Tips on Avoiding Stonehenge Tourist Traps

Stonehenge Tourist Traps

One of the most photographed wonders of the world, Stonehenge is Britain’s most famous ancient site, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. However, though it is a landmark in England that should not be missed, many visitors leave feeling that the Stonehenge they saw did not measure up to what they had imagined. These tips on visiting Stonehenge will help you avoid the tourist trap aspects of Stonehenge.

Expense and Experience

First of all, Stonehenge itself is a tourist trap—but that should not stop you! Though you can see Stonehenge plenty well and for free from the road, you will pay a lot of money to get closer. It is absolutely worthwhile to go see this landmark, even if just to say you’ve been there. But if you are interested in this era of British history there are other, less well known sites and even another formation at Avebury only 25 miles from Stonehenge that you might find less touristy and more fulfilling.

Another aspect of the Stonehenge experience that disappoints many visitors is how close you can get to the stones. They might have envisioned themselves walking between the stones and enjoying the ambiance of this ancient religious site, but in reality all visitors are allowed to do is walk along a roped in path that circles the stones. Any ambiance is greatly lessened by sharing that shuffling walk with up to a thousand other people.

To get the best experience possible, try to visit it in the morning rather than after lunch, and preferably during the low season. The best way to enjoy it is to take a camera and some friends and take some creative pictures with the stones in the background.

How to Visit Stonehenge

The price of entry includes an audio guide which is available in several languages. To feel like you got more out of the experience, listen to it and learn what we know about this site. Also, bring a jacket or rain gear because Stonehenge is out in a field totally open to the elements; if you are going to stand outside for an hour to walk around stones and expect to enjoy it, you should dress comfortably.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Stonehenge tourist traps.