Stonehenge and Avebury remain closed for summer solstice

This year, English Heritage has announced that Stonehenge and Avebury will remain closed for the summer solstice due to COVID-19 and in line with Government guidance.

Cllr Philip Whitehead, Leader of Wiltshire Council, said: "We know how special the Solstice is for many people, and we're all disappointed that it can't go ahead this year due to COVID-19. However, we fully support the decision for the sites to close.

"It's important that people don't attempt to travel to Avebury or Stonehenge to mark the event, as the sites will be closed and you may be putting the local communities at risk.

"Other amenities around the sites - including parking facilities, byways, toilets, shops and pubs - will also be closed, so please do not attempt to travel.

"Anyone can enjoy watching the livestream of the Solstice at Stonehenge online, and we hope to be able to return to visiting these sites next summer."

Superintendent Phil Staynings, of Wiltshire Police, said: "We fully support the decision by English Heritage not to allow managed open access to Stonehenge for this year's summer solstice. This is in line with other large-scale, public events across the country.

"At this time public safety and public health have to be the primary concerns and the decision of English Heritage is based on the current Government guidance as we continue the national effort to stop the spread of coronavirus.

"We appreciate some people might be disappointed with this decision but it is important that we all continue to keep each other safe and adhere to the latest Government guidance.

"Officers will maintain a presence in the areas of both Stonehenge and Avebury in support of both English Heritage and the National Trust. In addition, there will be a visible presence in local communities to reassure those who may be concerned.

"We would urge those interested in celebrating the summer solstice this year to please join in the celebrations via the English Heritage livestream."

If you wish to enjoy the occasion safely from home, please follow the live stream on the English Heritage social media channels.