Some of the bigger stones (up to 50 tonnes) were more locally sourced. It would have taken 500 men using leather ropes to pull one stone. Antlers and bones were used to dig the massive holes for the stones. Experts have worked out that the site's construction required more than thirty million hours of labour.
STOPS
Stonehenge
On your marks!...
Stonehenge is thought to date from 3,000 BC and is the most celebrated prehistoric monument in Britain. It was built in three stages, and consists of three concentric circles, aligned with the rising sun at the solstice. Some of the stones, weighing nearly four tonnes each, originated from the Welsh mountains, an astonishing 240 miles away. How they got there continues to intrigue the archaeologists, but is thought to involve giant rollers, rafts, and a lot of dragging.
Standing in front of this staggering structure, it's hard not to ask yourself: why? Many people think the stones are part of a huge astronomical calendar, that can be used to calculate the rising and setting of the moon, and predict eclipses. Certainly, every year, on Midsummer's Day, a person can stand in the exact centre of the circle and know that the rising sun will shine directly on him through a line of stone pillars. Some think it was built as an ancient temple for sun worshipping. Another popular theory is that the Druids, the high priests of the Celts, constructed it for sacrificial ceremonies. Others have speculated that the stones were put there by the Devil, or aliens.
Ultimately, it remains one of the biggest mysteries in the Universe...
Now, if you're ready to leave London behind, shall we start our epic journey towards Exeter?
Address
Stonehenge, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 7DE
English Heritage: Stonehenge (Opens in new window) The definitive visitor portal for the monument, providing a comprehensive resource for organizing your trip to this world-famous prehistoric site.
Practical Visit Information: Access current opening hours (generally 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM), ticket pricing with a 15% discount for pre-booking, and essential details on facilities and directions.
On-Site Experiences: Discover the Stone Circle, the Stonehenge Exhibition (including the 5,500-year-old remains), and recreated Neolithic dwellings. The site also features booking links for the exclusive Stone Circle Experience.
Educational & Historical Context: Explore the history and archaeology of the landscape through downloadable audio guides and information on the Kusuma Neolithic Hall learning center.
Wider Landscape: Provides insights into the broader World Heritage site, recommending nearby landmarks like Woodhenge and Old Sarum to complete your historical itinerary.
National Trust: Stonehenge (Opens in new window) Showcases the 2,100 acres of ancient chalk downland encircling the monument. It offers maps for discovering sites like Durrington Walls, highlights dog-friendly walking trails, and provides guidance for members on using the visitor center and stone circle facilities.
Visit Stonehenge (Opens in new window) An independent, practical guide for Stonehenge visitors. It details travel routes by car, train, and bus, clarifies the timed-entry system, and outlines free entry benefits for members. It also covers seasonal solstice events and other British heritage sites to help you plan your journey.
Private chauffeur-driven tour to Stonehenge (Opens in new window) Skip the stress of navigating the motorways by opting for a luxury, chauffeur-driven tour. Enjoy a smooth pickup from your London hotel, exchanging traffic concerns for a relaxed, bespoke experience. These tailored tours allow you to pair your Stonehenge visit with other legendary UK spots like Bath, Windsor Castle, or Salisbury, all at your own preferred pace.
Next Stop: Wilton House A stunning 17th-century stately home renowned for its opulent Inigo Jones interiors and a world-class art collection featuring van Dyck. Set within 22 acres of parkland and famous for its elegant Palladian Bridge, this historic seat of the Earls of Pembroke is a frequent filming location for major productions like The Crown and Bridgerton.
