From June to August, Stonehenge is open from 9.30 am to 7 pm.
During the winter months of September to May, the timings are reduced to 9.30 pm to 5 pm.
The last admission to the Stonehenge is two hours before closing time.
The venue is closed on Christmas Day.
Other than that, Stonehenge is open throughout the year.
Here are the opening hours of Stonehenge throughout the year:
| Months | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| June to August | 9.30 am | 7 pm |
| September to May | 9.30 am | 5 pm |
Visitors without online tickets/reservations wait 30 minutes to 1 hour at the main entrance.
If you have Stonehenge tickets, you can bypass the ticket counter waiting line and go directly to the security checks.
Ensure you arrive 30 minutes early to finish the security checks and identity verification.
Best Time to Visit Stonehenge
The best time to visit Stonehenge is 9.30 am as soon as Stonehenge is open for visitors or two hours before the closing time.
If you prefer a quieter and less crowded experience, visiting Stonehenge early in the morning can be a good option.
Around 11 am, tour buses from London arrive, bringing in large crowds.
If you can not make it during the early opening hours, the second best time to visit is in the afternoon by 2 pm.
Sunrise and sunset are two of the best times to visit Stonehenge.
If you’re interested in capturing beautiful photographs or experiencing a more tranquil ambiance, these times of day can be enchanting.
We recommend you visit during weekdays rather than the weekends to avoid crowds.
Weekdays offer a calm visit, while during the weekend, your view of Stonehenge is more likely filled with tourists.
Best Time of Year to Visit Stonehenge
Stonehenge can be visited year-round, but the weather conditions may influence your experience.
The summer months (June to August) generally offer warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it pleasant for exploring the site.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) can also be enjoyable with milder weather.
Winter months (December to February) tend to be colder, and the site may experience occasional closures or reduced access due to inclement weather.
Visiting Stonehenge During Solstice
Summer Solstice sunrise (June 21) and Winter Solstice sunset (December 21) are the best and most special times to visit Stonehenge.
Thousands of visitors flock to Stonehenge on solstice for three main reasons:
- The spiritual atmosphere and unique rituals that happen on these days
- To enjoy the scene of the sun rising or setting perfectly between the stones
- To enter the Stone Circle – yes, this is the only day visitors can enter the circle and get close to Stonehenge.
If you plan to visit during the solstice, we recommend you arrive early to find the best spot.
While you can not enjoy other attractions of the venue during the solstice, this is the only day you can enter the stone circle and also enjoy the spiritual atmosphere.
Hence, it is worth visiting Stonehenge on the solstice if you do not mind the crowds.
How Long Does it Take to Visit Stonehenge
Most visitors spend 40 minutes to one hour touring the Stonehenge.
For all the visitors who want to get an immersive experience at the site, explore exhibitions and more, it would take two to three hours.
Visitors taking guided tours spend 2 hours at Stonehenge exploring the monument and the museums.
If you are traveling from London, the tours can take half a day to a full day.
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FAQs About Stonehenge Opening Hours
1. What time does Stonehenge open?
Stonehenge monument opens at 9.30 am daily throughout the week.
2. What time is Stonehenge open for solstice?
The Summer Solstice will be celebrated from 7 pm on June 20 to 8 am on June 21, 2024.
The operating hours can also vary depending on the sunrise and sunset timings.
3. Can I visit Stonehenge at any time?
You can take a look at Stonehenge from the highway at any time of the day.
However, if you wish to look closer, access to the inner circle is open from 9.30 am to 7 pm.
4. When is the best time to visit Stonehenge?
The best time to visit Stonehenge is 9.30 am in the morning or 2 pm.
During these hours, you can get a crowd-free experience.
For the best views, visit during sunrise or sunset hours.
The best time to visit Stonehenge would be during the spring and autumn months of the year.
5. Can I Visit Stonehenge for a sunrise and sunset tour?
Stonehenge offers special access during sunrise and sunset.
You can also book a sunrise or sunset tour.
The sunrise and sunset tours allow visitors access to the landmark and they can also walk among the stones and stand inside the stone circle
Featured Image: Telegraph.co.uk
