Top reasons to visit Stonehenge
- Iconic Landmark: Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its mysterious stone circle and ancient history.
- Guided Tours: Enjoy informative guided tours that delve into the site's significance and the theories surrounding its construction.
- Visitor Centre: The Stonehenge Visitor Centre offers interactive exhibits and a café, enhancing the visitor experience.
- Scenic Countryside: Explore the stunning English countryside with picturesque views and leisurely walking trails.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the historic city of Salisbury and its magnificent cathedral, providing rich cultural experiences.
Find great hotels near Stonehenge
Discover the perfect accommodation options near Stonehenge, ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to convenient hotels. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly lodgings, a family-friendly experience, or an LGBTQIA-welcoming environment, there's something for everyone. With various choices such as the Travelodge Amesbury Stonehenge and other nearby options, you'll find the ideal base to explore this historic site and its picturesque surroundings.
- Holiday Inn Salisbury - Stonehenge by IHG: Nestled within a short drive of Stonehenge, the 4-star Holiday Inn Salisbury - Stonehenge by IHG is an inviting blend of comfort and convenience tailored for families and business travellers alike. With a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this hotel prides itself on being pet-friendly, allowing dogs with specific amenities to ensure your furry companions are well-catered for. Families can benefit from children's amenities, including complimentary cribs. The hotel features modern rooms, a restaurant serving a variety of dishes, and ample meeting spaces, making it an excellent choice for both leisure and business stays.
- Mercure White Hart Hotel Salisbury and Apartments: Located 13km from Stonehenge, the Mercure White Hart Hotel Salisbury and Apartments offers a charming atmosphere steeped in history, combined with modern amenities. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this 4-star hotel is well-suited for business travellers and those bringing pets. The hotel features well-appointed rooms, elegant dining options, and a central location that allows easy access to Salisbury’s attractions. Pets are permitted with specific policies in place, ensuring a comfortable stay for your animal companions. The hotel also boasts meeting facilities, catering to the needs of corporate guests.
- Legacy Rose and Crown Hotel: The Legacy Rose and Crown Hotel combines traditional charm with contemporary comfort, situated 13km from Stonehenge. This 4-star establishment boasts a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, making it an appealing option for business travellers. The hotel features stylishly decorated rooms, an on-site restaurant with a picturesque view of the River Avon, and excellent meeting facilities. Its historic character, friendly service, and convenient location near local attractions make it a delightful choice for those seeking a blend of work and leisure during their stay.
Where to stay near Stonehenge
Exploring the area near Stonehenge offers a delightful mix of friendly locals, breathtaking scenery, and rich history. Visitors can stroll through the charming high street of Stockbridge, enjoy the beautiful rolling downs, and experience a relaxing atmosphere perfect for families. The nearby town provides excellent shopping opportunities, while the slight hills create an idyllic backdrop for leisurely walks. Whether you're seeking history or a peaceful retreat, the region promises an unforgettable experience.
- Salisbury: Nestled in the heart of Wiltshire, Salisbury is a historic city renowned for its stunning cathedral, which boasts the tallest spire in England. As a gateway to Stonehenge, visitors flock here year-round, particularly in March, July, and September, to relish outdoor adventures and the picturesque scenery. The city offers a vibrant mix of recreational areas, shopping centres, and cultural experiences, including fascinating museums and historic monuments. Strolling through the charming streets, you can enjoy the local markets and delightful eateries that add to its appeal.
- Amesbury: Situated just a short distance from Stonehenge, Amesbury is a quaint village steeped in history and culture. It attracts a seasonal influx of visitors, particularly in April, July, and September, who come to engage in outdoor activities and discover its rich heritage. The village offers a range of attractions, including educational sites and local shopping centres. Notable landmarks, such as ancient monuments and museums, provide a glimpse into the area's storied past, making Amesbury a delightful stop on your journey.
- Bulford: Located approximately 5km from Stonehenge, Bulford is a charming village that offers a peaceful retreat for travellers seeking culture and outdoor experiences. While visitor numbers peak during the summer months of June to August, the village maintains a steady flow of tourists throughout the year. Highlights include historic ruins and museums that showcase the area’s heritage. Bulford’s eco-friendly ethos and beautiful natural surroundings make it an ideal destination for those wishing to explore the scenic beauty of the English countryside.
Things to do near Stonehenge
Shopping
At Stonehenge, shopping options are limited, but you can find unique souvenirs at the visitor centre shop. If you're up for a drive, head to Salisbury Market for local crafts and gifts or visit the Old George Mall for a variety of high street retailers.
Recreation
The Stonehenge Wellness Retreat offers a peaceful environment with yoga sessions and mindfulness workshops amidst breathtaking landscapes. Nearby, the tranquil grounds of the Sarum College provide a space for reflection and nature walks, allowing visitors to connect with the surrounding history and stunning scenery.
Adventure
At Thruxton Kart Centre, located 16km from Stonehenge, you can experience the thrill of motor racing on a challenging track. For a unique outdoor adventure, visit Go Ape at Moors Valley, 37km away, where you can tackle zip lines and rope courses amidst beautiful scenery. Castle Combe Circuit, 45km from Stonehenge, offers another exhilarating motor racing experience in a picturesque setting.
Nightlife
In Stonehenge, the nearby town of Amesbury offers cosy pubs like The Bell Inn, where you can enjoy local ales and live music. For a more vibrant scene, Salisbury features bars such as The Old Ale and Coffee House, perfect for a laid-back evening with friends.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Stonehenge
To save money on your trip to Stonehenge, consider visiting between December and February when accommodation prices are lower, particularly on Mondays. Avoid Saturdays for the best rates. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and preferences, and sort results to find the most affordable hotels. Look for Eco-certified options for sustainable stays. Additionally, booking a package that includes flights, accommodations, and activities can lead to significant savings. Take advantage of free local attractions and consider public transport for economical travel around Salisbury and Stonehenge.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Stonehenge are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Stonehenge is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Stonehenge is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You might find that by booking an Expedia package, which combines your hotel stay near Stonehenge with your flights and activities, you can enjoy significant savings.
Find the best attractions near Stonehenge
When visiting Stonehenge, you can explore a variety of attractions including historic houses, sites, and cathedrals, perfect for those seeking cultural and outdoor experiences. Don't miss the mystical allure of Stonehenge and the informative Stonehenge Visitor Centre. For accommodation, consider staying at hotels near Stonehenge or in Salisbury to enhance your visit.
- Salisbury Cathedral: This stunning cathedral, located 13km from Stonehenge, boasts the tallest spire in the UK and is famed for its exquisite Gothic architecture. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds and experience the serene atmosphere while viewing the historic Magna Carta.
- Woodhenge: Just 3km from Stonehenge, Woodhenge is an intriguing Neolithic site featuring wooden post circles. This historic site offers a glimpse into ancient rituals and communities, set in a tranquil landscape that complements its cultural significance.
- Wilton House: Positioned 11km from Stonehenge, Wilton House is an elegant stately home with stunning gardens and impressive art collections. The house showcases exquisite architecture and offers a fascinating insight into the history of the Earls of Pembroke.
Best time to go to Stonehenge
The best time to visit Stonehenge can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Stonehenge falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Stonehenge falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Stonehenge
Visiting Stonehenge is easily achievable via several major airports. London Heathrow (LHR) is 101km away, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star Sofitel London Heathrow, located 3km from the airport, and Great Fosters, 10km away. London Gatwick (LGW) is 116km from Stonehenge, offering luxurious options like the 5-star Alexander House And Utopia Spa, 8km from the airport. Additionally, Birmingham Airport (BHX) is 142km distant, with excellent accommodations like the 5-star Hampton Manor, just 3km away. These airports provide convenient access to transportation services, ensuring a smooth journey to your destination.