Stonehenge Summer Solstice Tour from London: Sunset or Sunrise Viewing

Experience the 2013 summer solstice at Stonehenge on a sunset or sunrise excursion from London! The astrological celebration at the ancient site has become an annual pilgrimage for druids, sun worshipers and revelers who flock there to welcome the summer. Embrace the festival atmosphere during a sunset viewing on June 20 or a sunrise viewing on June 21, and walk right inside the stone circle itself. Sunset viewings include a trip to the nearby stone circle at Avebury and a light supper in the village of Lacock.

The summer solstice (or Litha) occurs when the Sun reaches its northernmost latitude, giving the most hours of daylight throughout the year. Traditionally, the event marks the first day of summer, and is celebrated all around the world. One of the most legendary solstice celebrations is held at Stonehenge because of its spiritual significance to druids, pagans and sun worshipers. So, join the crowds who flock to the ancient site and celebrate the 2013 summer solstice during your sunset or sunrise viewing.

Sunset Viewing: June 20 (11 hours)
Leave central London in the early afternoon, traveling west out of the capital by luxury coach. Your first stop is Avebury, a small village in the county of Wiltshire that is home to three Neolithic stone circles – one of them being the largest in Europe. Walk around the site with your guide, and then travel to the picturesque village of Lacock for an early evening supper in a traditional village pub.

Hop back on board your coach and travel to Stonehenge, arriving around 7pm to walk around the stones as the crowds start to gather. Hear how its origins date back roughly 5,000 years, and learn about the different theories that surround the mystical stone circle. Was it built as a temple to the sun or an elaborate burial ground? Where did the 40-ton (36-tonne) stones come from and who put them there? Pose for photos as the sun sets on the famous stones around 9:30pm, and watch the pagan rituals and ceremonies taking place to mark the summer solstice.

After three hours at Stonehenge, return to your coach and travel back to central London, finishing your tour at the start point around midnight.

Sunrise Viewing: June 21 (7 hours)
Board your coach in central London in the early hours of the morning, and then travel by coach straight to Stonehenge, arriving around 3am. The sun should start to rise around 4:45am, meaning you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the party atmosphere that builds up to the event. Walk around the stones, watching the celebrations and pondering the mysteries about the legendary stone circle with your guide.

After enjoying roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes at the site, return to your coach and travel back to central London. Your excursion finishes at the start point around 8am.

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