Stonehenge Offers Rare Solitary Access This August

English Heritage is providing visitors with an unprecedented opportunity to experience Stonehenge in solitude throughout August. A draw will select a limited number of ticket purchasers for 20-minute private visits within the ancient stone circle. This initiative marks the first time such exclusive access has been offered since admission fees were introduced over a century ago.

A Unique Experience

Normally, visitors view the monument from a surrounding path, separated by barriers. However, for this special event, selected individuals will be allowed inside the circle. While rules prohibit touching, leaning on, or sitting on the stones, the experience allows for a closer appreciation of their scale, texture, and the surrounding landscape. The Guardian was granted a preview visit, noting the blend of ambient traffic noise with natural sounds like skylarks and sheep, and the opportunity to contemplate the monument's history.

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Exclusive Access Options

Georgia Butters, English Heritage's head of operations for Stonehenge, described the experience as special, highlighting the site's spiritual significance and the profound presence of the landscape. She noted that while many visitors might wish to capture images, the aim is to provide a moment of peace and reflection. Winners of the August draw can choose to enter the circle alone or with companions who booked at the same time. This contrasts with the usual solitary access, which typically involves booking an 'explorer tour' costing approximately £1,500.

Staff Appreciate Tranquility

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Site staff also shared their appreciation for moments of quiet at Stonehenge. Supervisor Nick Morabito mentioned cherishing the stillness after a busy day, while security officer Ray Bulpitt finds tranquility during night shifts, listening to the sounds of local wildlife. Occasional attempts by unauthorised individuals to access the restricted areas are managed by security.

The draw for the solitary visits is linked to advance ticket purchases for August. Details on how to enter or the specific number of winners were not immediately clear.