As a travel enthusiast and history buff, there's nothing that excites me more than exploring ancient sites shrouded in mystery and intrigue. That's why I was thrilled to visit Avebury, one of the largest and most impressive prehistoric stone circles in the world. Nestled in the heart of the rolling Wiltshire countryside, this remarkable site is not only an awe-inspiring testament to the ingenuity of our ancient ancestors, but also a place of immense beauty and tranquility. Join me on a journey to discover the secrets of the Stones of Avebury.
History:
Avebury is a Neolithic henge monument containing three stone circles that date back to around 2,600 BCE, making it older than the more famous Stonehenge. The stones, which weigh up to 40 tons each, were transported from as far away as 20 miles and arranged in a precise and intricate pattern that has puzzled experts for centuries. Some believe the stones were used for religious and ceremonial purposes, while others suggest they may have had astronomical significance. Whatever their original purpose, the stones continue to fascinate and inspire visitors from all over the world.
Culture:
The surrounding area is steeped in history and folklore, with the nearby village of Avebury boasting several charming thatched-roof cottages and traditional pubs serving local ales and hearty fare. Visitors can also explore the nearby West Kennet Long Barrow, a fascinating burial chamber that dates back to the same period as Avebury, as well as the iconic white horse of Uffington, a prehistoric hill figure that has been carved into the chalk hills of Oxfordshire.
A Day at Avebury:
From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the scale and grandeur of the site. Walking among the towering stones, I felt a sense of wonder and awe at the sheer scale of the monument and the remarkable feat of engineering required to create it. I spent the day exploring the three circles, admiring the views from the hilltops, and enjoying a picnic on the nearby banks of the River Kennet. There is a museum nearby as well. I enjoyed their interpretation of the stones.
Top 10 Reasons Why Visitors Should Visit:
Explore one of the largest prehistoric stone circles in the world.
Learn about the history and culture of the Neolithic people who built these impressive structures.
See the ancient burial mounds and learn about their significance.
Walk along the ancient processional route known as the West Kennet Avenue.
Take a stroll through the charming village of Avebury and see its historic buildings.
Attend one of the many events and festivals held throughout the year, including the summer solstice celebrations.
Discover the mysterious crop circles that often appear in the surrounding fields.
Visit the Alexander Keiller Museum and learn about the archaeologist who excavated and restored many of the structures at Avebury.
Take a scenic walk or bike ride through the surrounding countryside.
Experience the magic and mystery of Avebury for yourself!
10 Interesting Facts:
The Avebury stone circle is larger than Stonehenge and contains more stones.
The stones are arranged in a complex pattern that aligns with the movements of the sun and moon.
The site was used for ritual purposes for over 1,000 years.
The stones were once covered in intricate carvings and engravings, although many have been lost to erosion and weathering.
Some of the stones were transported from as far away as 25 miles.
The West Kennet Avenue is aligned with the nearby hill of Silbury and the sanctuary at Overton Hill.
The Alexander Keiller Museum was once the home of the man who discovered many of the structures at Avebury.
The village of Avebury is built inside the stone circle, making it one of the only places in the world where you can live inside an ancient monument.
The site has inspired many artists, writers, and musicians over the years, including John Michell, who wrote extensively about the spiritual and mystical aspects of the stones.
The site has been used as a filming location for many movies and TV shows, including Doctor Who, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.
Insider Travel Tips:
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and ancient structures.
Check the weather before your visit and dress appropriately.
Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the site to fully appreciate its beauty and significance.
Top Things to Do for Free:
Explore the stone circles and earthworks.
Walk the West Kennet Avenue.
Visit the Alexander Keiller Museum (admission is free for National Trust members).
Take a stroll through the village
Money Saving Tips:
Visit during the off-season (November to February) for cheaper accommodations and less crowded experience.
Purchase tickets online in advance for a discounted rate.
Consider buying a Heritage Pass if you plan to visit multiple English Heritage sites, including Avebury.
Getting There:
Avebury is located in the county of Wiltshire, about 90 miles west of London.
The easiest way to get there is by car, but there are also regular bus services from Swindon, Chippenham, and Devizes.
If coming from London, you can take a train to Swindon and then catch a bus to Avebury.
Best Place to Eat Nearby:
The Red Lion Pub, located in the heart of Avebury, serves traditional British pub food and local ales.
The Henge Shop Cafe, located next to the Avebury Stones, offers light meals, snacks, and drinks.
Hours and Reservations:
Avebury is open year-round, but hours vary by season. Check the English Heritage website for current hours of operation.
Admission to the Avebury Stones is free, but there is a fee to visit the Avebury Manor and Garden.
Reservations are not required for individual visitors, but large groups are encouraged to book in advance.
Safety Tips:
Visitors should be careful not to damage the stones.
Watch out for uneven ground and low-hanging branches when walking around the site.
Be aware of the presence of livestock, including sheep and cows, which are often grazing in the surrounding fields.
Avebury is a truly unique and captivating destination, offering visitors the chance to experience one of the largest and best-preserved Neolithic sites in Europe. From the awe-inspiring stone circles to the quaint village and surrounding countryside, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Avebury is a must-visit destination. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare to be transported back in time to one of England's most fascinating and mysterious ancient sites.
Disclaimer: The information in this post was factual to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. Please call the location or visit their website to get the latest and most up-to-date information before visiting.