It’s the summer solstice tomorrow (Google’s even got a special logo), and I’m heading out to Stonehenge for probably my last time being in the area at this time of year. Below, some tips and advice for others thinking of heading out to this mini-Burning Man in Wiltshire.
Summer Solstice 2006 At Stonehenge Tips & Info is my older post with background, images, pictures and advice on what to expect. Read it first.
Next, understand that this time, the solstice is happening on the weekend. So a record turnout is expected, maybe up to 25,000 people.
It’s already raining now here, not hard, but not expected to go away. Here’s the official weather forecast for the area. It’s also going to be cloudy, so don’t expect to actually see the sun rise at 4:51am, when it is due to come up.
Still, even if you’re getting drenched, you’ll have fun. Dress as rainproof as possible, and remember it’s also cold up on the Salisbury Plain. Still, with 25,000 people around, there will be lots of windbreaks. Oh, that big umbrella you think will help? It won’t. Rainproof clothes are what you need.
If you’re driving, the Stonehenge car park opens at 7pm tonight (Friday). Keep in mind this isn’t the regular tiny one. This is one that’s about a half mile walk away. The map above has more detail (click on it for a bigger one). It will close at 6am.
Stonehenge itself will open at 8pm. So if you want that all night party, that’s the earliest you can get in.
Me, I’m heading there with the family and some friends around 3am or so. As I said in my older post, there was no problem last time getting there that “late” and even walking right up to the stones.
Here’s my other tip. If the traffic looks to bad, use my map for an alternative place to park and walk:
Select number 1 and zoom to it. That’s Stonehenge. You can then zoom out a bit and see some of the other things I’ve noted, such as where the toilets are and where parking is.
Find number 7. This is Larkhill, a little estate / tract of homes for military based here. If it is like last time I went, you’ll be able to drive into Larkhill and park anywhere around this point with no problem. You can then walk along the dirt road (number
to Stonehenge.
Why? For one thing, there won’t be hundreds of cars all trying to leave from that point. There will be tens, if that. Now having said this, if everyone follows my tips, that might change. But chances are, I’m not going to have that big of an impact! Also, I should say I’ve never parked in the regular area myself. For all I know, getting out is easy and orderly.
Other things? “Small” amounts of alcohol are allowed. Phew. But not in glass! And that map above along with a few assorted other rules can be found from English Heritage here.
Can’t make it? Well, I’ll post pictures and video later!
