Celebrations for the summer solstice will once again return to Stonehenge in 2026.
English Heritage has announced plans for the 2026 event, which will take place from 7pm on Saturday, June 20, until 8.30am on Sunday, June 21. These celebrations mark the longest day of the year, a tradition that has been observed at the ancient site for thousands of years.
Last year’s event drew more than 25,000 people to the prehistoric monument to witness the sunrise aligned with the stone circle.
Steve Bax, operations director at Stonehenge, said: "Celebrating the longest day of the year is a tradition at Stonehenge and it’s our job to look after the ancient stones and all the families and friends joining us at this special time.
"We strongly encourage everyone who wishes to come by car to book parking as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
"There are no alternative parking arrangements at Stonehenge."
For those unable to attend in person, English Heritage will offer a livestream of both the sunset and sunrise through its YouTube channel and Facebook page.
Visitors are reminded to treat the site with care.
Mr Bax said: "As always, we want to remind people of how vulnerable the stones are – not only are they home to prehistoric carvings but extremely rare lichens grow on their surface, which are easily damaged by touching them.
"Please treat them with respect for the future generations who want to enjoy midsummer celebrations in this remarkable historic place."
Stonehenge was built to align with the midsummer sunrise and midwinter sunset, with the first stones believed to have been erected around 2,500 BC.
On June 21, the sun rises behind the Heel Stone, directing its rays into the centre of the stone circle.
Entry is free, though visitors are required to adhere to specific conditions of entry, available on the English Heritage website.
There is a 25 to 30-minute (1.2 mile) walk from the parking areas to the monument.
A shuttle bus will run from the visitor centre, with priority given to those with accessibility needs.
Parking must be booked in advance and costs £25 per car or van, £35 per live-in vehicle, and £5 for motorcycles.
Blue badge holders must also pre-book parking online.
Last entry to the solstice car park is at 4.15am on Sunday, June 21, with all visitors required to leave the field by 8.30am and the car park by midday.
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