‌

Stonehenge weather guide for your visit

Stonehenge sits in an open field with no natural or built shelter. Rain, wind, and temperature can influence how long you’ll want to stay and what you’ll see. Checking the weather helps you avoid the seasonal changes and low visibility that could affect photos, walking comfort, and your ability to enjoy the surroundings.

Best weather conditions for visiting Stonehenge

  • Brightest months for photos: Late May through early July offers the most daylight and clearer skies, ideal for capturing well-lit photos of the stones and surrounding fields.
  • Months with the least rain: June and July tend to have lower average rainfall compared to other months, improving overall comfort and reducing the chances of slippery paths.
  • Ideal for sunrise views: April and September provide moderate weather with fewer crowds and great lighting conditions during sunrise, especially for those joining early morning access tours.
  • When fog adds atmosphere: November and February often bring morning mist or low fog, creating a dramatic and moody atmosphere without significantly affecting visibility after late morning.
  • Avoid strong wind days: Wind speeds can be harsh across the open plains, especially in January or March. High winds reduce comfort and may cause temporary path closures.
  • Notable rain-heavy periods: October, December, and early January typically see more rain, which can limit visibility and make walking areas around the site wet and uneven.
  • Comfortable walking weather: Late spring and early autumn balance mild temperatures, lower rainfall, and manageable wind levels, making them ideal seasons for walking and spending longer on-site.

Weather and the visitor experience

Visibility of the stones

Clear skies provide the best visibility, especially during summer. Fog and mist in late autumn or winter may obscure the stones, particularly in early mornings. Rain also reduces contrast and detail, making photography and long-distance views more difficult on overcast or stormy days.

Comfort while exploration

Comfort depends on wind, temperature, and precipitation. Wet weather creates muddy or slippery footpaths, particularly in autumn and winter. Summer provides the driest, most comfortable walking conditions, although sun exposure can become intense due to the lack of shaded areas.

Crowds and visitor flow

Visitor numbers drop sharply on rainy or windy days, which can be ideal for those seeking quiet time or unobstructed views. Warm, dry weather leads to higher foot traffic, particularly in July and August. Solstice events draw large crowds regardless of conditions.

Seasonal weather and solstices

For solstices, sunrise visibility is key. The summer solstice in June offers the best chance for clear skies. Winter solstice ceremonies often occur under cloudy or rainy conditions. Although wet weather does not cancel access, it can limit photo opportunities and comfort levels.

  • Check sunrise and sunset times before your visit: Golden hour offers better visibility and photo conditions, especially in winter when daylight is limited to a few short hours.
  • Avoid early morning visits in colder months if fog obscures the stones. Late-morning to midday often brings clearer visibility after low fog burns off.
  • Stonehenge sits on an exposed plain where strong winds are more uncomfortable than actual rain on many days. So, bring a foldable windproof jacket, not just a raincoat.
  • Short rain bursts can quickly make grassy paths around the stones slippery and uneven, even during dry months. Choose footwear with grip, even in summer.
  • Check local weather for Amesbury, not just Salisbury or London. Forecasts for nearby cities may not reflect the specific microclimate around the Stonehenge landscape.
  • Quick shifts in weather are common, and sudden drizzle can damage gear during outdoor photography. Use a rain cover for cameras or phones.

Frequently Asked Questions about Stonehenge weather

Does Stonehenge ever close due to extreme weather?

Closures are rare but may happen during severe storms, heavy snowfall, or high winds that pose safety risks. Check the official English Heritage website for real-time alerts.

Can I use a personal weather app for planning my visit?

Yes, but choose one that includes hourly forecasts and wind speed. Apps with radar or real-time precipitation tracking are especially helpful in this open landscape.

Does wind affect drone photography at Stonehenge?

Drone use is prohibited near the stones, but if flying in permitted areas, note that high winds are common and can make drone handling unstable and unsafe.

How does the weather affect sunrise or sunset visibility at Stonehenge?

Cloud cover can completely block the horizon, especially in winter. For clear sunrise or sunset views, aim for days with less than 40% cloud coverage.

Are shuttle buses affected by poor weather?

Shuttles generally run in all weather, but icy or flooded conditions may cause delays. Walking from the visitor centre is possible, but the paths can be muddy.

Is it colder near the stones than at the visitor centre?

Yes. The stone circle is exposed to open plains and wind, often making it feel several degrees colder than more sheltered areas.

Can fog obscure the stones even when the forecast says “clear”?

Yes, early-morning fog often lingers despite clear forecasts. This is especially common in late autumn and winter due to surrounding fields and temperature drops.

Are sunrise access visits more weather-sensitive?

Absolutely. Mist, fog, or heavy cloud cover can impact both visibility and comfort. It’s wise to check visibility levels, not just rain or temperature.

Is it safe to walk the outer path during heavy rain?

Yes, but the paths can become muddy and uneven. Waterproof footwear with grip is strongly advised for safe walking in rainy or wet conditions.

Can I use umbrellas around the stones?

Umbrellas are allowed but not always practical due to frequent wind gusts. They may also block views for other visitors, so hooded waterproofs are preferable.

Do weather conditions affect wildlife sightings near Stonehenge?

Yes, particularly in spring and autumn. Rain and wind may keep birds and animals less visible along nearby footpaths and open fields.

Top Things to do in London
Top Attractions in London:
Attractions in London:
Entertainment:
Best Tours in London:
Transportation:
Other Popular Airport Transfers in UK:
Stonehenge
Scan code
Download the Headout app

Get Help 24/7

Headout

We Accept
VISA
MASTERCARD
AMEX
PAYPAL
MAESTROCARD
APPLEPAY
GPAY
DISCOVER
DINERS
IDEAL
FPX
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.