Winter Solstice at Stonehenge 2025
Winter Solstice 2025
On December 21st, 2025, thousands of visitors will gather at Stonehenge to witness one of the year’s most spiritually significant moments. At approximately 8:06 AM, the sunrise will shine through the stone circle’s centre, marking the symbolic return of light after the year’s darkest day.
The winter solstice occurs when Earth’s axis tilts furthest from the sun, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. This astronomical event happens on December 21st (occasionally the 22nd) when the sun reaches its lowest point in the sky. From this turning point, the days gradually lengthen again. Ancient spiritual peoples believed this to be the ‘rebirth’ of the sun, and would celebrate the solstice with a feast
Today, Druids and Pagans lead quiet blessings, chants, and meditations, creating a deeply spiritual space focused on renewal, nature, and the turning of the seasons. The atmosphere is notably more intimate and reflective than the summer solstice, as smaller crowds share in this millennia-old tradition of welcoming back the light.
As an English Heritage certified (read more here) campsite for Stonehenge, our campsite offers the perfect base for those wishing to experience this awe-inspiring spectacle. We have a long and proud history of welcoming campers who journey to witness the Winter Solstice sunrise. We provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience, ensuring you can fully appreciate this remarkable occasion.
Stonehenge will be open from the morning of 21st December which provides a wonderful opportunity for everyone to experience this special time of year at one of the world’s most famous ancient sites.
Entry to the Stonehenge field itself will be free, and ensure a smooth and safe experience for everyone, English Heritage kindly requests that all visitors planning to drive to the site pre-book their car parking. This helps them manage the limited parking space available and minimise traffic congestion around Stonehenge. More information about parking and the general rules of the Solstice at Stonehenge can be found here.
By booking your parking in advance, you’ll be helping to protect this important historical site and ensuring that everyone can enjoy the Winter Solstice celebrations. So, if you’re planning on driving, please remember to book your parking with English Heritage to avoid any disappointment. This will help make sure everyone has a great and safe experience.
If you can’t make it to Stonehenge, English Heritage offers a 24/7 live stream on the English Heritage YouTube Channel and Facebook page.
Let us take the stress out of your camping holiday.
Camping at Brades Acre for the 2025 Winter Solstice
The best way to keep up to date with the plans for Winter Solstice 2025 at Stonehenge is to keep an eye on the English Heritage Stonehenge website. Thinking of heading to Wiltshire for the Solstice? Contact Brades Acre in the village of Tilshead, Wiltshire, to book your spot for a sunny break on Salisbury Plain! Make sure you book one of our campsite spaces or log cabins. Our cabins sleep four in a double bed and two singles, so it’s ideal for a small family or friends get-away. Don’t take our word for it, read our reviews here!
For other detailed guides visit our local attractions pages including Rainy Day Guide to Salisbury, Events in Salisbury Winter, Ten of the Best Local Restaurants to Try, Historical Site Around Salisbury and our Quick Guide to Larkhill.