Know Before You Go: Visiting Stonehenge

People come from around the world to admire the prehistoric rock formations at Stonehenge and demand is high—especially in the summer months. Entrance to the site is managed through timed tickets, so booking in advance is the only way to guarantee your visit on the date and time of your choice.

Stonehenge lies 88 miles (141 kilometers) west of London, (or about a 2.5-hour drive) and it's possible to cover the site comprehensively in two or three hours, depending on how busy it is the day of your visit. The morning is often considered the best time to visit, as many of the crowds have yet to arrive by then. Choose whether you'd like to opt for an audio tour—which can shed light on Stonehenge's ancient history and rich mysticism—or check out the award-winning Stonehenge Visitor Centre 1.5 miles (2.1 kilometers) from the Stone Circle.

Visitors hoping to make the most of their journey into the Wiltshire countryside can choose to visit a number of nearby destinations also worth visiting. Explore the UNESCO–listed city of Bath, famed for its beautiful Georgian architecture; spin through the Cotswolds; or head across the plains to Salisbury Cathedral. You can also visit the historic town of Windsor, home to Windsor Castle—Her Majesty the Queen's official residence.

Stonehenge is a wonderfully photogenic site, and a camera is a must. It's also a good idea to wear sturdy footwear for walking between the visitor center and the Stone Circle, plus warm layers, as the weather can change quickly, even in the sunny summer months.