and kings, it remains one of the most visited sites in the world, with many choosing to spend the winter and summer solstice at this iconic historical space. If you’re looking for somewhere incredible to travel to or planning your next staycation, a trip to Stonehenge should be right at the top of your list.
History
Stonehenge is an ancient, prehistoric monument made up of a circle of standing stones and is believed to have been constructed in 3000 BC. According to archaeologists, the site likely took millions of hours to put together and may have been settled as a burial ground during the Neolithic and Bronze Ages in England.
A trip to Stonehenge is as fun as it is educational
Even the surrounding areas, which are owned by the National Trust, have further structures that have been traced back centuries – Woodhenge, near Salisbury, is also a popular attraction. Since 1986, Stonehenge has been a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered a significant cultural icon of the British landscape.
According to archaeologists, the site likely took millions of hours to put together and may have been settled as a burial ground during the Neolithic and Bronze Ages in England
What to do at Stonehenge
Of course, the main attraction is the stones themselves, but the site where Stonehenge stands has been developed to offer fun for the whole family. With its newly-constructed visitor centre, the site often hosts exhibitions, games and activities for children.
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- See archaeological objects and treasures on display at Stonehenge Visitor Centre
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- The Visitor Centre offers hands-on exhibitions
Staff and volunteers are primed with the knowledge to take you back into the history of this astounding man-made monument. Or, you can book a once-in-a-lifetime Stone Circle Experience to get up close to the stones and experience the majesty of the structure.
Stonehenge is also just one of several great landmarks to see and experience in Wiltshire. The county offers excellent rural walks and cycling routes, as well as historic towns to visit and things to see. It’s also conveniently located to the cities of Bath and Bristol.
Clues to the past at Stonehenge
Factfile
Location: Near Amesbury, Wiltshire SP4 7DE
Opening hours: 9.30-17.00
Cost: Free if you’re an English Heritage or National Trust Member. Non-members £11.70-£50.70
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