Walking Avebury Stone Circle & Neolithic Landscape
Large Outdoors offers the following walking weekends to Avebury:
UNESCO Avebury Neolithic Landscape: A Walking Weekend in the North Wessex Downs
Nestled in the picturesque Wiltshire countryside of England lies one of the most enigmatic and awe-inspiring ancient monuments in the world: Avebury Stone Circle. This Neolithic marvel, shrouded in mystery and surrounded by a captivating landscape, has fascinated archaeologists, historians, and spiritual seekers for centuries. In this blog, we'll delve into the rich history of Avebury Stone Circle and explore the mesmerizing landscape that has made it an enduring symbol of human ingenuity and connection to the natural world.
Avebury Stone Circle: A Brief Overview
Avebury Stone Circle is part of a larger complex that includes the village of Avebury itself. Unlike its more famous cousin, Stonehenge, which lies about 25 miles to the south, Avebury's monument consists of a massive circular bank and ditch, with a circumference of over a mile. Inside this circular enclosure are a series of imposing standing stones, forming two inner circles and a central feature known as the Cove. In total, Avebury once boasted around 100 stones, though many have been lost to time and human activities.
The exact purpose of Avebury Stone Circle remains a subject of debate among scholars. Some believe it served as a religious or ritualistic site, while others suggest it had astronomical significance, aligned with celestial events such as solstices. Regardless of its original purpose, Avebury continues to inspire wonder and reverence in visitors today.
Avebury Stone Circle Fact File
Location: Avebury, Wiltshire, England
Constructed: Around 2850 BCE to 2200 BCE
Significance: The largest stone circle in the world, part of the Avebury World Heritage Site, along with nearby monuments like Silbury Hill and West Kennet Long Barrow.
Managed by: National Trust and English Heritage
Access: Open daily, walking around the stones is free. Parking fees apply in the National Trust car park (free for members).
Facilities: National Trust shop and café, local craft shops, and a pub in Avebury village.
The Ancient Origins
Avebury's history dates back more than 4,500 years, making it one of the oldest stone circles in Europe. Its construction is believed to have occurred in multiple phases, spanning several centuries. The builders of Avebury, like those at Stonehenge, had no metal tools at their disposal, yet they managed to transport and erect these massive stones, some weighing over 40 tons.
The impressive feat of transporting these colossal stones from distant quarries reveals the ingenuity and determination of the Neolithic people. The landscape surrounding Avebury provided the necessary resources for such a monumental undertaking.
West Kennet Long Barrow
The Landscape Around Avebury
The Avebury landscape is as integral to the monument's significance as the stones themselves. The surrounding countryside is dotted with numerous burial mounds, known as barrows, and ancient pathways that intersect with the stone circles. Together, they create a sacred and interconnected network that ties Avebury to its Neolithic ancestors.
Silbury Hill, the largest man-made mound in Europe, rises conspicuously near Avebury. This mysterious mound, constructed around the same time as the stone circles, has puzzled researchers for centuries. Its purpose remains uncertain, but its presence adds to the mystique of the Avebury landscape.
The West Kennet Long Barrow, a Neolithic burial chamber, lies just a short distance away. This remarkable structure, with its long stone-lined passage and burial chambers, offers a glimpse into the spiritual beliefs and practices of the people who once inhabited this landscape.
Silbury Hill
Spirituality and Modern Interpretations
In addition to its archaeological significance, Avebury Stone Circle has drawn modern-day pilgrims and spiritual seekers. Some are drawn to Avebury's energies and believe it to be a place of healing and transformation. Others come to celebrate the changing of the seasons, particularly during the equinoxes and solstices, when the alignment of the stones with celestial events adds an extra layer of mysticism.
Conservation and Protection
Avebury's enduring allure has made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and considerable efforts have been made to protect and preserve it for future generations. In the past, some of the stones were removed and used for other purposes, but ongoing conservation work has sought to return stones to their original positions whenever possible.
Avebury Stone Circle
Avebury Stone Circle is more than just a collection of ancient stones; it is a testament to the ingenuity, spirituality, and interconnectedness of our distant ancestors. The landscape around Avebury provides a context that enhances our understanding of this enigmatic monument. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of this ancient site, Avebury's enduring appeal as a place of wonder, contemplation, and inspiration remains as powerful as ever. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply a lover of natural beauty, Avebury Stone Circle invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in its timeless mystique.
Quick Questions About Avebury Stone Circle
How long does it take to walk around Avebury?
It takes about an hour to explore the stone circle itself at a relaxed pace. To visit nearby monuments like Silbury Hill and West Kennet Long Barrow, allow an additional 20-30 minutes each. Don’t forget to leave time to enjoy the National Trust café, shops, and the Cobblestones Second-Hand Bookshop in the village.
Do you have to pay to get into Avebury?
No, walking around the stones is free. However, parking at the National Trust car park requires a fee unless you’re a National Trust member.
Can you walk up Silbury Hill?
No, Silbury Hill is not accessible to the public to help protect this ancient site.
Can you touch the stones at Avebury?
Yes, you can walk among and touch the stones, allowing for a truly immersive experience.
Can you go in the West Kennet Long Barrow?
Yes, you can walk up to and inside West Kennet Long Barrow. We recommend bringing a torch to fully explore its interior—it's better than relying on your phone light!
Where is Avebury Stone Circle?
Avebury Stone Circle is located in the village of Avebury, Wiltshire, England. It sits within the Avebury World Heritage Site, a short distance from the town of Marlborough and about 20 miles north of Stonehenge.
The site is easily accessible by road and public transport, with the nearest train station at Swindon (around 10 miles away). Avebury is surrounded by other notable ancient monuments, including Silbury Hill and West Kennet Long Barrow, making it a hub for exploring prehistoric Britain.
Large Outdoors offers the following walking weekends to Avebury:
UNESCO Avebury Neolithic Landscape: A Walking Weekend in the North Wessex Downs
