Avebury is an ancient village located in Wiltshire, southwest England. It is home to a prehistoric stone circle, one of the most impressive and well-preserved ancient monuments in the country. The Avebury stones, which form the circle, are estimated to be around 4,500 years old and are believed to have been erected during the Neolithic period. The site is made up of a henge, standing stones, and a manor house, all of which are surrounded by a vast area of countryside. Avebury is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Wiltshire and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient history.
History of Avebury
The exact purpose of the Avebury stone circle is still unknown. It is thought to have been built as a temple or a meeting place for religious ceremonies. The stones are believed to have been erected between 2850 and 2200 BC, making them one of the oldest monuments in Britain. The Avebury henge is also thought to have been constructed during this time. The henge is a large circular ditch with an inner bank, which is surrounded by a series of standing stones. The manor house was built in the 16th century and is now owned by the National Trust.
Attractions at Avebury
Avebury is one of the most impressive ancient monuments in the country and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history. The site is made up of a henge, standing stones, and a manor house, all of which are surrounded by a vast area of countryside. Visitors can explore the henge and standing stones, which are thought to have been erected during the Neolithic period. The manor house is also open to the public and offers a fascinating insight into the history of the area.
Tours
Avebury is a popular destination for tourists and there are several guided tours available. The National Trust offers a range of tours, including a guided tour of the stone circle and henge, a tour of the manor house, and a tour of the surrounding countryside. There are also several independent tour companies offering guided tours of the area.
Admission
Admission to the Avebury stone circle and henge is free, however, there is a charge for admission to the manor house. Tickets for the manor house can be purchased from the National Trust website or from the ticket office at the entrance to the site.
Tips for Tourists
- Wear comfortable shoes as the site is large and the ground can be uneven in places.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen in summer months.
- Pack a picnic lunch as there are no food outlets on site.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Wiltshire countryside.
Practical Information
- Opening times: The stone circle and henge are open all year round from dawn until dusk. The manor house is open from April to October.
- Location: Avebury is located in Wiltshire, southwest England.
- Parking: There is a car park at the entrance to the site.
- Public transport: The nearest train station is Swindon, which is approximately 30 minutes away by car.
Avebury is one of the most impressive prehistoric monuments in the country and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient history. The site is made up of a henge, standing stones, and a manor house, all of which are surrounded by a vast area of countryside. Visitors can explore the henge and standing stones, which are thought to have been erected during the Neolithic period. The manor house is also open to the public and offers a fascinating insight into the history of the area. With its stunning views of the Wiltshire countryside and its wealth of attractions, Avebury is a popular destination for tourists and is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
