Ancient Stonehenge

Central Park West NY, USA

Duration

10 days

Tour Type

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Overview

Stonehenge is an ancient stone circle monument, cemetery, and archaeological site on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England, about 8 miles (13 km) north of Salisbury. Though there is no definitive proof of Stonehenge’s original function, it was apparently a holy place and a symbol of the power and riches of the chieftains, nobles, and priests who have had it built—many of whom were buried nearby in the countless barrows. It was presumably utilized for watching the Sun and Moon and calculating the farming calendar since it was aligned with the Sun. Perhaps the location was dedicated to the realm of the ancestors, was segregated from the world of the living, or served as a healing center. It’s unclear if it was utilized by the Druids (Celtic priests), but Druids meet there every year to celebrate the midsummer dawn. Looking toward the morning, the northeast entrance points over a large pillar, now tilting at an angle known as the Heel Stone. Looking in the other direction, it points to the midwinter sunset. The midsummer northern hemisphere is also honored there by large crowds.

Stonehenge was constructed in six phases approximately 3000 and 1520 BCE, in the passage from the Neolithic Period (New Stone Age) to the Bronze Age. It is notable as a prehistoric stone circle for its intentionally carved sarsen stones (blocks of Cenozoic silcrete) set in post-and-lintel arrangement, as well as the remote provenance of its smaller bluestones (igneous and other rocks) from 100–150 miles (160–240 km) away, in South Wales. The monument’s name is most likely derived from the Saxon stan-hengen, which means “stone hanging” or “gallows.” Stonehenge was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986, along with more than 350 surrounding antiquities and megaliths (ancient earthworks consisting of a circular bank and ditch), along with the similar temple complex at Avebury.

Included/Exclude

Pick and Drop Services
1 Meal Per Day
Cruise Dinner & Music Event
Visit 7 Best Places in the City With Group

Additional Services
Insurance
Food & Drinks
Tickets

Tour Plan

Day 1

Neolithic Houses

On the grounds that now comprise the Stonehenge complex, there are also intriguing reproductions of five Neolithic homes. They were all rebuilt using discoveries from excavations at Durrington during that time period.

Various artifacts have been placed within to help visitors learn how people lived 4,500 years ago. To supplement this instructional component, numerous volunteers explain various elements of prehistoric life to visitors.

Stonehenge Exhibition

This display is a must-see if you want to learn more about Stonehenge and its putative architects. It will teach you all you need to know about the tomb, from its stonework to the individuals who originally lived, to the scenery and, obviously, the probable significance of the remains. All of this knowledge is displayed via the use of antique artifacts as well as video displays. There are over 250 archaeological artifacts on exhibit, including pottery, tools, jewelry, and human bones.

Day 2

Special Exhibition

If you're curious about Stonehenge and its residents, you may always visit a unique display that debuted in 2015. This installation, titled "Wish You Were Here," depicts the evolution of the Stonehenge structure through time. Similarly, it depicts the process through which the remains became legendary around the world.

The items in this show are from the personal collection of Julian Richards, a well-known British archaeologist, and radio and television broadcaster who has written numerous books about Stonehenge. Other items on loan from the adjacent Salisbury Museum and the Wiltshire Museum can also be seen.

If you return to London and wish to learn more about Stonehenge's history, the British Museum (one of the greatest) is a great place to start.

Stone Circles

Stonehenge's biggest draw is, of course, its stone circles. Despite the fact that scientists have been researching them for ages, it is still unknown what they were made for or what role they served.

It is also unknown how those prehistoric craftsmen were able to transport the large stones that comprised them from such a long distance.

Day 3

Around Stonehenge

Stonehenge is the most well-known monument in the region, there are many more sights nearby that are worth visiting. These vary from prehistoric remnants to fascinating cathedrals. Those fascinated by prehistory will be in luck if they get the opportunity to tour the entire county. Indeed, the Salisbury Plain region was designated a World Heritage Site due to the abundance of Neolithic and Bronze Age relics.

Virtual Experience

Although Stonehenge is completely tied to prehistoric man's life, visitors will be able to employ cutting-edge technology to enhance their experience.

As a result, in the Stonehenge Visitor Center, you may enjoy an immersive experience that will astound everyone. It is a true trip through time in which you can watch how the seasons change from within the monument and how the surrounding countryside transforms as the annual and seasonal solstices approach utilizing a 360o perspective.

Day 4

Stonehenge and the Summer Solstice

As I have stated, Stonehenge has a significant spiritual component for many visitors. This meant that for a long time, the region was packed with people performing various rites, particularly those associated with the old Druids. All of this spirituality grows stronger at particular seasons of the year. The summer solstice at Stonehenge on June 21, the lengthiest day of the year, is the most important.

The Stonehenge complex and its surrounds attract a considerable number of people who come to see the dawn beneath the well-known Heel Stone.

The choice by English Heritage to webcast live these ceremonies demonstrates the significance of this day. It is also an excellent opportunity to go on one of the greatest trips available from London, that can be paired with other local sights.

Stone circle experience

Since entry to the interior of the mentioned rings is prohibited for protection and conservation reasons, practically all visitors may only see them from behind ropes. However, the English Heritage Society, which is in charge of Stonehenge's management and preservation, conducts planned trips from Salisbury that allow visitors to explore the inside of the stones: the so-called "Stone Circle Experience."

Please keep in mind that access is limited at specific periods in the morning or afternoon and that reservations are required. The limited number of attendees in this event is 30, and touching the stones is absolutely prohibited.

This visit does not include a guide, which is a disadvantage in regard to the challenge of obtaining space on the trip owing to strong demand. As a result, sometimes it is easier to schedule a trip from London that includes a guide.