West Kennet Avenue
A Neolithic ceremonial pathway lined with ancient standing stones, connecting Avebury Henge to The Sanctuary.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes
West Kennet Avenue
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Neolithic ceremonial pathway lined with ancient standing stones, connecting Avebury Henge to The Sanctuary.
"Walking amongst the remaining stones is an amazing experience similar to how the original builders had intended way back in time."
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking at the avenue is scarce; park at Avebury and walk. :car:
🐄 Watch for Cattle
This is a cattle field, so be mindful if you have a fear of cows. :cow:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Standing Stones
West Kennet Avenue
Walk amongst the remaining pairs of ancient standing stones, a Neolithic ceremonial pathway connecting Avebury Henge to The Sanctuary.
West Kennet Long Barrow
Near the start of the Avenue
Explore this ancient burial mound, a significant Neolithic monument dating back to around 3650 BC.
Views of Silbury Hill
From Waden Hill
Climb Waden Hill for a rewarding panoramic view of Silbury Hill and the surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating the Path
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking at the avenue is scarce; park at Avebury and walk. :car:
🐄 Watch for Cattle
This is a cattle field, so be mindful if you have a fear of cows. :cow:
🚶♀️ Walk the Full Path
Experience the full ceremonial pathway by walking from the long barrow through the avenue to Avebury.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes as parts of the path can be uneven or on the road.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking at the avenue is scarce; park at Avebury and walk. :car:
🐄 Watch for Cattle
This is a cattle field, so be mindful if you have a fear of cows. :cow:
🚶♀️ Walk the Full Path
Experience the full ceremonial pathway by walking from the long barrow through the avenue to Avebury.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes as parts of the path can be uneven or on the road.
🌬️ Feel the Energy
Many visitors report feeling a unique energy or 'vibes' in this ancient place.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the 'amazing experience' of walking among the ancient stones and the 'great atmosphere,' especially during quieter times. The connection to Neolithic history and the 'vibes' of the place are frequently highlighted as major draws. However, some note the limited parking and the need to walk on the road in certain sections.
"Walked back to Silbury Hill via the West Kennet Avenue having previously walked around Avebury on our circular walk. Walking amongst the remaining stones is an amazing experience similar to how the original builders had intended way back in time."
Martin Goodman
"cool experience walking from the long barrow through here. have to walk on the road a while to do it but it's alright.
this is a cattle field so if you're scared of cows may be best to stay clear.
makes you understand why neolithic people would do stuff like this, for the vibes"
aikl
"It’s a great place to visit when at Avebury, but parking is very limited next to the avenue - we went early in the morning. You have to see it to experience it. If you park at Avebury you can walk to it (recommended)"
Mark M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
West Kennet Avenue is located near Avebury in Wiltshire, England. The most common way to access it is by driving to Avebury and then walking to the avenue. Parking directly at the avenue is very limited, so parking at the Avebury visitor centre or car park and walking is recommended.
Yes, you can visit West Kennet Avenue as a detour from Salisbury. However, it will add travel time to your itinerary, so plan accordingly if you have limited time in Salisbury.
Public transport options directly to West Kennet Avenue are limited. It's best accessed by car, often in conjunction with a visit to Avebury.
Many visitors recommend parking at Avebury and exploring the entire landscape on foot, which includes the stone circle, West Kennet Avenue, Silbury Hill, and The Sanctuary.
While the main path of West Kennet Avenue is relatively flat, some sections may be uneven. Accessibility can vary, and it's advisable to check with local authorities or English Heritage for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
West Kennet Avenue is an open-air site and generally free to access. However, parking at nearby English Heritage car parks may incur a fee.
As an outdoor ancient monument, West Kennet Avenue is accessible at all reasonable times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
No, there is no entrance fee to walk along West Kennet Avenue itself. It's part of the wider Avebury landscape.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting. The experience is best enjoyed in daylight.
Guided tours are often available for the broader Avebury landscape, which may include West Kennet Avenue. Check with local heritage sites or tour operators for current offerings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best way to experience West Kennet Avenue is to walk its length, imagining the ancient processions. Many visitors enjoy combining it with a visit to Avebury Henge and Silbury Hill.
Walking the entire length of West Kennet Avenue, which is about 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles), can take around 30-45 minutes one way, not including time spent at The Sanctuary or Avebury.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or boots as the terrain can be uneven. Layers of clothing are advisable as the weather in Wiltshire can change quickly.
Dogs are generally allowed at West Kennet Avenue, but they must be kept on a lead, especially in areas with livestock. Please check local guidelines.
West Kennet Avenue is a Neolithic ceremonial pathway lined with pairs of standing stones, connecting the Avebury Henge to The Sanctuary, a significant prehistoric ritual site.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and a serene atmosphere. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
Capture the imposing standing stones, the long barrow, panoramic views of Silbury Hill, and the sweeping Wiltshire countryside. Wide-angle lenses are great for the landscape.
Drone usage is often restricted at ancient monument sites to protect the landscape and other visitors. Always check with the relevant authorities (e.g., English Heritage) before flying a drone.
Experiment with low angles to emphasize the height of the stones and leading lines created by the avenue. Include the surrounding landscape for context.
Yes, you can photograph the exterior of the West Kennet Long Barrow. Access to the interior may be restricted or require specific permissions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with exploring the Avebury stone circle, which is more interactive for kids, and Silbury Hill, where they can climb to the top for fantastic views. Remember to bring snacks and water, and be aware that parts of the path can be uneven. If your children are fearful of cows, be mindful that this is a working field.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Consider incorporating sections of The Ridgeway, a national trail, which passes through the area, offering longer trekking opportunities. The terrain is generally manageable, but sturdy footwear is essential. The expansive views and the sense of walking through ancient history make this a highly recommended route for outdoor enthusiasts.
🏛️ History Buffs and Archaeologists
+1Don't miss the adjacent West Kennet Long Barrow, a significant burial monument that provides insights into Neolithic funerary practices. Exploring these sites allows for a deeper understanding of the complex societies that thrived in this region over 5,000 years ago. Consider researching the latest archaeological findings to enhance your visit.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Neolithic Significance of West Kennet Avenue
+1The avenue's construction dates back to the Neolithic period, a time of significant monumental building in Britain. Its purpose was likely deeply spiritual and communal, serving as a vital link between important ritual sites. The sheer scale of the undertaking, moving and erecting these massive stones, speaks volumes about the organization and beliefs of the people who created it. Walking the avenue today, especially during quieter times, can evoke a profound sense of connection to this ancient history and the energies that many believe still resonate in the landscape.
Adjacent to the avenue, and often explored in conjunction with it, is the West Kennet Long Barrow. This impressive burial mound, dating to around 3650 BC, is one of the largest and best-preserved long barrows in Britain. It housed over 50 burials, highlighting its importance as a communal resting place for generations. The combination of the avenue and the long barrow provides a comprehensive glimpse into the funerary and ceremonial practices of Neolithic communities in this region.
+1Exploring the Avebury Landscape
+1Silbury Hill, located near the avenue, is another must-see. It is the tallest prehistoric man-made mound in Europe and one of the largest in the world, its purpose still debated by archaeologists. Climbing to the top of Silbury Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including West Kennet Avenue and the distant Marlborough Downs. This elevated perspective truly helps in understanding the scale and layout of the ancient ceremonial complex.
+1Many visitors find that parking at Avebury and embarking on a circular walk is the most rewarding way to experience the entire landscape. This allows for a more immersive journey, connecting the various monuments and appreciating their relationship to one another. The Ridgeway, a national trail, also passes through this area, offering opportunities for longer hikes and a deeper engagement with the ancient countryside.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit