Winter Solstice 'successful' as thousands visit Stonehenge
It followed the longest night of the year
Last updated 22nd Dec 2023
Thousands flocked to Stonehenge this morning to celebrate Winter Solstice at the historic landmark.
The crowd greeted the sunrise with cheers and the beating of many drums, although the sun was obscured by clouds at the official time of sunrise, 8:09am.
However, the sun did make a short appearance a few minutes later on what was a windy morning in South Wiltshire.
King Arthur Pendragon was in attendance, as were others of the druid and pagan community, and there were many others dressed for the occasion.
This year's Winter Solstice was a day later than normal, thanks to a mismatch in the calendar and solar year.
English Heritage, who look after the site, recorded that 6,000 people attended the event, which is becoming increasingly popular.
Head of Historic Properties at Stonehenge, Scott Ashman said solstice had gone smoothly.
"From out point of view, a really successful solstice, acknowledging the fact that it's becoming increasingly popular from year-to-year.
"It's also great to see so many families and younger children attending."
Scott added that Stonehenge and the Solstice's are an important part of telling stories between generations in families.
"To be able to tell that story and say 'I was here at this Solstice' brings everyone together at this time of year."
The increased popularity of the event did have it's draw backs though, as many Solstice go-ers were left frustrated at the car parks closing, because they were full, before 8am.
Many resorted to parking on grass banks on the roads around Stonehenge in order to join the celebrations.
Scott told Greatest Hits Radio that English Heritage would be reviewing their plans and contingencies, as always, for 2024's Summer and Winter Solstices.
