Summer Solstice

Stonehenge and its Environs 134

Image by kgd

AnnaDevon Jun 11, 2009 19:43:00

I have never been to Stonehenge on the Summer Solstice and would like to experience it at least once before I die.

Is the area accessible on June 21st or are the roads around it closed to stop the crowds gathering?

megadread Jun 11, 2009 21:00:34

Replying to AnnaDevon

http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/nav.20654

http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/upload/pdf/stonehenge_summer_solstice_09.pdf?1244735395

Kozmik_Ken Jun 11, 2009 22:08:07

Replying to AnnaDevon

Hi Anna - English Heritage operate an event known as 'managed access' during solstice. It has it's pros and cons, which have been debated at great length.

StoneGloves Jun 12, 2009 13:32:29

Replying to AnnaDevon

Yes - you've got to do it once, at least. Just go and if you're sincere you'll get in! (Well it worked for me). But then there's all these other sites, around the world, really, that need 'waking up'. So there's also a good argument for just finding the one nearest and putting the energy in there. I'm hoping for Bolton moors, a sleeping bag, a bottle of water and an ancient Super8 camera and tripod. Fingers crossed for clear skies!

moss Jun 16, 2009 08:22:42

Replying to AnnaDevon

Salisbury news on the Solstice at Stonehenge......

http://www.salisburyjournal.co.uk/news/journalnewsindex/4437340.Thousands_expected_at_solstice/

also 'lyrical' moments by Laura Burton - Guardian

http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2009/jun/16/stonehenge-bartons-britain

goffik Jun 21, 2009 09:20:37

Replying to AnnaDevon

Coo! Just heard on the news there were record numbers of attendees at Stonehenge this year - about 35,000 people!

I'm sure it was a blast, but I'm definately glad I didn't go!

I wonder how many people would go if it were freely accessible all year round, and that there wasn't such a fuss made about letting people in without upsetting regular daily admission fees.

Look forward to reading individuals' reports on the event! :)

G x

DoGGoD Jun 22, 2009 12:28:59

Replying to AnnaDevon

Well, this is after the event, so everyone here should know at least Stonehenge had around 35,000! Wow, that's a lot. I went to a much smaller gathering to The Long Man of Wilmington, and joined the Anderida Gorsedd group. It was fun and good for the soul. And what a day! Could've stayed at the pub afterwards all day...