Have you ever thought about the best sightseeing points for parking near Stonehenge? It’s a famous spot with a long history and stunning views. It draws in lots of people who want to see it every year. Figuring out where to park becomes a key element of planning your visit1. Let’s look at the easy-to-reach parking spots close to this World Heritage Site. Find out the best ways to reach the ancient stone formation.
Key Takeaways
- Stonehenge has a dedicated visitor centre with ample parking facilities to accommodate the high number of visitors.
- Advance booking of timed tickets is required to guarantee entry, with the option to pre-book parking as well.
- The visitor centre is located approximately 1.5 miles from the stone circle, with a shuttle bus service available to transport visitors.
- Visitors can also choose to walk the scenic route from the visitor centre to the monument, taking around 30-40 minutes.
- Accessible parking and shuttle services are provided for visitors with disabilities or mobility needs.
Planning Your Journey to Stonehenge
Visiting Stonehenge needs careful planning for a smooth and fun visit. Start by planning your trip and getting your tickets and parking sorted.
Stonehenge Visitor Parking Options
Parking is free at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre if you have a ticket or are an English Heritage member2. If not, there’s a parking fee. From the Fargo Road car park, it’s about a 15-20 minute walk on a gravel path to Stonehenge.
Booking Advance Timed Tickets
You must book Stonehenge tickets ahead. You get a specific time to visit. It opens at 9:30 am for all visitors.
It’s wise to book early to ensure you get in and to manage the crowd.
If you’d like to see Stonehenge for free, there’s a public footpath close by. It lets you see the monument without a ticket. This is great for a quiet visit, especially early in the morning.
You can also download an audio tour for free. It gives you lots of interesting facts about Stonehenge as you walk around.
“Visiting Stonehenge without crowds or costs was amazing. We used the free path to see the site our own way. Saving on tickets was a big win too.”
To make the most of Stonehenge, plan well. Get your tickets in advance and explore free or low-cost ways to enjoy this special place.
Getting to the Stone Circle
Visitors can choose between two options to get to Stonehenge’s iconic stone circle. They can either take the shuttle bus or enjoy a scenic walk through the ancient area.
Shuttle Bus from Visitor Centre
The shuttle bus is quick and easy, making the 5-10 minute trip from the Visitor Centre to the stones. It runs often, helping you reach the site’s main draw without stress.
Walking Route Through Ancient Landscape
Prefer to soak up the ancient vibe? The 2.6-mile walking route is for you. It’s about a 25-40 minute walk, depending on your speed. Along the way, you can see various sites and learn from info panels.
Either way, you’ll get to visit the iconic stone circle very closely, about 5 meters away. Plan for at least 2.5 hours to see everything, from the exhibition to the stones and the surrounding landscape.
Remember, only assistance dogs are welcome throughout the site. Normal dogs are not allowed near the stones, where sheep graze, or on the bus.
“Stonehenge is a place that still holds great meaning for people today, a potent mix of intellect and emotion.” – English Heritage
Stonehenge Parking for Different Modes of Transport
Car Parking Facilities and Charges
Driving to Stonehenge is a top pick for many, and there’s good news about parking. The car park is right by the Stonehenge Visitor Centre and it’s free if you’ve got a ticket or are an English Heritage member. If you don’t have a ticket or membership, it costs £5, which you can get back via a refund when you buy your Stonehenge entrance tickets.
The car park suits various vehicles, such as cars, bikes, and motorcycles. There are special racks for bicycles to lock them up. On the summer solstice, parking is £15 for cars, live-in vehicles, and non-commercial minibuses (up to 19 seats). Motorbikes pay only £5.
Public transport is also getting more popular for reaching Stonehenge. Annually, fewer folks bring their cars. If you’re walking from the bus stop at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre to the stones, it’s about 1.5 miles or 2 km. This takes around 25-30 minutes. A walk to Stonehenge from the nearby town of Amesbury is roughly 2.5 miles (4 km).
There’s a bit of parking reserved for Blue Badge holders, but it’s limited. It works on a first-come, first-served basis and costs the same as regular parking.
| Parking Location | Distance from Stonehenge | Parking Charges |
|---|---|---|
| Stonehenge Visitor Centre | On-site | £5, refundable with ticket purchase |
| Flying Car Park at Larkhill, Salisbury | 2.5 miles (4 km) | Not specified |
| Patrons Car Park in Amesbury, Salisbury | 5 miles (8 km) | Not specified |
| Stonehenge Cottages in Lower Salisbury | 6 miles (10 km) | Not specified |
| Street parking (Willoughby Road, Larkhill, Countess Roads) | Near Stonehenge | Not specified |
The car park at Stonehenge is known to be safe for visitors. English Heritage members get into Stonehenge and use the car park for free. Folks with National Trust membership and National Trust Touring Pass also get in and park for free near the Visitor Centre.
Stonehenge Parking: Accessibility and Special Needs
Stonehenge wants all visitors to enjoy their time, so they’ve made sure it’s easy to get around. You’ll find 22 spots for accessible parking near the Visitor Centre. This area is only 100 metres from where you buy your tickets.
Every part of Stonehenge, including the Visitor Centre and the shop, welcomes those with wheelchairs or pushchairs. The bus to Stonehenge can fit wheelchairs and has a ramp. Plus, the monument itself is free of steps, thanks to ramps. Inside, there are facilities for those with disabilities, like special toilets and a hoist.
It’s not safe for wheelchairs on the grass at Stonehenge when it’s wet. The Visitor Centre also caters for families with baby facilities and microwaves. Near the entrance, there are 22 parking spots for Blue Badge holders and lots of toilets. The space also offers easier access to the Centre.
In the Group Admissions area, there’s more for families, like baby changing. Audio guides in 13 languages are there, and you can use your own smartphone. The Stonehenge cafe serves up food for all diets and can seat nearly 200 people indoors.
For special paths, Stonehenge has ramps at its entrance. Places have been made smooth so that visitors with different needs can easily explore. The shuttle bus trip from the shop to Stonehenge’s stones is quick. This means it gets a 4 Star Sage Accessibility Rating for easy movement and few barriers.
For a ticket, wheelchair users face a gently sloping 15-meter ramp. Their special toilets are at the back of the car park. Visitors can walk a grass path nearby or take a special high path to see more.
“Stonehenge is committed to making the site accessible and inclusive for all visitors, with a range of facilities and services to support those with special needs.”
stonehenge parking: Park and Ride Options
For visitors who prefer not to drive directly to Stonehenge, there are convenient park and ride facilities available. These allow visitors to park their cars at a designated location and then take a shuttle bus to the Stonehenge Visitor Centre. This can be a practical option, especially during peak visitation times, as it reduces the need for parking at the Stonehenge site itself.
The park and ride service is an excellent choice for those wanting to avoid the hassle of finding parking at the ancient monument. Visitors can leave their vehicles in a designated lot and hop on a shuttle bus that will transport them directly to the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, just a short distance from the iconic stone circle.
The park and ride facilities offer a stress-free way to access Stonehenge, especially during the busy summer months when queues and traffic congestion can be extensive. By utilising this service, visitors can enjoy a more seamless and efficient journey, with the added benefit of not having to worry about parking charges or availability at the Stonehenge site itself.
For those seeking a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transport, the Stonehenge park and ride is an excellent option. The shuttle buses run regularly, ensuring a smooth and timely arrival at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, where visitors can then explore the remarkable ancient landscape at their leisure.
“The park and ride service was a game-changer for our visit to Stonehenge. We avoided the stress of finding parking and enjoyed a stress-free journey to the site.”
In summary, the Stonehenge park and ride facilities provide a convenient and eco-friendly way for visitors to access the iconic monument. By taking advantage of these services, travellers can enjoy a seamless and hassle-free experience, focusing on the wonder of Stonehenge without the added burden of navigating parking challenges.
Coach and Tour Bus Parking at Stonehenge
Stonehenge has special parking spaces for coaches and tour buses near the Visitor Centre15. This makes it easy for coach companies and tour operators to plan their trips. They can ensure a great visit for their groups at this famous location. The Stonehenge team is ready to help with any questions or needs for these visitors.
Coach Parking Areas
The coach parking is about 200 yards from the Visitor Centre. It can hold up to 52 coaches that fit 60 passengers each. This is great news for big tour groups. Plus, there’s a 10% discount for groups of 11 or more that book ahead.
Stonehenge Tour Bus Parking
For tour buses, there are special parking spaces very close to the Visitor Centre. This setup helps tour groups easily get to the site and enjoy their time at the stone circle.
Between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, many tour coaches from London arrive at Stonehenge. There’s another busy time in the early afternoon. The tours usually last 90 minutes to 2 hours, but you can stay longer to see more of the area.
The staff at Stonehenge work hard to make things smooth for coach and tour bus visitors. They offer free entry for one tour leader and one coach driver from each group. Plus, there are audio guides in 12 languages to help everyone learn more during their visit.
Planning a group trip or a private tour? Stonehenge has got you covered with its easy-to-reach parking for coaches and tour buses. Enjoy your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site and make it unforgettable.
Conclusion
Visiting Stonehenge is amazing. It lets you dive into a world of history and beautiful landscapes. This prehistoric site welcomes all, whether you walk, take a shuttle, or drive.
It’s smart to plan how you’ll get there and around. By pre-booking tickets and using the shuttle bus, your visit will be smoother. Stonehenge offers everything to make your trip great.
Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and rightly so. Its natural beauty and rich history draw visitors from all over. There are many ways to explore, from exhibitions to guided tours.
FAQ
What are the parking options at Stonehenge?
At the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, parking is free for ticket holders and English Heritage members. Non-members and those without pre-booked tickets will pay a fee.
Do I need to book my Stonehenge tickets in advance?
Yes, Stonehenge tickets should be booked beforehand. You’ll get a specific time to visit.
How do I get from the Visitor Centre to the stone circle?
Take a shuttle bus from the Visitor Centre to the stone circle; it’s a 5-10 minute ride. Alternatively, you can walk the 2.6-mile route. This walk takes around 25-40 minutes.
What type of vehicles can be parked at Stonehenge?
You can park cars, motorcycles, and bicycles at Stonehenge. There are cycle racks in the car park for bikes.
Are there accessible parking options at Stonehenge?
Yes, there are specific spots for accessible parking near the Visitor Centre. Also, there’s seating around the stone circle for those who need to rest.
Is there a park and ride option for visiting Stonehenge?
Yes, visitors have the park and ride service. Park your car at the designated spot and take a shuttle bus to Stonehenge.
Can coaches and tour buses park at Stonehenge?
Yes, coaches and tour buses are welcome at Stonehenge. There are special parking spots for them near the Visitor Centre.
