Have you ever wanted to take a tour of Stonehenge and Avebury, two of Britain’s most mysterious sites? Now’s your chance with this comprehensive travel guide.
Read up on all the mysteries that have been unsolved for centuries, learn about various myths and stories surrounding these ancient monuments, and get useful tips on what to see when visiting these incredible sites.
Overview of Stonehenge & Avebury
Stonehenge and Avebury are two of the most famous prehistoric sites in the world. They are located in Wiltshire, England. Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Avebury is a small village in the English county of Wiltshire, about 80 miles (130 km) southwest of London. It is notable for being home to the Avebury stone circle, one of the largest and best-preserved stone circles in the world. The Avebury complex also includes several smaller stone circles, burial mounds, and standing stones.
Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument consisting of a ring of standing stones, with each stone weighing around 25 tons. The stones are arranged in a deliberate pattern and are thought to have been erected between 3000 and 2000 BC. Excavations have revealed that there were once wooden posts in the center of the stone circle, which may have been used for religious or ceremonial purposes.
Avebury is slightly younger than Stonehenge, with the main circle thought to have been built between 2600 and 2400 BC. However, it is larger than Stonehenge, with a circumference of almost 1 mile (1.6 km). The Avebury stone circle has many unique features, including an inner ring of standing stones and two concentric circular earthworks known as ‘ditch-and-bank’.
History of Stonehenge & Avebury
The area around Stonehenge and Avebury has been continuously occupied since the end of the last ice age and has been an important site for human activity for over 10,000 years. The first people to live in the area were Mesolithic hunter-gatherers, who left behind evidence of their campsites and hunting activities.
Around 4000 BC, the first evidence of farming appears in the archaeological record. This marks a major change in the way of life of the people living in the area, from a mobile lifestyle reliant on hunting and gathering to a more settled way of life based on agriculture. It is during this period that the first monuments begin to be built in the landscape, includingCausewayed enclosures, long barrows and roundhouses.
The construction of Stonehenge itself began around 3000 BC. It is thought that the monument was built in several stages, with different parts being added at different times. The Avebury henge (a large circular earthwork) was constructed around the same time as Stonehenge.
The purpose of these monuments is not known for certain, but they may have been used for ceremonial or religious purposes, or as burial sites for important members of society. Around 1500 BC, Bronze Age people started to build cairns (stone mounds) and erect standing stones in the landscape. It is during this period that many of the features we see today at Stonehenge and Avebury were created.
The Iron Age saw the arrival of the Celts in Britain, and this period is associated with burial mounds (round barrows) being constructed. In the later Iron Age, around 2500 years ago, a large hillfort was built at nearby Old Sarum.
In recent centuries, Avebury has been a major tourist attraction and both Stonehenge and Avebury are now Scheduled Ancient Monuments and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
What to See and Do in Stonehenge & Avebury
Stonehenge and Avebury are two of the most iconic and popular historical sites in the United Kingdom. Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument consisting of massive stone blocks arranged in a circular formation. It is believed to have been built by the ancient Britons over 4,500 years ago. Avebury is a megalithic stone circle that is even older than Stonehenge. Both sites are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are well worth a visit when traveling to England.
There are many things to see and do at both Stonehenge and Avebury. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins, learn about the history and mythology surrounding these mysterious sites, and take in the beautiful countryside views. There are also numerous shops and cafes near both attractions, making it easy to spend a whole day exploring everything these amazing places have to offer.
Accommodation and Restaurant Options
There is a great range of accommodation and restaurant options near Stonehenge and Avebury. For accommodation, there are camping sites, B&Bs, hotels, and self-catering cottages available. For restaurants, there are pubs, cafes, and restaurants catering to all budgets.
There are numerous camping sites located close to both Stonehenge and Avebury. This is a great option for those who want to experience being close to nature. There are also several Bed & Breakfast establishments in the area if you prefer a more comfortable stay. There are also many hotels of varying prices and standards located nearby.
There is no shortage of places to eat near Stonehenge and Avebury. There are plenty of pubs and cafes serving traditional English food as well as international cuisine. There are also several restaurants catering to all budgets. Whether you want a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you will be able to find something to suit your taste in this area.
Tips for Visiting Stonehenge & Avebury
1. Make sure to visit during the day so you can fully appreciate the structures. Admission is free, but there is a £5 parking fee.
2. Be respectful of the site and those who are trying to enjoy it. Please don’t try to climb on the rocks or take pieces as souvenirs.
3. Take some time to walk around both sites and explore all that they have to offer. There is a lot of history and mystery surrounding these ancient places.
4. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even go for a swim in Avebury’s natural pool! 5. Bring a packed lunch and drinks with you, as there are few places to eat or buy snacks nearby.
6. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, since you will be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain.
7. Bring your camera and take lots of pictures! You don’t want to forget this incredible experience.
8. If you want to learn more about Stonehenge and Avebury, there are several audio tours available that you can purchase from the nearby visitor center.
9. Don’t forget to check out the other nearby Neolithic sites, including West Kennet Long Barrow and Cunobelin’s Palace. They are just as fascinating!
10. Have fun and enjoy your time at Stonehenge and Avebury!
Must See Sights in the Area
There are plenty of must see sights in the area surrounding Stonehenge and Avebury. In Salisbury, be sure to check out the world-famous Salisbury Cathedral, home to one of only four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta. For a taste of medieval England, visit Old Sarum Castle, just a few miles from Stonehenge.
In Avebury, don’t miss the chance to see the incredible Avebury Stone Circle, one of the largest and most remarkable stone circles in Europe. Nearby, you can also explore Silbury Hill, a prehistoric mound that is thought to be the largest man-made structure in Europe dating back to the Neolithic period.
Trip Planning Advice and Resources
When traveling to Stonehenge and Avebury, it is important to plan ahead and do your research. There are many resources available to help you plan your trip, including travel websites, guidebooks, and maps. Here are some tips to help you get started:
-Start by knowing when you want to go. The summer months are the busiest at Stonehenge, so if you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season (spring or fall) instead.
-Figure out how you’re going to get there. If you’re coming from London, the train is the easiest and fastest way to get to Salisbury. Once you’re in Salisbury, you can either take a bus or taxi to Stonehenge. If you’re driving, be aware that there is limited parking at Stonehenge and expect to pay a parking fee.
-Book your tickets in advance. You can buy tickets online or at the gate, but buying in advance will ensure that you don’t have to wait in line on the day of your visit.
– Decide what kind of experience you want to have. If you want a more immersive experience, consider taking a guided tour or renting an audio guide. Both options will give you more information about the history and mythology surrounding Stonehenge.
-Do your research and be aware of the area. Much of the land in the Avebury area is privately owned, so be sure to stay on marked pathways and respect landowners’ wishes. Additionally, there are several roads that circle around Stonehenge and Avebury, so be sure to plan ahead before you embark on your visit.
Finally, be prepared for all types of weather; it can get windy and rainy near Stonehenge no matter what time of year you visit,so make sure you bring appropriate clothing.
Stonehenge and Avebury are two of the UK’s most mysterious and ancient sites, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Although much of the mystery remains unsolved, these two incredible destinations provide the perfect opportunity to explore Britain’s deep-rooted history while taking in some breathtaking views. With this Stonehenge & Avebury Travel Guide, you should now be armed with all you need to get ready for your upcoming trip around these mystical places; so enjoy every moment!
