Amesbury, UK Guide
Stonehenge is not a city, but a prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England. It's one of the most famous landmarks in the United Kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monument consists of a ring of standing stones, each weighing several tons, and its purpose remains a mystery, though theories abound involving astronomy, ritual, and ancient burial grounds. Visiting Stonehenge is a journey back in time, offering a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of Neolithic and Bronze Age people. The surrounding landscape is equally captivating, with rolling hills, ancient burial mounds, and other historical sites that contribute to the area's rich archaeological heritage. While there isn't a city directly at Stonehenge, nearby Salisbury offers a convenient base for exploring the area.
Food & Cuisine
Given that Stonehenge is a monument and not a city, there are limited dining options directly at the site. The Stonehenge Visitor Centre has a cafe offering light meals, snacks, and drinks. For a wider range of culinary experiences, visitors typically head to nearby Salisbury. Salisbury offers a variety of pubs serving traditional British fare, as well as restaurants offering international cuisine. Look for local specialties like Wiltshire ham and cheese. The Salisbury market, held on Tuesdays and Saturdays, is a great place to find fresh produce and local delicacies.
Nightlife
Stonehenge itself does not have any nightlife. For entertainment and nightlife, visitors should travel to nearby Salisbury. Salisbury offers a selection of pubs, bars, and restaurants that stay open late. The city centre is the main hub for nightlife, with venues catering to a range of tastes.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Stonehenge is during the spring or autumn months (April-May or September-October). The weather is generally mild, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak summer season. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather, but expect larger crowds. Winter (November-March) can be cold and wet, but the site is often less crowded. Consider visiting during the summer or winter solstice for a unique experience, though these events attract large crowds.
Transportation
There is no public transportation directly to Stonehenge itself. The best way to reach Stonehenge is by car, tour bus, or the Stonehenge Tour bus which departs from Salisbury. Salisbury has a train station with connections to London and other major cities. From Salisbury, you can take the Stonehenge Tour bus, which also stops at Old Sarum.
Airport
The closest major airport to Stonehenge is Southampton Airport (SOU), which is approximately 40 miles (64 km) away. From Southampton Airport, you can rent a car or take a train to Salisbury and then the Stonehenge Tour bus. London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is another option, located about 80 miles (129 km) away. From Heathrow, you can take a train or bus to Salisbury.
Attractions
Durrington Walls
Explore Durrington Walls, one of the largest henge monuments in Britain, located near Stonehenge and Woodhenge. Walk along the massive earthworks and imagine the bustling Neolithic settlement that once stood here. Learn about the archaeological discoveries made at Durrington Walls, and gain insights into the lives of the people who built Stonehenge. A fascinating glimpse into the past.
Old Sarum
Just a short drive from Amesbury, Old Sarum is an impressive Iron Age hillfort, later used by the Romans and Normans. Explore the ruins of the castle and cathedral, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Discover the history of this strategic site, which played a significant role in the region's past. A fascinating historical landmark.
River Avon Trail
Embark on a scenic walk along the River Avon Trail, which meanders through the picturesque countryside surrounding Amesbury. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the river, spot local wildlife, and breathe in the fresh air. The trail offers a variety of routes for all abilities, making it a perfect way to explore the area and connect with nature. A refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Boscombe Down Aviation Collection
Located near Amesbury, the Boscombe Down Aviation Collection showcases a fascinating collection of aircraft and aviation artifacts. Explore the history of flight and learn about the important role that Boscombe Down played in aviation research and development. See a variety of aircraft, from historic planes to modern jets. A must-visit for aviation enthusiasts.
Stonehenge Landscape
Immerse yourself in the wider Stonehenge Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing numerous prehistoric monuments and archaeological sites. Explore ancient burial mounds, ceremonial avenues, and other fascinating features that reveal the rich history of the area. Walk or cycle through the landscape, and discover the secrets of this ancient land. A truly awe-inspiring experience.
Woodhenge
Discover Woodhenge, a fascinating Neolithic henge and timber circle located near Stonehenge. Explore the site and imagine the wooden posts that once stood here, forming a structure that may have been used for rituals or ceremonies. Learn about the history and significance of Woodhenge, and compare it to its more famous neighbor, Stonehenge. A unique and intriguing archaeological site.
Stonehenge
Step back in time and marvel at the enigmatic Stonehenge, a prehistoric monument that has captivated visitors for centuries. Wander around the iconic stone circle, ponder its mysteries, and soak in the atmosphere of this ancient site. Explore the visitor center to learn about the history and construction of Stonehenge, and imagine the lives of the people who built it. A truly unforgettable experience!
Amesbury History Centre
Delve into the rich history of Amesbury at the Amesbury History Centre. Discover artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the town from prehistoric times to the present day. Learn about the people who have shaped Amesbury's past, and gain a deeper understanding of the area's cultural heritage. A great place to start your exploration of Amesbury.
Great Bustard Project
Witness the remarkable Great Bustard Project, a conservation effort to reintroduce the magnificent Great Bustard to the Salisbury Plain. Visit the viewing area and try to spot these impressive birds in their natural habitat. Learn about the project's goals and the challenges of reintroducing this iconic species. A unique and rewarding experience for nature lovers.
Day Trips
A historic market town perched on a hilltop, Shaftesbury is famous for Gold Hill, a steep cobbled street featured in the Hovis bread advert. Enjoy panoramic views, explore the Abbey ruins, and browse the independent shops.
1 hour by car A UNESCO World Heritage city, Bath is renowned for its Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, and stunning abbey. Explore the Roman Baths, stroll along the Royal Crescent, and visit the Jane Austen Centre. It's a city steeped in history and elegance.
1 hour 15 minutes by car, 1 hour 30 minutes by train A vast expanse of ancient woodland, heathland, and coastline, the New Forest National Park offers stunning natural beauty and opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Look out for the famous New Forest ponies roaming freely.
1 hour by car A historic cathedral city, Salisbury boasts the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral, home to one of the best-preserved original copies of the Magna Carta. Explore the charming medieval streets, visit the Salisbury Museum, and enjoy the vibrant market square. It's a perfect blend of history, culture, and shopping.
20 minutes by car, 30 minutes by bus One of the world's most famous prehistoric monuments, Stonehenge is a must-see. Marvel at the massive stones and ponder the mysteries surrounding its construction and purpose. The visitor center offers fascinating insights into the history and archaeology of this iconic site.
10 minutes by car, 20 minutes by bus A fantastic day out for families, Longleat Safari Park offers the chance to see a wide range of animals up close, including lions, tigers, and monkeys. Explore the Longleat House, a stately home with beautiful gardens.
45 minutes by car A popular seaside resort, Bournemouth boasts miles of sandy beaches, a vibrant pier, and beautiful gardens. Enjoy a day at the beach, stroll along the promenade, visit the Oceanarium, or take a boat trip.
1 hour 15 minutes by car The real-life Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle is a stunning stately home with a rich history. Explore the magnificent rooms, wander through the beautiful gardens, and learn about the castle's role in history and popular culture.
1 hour 15 minutes by car A vibrant city with a rich maritime history, Bristol offers a diverse range of attractions. Visit the SS Great Britain, explore the Clifton Suspension Bridge, wander through the historic harbourside, and enjoy the city's thriving arts and culture scene.
1 hour 30 minutes by car, 1 hour 15 minutes by train The ancient capital of England, Winchester is home to Winchester Cathedral, one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Explore the Great Hall with its Arthurian Round Table, wander through the historic streets, and visit Winchester College, one of the oldest schools in England.
1 hour by car, 1 hour 30 minutes by train Just a stone's throw from Amesbury, Salisbury is a cathedral city steeped in history. Dominated by its magnificent cathedral, boasting the tallest spire in Britain, Salisbury offers a charming blend of medieval architecture, bustling markets, and riverside walks. Explore the Cathedral Close, one of the largest in England, and discover hidden gems around every corner.
15 minutes by car, 30 minutes by bus A UNESCO World Heritage city, Bath is renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture and Roman history. Immerse yourself in the ancient Roman Baths, marvel at the grandeur of Bath Abbey, and stroll along the elegant Royal Crescent. Indulge in a spa treatment at Thermae Bath Spa for a truly relaxing experience.
1 hour 15 minutes by car, 1 hour 30 minutes by train Once the ancient capital of England, Winchester is a city brimming with royal history and literary connections. Explore Winchester Cathedral, one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, and discover the legendary Round Table of King Arthur in the Great Hall. Stroll along the picturesque River Itchen and soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere.
1 hour by car, 1 hour 30 minutes by train Head south to the coast and enjoy the vibrant seaside town of Bournemouth. With its golden sandy beaches, bustling pier, and beautiful gardens, Bournemouth offers something for everyone. Take a stroll along the promenade, enjoy a traditional seaside treat, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
1 hour 15 minutes by car Perched atop a hill, Shaftesbury offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. This historic market town is famous for Gold Hill, a steep cobbled street featured in the Hovis bread advert. Explore the town's charming shops and cafes, and soak in the panoramic vistas.
1 hour by car Escape the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the New Forest National Park. This ancient woodland is home to wild ponies, deer, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Enjoy hiking, cycling, or simply relaxing amidst the tranquil surroundings.
1 hour by car No trip to Amesbury is complete without visiting the iconic Stonehenge. This prehistoric monument, shrouded in mystery and wonder, is a must-see for history buffs and curious travelers alike. Walk around the stones, learn about their history at the visitor center, and imagine the rituals and ceremonies that took place here thousands of years ago.
10 minutes by car, 30 minutes by bus For a wild day out, head to Longleat Safari Park. Drive through enclosures filled with lions, tigers, giraffes, and other exotic animals. Explore the Longleat House, a magnificent Elizabethan stately home, and enjoy the park's many other attractions, including a hedge maze and a boat safari.
45 minutes by car Once the ancient capital of England, Winchester is steeped in history. Explore Winchester Cathedral, one of the largest cathedrals in Europe, and discover the Great Hall, home to the legendary Round Table of King Arthur. Stroll along the picturesque River Itchen, visit the City Mill, and immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage.
Approximately 1 hour by car or train A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath is renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture and Roman history. Explore the Roman Baths, marvel at Bath Abbey, and stroll along the Royal Crescent. Indulge in a spa treatment at Thermae Bath Spa, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this elegant city.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car or train Just a stone's throw from Amesbury, Salisbury is a must-visit. Dominated by its magnificent cathedral, home to one of the best-preserved original copies of the Magna Carta, Salisbury offers a blend of history, culture, and charming market town vibes. Explore the medieval streets, browse the independent shops, and soak in the atmosphere of this historic city.
15-20 minutes by car or bus Fans of Downton Abbey will recognize Highclere Castle, the real-life setting for the popular TV series. Tour the magnificent castle and gardens, and learn about its history and the filming of Downton Abbey. Note that it's only open to the public on select dates, so check the website before you go.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car A vibrant city with a rich maritime history, Bristol offers a diverse range of attractions. Visit the SS Great Britain, explore the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and wander through the historic harbourside.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car Escape to the New Forest National Park, a haven of ancient woodland, heathland, and charming villages. Explore the forest on foot, by bike, or on horseback, and keep an eye out for the New Forest ponies that roam freely. Visit the picturesque village of Lyndhurst, the 'capital' of the New Forest.
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car No trip to Amesbury is complete without visiting the iconic Stonehenge. Marvel at the prehistoric monument, learn about its history and mysteries at the visitor centre, and wander through the surrounding landscape. This is a truly unforgettable experience.
5-10 minutes by car or bus Famous for Gold Hill, Shaftesbury is a charming hilltop town with stunning views over the Blackmore Vale. Explore the historic abbey ruins, wander through the quaint streets, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Approximately 1 hour by car Just outside of Salisbury, Old Sarum is an impressive Iron Age hillfort with Norman ruins. Explore the remains of the castle and cathedral, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It's a great spot for a walk and a dose of history.
20 minutes by car Head south to the coast and enjoy the vibrant seaside town of Bournemouth. With its golden sandy beaches, pier, and gardens, Bournemouth offers a classic British seaside experience.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car Shaftesbury
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Bath
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The New Forest National Park
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Salisbury
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Longleat Safari Park
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Bournemouth
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Highclere Castle
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Bristol
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Winchester
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Salisbury
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Bath
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Winchester
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Bournemouth
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Shaftesbury
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The New Forest National Park
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Stonehenge
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Longleat Safari Park
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Winchester
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Bath
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Salisbury
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Highclere Castle
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Bristol
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The New Forest National Park
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Stonehenge
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Shaftesbury
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Old Sarum
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Bournemouth
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