Exploring Stonehenge: London’s Enigmatic Ancient Monument
We offer you a first introduction to Stonehenge in this guide. Your interest in exploring historical wonders leads you to ancient sites. People around the world consider Stonehenge to be one of the most famous ancient sites on Earth. This prehistoric monument establishes Wiltshire as its home 90 miles west of London. This article examines Stonehenge by studying its physical location and why it remains an important historical landmark.
Where is Stonehenge Located?
The ancient monument of Stonehenge sits on Salisbury Plain at a distance of 8 miles to the northeast of Salisbury in Wiltshire, England. Even though the site is not located in London’s city limits it remains close enough for visitors to reach easily from the capital.
Transit to Stonehenge stands as a simple task from London. Public transport riders will need about 1.5 to 2 hours by train from London Waterloo Station to reach Salisbury. A bus or tour service takes visitors from Salisbury to Stonehenge for their exploration. Drive from London along A303 road using car rental services instead.
The History and Significance of Stonehenge
Stonehenge emerged as a historical landmark around 3000 BCE about 5000 years ago. For 2500 years BCE around 2500 BCE people erected a prominent stone circle at the location. The monument contains tall stone blocks arranged in a circular formation.
Scientists have not determined the true reason Stonehenge was built. Different experts believe this site was built to study stars and track time, as a place of worship, or as a location where dead people received burial and ceremonies. The angle of sunrise during seasons shows scientists believe this site served for astronomical and timekeeping tasks of ancient people.
Exploring Stonehenge: What to Expect
Before your entry to Stonehenge you can start your exploration at the visitor center which provides an insightful preparation for your visit. The center for visitors displays historical objects and interactive lessons about how Stonehenge builders constructed and organized this site.
A shuttle bus will transport visitors from the arrival point to the Stonehenge archaeological site. The place offers room to move around the stones of Stonehenge from its position in the broad surrounding area. Because of safety reasons visitors cannot approach the stone circle anymore. Rules safeguard the ancient landmark to keep it available for all future generations.
For better viewing times go at off-peak hours or pre-book your entry
Stonehenge welcomes many visitors but gets the busiest at popular tourist times. You will find less congestion at Stonehenge when you visit during early morning or late afternoon periods. Order your admission ticket ahead of time to pick the ideal visiting window.
Additional Points of Interest Near Stonehenge
With more time at your disposal during your Stonehenge visit you can discover various interesting tourist destinations around the area.
- Avebury Stone Circle
Next to Stonehenge stands the Avebury stone circle about 25 miles north. Avebury World Heritage Site holds the largest stone circle worldwide. You may explore all Stone Circle areas before touring Avebury Manor and Gardens.
- Salisbury Cathedral
Salisbury Cathedral stands proudly in Salisbury as the finest medieval cathedral in Great Britain with its tallest spire in the country. Take this opportunity to see the original Magna Carta at the cathedral.
- Old Sarum
The Stonehenge archaeological site has its counterpart in Old Sarum which presents over 5000 years of historic development in a small drive distance. View the historic ruins to understand the changing uses of this space as an Iron Age fort, Norman castle and medieval town.
Conclusion
People from all nations come to be amazed by the archaeological world phenomenon of Stonehenge. Though not directly in London you can easily visit and appreciate the history of ancient times. Visit Stonehenge by following your travel plan then unlock its secrets while discovering important discoveries at its nearby destinations.
Table of Contents
