Stonehenge is a world-renowned prehistoric monument consisting of a circle of large standing stones, located on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England.

The first monument at Stonehenge, a circular earthwork enclosure, was built around 3000 BC. The iconic central stone settings, including the enormous sarsen stones and smaller bluestones, were constructed around 2500 BC.

The larger sarsen stones likely originated from the Marlborough Downs, about 20 miles away, specifically an area known as West Woods. The smaller bluestones came from the Preseli Hills in southwest Wales.

Astronomical alignment: Stonehenge is aligned with the sun on the solstices. On the summer solstice, the sun rises behind the Heel Stone and its first rays shine into the heart of Stonehenge. On the winter solstice, the sun sets to the southwest of the stone circle.

Archaeological discoveries, including bones and teeth from animals slaughtered at nearby Durrington Walls, indicate that the site and its surrounding landscape were likely used for seasonal gatherings, ceremonial events, and potentially a center for the exchange of materials and goods.

Stonehenge could have been a burial ground from its earliest beginnings. Deposits containing human bone date from as early as 3000 BC, when the ditch and bank were first dug, and continued for at least another 500 years.

It has been a legally protected Scheduled Ancient Monument since 1882, when legislation to protect historic monuments was first successfully introduced in Britain.

The site and its surroundings were added to UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites in 1986. Stonehenge is owned by the Crown and managed by English Heritage; the surrounding land is owned by the National Trust.


Location: Stonehenge is located approximately 8 miles (13 kilometers) north of Salisbury, in Wiltshire, England.

Getting there: The nearest bus and railway stations are in Salisbury. Visitors can also travel by car and use the visitor car park.

Tickets and Access: Tickets can be purchased online or upon arrival. Members of English Heritage and National Trust England are admitted free. There may be additional charges for parking for non-members. Special "Stone Circle Experience" visits are available for those wishing to access the inner stone circle outside of normal visiting hours.

Exploring the landscape: Guided walks are available to explore the wider Stonehenge landscape, including Durrington Walls/Woodhenge, offering insights into the history of the area and its connection to Stonehenge.

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