Stonehenge Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit 2026

Stonehenge is open year-round, but hours vary by season and the experience changes dramatically depending on when you go. Here is everything you need to plan a well-timed visit in 2026.

2026 Opening Hours by Season

Period	Opening Hours
January – March	9:30am – 5:00pm
April – May	9:30am – 7:00pm
June – August	9:00am – 8:00pm
September – October	9:30am – 7:00pm
November – December	9:30am – 5:00pm

Last entry is typically 30 minutes before closing. Hours can shift slightly around bank holidays and special events, so always check the English Heritage website before you travel.

Best Day of the Week

Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends, particularly during summer. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday tend to see the lowest footfall. Saturdays in July and August are the busiest days of the year.

Best Time of Day

• First entry slot of the day — the stones are at their most peaceful and the light is often beautiful
• Last two hours before closing — crowds thin out noticeably as day visitors head home
• Avoid midday in July and August — this is peak congestion, with long queues at the visitor centre

Seasonal Pros and Cons

Summer offers long evenings, warm weather, and lush surroundings, but brings the largest crowds. Winter is cold and sometimes wet, but the low sun creates dramatic long shadows across the stones and visitor numbers are much lower.

Photography Tip

The golden hour just after opening in spring and autumn produces some of the most striking images. Arrive at the first slot and head left on the path for an unobstructed angle.

Booking Advice

Pre-booking online is strongly recommended year-round and essential between June and September. Walk-up tickets are often unavailable on busy days.