The Dos and Don'ts of Stonehenge

DO: VISIT
I am amazed by how many people travel to London and don’t make the journey to Stonehenge.  If you are planning a trip to London and you have not yet seen it, put it on your list.  It is such an interesting place, and you will not regret paying a visit. You can go yourself or go as part of an organized tour.

picture from Heritage Journal

DON'T: LOOK FROM THE ROAD  

Many people (myself included) don’t realize how close Stonehenge is to the highway.  We imagine it being out in the middle of nowhere with rolling green hills on either side.  While the rolling green hills are there, there is also a major highway cutting right through them.  Stonehenge is literally right on the side of the road.  Many tourist simply pull over, snap a few shots, and get back on the road. No, no, no! Pay the £13.90 to get inside the fence and REALLY see it.

morning

afternoon

DO: GO EARLY  It usually opens at 9:30, and getting there right at that time is the best.  Not only will you avoid crowds (the tour buses don’t show up until later) but you will be able to see Stonehenge during a beautiful English morning.  You will experience this ancient site during the misty hours of the morning, before the sun really makes its way out, adding to the magic of the whole experience.  You also have the option to stay a little longer and see Stonehenge in the afternoon sun as well.

DON'T: SPEED THROUGH
Take your time, walk around a few times, listen to your audio guide, and take in the gorgeous scenery of the English countryside. You can even take a few minutes to sit in the grass and relax (I’m sure your legs will thank you as traveling can be ruff on them), and think about all the history and mystery you are in the presence of.

DO: BOOK YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE
This was not the case when I went (we just showed up), but times have changed.  There is now a visitor center, café, and a need to advance book tickets. While there is a chance that you can visit if you just show up, it is better to be safe than sorry.  I would suggest booking online a few days (or more) in advance.