Stonehenge

Stonehenge is the most famous prehistoric monument in Europe — a circle of massive standing stones on Salisbury Plain that has endured for nearly 5,000 years, defying complete explanation and inspiring wonder in everyone who sees it. The sarsen stones, some weighing over 25 tonnes, were transported from Marlborough Downs 25 miles away; the bluestones came from the Preseli Hills in Wales, over 150 miles distant. How and why remain subjects of debate. The visitor centre (about a mile from the stones, linked by shuttle) has an excellent exhibition explaining what's known about the monument's construction and purpose, with Neolithic artefacts found on-site and a reconstructed Neolithic village. The stones themselves are viewed from a roped path — you can't walk between them on standard visits, but special access visits (before opening or after closing) allow you to walk among the stones. Book timed tickets in advance — walk-up entry isn't guaranteed, especially in summer. The winter and summer solstice events (free, unmanaged open access) are extraordinary experiences — thousands gather to watch the sun align with the stones. The landscape around Stonehenge is rich with burial mounds and earthworks that the audio guide helps you appreciate.