I'm a huge fan of Stonehenge, but much prefer Avebury for a day out as you are still allowed to touch the stones. Although it was all but destroyed in the 17th century by local farmers encouraged by the church, Alexander Keiller the marmalade magnate, used much of his money to resurrect many of the stones during the 1930s. He also left an interesting museum, just outside the stone circle, which is well situated as a starting point for an informed day out. Various skeletons maintain enough interest for the ghoulishly inclined, particularly the one of a mediaeval barber, replete with scissors, who must have been crushed by a falling stone. Avebury village lies at the centre of the site so after a mystical hour or two spent walking and touching stones, it's possible to buy sandwiches and snacks from Avebury Village Post Office if you forgot your packed lunch, or there are several places to purchase an indoor meal. The Red Lion is at the heart of the village and is reported to be the most haunted pub in England according to Wikipedia, largely due to the well in the middle where several murders are alleged to have taken place. People in fine walking fettle may also like to venture further afield to climb the nearby Silbury Hill (at 130ft it's the largest man-made hill in Europe) or walk to West Kennett Long Barrow where it is now possible to access the chambers. The entire area is National Trust owned. This trip provides an energetic day's walking, historical interest as well as food for the imagination.

The clearest route to Avebury is by car. It is easily accessible from the M4 motorway, located along the A4 (Bath Road) at the junction of the A4361 and B4003, about 6 miles west of Marlborough. There is local signposting to a tourist car park situated just off the A4361 a little south of the circle. It is worth accepting the tourist car park as the parking which is available in the village has restrictions for non-residents.
The nearest train stations are 10 miles away in Pewsey or in Swindon which is 11 miles away. Avebury is on many bus routes going out of Swindon the number 5 Wilts and Dorset and the number 6 Salisbury-Swindon, amongst others.
Google map: bit.ly/b3dSnA

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends