" Not being a solstice person myself I however noted this which I'm sure many will already know about. Is this something quite normal with a solstice on occasion? "

No, it's a once-in-a-lifetime phenomena. I mentioned it last week, as it's at the core of megalithics, but only Nigel seemed interested, and said he'd consider going to Stonehenge, as it is open then. Anyone with gumption is lining cameras and sites up and getting stuff ready, as we speak. (So that's just me then). I followed the moonset, this morning. Spectacular doesn't really cover it. And that's without an eclipse!