Kennet Avenue Guide
Walk Among Giants: Exploring Kennet Avenue's Standing Stones Guide
Kennet Avenue, a remarkable avenue of standing stones, once connected Avebury Stone Circle to The Sanctuary, a now-lost henge monument. Walking along this ancient pathway is a truly awe-inspiring experience, allowing you to connect with the Neolithic people who erected these massive stones thousands of years ago. Imagine the effort and ingenuity required to quarry, transport, and raise these stones, and the spiritual significance they held for the people who built them. The construction of Kennet Avenue began around 2200 BC, during the late Neolithic period. The avenue originally consisted of around 100 pairs of standing stones, stretching for approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km). The stones were carefully selected and arranged, with larger stones placed closer to Avebury and smaller stones towards The Sanctuary. Archaeological excavations have revealed that the stones were deliberately buried and re-erected at various times, suggesting that the avenue was a dynamic and evolving monument. Sadly, many of the stones were destroyed in the 18th century, but a significant portion has been restored, allowing visitors to appreciate its original grandeur. Today, visitors can walk along the restored sections of Kennet Avenue, marveling at the size and scale of the remaining stones. The avenue offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including Avebury Stone Circle and Silbury Hill. It's a popular spot for walking, photography, and contemplation. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly associated with Kennet Avenue, the nearby village of Avebury offers several pubs and cafes serving traditional British food and drinks.
Transportation
Kennet Avenue is easily accessible from Avebury Stone Circle, a short walk away. For public transport, take a train to Swindon and then the Stagecoach bus 49 to Avebury. From Avebury, follow signs to Kennet Avenue.