Stonehenge - mystical and magical
One of the many mysteries of mankind is Stonehenge near Amesbury in England. A mystical and magical place, surrounded by the unspoiled Wiltshire countryside, with monumental stone circles that have remained unchanged for thousands of years.
This prehistoric monument, built by our ancestors with their bare hands and the simplest of tools, attracts visitors from all over the world year after year and poses mysteries that have yet to be fully solved.
Over 4000 years ago in the Neolithic period, the ring-shaped earth wall was created, in the middle of which worked stones were placed to form a formation. This site was in use at least until the Bronze Age and stories and legends still surround the structure today. And even scientists have found little that tells us anything about the structure.
But Stonehenge is more than just a historical monument. It is a place where you can feel the passage of time, a place that inspires reflection and fires the imagination. What motivated our ancestors to transport these stones here and erect them in this particular formation? Was it astronomical, religious or perhaps even cultural reasons?
The region around Stonehenge offers a wealth of historical, cultural and scenic attractions that make a visit worthwhile. As well as Stonehenge, there are other spectacular prehistoric sites near Salisbury such as Avebury, Old Sarum and Silbury Hill. Avebury is famous for the largest stone circle in the world and features ancient tombs and other remains from the Neolithic and Bronze Age. Old Sarum, just 14 kilometers from Stonehenge, is another highlight for history buffs.
The region is rich in picturesque villages and historic towns. Lacock, a picturesque village protected by the National Trust, and Castle Combe, considered the most beautiful village in England, are just two examples.
Stonehenge excursions
Just 13 km North of Salisbury is Stonehenge where multiple concentric circles made of megalith structures dating back to the Neolithic Age can be found. We decided to visit the World Cultural Heritage Site on a day trip before we came to London.
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Stonehenge travel information
Arrival
By plane
London is located about 140 kilometers from Stonehenge. Major international airports are located here.
By train
The nearest train station is in Salisbury. Trains from London, Plymouth, Exeter, Bristol and Southampton stop here.
Tour buses run from the station to Stonehenge.
By car
Stonehenge is located near the junction of the A303 and A360. The route is well signposted. There is a large parking lot at the visitor center.
By ship
Even though Stonehenge is inland, it is a popular destination for cruisers. They are bussed from Southampton to the visitor center.
Best time to visit
Spring (March to June)
Spring in Stonehenge welcomes you with warmer temperatures and more hours of sunshine. However, the maximum temperature is just 12°C, so it can still be quite cold even in May. Nevertheless, spring is the least rainy season in the UK.
Summer (June to August):
Summers in the region are mild and pleasant, with temperatures that can often soar into the high 20°C. However, it is important to note that there can be rainy days, especially in August.
Autumn (September to November):
Autumn is considered to be very changeable, as cool air masses repeatedly meet warm air masses over the UK here. Rainfall can be a problem. Temperatures start to drop, often to an average of 10-15°C.
Winter (December to February):
Winters in the UK are mild compared to many other European countries, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. Average temperatures are often between 5-10°C, although there can be colder days.