Things to do near Stonehenge | Walks, History, Villages & More

Landmarks near Stonehenge

Visitors pulling a rope to move a large stone at Stonehenge exhibit, England.

Stonehenge Visitor Centre

The gateway to your Stonehenge experience, this modern centre features immersive exhibits, reconstructed Neolithic houses, and a café for a pre- or post-visit break.

Distance: 2 min walk (100 m)
Cost: Included with Stonehenge ticket
Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the exhibits.

Stone circle at Woodhenge, Wiltshire, surrounded by green fields.

Durrington Walls & Woodhenge

Discover the remains of a vast Neolithic settlement and a mysterious timber circle, both key to understanding Stonehenge’s builders.

Distance: 7 min drive (4.5 km)
Cost: Free

Tip: Visit at sunset for atmospheric views.

Crop circle in a wheat field at Normanton Down, near Stonehenge.

Normanton Down Barrows

A collection of Bronze Age burial mounds offering panoramic views of the plain and a sense of ancient ritual landscapes.

Distance: 15 min walk (1.2 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching and distant views.

Pastoral landscape with wooden gate and yellow fields near Amesbury.

Amesbury Town

Explore the historic market town of Amesbury, home to riverside walks, independent shops, and local history dating back thousands of years.

Distance: 10 min drive (5 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Stop by the Amesbury History Centre for local insights.

Salisbury Cathedral

Marvel at this 13th-century Gothic cathedral, famous for its soaring spire and original Magna Carta.

Distance: 20 min drive (15 km)
Cost: From £9
Tip: Climb the tower for panoramic city views.

Old Sarum

Wander the Iron Age hillfort and ruins of Salisbury’s original cathedral, with sweeping views over the Wiltshire countryside.

Distance: 18 min drive (13 km)
Cost: From £6
Tip: Bring a picnic for a scenic lunch on the ramparts.

Museums near Stonehenge

Person photographing stone monument with inscriptions at Stonehenge.

Stonehenge Visitor Centre Exhibition

Explore Stonehenge’s story through ancient artifacts, interactive displays, and a 360-degree virtual stone circle experience.

Distance: 2 min walk (100 m)
Cost: Included with Stonehenge ticket
Tip: Don’t miss the reconstructed Neolithic houses outside.

Visitor examining display case at Louvre Museum, Paris.

Amesbury History Centre

A small but fascinating museum tracing Amesbury’s history from prehistoric times to the present.

Distance: 10 min drive (5 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Ask about guided town walks for extra context.

Visitor observing artwork at Prague National Museum exhibit.

Salisbury Museum

Housed in the King’s House, this museum features Stonehenge finds, local archaeology, and changing art exhibitions.

Distance: 20 min drive (15 km)
Cost: From £9
Tip: Check for family activity trails during school holidays.

Mother and daughter examining exhibit at Sciencework museum.

Wiltshire Museum, Devizes

Home to the best Bronze Age gold collections in Britain, including treasures from the Stonehenge landscape.

Distance: 35 min drive (28 km)
Cost: From £10
Tip: Combine with a visit to Avebury for a full day out.

Where to eat & drink near Stonehenge

Glasses of beer and alcohol being cheered on a cruise.

The Boot Inn, Berwick St James

A classic country pub serving local ales and hearty British fare, perfect for a post-Stonehenge meal.

Distance: 15 min drive (10 km)
Cost: Meals from £12
Tip: Book ahead for Sunday lunch.

Beer flight with various beers in small glasses on a wooden tray.

The Stonehenge Inn, Durrington

Family-friendly pub with a Stonehenge-themed play area and a menu of pub classics.

Distance: 7 min drive (4.5 km)
Cost: Mains from £10
Tip: Try the local Wiltshire ham.

Glass of English cider with fresh apples on a wooden table in London.

The Red Lion, Avebury

Historic pub set within Avebury’s stone circle, offering local ciders and seasonal dishes.

Distance: 35 min drive (28 km)
Cost: Mains from £13
Tip: Sit outside for views of the ancient stones.

Fish and chips served on a wooden board during a London food tour.

The Bell, Winterbourne Stoke

Traditional inn with a cozy fireplace and a menu of British favorites.

Distance: 5 min drive (3 km)
Cost: Mains from £11
Tip: Great spot for walkers and cyclists.

Steak and fries at The Guinea Grill, London, with tomatoes and garlic.

The George Hotel, Amesbury

Historic coaching inn with a varied menu and riverside terrace.

Distance: 10 min drive (5 km)
Cost: Mains from £12
Tip: Afternoon tea is a local favorite.

Cheese and charcuterie board with wine at a West End London restaurant.

The Bridge Inn, Upper Woodford

Riverside pub known for its garden and fresh local produce.

Distance: 18 min drive (13 km)
Cost: Mains from £14
Tip: Book a table for summer weekends.

Budget-friendly things to do around

Avenue Walk

Follow the ancient ceremonial Avenue from Stonehenge to the River Avon, enjoying open countryside and historic views.

Distance: 5 min walk (400 m)
Cost: Free
Tip: Early mornings are quietest for wildlife spotting.

Normanton Down Barrows

Visit these Bronze Age burial mounds for free, with panoramic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Distance: 15 min walk (1.2 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Bring a camera for sunrise or sunset shots.

Amesbury Riverside Walk

Enjoy a gentle riverside stroll through meadows and historic Amesbury.

Distance: 10 min drive (5 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Look for kingfishers and herons along the river.

Woodhenge

Walk around this timber circle site, free to visit and open year-round.

Distance: 7 min drive (4.5 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Combine with Durrington Walls for a longer walk.

Old Sarum

Explore the ramparts and ruins of this Iron Age hillfort for a small fee, or walk the outer paths for free.

Distance: 18 min drive (13 km)
Cost: From £6 (free outer paths)
Tip: Great for picnics and kite flying.

Salisbury Market Place

Browse local produce, crafts, and street food at Salisbury’s twice-weekly market.

Distance: 20 min drive (15 km)
Cost: Free to browse
Tip: Market days are Tuesday and Saturday.

Activities for family & kids

Stonehenge Visitor Centre Family Trail

Pick up a free activity sheet and explore Stonehenge’s story through games and hands-on exhibits.

Distance: 2 min walk (100 m)
Cost: Included with ticket
Tip: Ask staff for kids’ explorer packs.

Woodhenge

Let kids run around the timber posts and imagine ancient ceremonies at this open-air site.

Distance: 7 min drive (4.5 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Bring snacks for a picnic nearby.

Amesbury History Centre

Interactive displays and dressing-up corners make local history fun for younger visitors.

Distance: 10 min drive (5 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Check for family workshops during holidays.

Salisbury Cathedral Tower Tour

Older kids will love climbing the 332 steps for city views and learning about medieval engineering.

Distance: 20 min drive (15 km)
Cost: From £9
Tip: Book ahead, as tours fill quickly.

River Avon Walks

Gentle riverside paths are perfect for family strolls, picnics, and spotting wildlife.

Distance: 10–20 min drive (5–15 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching.

The Stonehenge Inn Play Area

A Stonehenge-themed playground and family-friendly menu make this pub a hit with kids.

Distance: 7 min drive (4.5 km)
Cost: Free with meal
Tip: Try the children’s menu for local favorites.

Seasonal events

Summer Solstice at Stonehenge (June 21)

Join thousands at sunrise to celebrate the longest day of the year, with music, drumming, and a unique atmosphere.

Distance: At Stonehenge
Cost: Free (parking charges apply)
Tip: Arrive early and dress warmly.

Winter Solstice at Stonehenge (December 21)

Experience the magic of the shortest day with sunrise gatherings and ancient rituals.

Distance: At Stonehenge
Cost: Free (parking charges apply)
Tip: Bring a torch and waterproofs.

Salisbury Christmas Market (late Nov–Dec)

Browse festive stalls, crafts, and food in the shadow of Salisbury Cathedral.

Distance: 20 min drive (15 km)
Cost: Free to browse
Tip: Try mulled wine and local cheeses.

Amesbury Carnival (July)

A lively summer parade, fairground rides, and community events in the heart of Amesbury.

Distance: 10 min drive (5 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Check dates in advance for parade times.

Gardens and parks near Stonehenge

Normanton Down

Open grassland dotted with ancient barrows, ideal for peaceful walks and wildflower spotting.

Distance: 15 min walk (1.2 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Visit in spring for wildflowers and butterflies.

Silbury Hill in Avebury, England, surrounded by green fields and a reflective pond.

Amesbury Riverside Park

A family-friendly park with play areas, picnic spots, and riverside paths.

Distance: 10 min drive (5 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Bring a blanket for a riverside picnic.

Swan gliding on a pond in a parkland in Southwark, London, with lush greenery.

Queen Elizabeth Gardens, Salisbury

Beautiful city park with flower beds, a splash pool, and views of Salisbury Cathedral.

Distance: 20 min drive (15 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Great for families and summer picnics.

Old Sarum Ramparts

Grassy hilltop with panoramic views, perfect for a breezy walk or kite flying.

Distance: 18 min drive (13 km)
Cost: Free (for outer ramparts)
Tip: Bring a kite or frisbee for open space fun.

Family-friendly experiences

Stonehenge Visitor Centre Family Trail

Interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and a family-friendly café make this a great stop for all ages.

Distance: 2 min walk (100 m)
Cost: Included with ticket
Tip: Pick up a kids’ explorer pack at the entrance.

Woodhenge

Open space for kids to explore, run, and learn about ancient history in a relaxed setting.

Distance: 7 min drive (4.5 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Combine with a picnic for a half-day outing.

Amesbury Riverside Park

Playgrounds, riverside walks, and picnic spots make this park a favorite for families.

Distance: 10 min drive (5 km)
Cost: Free
Tip: Bring bread for the ducks.

Salisbury Museum Family Activities

Hands-on exhibits and activity trails designed for children, plus regular workshops during school holidays.

Distance: 20 min drive (15 km)
Cost: From £9
Tip: Check the website for current family events.

How to plan your day near Stonehenge

Visitors walking among Stonehenge stones during exclusive tour from London.

Path: Stonehenge Visitor Centre → Stone Circle → Avenue Walk

Arrive at the Visitor Centre, pick up your ticket and explore the exhibits (20 min).
Take the shuttle or walk to the stone circle (15 min).
Walk the Avenue back toward the Visitor Centre (25 min).
Grab a coffee at the café before you leave.
Alternative: If short on time, focus on the stone circle and skip the Avenue walk.

Path: Stonehenge → Woodhenge → Amesbury

Visit Stonehenge and the Visitor Centre (1.5 hr).
Drive to Woodhenge for a quick walk (30 min).
Explore Amesbury town and riverside (1 hr).
Lunch at a local pub.
Alternative: Swap Woodhenge for Normanton Down if you prefer a longer walk.

Stonehenge with tourists in the background, grassy field, clear sky, near London.

Path: Stonehenge → Salisbury Cathedral → Old Sarum

Morning at Stonehenge and Visitor Centre (2 hr).
Drive to Salisbury, tour the cathedral and Magna Carta (1.5 hr).
Lunch in Salisbury Market Place (1 hr).
Afternoon at Old Sarum hillfort (1 hr).
Alternative: If you love museums, add Salisbury Museum after the cathedral.

Stonehenge silhouetted against a vibrant sunset during the equinox in Wiltshire, England.

Path: Stonehenge sunset → Pub dinner

Book a sunset access slot at Stonehenge (1 hr).
Enjoy the stones in golden light.
Head to The Boot Inn or The George Hotel for dinner (1.5 hr).
Alternative: If sunset slots are full, enjoy a riverside walk in Amesbury before dinner.

Child and adult at Stonehenge with ancient stones in the background.

Path: Stonehenge Visitor Centre → Woodhenge → Amesbury Riverside Park

Family trail at the Visitor Centre (30 min).
Explore the stone circle (30 min).
Playtime at Woodhenge (30 min).
Picnic and playground at Amesbury Riverside Park (1 hr).
Alternative: Add Salisbury Museum for hands-on activities if you have extra time.

Visitors with umbrella viewing Stonehenge on a cloudy day.

Path: Stonehenge sunrise → Normanton Down walk → Riverside pub

Book a sunrise tour at Stonehenge (1 hr).
Walk to Normanton Down for peaceful views (45 min).
Lunch at The Bridge Inn by the river (1.5 hr).
Alternative: End the day with a stroll in Queen Elizabeth Gardens, Salisbury.

Visitor information

Family enjoying a ride on the Heathrow Express train to London Paddington.

Stonehenge is best reached by car or tour bus, with parking at the Visitor Centre. Salisbury is the nearest train station, with regular buses and taxis to Stonehenge. Walking and cycling paths connect nearby sites like Woodhenge and Amesbury. Guided tours offer convenient transport between major attractions.

Blue parking sign with arrow pointing right.

Visitor Centre parking is included with Stonehenge tickets. Overflow parking is available during busy periods. Free parking can be found in Amesbury and at Woodhenge. Salisbury city center has several paid car parks, including Park & Ride options.

Restroom sign near Westminster Abbey with male and female symbols.

Restrooms: At the Visitor Centre and Salisbury Cathedral
Café: Visitor Centre café, local pubs in Amesbury and Berwick St James
Gift Shop: Stonehenge Visitor Centre
Picnic Areas: Normanton Down, Amesbury Riverside Park
Wi-Fi: Free at Visitor Centre and some pubs
Lockers: Not available at Stonehenge; check Salisbury station for left luggage

Wheelchair accessible route sign with arrow pointing right.

Visitor Centre and shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible
Stone circle path is accessible, but some grass areas may be uneven
Accessible restrooms at Visitor Centre and Salisbury Cathedral
Assistance dogs welcome at all sites
Audio guides and large-print materials available at Stonehenge

Person using a smartphone and credit card to book tickets online.

Book in advance: Stonehenge requires timed tickets, especially in summer. Book early for sunrise or sunset access.
Dress for the weather: The plain is exposed and can be windy or muddy. Bring layers and waterproofs.
Arrive early or late: For fewer crowds, visit before 10am or after 4pm, especially during peak season.
Bring snacks and water: Food options are limited outside the Visitor Centre and nearby towns.
Combine sites: Save time and money by booking a combo tour covering Stonehenge, Salisbury, and Old Sarum.
Photography: Tripods are not allowed at the stone circle, but early morning and late afternoon offer the best light.

FAQs about things to do near Stonehenge

Is the area around Stonehenge safe at night?

The Stonehenge site itself closes in the evening, but the surrounding area is generally safe. If attending solstice events, expect crowds and follow event guidelines for safety.

Is the area around Stonehenge easy to walk around?

Yes, the landscape is mostly flat with well-marked paths. Some areas can be muddy after rain, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

What local favorites are near Stonehenge?

The Boot Inn and The George Hotel are popular for classic pub meals. Amesbury’s riverside walks and the Stonehenge Visitor Centre café are also local favorites.

What’s the best picnic spot near Stonehenge?

Normanton Down offers peaceful views and space for a picnic. Amesbury Riverside Park is another good option for families.

Where are the best photo spots of Stonehenge?

The classic view is from the main path on the north-east side. For sunrise or sunset shots, book special access tours for the best light and fewer people.

What free things can I do near Stonehenge?

Walk the Avenue, visit Woodhenge, explore Normanton Down, and stroll through Amesbury—all are free and open year-round.

What are the best restaurants or cafés within a 10-minute drive of Stonehenge?

The Boot Inn, The Stonehenge Inn, and The George Hotel in Amesbury are all within a short drive and offer a range of local dishes.

What can I do near Stonehenge with kids?

Try the family trail at the Visitor Centre, play at Woodhenge, or enjoy the playground at Amesbury Riverside Park.

What are some rainy-day ideas near Stonehenge?

Visit the Stonehenge Visitor Centre’s indoor exhibits, Amesbury History Centre, or Salisbury Museum for shelter and learning.

Is there luggage storage or lockers near Stonehenge?

There are no lockers at Stonehenge. For luggage storage, use facilities at Salisbury train station or local hotels.

Which bus stop is best for Stonehenge?

The Stonehenge Tour Bus from Salisbury station stops directly at the Visitor Centre. Local buses also connect Amesbury and Salisbury.

Are dogs allowed in parks or attractions near Stonehenge?

Dogs are not allowed at the stone circle but are welcome on leads in the surrounding landscape and at Woodhenge.

Does the City Pass cover things near Stonehenge?

There is no city pass for Stonehenge, but combo tickets are available for Stonehenge, Salisbury Cathedral, and Old Sarum.

What markets or shopping streets are near Stonehenge?

Salisbury Market Place is the best spot for local shopping, with markets on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Where can I take the best night views of Stonehenge?

Night access is only allowed during special events like solstice celebrations. Otherwise, the site is closed after hours.

What unique or hidden gems are near Stonehenge?

Normanton Down Barrows and the riverside walks in Amesbury offer peaceful escapes and a sense of ancient history.

What are the best times to visit Stonehenge for fewer crowds?

Early mornings and late afternoons, especially outside school holidays, are the quietest times to visit.

What are some top seasonal events near Stonehenge?

The summer and winter solstices are the most popular, drawing crowds for sunrise celebrations. Salisbury Christmas Market is also a festive highlight.