Stonehenge is protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaelogical Areas Act and you must adhere to the regulations outlined in the act or face criminal prosecution. No person may touch, lean against, stand on or climb the stones, or disturb the ground in any way.

Can you touch the stones at Stonehenge?

While youre in the stone circle you can take as many photos as you like, or just marvel at their majesty, we only ask that you dont stand on or touch the stones.

Why cant you touch the stones at Stonehenge?

As visitorship increased, the grass in the center of the stones died from being trampled by 815,000 people each year. In 1977, the stones were roped off so people couldnt climb on them any longer.

Can you touch Stonehenge on summer solstice?

Today, visitors to the monument are not permitted to touch the stones, but, if you go, you will be able to walk around the monument from a short distance away. Visitors can also make special bookings to access the stones throughout the year.

Is Avebury better than Stonehenge?

Avebury henge is a great training camp for Stonehenge, about 20 miles south. And unlike Stonehenge, the stones have completely free access, you can walk among and touch the stones free of charge. Avebury is far, far larger than Stonehenge. It is about a mile to walk around the perimeter on the bank alone.

How deep are Stonehenge stones buried?

3. Some of the stones are even bigger than they look. 2.13m of Stone 56, the tallest standing stone on the site, is buried underground – in total it measures 8.71 metres from base to tip.

How old is Stonehenge?

Stonehenge is perhaps the worlds most famous prehistoric monument. It was built in several stages: the first monument was an early henge monument, built about 5,000 years ago, and the unique stone circle was erected in the late Neolithic period about 2500 BC.

Do you have to pay to go to Stonehenge?

It is free for people purchasing tickets to enter Stonehenge, there is a charge if you are not. Tour buses have their own separate coach park. To enter the Stonehenge Exhibition at the Visitor Centre you need a full ticket to Stonehenge, anyone can access the café, gift shop and toilets though, for free.

Can you go to Stonehenge without a tour?

Yes, you can definitely go to Stonehenge without a tour. If you have a car, you can drive from London to Stonehenge in about two hours. Taking public transport is another option.

What is the oldest stone circle in the world?

Nabta Playa Located in Africa, Nabta Playa stands some 700 miles south of the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt. It was built more than 7,000 years ago, making Nabta Playa the oldest stone circle in the world — and possibly Earths oldest astronomical observatory.

Do you have to pay to see Avebury Stones?

The stone circles are open from dawn to dusk. You are free to wander among the stones as much as you wish.