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What Neolithic Houses reveal about life around Stonehenge

The Neolithic Houses bring prehistoric Britain to life through detailed reconstructions grounded in archaeological research. Located beside the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, they help connect the monument to real people. Ever wondered what life looked like in 2500 BCE? Let’s break it down.

What are the Neolithic Houses?

Reconstructed Neolithic houses near Stonehenge with visitors exploring the site.
  • Archaeology-based design: Each house is built using findings from Durrington Walls, just 2 miles from Stonehenge, where over 1,000 Neolithic house remains were uncovered.
  • Materials and structure: The walls are made of chalk and daub with thatched roofs. Wooden frameworks support the structure, mimicking construction methods used 4,500 years ago.
  • Compact living space: Each roundhouse includes a central hearth, simple bedding, and storage areas, reflecting how closely families lived and worked in shared, multifunctional spaces.
  • Everyday Neolithic items: Interiors include clay pots, woven baskets, grinding stones, and flint tools, all based on authentic artefacts found during Neolithic site excavations.
  • Layout and floor plan: The homes are circular with a single entrance and no windows. Layouts prioritised heat retention and used fire as the main light source.
  • Inspired by Durrington: These reconstructions are directly influenced by the 2006–2007 excavations at Durrington Walls, believed to be a settlement for Stonehenge’s builders during peak construction.

How were the houses rebuilt?

  • Research and design: Archaeologists based the house designs on findings at Durrington Walls, using evidence of layouts, materials, and construction methods from around 2,500 BCE.
  • Experimental prototypes: Prototype houses were tested at Old Sarum by volunteers using ancient tools, helping the team refine techniques before building at the Stonehenge site.
  • Framework construction: Hazel stakes were driven into the ground and interwoven with horizontal hazel rods, forming strong, flexible walls similar to traditional hurdle fencing.
  • Wall daub application: Walls were coated with daub made from chalk, straw, and water. This white finish brightened interiors and offered insulation against cold and wind.
  • Thatching the roofs: Wheat straw was tied onto a hazel frame to form thatched roofs. Different styles were used since the original Neolithic roof designs remain uncertain.
  • Interior setup: Beds, shelves, and hearths were handmade by volunteers using traditional tools and materials, replicating the basic comforts of Neolithic domestic life.
  • Finishing details: Each house was styled with replica tools, clothing, and furnishings, helping visitors imagine how early builders of Stonehenge may have lived day-to-day.

Where are Neolithic houses located?

The Neolithic Houses sit just outside the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, forming part of the outdoor display area. They are one of the first features visitors encounter upon entering the site.

Recreation of ancient Stonehenge builder's house with thatched roof and wattle fence.
  • Proximity to the visitor centre

Located right beside the visitor centre, the houses are separate from the stone circle. Visitors can easily see them before or after viewing the indoor exhibition and shop.

  • How to reach them (On foot, Via shuttle)

The houses are less than a minute’s walk from the main entrance. No shuttle is needed; just follow the clearly marked paths leading straight to the reconstructed dwellings.

  • Accessibility considerations

Paths between the visitor centre and houses are flat and firm, suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Accessible toilets and loaner wheelchairs are also available nearby for added ease.

Visitor tips

  • Visit early in the day to catch demonstrations by volunteers, which usually happen more frequently in the morning when footfall is lighter.
  • Ask staff near the houses if any hands-on demonstrations are scheduled; they’re not always listed, but may happen informally based on visitor interest.
  • Touching is allowed on some replica items, like quern stones or building materials, but always ask a guide before handling anything on display.
  • If visiting with kids, bring questions to ask volunteers. Many are trained to give tailored explanations suited for younger or curious audiences.
  • Visit on a windy day and you’ll notice how the thatched roofs channel air—part of their natural ventilation design used thousands of years ago.
  • Take a photo of the house exteriors in changing light as the chalk daub reflects sunlight differently depending on the time of day.
  • If you’re into photography, wide-angle shots work best inside due to the tight space and low lighting around the hearths.

Frequently Asked Questions about Stonehenge Neolithic Houses

Are the Neolithic Houses exact replicas of real homes?

They’re reconstructions based on evidence from Durrington Walls. While not exact copies, they closely reflect materials, layout, and building methods used 4,500 years ago.

Do the house interiors change throughout the year?

Yes. Staff occasionally rotate artefacts or demonstration setups to reflect seasonal tasks like grain harvesting, tool repair, or clothing preparation.

Is there signage inside the houses to explain what you're seeing?

No signs are placed inside to keep the houses immersive. Interpretation panels are outside, and staff are available for questions nearby.

Are live demonstrations guaranteed every day?

No. Demonstrations depend on staff availability and visitor volume, though they’re more frequent during holidays, weekends, and early in the day.

Can I enter all the Neolithic Houses or only view them from outside?

Yes, visitors are allowed to walk inside most houses unless access is restricted for maintenance or safety during special activities.

How long should I spend at the Neolithic Houses?

Allow at least 20–30 minutes, especially if demonstrations are happening or you're exploring interior details and building techniques closely.

Can I take photos inside the Neolithic Houses?

Yes, photography is allowed both inside and outside the houses, but flash use may be discouraged to preserve the setting.

Can I interact with the replica objects inside?

Some items can be touched during guided sessions or with staff permission, especially quern stones, cord, and certain tools.

Are there any other reconstructed buildings at Stonehenge?

No. The Neolithic Houses are the only reconstructions, representing domestic life connected to Stonehenge’s builders and not ceremonial structures.

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