Featured: Hare and Tabor T Shirts for discerning antiquarians

Hare and Tabor T Shirts for discerning antiquarians

Stone Worlds: Narrative and Reflexivity in Landscape Archaeology

Stone Worlds: Narrative and Reflexivity in Landscape Archaeology

Login

Register here - as a registered user you get more features and fewer ads.

Who's Online

There are currently, 1392 guests and 1 members online.

Sponsors

<< Events >> English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005

Submitted by Andy B on Friday, 22 April 2005  Page Views: 46908

StonehengeCountry: England County: Wiltshire Type: Stone Circle

Internal Links:

Stonehenge.
Stonehenge. submitted by millicent-bee : Lots of tired, cold but very excited people! (Vote or comment on this photo)
Click on the link to send us your photos from the 2005 Summer Solstice, and nominate the best one for our photo competition.

Conditions of Entry and Information

English Heritage is pleased to be providing Managed Open Access to Stonehenge for the Summer Solstice. Please help us to create a peaceful occasion by taking personal responsibility and following the Conditions of Entry set out below.

We have a duty of care to ensure public safety and are responsible for the protection of Stonehenge and its surrounding Monuments. Please read and observe the entry conditions. If we are to ensure that future access is sustainable, it is essential that everyone abides by these Conditions of Entry.

English Heritage continues to work closely with the many agencies and people from all sectors of the community and would like to thank them for their help and support.

Parking and entry will be free, subject to the Conditions of Entry. Please do not arrive at the Solstice Car Park or Stonehenge in advance of the opening time.

SOLSTICE CAR PARK OPENS 2000 hours (8pm) Monday 20th June
ACCESS TO STONEHENGE 2200 hours (10pm) Monday 20th June
STONEHENGE CLOSES 0900 hours (9am) Tuesday 21st June
LAST ADMISSION TO SOLSTICE CAR PARK 0800 hours (8am) Tuesday 21st June
SOLSTICE CAR PARK TO BE VACATED 1300 hours (1pm) Tuesday 21st June

Sunrise will occur at 04.58 on Tuesday 21st June 2005

WE WOULD LIKE TO WISH YOU A HAPPY SOLSTICE

INDEX

SECTION 1: CONDITIONS OF ENTRY Pages 2 – 3
1.1 The Stones
1.2 Bags
1.3 Fires or Fireworks
1.4 Amplified Music
1.5 Dogs or other animals
1.6 Camping or Equipment
1.7 Bottles, Glass or other objects
1.8 Car Park

SECTION 2: PLANNING YOUR VISIT Pages 4 – 5
2.1 Public Transport
2.2 Car Parking and Access
2.3 Access for People with Disabilities
2.4 Road Closures
2.5 Cycles
2.6 Warm Clothing
2.7 Local Camping Facilities
2.8 Tourist Information Centres
2.9 Solstice Information Hotline
2.10 Stonehenge Summer Solstice Website
2.11 Map/plan

SECTION 3: OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION Pages 5 - 6
3.1 The Stone Circle & Gathering Areas
3.2 Refreshment Facilities
3.3 Drinking Water
3.4 Toilet Facilities
3.5 First Aid and Emergency Services
3.6 Child Safety
3.7 Welfare Information & Meeting Points
3.8 Smoking/Fire Risk
3.9 Lighting
3.10 Countryside Awareness/Rubbish Disposal
3.11 Unlicensed Traders
3.12 Stewards
3.13 Evacuation/PA Announcements


1. CONDITIONS OF ENTRY

These Conditions of Entry are written to ensure enjoyment and public safety for everyone. Contravention of any of these conditions may result in admission being refused or removal from Stonehenge. Drunken, disorderly or anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated. Only small amounts of alcohol for personal use will be permitted. In order to ensure personal safety, random searching may be undertaken, but we hope that self-policing and personal responsibility will prevail.

English Heritage reserves the right to refuse admission.

1.1 THE STONES
Please do not climb on, stand or lean against the stones. This is in the interest of personal safety, the protection of this special site and respect for those attending. As well as putting the stones themselves at risk, climbing on them can damage the delicate lichens. This includes the stones that are fallen.

1.2 BAGS
Large bags or large rucksacks, or similar items will not be allowed on site. Small bags/rucksacks (similar size to hand luggage on airlines) will be permitted. Sleeping on the ground creates a trip hazard and in the interests of safety, sleeping bags or duvets will not be allowed on site. Small groundsheets will be permitted.

1.3 FIRES OR FIREWORKS
Please do not bring or light: fires, flaming torches, candles, night-lights, fireworks, and other real flames or bring flammable substances or fuel. This applies to the stones, to the land that surrounds them and to the Solstice Car Park. The nature of this access makes real flame extremely dangerous; it infringes local bylaws and regulations and constitutes a potential fire hazard.

1.4 AMPLIFIED MUSIC
Stonehenge is a world renowned historic Monument and it is seen by many as a sacred site and amplified music is not appropriate. No amplified music will be permitted at Stonehenge, in the surrounding landscape or Solstice Car Park. Acoustic instruments will be permitted.

1.5 DOGS OR OTHER ANIMALS
Please do not bring dogs. Dogs, pets or other creatures are not permitted into Stonehenge except registered Guide Dogs. Apart from potentially upsetting wildlife and stock in the area, animal faeces present a health risk to children and also to people walking barefoot.

1.6 CAMPING OR EQUIPMENT
Please do not put up tents or bring camping equipment, garden furniture, large rucksacks or other large items to the Monument; this includes gas cylinders and barbecues. It also includes trolleys, push chairs or buggies that are not exclusively used for a child, wheelbarrows and any other form of porterage.

1.7 BOTTLES GLASS OR OTHER OBJECTS
Please note that glass will not be allowed into the Monument as many people walk barefoot, and in addition, livestock and wildlife also graze in the area. This also includes any other objects that could cause damage to the Monument or people there. No plastic bottles will be available for decanting, so please decant before you arrive.

1.8 CAR PARK
In order to ensure that all those who wish to come can share in the Solstice, please park sensibly and only where directed by a steward or police officer to enable us to fully use the Solstice Car Park area. Do not park on the A303 or other neighbouring roads. Cars parked illegally will be towed away.

2. PLANNING YOUR VISIT

2.1 PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Wilts and Dorset Bus Company will be running a service from Salisbury Railway and Bus stations to Stonehenge over the Solstice period. This service will commence at 20.30 hours (8.30pm) on Monday 20th June and run regularly until 01.15 hours (1.15am) on Tuesday 21st June. After sunrise, a
service taking people back to Salisbury will start again at 05.15 hours (5.15am) and run regularly until 09.45 hours (9.45am). Access to Stonehenge from the bus drop off point is through the National Trust farmland.

To help you plan your journey to Stonehenge, further details on train and bus fares and timetables are available through the following websites:

South West Trains www.swtrains.co.uk
Wessex Trains www.wessextrains.co.uk
National Rail Enquiries www.nationalrail.co.uk Tel: 08457 48 49 50
Wilts and Dorset Bus Company www.wdbus.co.uk Tel: 01722 33 68 55

2.2 CAR PARKING AND ACCESS
The Solstice Car Park that is located close to Airman’s Cross just off the A303, (adjacent the A344/A360 junction) will be clearly sign-posted. People will be able to walk the approximate 1km to Stonehenge along a designated route. The route is not lit and you may wish to bring a small battery-operated torch. Subject to weather conditions, coaches and other large vehicles may need to be directed to a hard standing parking area.

The Stonehenge car park next to the Monument will be closed to the public, as will the connecting road (A344). Any cars found parked illegally in the surrounding area will be removed.

2.3 ACCESS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
There will be a taxi minibus service between the Solstice Car Park and Stonehenge for people who are wheelchair-bound, have mobility difficulties or are infirm. The minibus will be available from 22.00 hours (10.00pm) on Monday 20th June to 08.30 hours (8.30am) on Tuesday 21st June. For further
information, please ask a car parking steward on your arrival at the Solstice Car Park.

Wheelchair users, accompanied by one carer, will be given access to Stonehenge via the visitor centre entry point and the tunnel under the A344. This access route will be closed to the general public.

Wheelchairs will not be provided by English Heritage.

2.4 ROAD CLOSURES
Closure of designated routes and other public highways will be in operation to ensure safe pedestrian passage to Stonehenge and allow unimpeded access in the event of an emergency. Please follow the signs as advised to the Solstice Car Park and Stonehenge.

2.5 CYCLES
Please do not bring cycles to the Monument, they will not be permitted beyond the Solstice Car Park. Please bring your own locking device and park your cycle in the designated area. Ask a steward at the Car Park entrance for assistance.

2.6 WARM CLOTHING
Despite the time of year, the weather at Stonehenge can be very cold and damp, and people are advised to wear appropriate warm clothing and footwear. Do not bring sleeping bags or duvets, since these can create a hazard.

2.7 LOCAL CAMPING FACILITIES
There are two local campsites. Please check availability and entry conditions in advance.
- Stonehenge Touring Park, Orcheston, Nr Shrewton. Tel: 01980 620304
- Salisbury Caravan & Camp Site, Hudsons Field, Castle Road, Salisbury. Tel:
01722 320713

2.8 TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES
Tourist Information Centres for local area are:

Amesbury Tel: 01980 622833
www.salisbury.gov.uk/leisure/tics/amesbury-tic.asp
Salisbury Tel: 01722 334956
www.salisbury.gov.uk/leisure/tics/salisbury-tic.asp
Devizes Tel: 01380 729408
Andover Tel: 01264 324320

2.9 SOLSTICE INFORMATION HOTLINE
For further information about the Summer Solstice at Stonehenge, please telephone English Heritage on 0870 333 1186.

2.10 STONEHENGE SUMMER SOLSTICE WEBSITE
The English Heritage Stonehenge Summer Solstice website can be found at

www.english-heritage.org.uk/summersolstice

2.11 MAP/PLAN
A map/plan will be publicised on the website before Solstice and will also be handed out on the night.

3. OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION

3.1 THE STONE CIRCLE AND GATHERING AREAS
There will be two areas to gather, with braziers provided. Please use the areas for your own enjoyment, such as poetry or meditation.

3.2 REFRESHMENT FACILITIES
Authorised catering points, selling hot and cold refreshments, will be
provided.

3.3 DRINKING WATER
There is a tap for drinking water close to the Monument which will be clearly marked on the map that is handed out on arrival.

3.4 TOILET FACILITIES
Portaloos, including toilets for disabled people will be provided at the
Solstice Car Park and in the Monument area. Please use these; do not
desecrate the Monument or surrounding area.

3.5 FIRST AID AND EMERGENCY SERVICES
The Wiltshire Ambulance Service, St John Ambulance Service, Wiltshire Constabulary and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service will be in attendance.

3.6 CHILD SAFETY
Parents are requested that children are not left unattended at any time.

3.7 WELFARE INFORMATION & MEETING POINTS
There will be two clearly marked points, one in the Solstice Car Park and one close to the entrance to the Monument. These will be manned with appropriately trained staff.

3.8 SMOKING/FIRE RISK
If weather conditions have been hot and dry, subject to Fire Service advice it may be necessary to ask people not to smoke.

3.9 LIGHTING
Please note that there will be ambient lighting throughout the night. Lights will be systematically turned off as dawn approaches and as soon as it is operationally safe to do so.

3.10 COUNTRYSIDE AWARENESS/ RUBBISH DISPOSAL
People are asked not to drop litter and to respect local farmers' crops and livestock. Black bags will be handed out and skips will be provided for rubbish disposal. Please use them.

3.11 UNLICENSED TRADERS
No unlicensed, non-invited traders will be permitted to set up. This applies to the Monument area, the surrounding landscape and the Solstice Car Park.

3.12 STEWARDS
There will be stewards on duty to assist with the smooth and successful running of Solstice. They are also there to answer questions. Please do not hesitate to approach them, they are there to help. Please also report any activity that concerns you to a member of staff immediately.

3.13 EVACUATION/ PA ANNOUNCEMENTS
In the unlikely event of an incident that requires the evacuation of the Monument area or Solstice Car Park, we would ask that members of the public please respond quickly to instructions given by stewarding staff, the Police or other Emergency Service personnel. PA announcements for your safety and information may be made throughout the access period.

LIABILITY
English Heritage accepts no liability for any injury to persons or loss of or damage to property arising in any way whatsoever whilst at Stonehenge or the Solstice Car Park, and entry is at people's own risk. Although the Solstice Car Park will be stewarded, please note that any people entering this area do so at their own risk.


WE HOPE THE WEATHER WILL BE KIND AND WISH YOU A
PEACEFUL AND CELEBRATORY SOLSTICE

<< 'Stonehenge and the Druids', Penzance April 28th

British Rock-Art Group Conference - Saturday 23 April 2005 >>

Please add your thoughts on this site

Prehistoric Avebury

Prehistoric Avebury

Sponsors

Latest Visit Logs

  • Mount Elizabeth Archeological Site
    “The shell midden, though being underneath a large mansion, is very conspicuous.”
    by IanMu4966 · 12 Jul 2026
  • Pompano Beach Indian Mound
    “Tricky to get parking, especially when the beaches are full. I can't imagine trying to find access i…”
    by IanMu4966 · 12 Jul 2026
  • Jeffers Mound
    “Quaint little Hopewell Culture barrow in a cul-de-sac.”
    by IanMu4966 · 12 Jul 2026
  • Luthor List Mound
    “A bit of bushwhacking to access the tumulus.”
    by IanMu4966 · 12 Jul 2026
  • St Helen's Well (Goodmanham)
    “One of my favourite local wells in East Riding as it is great for dog walking, and easy access from …”
    by Thirdstonefromthesun · 11 Jul 2026

"English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005" | Login/Create an Account | 48 News and Comments
  
Go back to top of page    Comments are owned by the poster. We aren't responsible for their content.
Summer Solstic 2007 by Anonymous on Thursday, 21 June 2007
Re : comments in 2005. I note there is nothing to show for 2006. Why do people just want to disagree I wonder. Just enjoy the heretage, the day, the sunrise, the stones etc etc. And visitors do show some respect.

I will now put in my two penny worth.

I went down town Salisbury today at 10.30am and decided to take the scenic route through the Green Croft.

I came upon two individuals sleeping rough in the childrens play park. One was still asleep in his sleeping bag on the platform on top of the climbing run, the other was enjoying he breakfast.

Tough to all young mothers and children who want to use the playpark; do you think they will be happy to ask the two visitors to move on as their child would like to play.

No idea if they left litter or tidied up after themselves, or even if they left any cannibis butts for some young child to happen upon.

Pity the central police office that used to be off the market square is no longer open to the public as I could have reported the incident within minutes.
[ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Wednesday, 28 December 2005
I think one year we ought to sacrifice one of the Mad Max crowd to the god of sixties San Francisco.
[ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Wednesday, 28 December 2005
Bus ticket: £20
Camera film: £8
Food: £5
Stonehenge without the druggies? Priceless.

[ Reply to This ]

winter solstice by moor2moor on Saturday, 10 December 2005
(User Info | Send a Message)
hi can anyone give me any details on the winter solstice?
will the car park be open & when will the stones be open.
thanks
[ Reply to This ]
    Re: winter solstice by baz on Sunday, 11 December 2005
    (User Info | Send a Message)
    Access to Stonehenge will be from 7.45am 'til about 9.00am on the morning of Wednesday, 21st December. The car park will not be open. Park in the lane to the west of the car park.
    [ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Saturday, 26 November 2005
Does anyone know anything about astronomy on this site? THE STARS ARE NOT AS THEY WERE WHEN THE ANCIENTS BUILT STONEHENGE. Due to the polar shifts, and we are due for another, the Egyptian pole star was NOT the North Star!
[ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Friday, 24 June 2005
well what can i say. as my second time at stonehenge i found it even more amazing and even more magical.
walking around all the happy people.
its a shame that some people turn up just to get drunk and cause trouble but i guess that they'r just not lucky enough to know that theirs more to life and more to stonehenge.
i dont know if anyone else experienced this this solstice but i could rarely bring myself into the centre of the stones. i felt such a strong energy in there i felt like i had to stay on the outside looking in.
the fire displays were amazing down at the heel stone.
i wish they would have turned the lights off sooner but i suppose it makes it safer for everyone
i finally brought myself into the middle after the sun had risen and wow what a performance from all you talented musicians. we made such beautifull rhythyms and music.
its such an overwhelming feeling of togetherness when its just us the stones and our drums.
the only thing i disagreed with was the smartass...

Read the rest of this post...
[ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Thursday, 23 June 2005
I took 4 guys along for there first visit to a solstice at henge although they drunk beer and whatever else they were on each came away with a great sense of wonder. This year was the first for me to be outside the stones rather then within and what a great site it was i don't care what the experts say winter or summer its still very magical.
Only one nag that was the over policing that seems to be a fixture wherever pagans druids and hippies gather i had my picture taken by the police along with video as well (truth is they are worried about g8 coming up) us being counter culture and all it wasn't only there afterwards i left and travelled to avonbury were again it was heavy handed policing more photos etc. haven't they heard of human rights i don't think so but all in all a great day and long may it stay that way
Blessed Be Nemmius
P.S. i made my group pick up and take home there rubbish and shamed a few for not doing the same.

[ Reply to This ]
    Re: summer solstice celebrations by Thorgrim on Thursday, 23 June 2005
    (User Info | Send a Message)
    Good for you, mate. If others did the same there would be fewer problems and greater freedom for all.
    [ Reply to This ]
    Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Sunday, 26 June 2005
    I agree - the rubbish lying around was disgraceful. I can't understand how people who love nature and the countryside can be so disrespectful. That aside, it was a great experience. It was the first time I'd been to the solstice, and couldn't believe how atmospheric the stones were at night. Many, many thanks to English Heritage and the police for making the experience possible. I actually thought that the policing was very relaxed and understated; it takes a lot to ensure the safety and enjoyment of 20,000 people and I thought they did a fantastic job. Don't knock them. Finally, thanks to the 20,000 people for being so friendly and peaceful. May it continue for the next 3000 or so years.
    [ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Wednesday, 22 June 2005
Took the children along again this year and like last year they siad they thought it was fantastic the sun rise was the best couldnt have been any better ,one Qeustion why cant peaple take their rubbish home and show stonehenge the respect it deservses
[ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Wednesday, 22 June 2005
omg?!?!What a fanatastic sunrise this year, best ive seen in a long time. Must say i totally enjoyed myself, and even though the drmataic increase of drunks etc, there is still space for those who see this event spiritually, and even though they are idiots,m they provide entertainment for those few hours before the rise, only problem i found was that idiot climbing on the stones, but other that that utterly amazing
sammy
x
[ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by moor2moor on Wednesday, 22 June 2005
(User Info | Send a Message)
great experience again,pity some people tried to spoil it my climbing on the stones.
but thanks to all who made it a great solstice.
[ Reply to This ]
    Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Wednesday, 22 June 2005
    i agree shame and suprising the lake of respect ,a real cross section of peaple their drunks gunkies and good souls
    [ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by slumpy on Tuesday, 21 June 2005
(User Info | Send a Message)
I hope everyone enjoyed the experience as much as me.

Thanks you EH, Wiltshire Police and the 20,000 people who joined me there.
[ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Monday, 20 June 2005
hurry up you are going to miss it!
pray for love and light in these dark times of CONTROL
let the fourth density be among us - bring it on
we are all meant to shine - start NOW
[ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Monday, 20 June 2005
Have a happy solstice everyone, gather in your choosen place and let the old feelings return. Lets all hope for a peaceful one, see you all at the henge. Driving down from shropeshire so if anyone needs a lift.... [email protected] keep the wind in your hair and a smile on your face. x x x
[ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Sunday, 19 June 2005
Has anyone heard the news that the stewards at henge this year are going on strike or is this some lie being put about by who knows who to keep the rif raf away. me being one of those rif raf types i myself will still be going along with quite a few others of my following.
Its a shame those out there feel we are not wanted then again we don't want what they are offering in its place having been to the solstice at henge since the 70s long time before the who's who and what's what ever heard of the gathering.
the weather looks like its going to be fine the crowd be large no trouble just happy people having a joyfull time. Blessed be Nemmius
[ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Saturday, 18 June 2005
Enjoy the solstice for whatever reason you are going. In a world where the traditional church and governments of all persuasions have failed miserably, is it any wonder that people are curios, at the very least, in the old ways once again.
I agree that the stones should not be climbed upon for reasons of respect, but do the authorities really think that we could hurt them after so many thousand years.
Have fun and enjoy and maybe we will see you there.
Paul and Karen
[ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Saturday, 18 June 2005
Greetings solstice seekers!
Does anyone know of any planned solstice celebrations in Scotland this year?
Thanks - and have a good experience wherever you are -
xo
Laur
[ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Friday, 17 June 2005
Hope that there will be good weather, wish the drums and torch processions were more intense and go on longer, there is usually a lax effort in the comming togetherness effort and cooperation in revelling, I know any cultish stuff will be ludicrous, but I hope this years 'display' by whoever it is that puts on the show, would make a more co-herent effort. Its not that im sensation mad, but it does bring the factions together into a joyous round. Also, it is a wonderous distraction in the cold of the night. I am just hoping that there will be enthusiasm and intensity as well as peace aplenty this year- as much as the weather permits! Remember, each year could be our last to revel and praise and experience this together. So, thats my point and i hope to see you all there. Hope wether is good, great! Ps, hope the 'officials', I mean the stewards etc (not the polis who are usually brilliant at this doo of late), arent too narky, as they can get a little pointless.
Love. And.
[ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Thursday, 16 June 2005
Hello to all kindred soltice spirits!!
Looking forward to a really special moment on Tuesday morn

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE can we all resist the urge to climb on the stones - there's nothing so distressing than seeing the damage and disrespect caused by this act

Blessed be

[ Reply to This ]

Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Thursday, 16 June 2005
Please everyone bring to this year's solstice celebration at Stonehenge: love for Stonehenge circle and for the Earth, respect for all beings, peace and joy in participating in a truly unique and wonderful celebration. Thankyou.

I will see you there...

Blessings

Maq Moonshadow
Priestess of Epona and Herne
[ Reply to This ]
    Re: summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Thursday, 02 February 2006
    I hope it all went well Maq, blessings to all.

    Kirsty Tallon
    [ Reply to This ]

summer solstice celebrations by Anonymous on Wednesday, 15 June 2005
I would like to wish you all a Happy Solstice. Have a great night but please don't climb on the stones as you are just going to spoil it for everyone else when English Heritage has enough of the damage and stops us from gathering at the stones.
Blessed be xxx
[ Reply to This ]

Re: DATE????????????????? by TimPrevett on Monday, 06 June 2005
(User Info | Send a Message)
Usually 21st June, I believe. Hope so, because I've booked the day off work! Tim.
[ Reply to This ]

DATE????????????????? by Anonymous on Wednesday, 01 June 2005
Does anyone know what date midsummer is on this year plz??????

thx
from
xCx
[ Reply to This ]
    Re: DATE? by Andy B on Wednesday, 01 June 2005
    (User Info | Send a Message)
    It's in the article, oh impatient person...
    [ Reply to This ]
    Re: DATE????????????????? by AngieLake on Wednesday, 15 June 2005
    (User Info | Send a Message)
    Midsummer's Day is usually 24th June. But Summer Solstice is 20th [eve]/21st [sunrise]. (I'm not clever enough to know whether that ever changes, as I believe the equinoxes DO sometimes!)
    [ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by chinut on Thursday, 26 May 2005
(User Info | Send a Message)
Have a happy Solstice gathering and be thankful you can attend and are not on the other side of the globe with no hope of coming along. boo hoo.
Give thanks and be respectful of the site and each other. Enjoy!
Written with all good energy.
chinut
[ Reply to This ]
    Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Sunday, 19 June 2005
    yeah they say englands just cold and bring,but now where in earth do they have stonehenge long live the solsitce
    [ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Monday, 23 May 2005
Earth energies help a good crop and ancient farmers would try their best to applease mother nature and hopefully have a good harvest at the end of summer stonehenge could have been used in this way and the soltice is when the sun lines up with the stones in a certain way or it did when it was built anyway. So people go there hoping to see something magic happen and i guess some of them do see the magic,
cheers Canada
[ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Monday, 23 May 2005
To have stones as ancient as Stonehenge being celebrated by a hungry mass of spectators once a year, interesting. Why aren't the stones celebrated more often through the year? And you don't plant crops in summer - you plant them in spring. Even Canadians know that simple fact.
[ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Wednesday, 11 May 2005
The solstice and moon celebrations are as important to-day as ever, they re-connect us with the living universe, and the opportunity to enjoy the company of all the other enlightened people who put the real perspective back into life, not the material things that others seem to worship! We revel in our past,present, and future, and don't waste our precious time on this earth, by wageing war in the name of religion!!!
Blessings be......wh00sh
[ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Sunday, 08 May 2005
How many times does one have the chance to stand in the circle under the megaliths anymore? I appreciate the ability of whoever is responsible for giving the people a chance to do this!
[ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Thursday, 05 May 2005
When referring to crop planting I was in fact referring to herbs so my facts are indeed correct. Too quick to pick holes without addressing the real issue . . . makes Jack look stupid . . .
[ Reply to This ]
    Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Thorgrim on Thursday, 05 May 2005
    (User Info | Send a Message)
    You specifically said "crop planting". Are you now saying that Stonehenge was erected so that people would know when it was midsummer so that they could plant their herbs? Lot of trouble to go to for rosemary and thyme and they have to be planted long before midsummer too. Summer solstice and midsummer aren't the same thing and don't occur on the same date anyway.
    [ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by MickM on Wednesday, 27 April 2005
(User Info | Send a Message)
It would be a hungry society indeed, that waited until the onset of midsummer to plant their crops!
[ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Wednesday, 27 April 2005
Sunrise on Summer Solstice is without a doubt un-nervingly spectacular at Stonehenge. The mere fact that so many people feel compelled to gather and celebrate together must surely bring joy to you. We rekindle our ancient hearts (even if only for a day). There are some magical people at Stonehenge at solstice and it is an injustice to call them 'drunken invaders'.
Personally I shall be at the Nine Ladies.
I am a 'modern celebrant' and I enjoy Winter Solstice as much as Summer.
The real point of knowing when midsummer arrives is to enable crop planting to occur at similar times each year - in this respect it really doesn't matter whether you are celebrating the sunrise or sunset.
Don't listen to moaners - celebrate what you want when you want . . . in fact why not spend your entire life celebrating life.
Lighten up and feel joy.
[ Reply to This ]
    Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Thorgrim on Wednesday, 27 April 2005
    (User Info | Send a Message)
    Yes of course - celebrate what you want when you want and joy be with you, but harm none. I have to query the idea of knowing when the summer solstice is so that crops can be planted though. Its far too late to plant or sew. Nature is the guide and the whole idea of stone circles being needed as an agricultural calendar telling neolithic farmers when to sew crops is nonsene. Spring can be early or late, winters can be harsh or mild, summers wet or dry. They did what I still do - take note of when wild flowers and trees come into flower. Watch for May blossom (the hawthorn) when that is in flower there will be no more frosts etc etc. Country folk far from stone circles had their own weather lore that guided them season by variable season.
    [ Reply to This ]
    Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Sunday, 19 June 2005
    thanks you have the right spirit not like that idiot im sure its not the place to be drunk anyway
    [ Reply to This ]
    Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Sunday, 19 June 2005
    My family agree with you we will be making the vist for the solsice summer 2005.
    Our son Andrew was born on June 21 (But in Port Stanley Falkland Islands S.A.) June 21 is The Shortest Day down in the South Atlantic.
    Richard Cooke.
    email [email protected]
    [ Reply to This ]

Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Thorgrim on Sunday, 24 April 2005
(User Info | Send a Message)
Poor old Stonehenge braces itself for its annual onslaught of drunken invaders. The real absurdity is that the revellers are celebrating the wrong solstice, on the wrong day, at the wrong time and in the wrong direction! It is now thought that the significant occasion was sunset (not sunrise) at the winter solstice! Modern celebrants won't fancy a chilly December evening for their partying and stone clambering.
[ Reply to This ]
    Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Saturday, 04 June 2005
    The effects of the Winter solstice is less dramatic, due to the fallen Great Trilithon, whereas the Summer version has a specific point-of-view [sun over heelstone].

    At WS the sun would send a beam of light over the outer ring, pierce the gap between stones 55-56 and and then beneath the outer ring again to squarely strike the heelstone [and removed partner] with the only light in an area of blackness - a much more dramatic effect, though sadly never to be seen again.
    [ Reply to This ]
    Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by wozit on Wednesday, 15 June 2005
    (User Info | Send a Message)
    well, well, yet another one who believes they are the be all and end all authority on the ancient usage of stonehenge! Perhaps it's time that we all should think that there are many different ways of honouring and celebrating the powers of nature and the primal spirtual parts of all of us, This includes the "drunken Idiots". There is a primal need for us all to celebrate and the midsummer solstice is not always sunny and gorgeous, in fact, the weather in 2000 was worse than any of the winter solstice's I have been to at stonehenge, which IS a quieter affair, and, I believe, is more for the faith in the new year and the return of the sun and the awakening of our countryside. So, in closing, I dont believe the ancients would begr=udge anyone partying the turn of the year at stonehenge. We have long ago lost their original intention. After all, It is our faith and belief in the place that keeps it alive. VIVE LE DIFFERENCE!!
    [ Reply to This ]
    Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Saturday, 18 June 2005
    Actually, in most parts of the world, the Solstice time was either sunrise, sunset or midday high noon. Since most of the Star Knowledge sites have been worked over by a variety of non-indigenous or non-local users over the past 500 years of invasions of various types (predominantly religious based, and not interested in the sites' real uses,) it is not surprising that the contemporary clutch of people don't get it.

    I will see if I can include a midday Solstice picture for viewing here.

    In no time was the marking of the Solstice associated with any crop planting. That has more to do with lunar phases.

    However, the events associated with eclipses, especially marking the eclipses of the Sun traditionally have bad effects on crops or livestock. Therefore the lithic recording places that mark Celestial events generally make reference to problem times for the locals to have a heads up to take care of those needs another way.

    The one I will be sending as a pix there is from an...

    Read the rest of this post...
    [ Reply to This ]
    Re: English Heritage publish Stonehenge Summer Solstice details for 2005 by Anonymous on Saturday, 26 November 2005
    You are ALL idiots. Due to the polar shift, we do not see the stars as the ancients saw them. The Egyptian pole star is NOT the North Star.
    [ Reply to This ]

Your Name: Anonymous [ Register Now ]
Subject:


Add your comment or contribution to this page. Spam or offensive posts are deleted immediately, don't even bother

<<< What is five plus one as a number? (Please type the answer to this question in the little box on the left)
You can also embed videos and other things. For Youtube please copy and paste the 'embed code'.
For Google Street View please include Street View in the text.
Create a web link like this: <a href="https://www.megalithic.co.uk">This is a link</a>  

Allowed HTML is:
<p> <b> <i> <a> <img> <em> <br> <strong> <blockquote> <tt> <li> <ol> <ul> <object> <param> <embed> <iframe>

We would like to know more about this location. Please feel free to add a brief description and any relevant information in your own language.
Wir möchten mehr über diese Stätte erfahren. Bitte zögern Sie nicht, eine kurze Beschreibung und relevante Informationen in Deutsch hinzuzufügen.
Nous aimerions en savoir encore un peu sur les lieux. S'il vous plaît n'hesitez pas à ajouter une courte description et tous les renseignements pertinents dans votre propre langue.
Quisieramos informarnos un poco más de las lugares. No dude en añadir una breve descripción y otros datos relevantes en su propio idioma.