How to Visit Stonehenge – Everything You Need to Know
Welcome to your one-stop guide to visiting Stonehenge — including the best tips, ticket prices, transport options, and expert advice to plan the perfect trip to this iconic prehistoric site. Whether you’re travelling from London, Bath or elsewhere in the UK, we’ll help you make the most of your Stonehenge visit.
Stonehenge Visit Essentials
Location: Salisbury Plain, Wiltshire, England – HOW TO GET THERE
Opening Times: Seasonal hours (typically 9:30am – 5pm winter / extended summer hours)
Tickets: Timed-entry tickets required and often sell out – BOOK TICKETS
Average Visit Duration: 2–3 hours
Visitor Centre: Exhibition, café, gift shop and shuttle bus to the stones – FIND OUT MORE
Stonehenge is one of Britain’s most famous prehistoric monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during weekends and summer months.
Compare Stonehenge Visit Options
Not sure which Stonehenge experience is right for you? Use this comparison table to choose the best ticket or tour based on budget, time and access level.
| Option | Typical Price | Duration | Best For | Includes Transport? | Book In Advance? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Stonehenge Ticket | £20–£30 | 2–3 hours | Independent visitors & self-drive trips | No | Yes – timed entry |
| Express Tour from London | £65–£90 | 5–6 hours | Visitors short on time | Yes (coach) | Strongly recommended |
| Full Day Tour (Stonehenge + Bath/Windsor) | £85–£130 | 10–12 hours | First-time UK visitors | Yes (coach) | Yes |
| Inner Circle Access Experience | £120–£200 | 6–10 hours | Bucket list & special access | Usually | Essential – very limited |
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Stonehenge Visit Reviews
Our afternoon was the best couple of hours spent in the UK! The Stones were fantastic and the experience centre brought it to life! A great trip out of London for all the family!
Pippa Rogers, New York USA
We had a fantastic time visiting the stone circles, Windsor Castle, and the Roman Baths. The shuttle bus from the Visitor Centre to the Stones was especially helpful, as my wife isn’t the best walker. It made our experience much more relaxing.
David Williams, California USA
I’ve visited many National Trust sites across the UK, but my Stonehenge visit is my favourite by far. I recently went for the Summer Solstice, and it was amazing to experience the vibe. It felt surreal to think that people have been doing this for thousands of years.
Amanda B, Warrington UK
Other Interesting Attractions To Visit Near Stonehenge
Woodhenge
A popular spot is Woodhenge, just 2.5 miles away. Built around 2500 BC and discovered in 1925, Woodhenge offers a great walking route from Stonehenge. Many visitors enjoy stopping there for lunch at a local pub before heading back.
Avebury
You might also be interested in visiting Avebury, a larger stone circle than Stonehenge. Avebury is free to visit, so you can enjoy two great attractions for the price of one. It’s 24 miles away, so you’ll need transport, but there are great pubs for lunch. There’s debate about which site is better, but Avebury also has a fantastic museum.
Salisbury
Finally, Salisbury, just 10 miles away, is a popular nearby destination to visit. It has the nearest mainline train station to Stonehenge. Salisbury Cathedral, over 800 years old, houses one of four original copies of the Magna Carta. Many sightseeing tours include Salisbury along with Stonehenge. Note that there is an entry fee for the cathedral, but it’s free for children under 13.
Visiting Stonehenge for Solstice…
There are two Solstice events: Summer and Winter. The biggest is the Summer Solstice on June 22nd, when the sun rises over the Heel Stone, visible through the outer circle. English Heritage opens Stonehenge early, allowing visitors to walk among the Stones and experience the festive atmosphere. It’s magical to think this ritual has been happening for over 5000 years. Druids often visit during these times to celebrate their pagan history.
