Stonehenge

 In the chalky valleys of Wiltshire, in the center of a circular earthworks, stands the UK's oldest and most famous monument: Stonehenge, a ring of standing stones thought to be almost 5000 years old. Archaeologists aren't sure how our Neolithic ancestors managed to move the enormous stones, some of which measure 30 feet in height and weigh more than 25 tones – or what their purpose was. It's clear, however, that the ancient Britons considered it a sacred site; and modern-day druids still flock to the monument in their thousands to celebrate the Summer Solstice.

Take a bus to the Stonehenge Visitor Centre to find out more about the history of the Henge and archaeological discoveries at the site. Then build up your anticipation with a walk across Salisbury Plain, rewarded at length with the sight of the ancient stones rearing up ahead of you. Touching the stones is forbidden, to protect them from erosion; but you can still experience the monoliths at close quarters with an exclusive Stone Circle Access guided tour.