Motorists are advised to plan their journeys carefully as thousands flock to Stonehenge to celebrate the Summer Solstice on the night of Friday, June 20, and the morning of Saturday, June 21. The event marks the sun reaching its highest point in the sky and draws large crowds each year near Avebury.
To manage the influx of visitors, National Highways has announced several traffic restrictions along the A303. A 40 mph speed limit will be enforced between the Countess Roundabout and the Longbarrow Roundabout, with lay-bys closed throughout this stretch. Additionally, the dual carriageway between the Countess Roundabout and Stonehenge Cottages will be reduced to a single lane.
Drivers should expect traffic diversions via the A345 and various segments of the A303 and A36. Clearly marked signage will guide motorists from Salisbury, Devizes, Shaftesbury, and other surrounding areas toward alternative routes.
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Public transport is encouraged, with buses running from Salisbury to the site. Pedestrians are advised to use the designated temporary crossing at Stonehenge Cottages along the A303 for safety. Throughout the event, National Highways will actively manage traffic flow before, during, and after the Solstice celebrations.
Car parking will be available from 7 pm on Friday until 6 am the following day, closing once full and requiring clearance by noon on Saturday. Notably, this year visitors must pay for parking via the PayByPhone app—English Heritage recommends downloading the app in advance to ensure a smooth arrival.
A National Highways spokesperson urged drivers to “follow solstice-specific signage instead of relying on sat navs” and highlighted that up-to-date travel information is accessible through their X (formerly Twitter) account, customer contact centre at 0300 123 5000, or the Traffic England website.