Stonehenge
Stonehenge is a fantastic day out for all the family. As well as being able to get up fairly close to the stones, you can also explore the history of the stones by visiting the exhibition. You will need to book your timed ticket slot in advance online. Both English Heritage and National Trust members benefit from free, entry. Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument. It consists of a ring of standing stones, each around 13 feet (4.0 m) high, seven feet (2.1 m) wide, and weighing around 25 tons.
What can you do at Stonehenge?
The stones are set within earthworks in the middle of the densest complex of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments in England, including several hundred burial mounds. Archaeologists believe it was constructed from 3000 BC to 2000 BC. Access to the Stones is either on foot or via a complimentary shuttle bus, available for those with limited mobility or anybody who isn’t feeling up for the walk to the Stones. The children loved the shuttle.
Once closer to the stones, you are free, to wander around the one-way path at your leisure, and you can take photos (top tip: the best spots are 3/4 of the way around). You can also listen to the free, audio tour via your smartphone, and read up on the history of the stones on handy plaques on your way around. Children may enjoy the chance to say hello to the sheep in the surrounding countryside, from a distance, on the way around. If you do decide to walk from the visitor centre, make sure you wear sensible footwear. The path is flat and even, but it is a long walk (approximately 30 minutes, depending on pace – little legs will take longer).
The exhibition is mainly indoors, although there is also an outdoor area where you can find out more about Stonehenge’s past, with members of staff in character, transporting visitors back in time, immersing you in history. Although I wouldn’t say there is enough to keep you busy for a whole day, definitely set aside at least a couple of hours to fully enjoy your visit, and you can always combine your visit with a trip to local Salisbury, to make a day of it.
Important Information Stonehenge
Is there food and drink available?
There is a cafe on-site.
What are the main things to do?
Historical site with 4,000 years plus standing stones set in a circle including an audio tour. Plus a visitor centre with an exhibition and outdoor reenactors. There are toilets and a cafe
What are the ticket prices?
Free, to members of English Heritage and the National Trust.
An adult ticket without donation midweek is £23.60 and £14.50 for a child aged 5-17. Rising to £26.30 and £16.30 at the weekend. Children under 5 years are free.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.
Is there parking?
There is free parking.
When are they open?
Stonehenge is open for most of the year but it does shut for a few days over winter. For up-to-date opening times and dates please follow this link.
Dog friendly?
Only assistance dogs are permitted.
Are they accessible?
Guest post with thanks to Emma-Louise from Even Angels Fall
