Summer Solstice at Stonehenge Guide 2023
Something magical is coming and will happen on Salisbury Plain this summer. June 21st, 2023, sees the Summer Solstice, also known as the longest day of the year. The exact moment the solstice takes place; the moment the northern hemisphere is tilted towards the sun will be 15:58 BST, according to Royal Museums Greenwich.
Stonehenge is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments, having been built around 2600BC, alongside the building of the Pyramids of Egypt. No one is sure for certain why this particular spot was chosen. However, English Heritage tells us that at the time of construction, whilst woodland covered most of southern England, the site of Stonehenge was mainly clear. Many communities have had their unique uses of the stones, plenty of them recognising the area as having spiritual significance, as archaeological finds have told us.
What makes the summer solstice so special in this space, is the fact that it has been experienced as a near-spiritual event by people for thousands of years. Even today, different cultures from around the world celebrate the longest day with feasts and celebrations. There are plenty of resources to learn about the Summer Solstice, including the current owners of the stones, English Heritage and equal conservation charity, National Trust.
At Brades Acre Touring Park we live just a few miles from this great monument. We’ve played host to many happy campers, intent on watching the solstice sunrise at Stonehenge over the years, but we believe that Summer Solstice 2023 will the best yet.
Will Stonehenge Be Open for the Summer Solstice?
Stonehenge will officially be closed on Wednesday 21st June 2023, the day of the solstice, for paying visitors and will re-open at 9:00 am on Thursday 22nd June 2023. English Heritage generously provides Managed Open Access for visitors to come and celebrate the solstice, with free entry.
English Heritage asks all visitors to the Summer solstice to read the conditions of entry guidelines. This ensures everyone in attendance can guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience. There is also dedicated information on safety facilities and welfare, what and what not to bring, travelling to Stonehenge, disabled access and how to respect the stones.
For people who wish to observe the sunrise at Stonehenge but cannot make it to the site, Stonehenge Skyscape offers a 24/7 live stream from the middle of the stones, which can be viewed here.
Arrangements for Summer Solstice at Stonehenge
The best way to keep up to date with the plans for Solstice 2023 at Stonehenge is to keep an eye on the English Heritage website. The website also gives directions to Stonehenge, and information about membership in English Heritage and all it has to offer.
Heading for the Henge? Contact Brades Acre in the village of Tilshead, Wiltshire, to book your spot for a sunny break on Salisbury Plain.
