Summer solstice: Everything you need to know

Thousands of people are expected to gather at Stonehenge to celebrate this year's summer solstice, which marks the longest day of the calendar year and is, for many, is a spiritual tradition.

Visitors have flocked to the site in Salisbury, Wiltshire, for thousands of years to witness the moment the sun rises up behind the 'heel stone', the ancient entrance to the monument.

In 2025, more than 25,000 people gathered at the stone circle, which was built more than 4,000 years ago.

This year, the sun will rise on 21 June at 04:52 BST, with the astronomical solstice itself occurring at 09:24.

The summer solstice occurs when the earth's northern hemisphere is most tilted towards the sun, making it appear at its highest point in the sky.

Without this tilt, there would be no seasons due to an equal amount of daylight all year.

The monument, built in about 2,500 BC, was designed to align with the midsummer sunrise and midwinter sunset.

On summer solstice, the sun rises behind the 'heel stone' and its first rays are channeled into the heart of Stonehenge.

According to English Heritage, it is likely worshippers conducted rituals and ceremonies relating to the changing seasons, the sun, and the sky at the site.

For Neolithic people, sunlight provided warmth for them and their animals and helped crops to grow.

Salisbury train station is 12 miles (19km) away, while Salisbury Reds will operate special bus services to Stonehenge.

Motorists are advised to follow temporary road signs, with road closures and traffic diversions in place.

Free access to the site will begin at 19:00 on 20 June and end at 08:30 on 21 June.

Following the introduction of pre-booked parking at the winter solstice in December, visitors travelling by car must book in advance.

Spaces are limited, so visitors are encouraged to book as early as possible.

Some accessible parking spaces for blue-badge holders are available to pre-book, with a free shuttle bus service to and from the stones.

There is a 1.2 mile (1.9km) walk from parking areas to the monument.

The last admission to the car park will be at 04:15 on 21 June.

Visitors are urged to wear sensible footwear and bring warm, waterproof clothing, with large umbrellas and large bags not allowed.

A small torch and blanket is also recommended, but sleeping bags, duvets and tents are not permitted.

English Heritage asks all visitors to respect the stones and the people around them, many of whom regard Stonehenge as a sacred place.

Amplified music, alcohol, drones and pets - excluding assistance dogs - are not allowed.

Stonehenge's operations director, Steve Bax, said: "We want to remind people of how vulnerable the stones are.

"Please treat them with respect for the future generations who want to enjoy midsummer celebrations in this remarkable historic place."

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