We look after the henge and stone circle for ever, for everyone ...

Archaeologists at Avebury

… therefore, due to the very mild January, we regret that we’ve had to temporarily close part of the henge and stone circle to prevent damage to this globally important archaeological site.

The north-east and north-west sectors are fully closed and the south-east and south-west sectors are partially closed.  There is no access to the henge banks.  West Kennet Avenue is also fully closed.

Dr Nick Snashall, National Trust Archaeologist for the Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site examining the waterlogged ground
Dr Nick
Dr Nick Snashall, National Trust Archaeologist for the Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site examining the waterlogged ground

Dr Nick Snashall, Archaeologist for the Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site explains “We know through geophysical surveys and excavation that there is more archaeology under our feet as we walk around Avebury.  However, the topsoil here is very thin and the archaeology can be quite near to the ground surface.  So it’s important that we take steps now to ensure that people walking through the deepening mud don’t damage the site. The henge and West Kennet Avenue have been here for 5,000 years, and it’s our responsibility to make sometimes difficult decisions that will ensure it’s here for another 5,000 years and beyond.”

There is still plenty to do at Avebury, the village amenities, including the Post Office, Red Lion pub and shops are open as usual, as are the Alexander Keiller Museum, Avebury Manor and all the other National Trust facilities.

During these closures we are waiving the parking charges in the National Trust car park.

We’re regularly inspecting the site and will open the henge and avenue as soon as possible, however, it is likely to take a few weeks to recover sufficiently.