For several centuries and beyond, the winter solstice is time of great importance for many communities across the world. The winter solstice is named so as it’s the shortest day with the shortest period of daylight and longest night of the year. This is because this is the time of year that the northern hemisphere reaches its maximum tilt away from the sun.
Different cultures around the world have celebrated the winter solstice throughout history by holding feasts and celebrations. After the winter solstice, people would know that each day would be longer, the nights would be shorter, and that spring was on its way.
Stonehenge
The English Heritage organisation is the custodian of the Stonehenge Monument, caring for the site and facilities. The site is usually opened up to receive Winter Solstice celebrants from 7pm on 20th December, with members of the public being permitted to stay to see the sun rise before the site is closed again at 8pm on 21st December.
English Heritage also live streams the event on its YouTube channel for those who can’t make it to the Winter Solstice celebration.
These arrangements are subject to change, however, so if you are planning to travel to Stonehenge to witness the Winter Solstice please check before you travel on the English Heritage Stonehenge Facebook page.
If you need accommodation close to Stonehenge for the Winter Solstice Brades Acre and Toghill House Farm are the perfect places. We have holiday cottages and plenty of room for pitching tents, caravans, motorhomes or camper vans.
Avebury
The pretty village of Avebury in Wiltshire is rather unique in that most of it lies within a prehistoric monument complex of a henge and stone circles, dating from around 3,400BC.
The winter solstice is a special time to visit Avebury. Enjoy the winter solstice celebrations, including a guided walk of the Avebury stone circle with expert archaeologist, Dr Nick Snashall. Learn about the history and significance of the stone circle and how it was used to mark the winter solstice. After the walk, warm up with a drink and mince pie.
Families can also enjoy the winter solstice celebrations. Meet the traditional, green-cloaked St. Nicholas in the magically decorated dovecote to hear a festive story and receive a present. Have a go at creating a beautiful Christmas wreath for your door at a wreath making workshop with a local florist.
