SUMMER SOLSTICE: STONEHENGE & AVEBURY

PLAN FOR THE DAY

0030 We depart from central Cambridge on our journey to Stonehenge. There will be a comfort break included in the journey.

0330 Arrival at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre. The sun rises at 4.52am but first we must walk the 3km to the stones through the open landscape. Although this is midsummer, this is England don't forget, so although the sun will definitely rise there's no guarantee we'll see it! Also don't forget, the temperature in June can be warm or even hot in the daytime but can be cool at dawn so consider coming prepared with warm clothes and sturdy walking shoes.

On arrival at Stonehenge join the throng of people in the centre of the circle in preparation for the sun's rise. Alternatively, retreat to a quiet vantage point a short distance from the circle and soak in the spiritual significance  of solstice. 

0452 Sunrise!

0600 As the crowds start to depart we start our walk back to the Visitor Centre for a warming coffee before taking the short drive to our second stop, a complex of Neolithic monuments as important as Stonehenge located around the quaint village of Avebury.

0730 On arrival your guide will explain both of today's destinations and point out the various elements of the Avebury complex.

Avebury dwarves Stonehenge and some parts of the complex are older than Stonehenge itself. Time-permitting, we visit a 6000-year old tomb take in the wonderful views across the countryside to the world's largest man-made prehistoric hill, Silbury Hill. Afterwards, we walk around the Avebury stone circle, the world's largest stone circle, before visiting the wonderful souvenir shops in Avebury village.

0930 Breakfast/early lunch in the pretty market town of Marlborough

1030 Depart for the journey back to Cambridge.

1300 Arrive back in central Cambridge.