Archaeological evidence suggests the henge may have functioned as a ceremonial center, aligned with the movements of the sun and moon. The precise positioning of the stones, particularly their alignment with the summer and winter solstices, hints at an understanding of astronomy and a possible connection to seasonal agricultural cycles or celestial rites.
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Avebury
On your marks!...
Avebury village, nestled within the heart of Wiltshire, is a quaint and charming haven where ancient whispers mingle with the warmth of modern life. Imagine strolling down its cobbled streets, picture-perfect cottages adorned with blooming wisteria lining your path. Sunlight dances on the golden stonework of the Norman-era St. Mary's Church, towering sentinel of the village for centuries.
But Avebury's true magic lies in its unique embrace of the past. Here, the lines between ancient and present blur. Walk down the High Street, and you'll find yourself gazing upon the Avebury Henge, the largest prehistoric stone circle in Britain, encircling the village like a slumbering giant. Its massive sarsen stones, weathered by time and whispered upon by countless generations, stand as silent guardians of the village's soul.
Avebury Stone Circle
The Avebury Henge, a Neolithic earthen enclosure and stone circle located in Wiltshire, England, stands as a monumental testament to the astronomical and ritual practices of early Britain. Dating back to approximately 2850-2200 BC, the henge consists of a large ditch and bank encircling an internal area containing two concentric stone circles: an outer ring of approximately 98 monoliths, some weighing up to 60 tons, and an inner ring of smaller stones.
Address: Avebury, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 1RF
Website: Avebury (English Heritage)
Telephone: 0370 333 1181
Entry fees: Free
Admission times: Open any reasonable time during daylight hours.
Parking: Yes, at the Silbury Hill Car Park. Car parking is available on site with a £2 charge for non-members payable by text. Parking is free for Members with a valid English Heritage car sticker on display. There are no designated disabled spaces and the car park cannot accommodate coaches or minibuses.
Accessibility: Paths may be uneven and muddy.
Facilities: Avalable in the village.
Parking: The charged car park at Avebury is managed by the National Trust, but is free to English Heritage members displaying a car sticker.
Note: Climbling is strictly prohibited.
The Henge Shop
More than souvenirs, The Henge Shop in Avebury offers a window into ancient mysteries. Nestled amidst Wiltshire's prehistoric landscape, our staff, brimming with local knowledge, share the magic of the stone circle and its lore through curated books, gifts, and captivating conversations.
Find treasures like crystal divination tools, aromatherapy for self-care, and inspiring reads about the ancient landscape. Whether seeking a unique memento or simply a warm welcome, step into The Henge Shop and discover the spirit of Avebury.
Address: The Henge Shop, High Street, Avebury, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 1RF
Website: The Henge Shop
Telephone: 01672 539229
Email: There is a contact form on the website.
Opening hours: Summer Hours (when clocks go forward): 09:30 - 17:30 (Mon - Sun). Winter Hours (when clocks go back): 09:30 - 17:00 (Mon - Sun)
Alexander Keiller Museum
The Alexander Keiller Museum is a treasure trove of prehistoric relics nestled within the Old Farmyard of Avebury World Heritage Site. Founded by the passionate archaeologist of the same name, the museum houses a fascinating collection of artefacts unearthed from excavations around the iconic Avebury henge and surrounding ancient landscape.
Address: Alexander Keiller Museum, High Street, Avebury, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 1RF
Telephone: 0370 333 1181
Email: See website
Website: Alexander Keiller Museum (English Heritage)
Admission times and charges: See website for details
Parking: National Trust car park, south of Avebury off A4361. Free parking for English Heritage members displaying a valid car sticker. Parking charges for non - members apply.
Accessibility: See website for details
Dogs: Dogs are welcome on leads
Red Lion Pub
Time whispers from the thatched roof of The Red Lion public house, a Chef & Brewer pub nestled within the prehistoric embrace of Avebury's stone circle. This 1802 gem isn't just postcard-perfect, it's an experience steeped in history. Inside, low beams and rustic charm mingle with modern touches, while cobblestones and an old millstone whisper tales of centuries past.
The extensive menu offers hearty pub fare alongside a good range of wines and cask ales. But The Red Lion holds a secret unlike any other–an ancient haunted well transformed into a table, where you can sip your pint surrounded by whispers of the past.
Soak in the captivating Wiltshire countryside, the perfect backdrop for a post-stroll feast by the crackling fire. With a welcoming beer garden and dog-friendly spirit, The Red Lion invites you to raise a glass to timeless charm and a touch of the otherworldly.
Address: The Red Lion, High Street, Avebury, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 1RF
Telephone: 01672 539266
Email: See website
Website: Red Lion Avebury
Opening times and restaurant booking: See website for details
Parking: There is limited patrons only parking on site
Disabled facilities: Yes
Dogs: Well behaved dogs are welcome
Directions to Avebury from A4 (Marlborough): Leave Marlborough and travel westbound on the A4/Bath Road. After 4.8 miles turn right onto B4003. After 1.0 mile you will reach Avebury.
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Avebury Tours
Staying in London and don't want the hassle of driving yourself? Then take a private chauffeur-driven tour to Avebury. Get picked up from your London hotel and travel in comfort to the ancient monument. Tours can be customised and combined with other popular UK tourist attractions.
