Stonehenge

Estimated at being over 5,000 years old, Stonehenge continues fascinating scientists today who continue speculating the reasons for the site’s construction. Some suggest the structure served as a means of worshipping the sun, while others believe the location provided a place for receiving healing. The monuments perfect alignment with the summer and winter solstices remains a feature that holds spiritual significance for thousands of Pagans who travel to the location every year. Guests regularly take audio tours and visit the site’s gift shop and cafè. The area also boasts many ancient burial mounds, earthworks and other circular monuments created by early civilizations.

Stonehenge by mari

Avebury

The countryside of this community has what many believe to be the largest stone circle on the planet. The location also has a mysterious stone avenue that may have been used for navigation. Archaeologists date the circle at around 4,500 years old. A 17th century barn houses a portion of the Alexander Keiller Museum, which houses artifacts found around the circle. The Old Farmyard also has a cafè, dovecote and shop. Many also make a stop at the Avebury Manor. Keiller lived in and restored the 16th century estate while investigating the Avebury monument. The occupants welcome guests to tour the home and gardens. Avebury additionally remains famous for the many crop circles that regularly develop in the area.

Avebury by Adam Piontek

Salisbury

The medieval city lies along the banks of the River Avon and features many different destinations of interest. The most celebrated being the stunning English Gothic cathedral that lies in the heart of the community. Surrounded by eight acres of lawns and gardens, the architectural wonder boasts the original Magna Carta, the oldest functional clock and a living water font. Another destination includes the St. Thomas Church, which has a beautiful 1475 painting over the chancel arch that depicts Christ on judgement day. The community also has a famous playhouse that continues offering live entertainment in the present day.

Salisbury Cathedral by Ashley Pomeroy

Lacock

The quaint English community has a number of half-timbered stone houses, a 14th century barn, a medieval church and a 15th century inn. However, the Lacock Abbey remains the most famous landmark in the village. Established in 1232, the estate became a country manor in 1540. The chapter house, medieval cloisters, monastic rooms and sacristy remain intact. More recent renovations include a bake house, brewery, clock house and the 16th century stable courtyard. The community also boasts the Museum of Photography, which commemorates William Henry Fox Talbot. The former Abbey resident invented the negative/positive photography process.

Lacock abbey by Frerix

Castle Combe

Touted as being the prettiest village in England, Castle Combe served as the location for filming the 1966 movie Doctor Doolittle. In recent years, Stephen Spielberg used the community for filming the War Horse. The movie The Wolf Man also filmed here. The village’s main feature is the street that travels from the Market Cross to the By Brook. Here lies a series of old stone houses bearing flower boxes. A stand of mature trees surrounded the homes. There are a number of great hotels in Wiltshire such as the Old Manor Hotel near Bradford on Avon or a range of self-catering options if you prefer to travel with full independence.

Castle Combe, England, UK by Karen Roe

Whether a fan of history, archaeology, or looking to escape the noise and hectic environment of the city, Wiltshire offers much to visitors. Explore centuries old locations and enjoy a walk along one of the many country paths. Relax and have a memorable holiday.

Darren Kyle is a freelance journalist working for the travel sector. He has been interested in the history of sites such as Stonehenge since childhood; when not exploring ancient sites, he can be found reading and of course writing.

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The site and its surroundings were added to the UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites in 1986 in a co-listing with Avebury Henge monument. It is a national legally protected Scheduled Ancient Monument. Stonehenge is owned by the Crown and managed by English Heritage, while the surrounding land is owned by the National Trust.

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