Approaching Solstice by Foot

As summer solstice celebrations grow in popularity across Britain, sacred sites like Stonehenge, Avebury and Glastonbury Tor are drawing ever larger crowds. For the custodians of these places—such as English Heritage and the National Trust—this increasing footfall brings with it a necessary responsibility to ensure public safety and protect the sites themselves.

Measures such as parking restrictions, public transport surcharges and entry limits are put in place to manage the flow of people. And while these interventions are understandable, they can also create frustration for pilgrims and celebrants alike. But there is another way—an older, more intentional way.

Instead of arriving at a sacred site in a vehicle and joining a throng, why not approach it as your ancestors might have done: on foot?

Make your whole journey sacred—not just the destination.

By walking to your solstice site, you not only bypass the practical complications of traffic and crowd control, but you also shift your mode of engagement from passive observer to active participant. The walk becomes part of the whole experience.

Here’s how to reimagine your solstice pilgrimage:

1. Find a sacred place near you.
This doesn’t have to be Stonehenge or Avebury. A local hilltop, ancient tree, stone circle, holy well, or even a spot with clear views of the eastern and western horizons can serve beautifully. Sunrise and sunset are the key markers.

2. If you’re drawn to a well-known site…
Check our Pilgrimage Routes Map for public footpath routes to places like:
‍Stonehenge Start walking from Amesbury Central Car Park, and walk in via the Avenue like countless pilgrims
Glastonbury Tor Start walking at Bride's Mound, and walk over Wearyall Hill
Avebury Start walking at Alton Priors, Beckhampton or Winterbourne Monckton
Castlerigg
Arbor Low
Golowan (Penzance)
Calanais standing Stones, Isle of Lewis.

Walking even the final few miles can transform the experience. Be sure to check with local council websites for temporary path closures or diversions.

3. Prepare with care.
If you’re walking before dawn or after dusk, bring a torch or lantern and wear visible clothing for any road crossings. Allow ample time to reach your sacred destination in peace, and balance the stress of getting there on time with the desire for a longer distance.

4. Walk in noble silence for the final mile.
Alone or in company, try walking the last mile in quiet contemplation. This simple act can bring depth, focus, and reverence to your arrival. Carrying a lantern or candle adds a timeless quality to the journey.

The Bigger Picture

As custodians of these ancient sites continue to grapple with the balance between access and preservation, we pilgrims can help lighten the load. Walking is a respectful and regenerative way to engage with sacred places. It connects us with the land, honours our ancestors, and helps protect the very places we love for future generations.

So this solstice, whether you climb a hill or circle stones, consider making your arrival journey as meaningful as the actual moment of solstice.