Avebury, a quaint little village in Wiltshire, England, is home to one of the most intriguing prehistoric sites in the world. Unlike its more famous counterpart, Stonehenge, Avebury is less crowded and more accessible to visitors. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts the largest megalithic stone circle in the world, offering a rich slice of history dating back over four millennia. As you make plans to visit Avebury, imagine the fascinating stories these ancient stones could tell if they could speak. This article serves as a guide on where you can partake in a guided tour of these mystic stone circles in Avebury.
Delving into Avebury’s Stone Circles
Before you embark on your tour, let’s delve into the mysteries of Avebury’s stone circles. The stone circles of Avebury are among the oldest in the world, believed to have been erected around 2850 BC. They were more than just a mark of human achievement in the Neolithic era; they served as sacred sites for ceremonies, rituals, and social gatherings.
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The main Avebury circle has a massive diameter of 331.6 meters, enclosing two smaller circles each with a diameter of 98-104 meters. This complex is surrounded by a henge, a circular ditch and bank. The entire site is steeped in mystery as it remains unclear how the stones were transported and erected, and exactly what purpose they served.
While Avebury and Stonehenge are believed to have been built around the same time, the former offers a more hands-on experience. You can touch the stones, feel their textures, and try to connect with the ancient civilization that constructed this site.
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Guided Tours of Avebury’s Stone Circles
A guided tour is one of the best ways to explore Avebury’s stone circles. Expert guides, armed with archaeological knowledge and captivating tales, will lead you on a journey through the site. They will explain the history, myths, and theories associated with the stone circles and their builders.
One of the popular guided tours available is the National Trust’s Avebury Landscape Walk, which lasts about 1.5 hours and covers the Avebury landscape, including Windmill Hill and West Kennet Avenue. The Circle Tour is another option that focuses on the main circle and the smaller circles within it. For those seeking a more intimate experience, private tours are also available and can be customized based on your interests.
Visiting Avebury Village
Avebury isn’t just about the stone circles. The village itself offers a slice of charm and history. It’s unique in the sense that it is partially encompassed within the stone circle. The village grew within the circle over the years, resulting in an unusual blend of ancient and modern.
During your visit, make sure to explore the 17th-century manor house and its beautiful garden, the village church, and the Alexander Keiller Museum, which houses archaeological findings from Avebury and nearby sites. The village also offers cozy inns and cafes where you can take a break from your tour and enjoy a good English meal or afternoon tea.
Exploring Wiltshire’s Prehistoric Landscape
Beyond Avebury, there are other prehistoric sites in Wiltshire that can enrich your journey through time. Stonehenge, of course, is the most famous. It’s just a short drive from Avebury and guided tours are available here as well.
A day trip to Silbury Hill, the largest man-made mound in Europe, is also worthwhile. Located near Avebury, this ancient site, like the stone circles, is shrouded in mystery. There’s also the West Kennet Long Barrow, one of the most impressive and well-preserved burial tombs in Britain, which dates back to around 3650 BC.
In conclusion, Avebury offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the mysteries and wonders of our ancient ancestors. Whether it’s the stone circles, the quaint village, or the larger prehistoric landscape of Wiltshire, a guided tour will enrich your experience and leave you with an indelible impression of an era long past.
The Seasonal Experience in Avebury
No matter the month, Avebury offers a unique experience that changes with the seasons. Whether you’re planning to visit in January, December, or any time in between, the charm of the ancient stone circles and the quaint village remains constant.
However, the changing weather does bring its own charms. In February and January, you may witness Avebury’s stone circles blanketed in snow, presenting a whole new perspective on the ancient site. In stark contrast, the April and March months bring a burst of spring blooms, adding a touch of color to the historic landscape.
The warm summer months, between June and April, offer longer daylight hours, perfect for extended tours of the stone circles. During these months, you may also witness the beautiful sunsets over the Avebury stone circles, a sight that’s truly breathtaking.
In October and September, the falling leaves paint the landscape in a palette of orange and red, providing a stunning backdrop to the Avebury stones. The colder months, from December to November, bring a different kind of beauty, with frost often dusting the stone circles in the early mornings.
Regardless of the season, Avebury is a heritage site that offers something unique to see and explore at any time of the year.
The National Trust’s Role in Avebury
The National Trust plays an indispensable role in protecting and preserving Avebury’s historical landscape. Since acquiring the site in 1943, the charity has worked tirelessly to maintain the stone circles and improve access for visitors.
One of their most significant contributions is the establishment of guided tours, which provide an enriching and informative exploration of Avebury’s stone circles. The tours, led by knowledgeable guides, offer insights into the history, myths, and theories surrounding the site that you wouldn’t get from a self-guided visit.
Moreover, the National Trust operates the Alexander Keiller Museum, which houses impressive archaeological findings from Avebury and nearby sites. This museum is an excellent place to learn more about the people who constructed these stone circles and how they lived.
In addition, the National Trust maintains the Avebury Manor and its beautiful garden, another must-visit during your trip. This 17th-century manor house offers a glimpse into the life of past residents, with rooms decorated to depict different historical periods.
Avebury, with its ancient stone circles, offers an intriguing insight into a prehistoric era. A guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site takes you through the mysteries of the stone circles, the local myths, and the captivating landscape that surrounds them.
Every season brings a fresh perspective to the site, from the frosty mornings of January and December to the vibrant blooms of March and February. The National Trust ensures your visit is informative, engaging, and memorable, providing expert guides and preserving the site for future generations.
Beyond Avebury, Wiltshire’s prehistoric landscape boasts more mysteries to unravel. Sites like Stonehenge, Silbury Hill, and the West Kennet Long Barrow offer a deeper understanding of our ancient predecessors.
Your visit to Avebury isn’t complete without a stroll around the village and a visit to the Avebury Manor. Enjoy a warm English meal in the local cafes and absorb the unique blend of ancient and modern that is uniquely Avebury.
In Avebury, every stone, every path, every house has a story. It’s time to explore and make those stories part of your own.
