Stonehenge

Make sure that Stonehenge is on your list of places to go with the children in Wiltshire. This world-famous Stone Circle near Salisbury is an iconic symbol of Britain and the South West and part of the Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site.

Dating back 4,500 years, the true meaning of this awe-inspiring creation remains a mystery. There are many theories. Who could have built it, when and for what purpose? Was it a temple for sun worship, a healing centre, a burial site or perhaps a huge calendar?

How did our ancestors carry the mighty stones from so far away and then, using only the most primitive of tools, build this amazing structure? It appears that Stonehenge is not an isolated monument, but one part of an extraordinary landscape of early Neolithic, late Neolithic and early Bronze Age monuments. These give insight into ceremonial and mortuary practices at that time.

The builders of Stonehenge used two types of stone and brought them from great distances, with each stone weighing 2-5 tons. This makes the last remaining lintelled Stone Circle in the world a masterpiece of engineering. For some it is a wonder of the world, for others a deeply spiritual place.

The visitor centre houses permanent and temporary exhibitions and goes some way to explaining the different theories. One theory is that it was a temple aligned with the sun’s movements. Atmospheric audio-visual experiences help to bring the past alive. Also, children will enjoy discovering the Neolithic Houses, giving an insight into life at that time. There may also be demonstrations of ancient domestic skills.

Families with older children in particular may enjoy exploring the ancient landscape surrounding Stonehenge. So pack your walking boots and allow plenty of time for your visit. Finally, audio tours help visitors make the most of their visit. A free tour is available for download in advance or tours can be hired on arrival.

Please see English Heritage’s website to find out more and book tickets.