A select few visitors will be able to experience the magic of Stonehenge all to themselves next month in what historians are calling a “once in a lifetime opportunity”.
Admission to the famous prehistoric circle usually allows onlookers to observe the stones from a surrounding path alongside other visitors. But English Heritage, which cares for the site, is automatically entering anyone who buys an advance ticket for August into a draw which could allow you to get up close to the monument.
The World Heritage Site was built 5,000 years ago, first with the placing of bluestones transported from the Preseli Hills in Wales, and then, hundreds of years later, it was altered with the arrival of huge sarsen stones to create the iconic stone circle.
More than one million people visit the attraction, on Wiltshire’s Salisbury Plain, each year. Its exact purpose is unknown, but experts believe, due to it aligning with the solstice sunrise and winter solstice sunset, that it is connected to the sun.
Lucky winners and their party will be allowed to take a moment of silent contemplation among the iconic stones, capture rarely available photos and videos, and observe ancient carvings up close – all for no extra charge.
They will then be given a breakfast roll and hot drink to fuel them through their day at the world-famous monument.
Georgia Butters, English Heritage’s head of operations for Stonehenge, said the competition offers a chance to experience the landmark in a way “very few” ever have.
“Stonehenge is one of the world’s most recognisable landmarks and a bucket-list destination for millions of people across the globe – but very few people have ever experienced the monument in complete peace and quiet,” she said.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand within the ancient stones with no one else around, soaking up the atmosphere and spirituality of this remarkable place.”
To be in with a chance of winning, visitors simply need to purchase a ticket to visit Stonehenge at least 72 hours ahead of travel. Every advance booking made for travel during August will automatically be entered into the draw, with one winning booking selected for each day in August.
Winners will be notified at least 24 hours in advance and will be taken up to the monument from the visitor centre at 9am each day, with their exclusive access ending at 9.30am.
