Thousands expected in Wiltshire for Summer Solstice celebrations

Thursday, 18 June 2026 16:02

Thousands of people are expected to travel to Wiltshire this weekend for this year’s Summer Solstice celebrations.

The event, celebrated at Stonehenge and Avebury, takes place from Saturday 20 June into Sunday 21 June, with sunrise at 4:52 am.

A dedicated policing operation will be in place throughout the event, supported by additional resources.

Police are working closely with partners to create safe environments, encourage responsible behaviour and respond quickly to any issues. While most people enjoy these events without problems, disruptive or unsafe behaviour will not be tolerated.

Chief Superintendent Guy Elkins, lead officer for the policing operation, said: “We will be delivering a proportionate policing operation at both Stonehenge and Avebury, policing in the same way we would any nighttime economy.

“We will be attending the event to support our partners, including English Heritage and the National Trust. You can expect firm, fair and friendly policing throughout. We’re not here to spoil anyone’s fun, but we will take action where behaviour crosses the line into intimidation, violence or public disorder.

“We would ask people to remain vigilant, look out for one another and report anything suspicious to us. We know travelling to the sites can be challenging and would urge people to plan ahead.

“The best advice we can give is to use the dedicated bus service and check the latest information on the English Heritage or National Trust websites. Please do not be tempted to abandon your vehicle or park on the A303, neighbouring roads or public rights of way. Vehicles parked illegally or causing an obstruction will be towed away. This year we have increased our resource and capability in this area and are working alongside vehicle recovery agents to ensure traffic remains flowing during the event.

“Our priority is to ensure everyone can enjoy a safe and positive Solstice experience this weekend.”

Due to this being a large gathering, a temporary 'restricted airspace' will be in place from 3pm on 20 June until 9am on 21 June. Members of the public must not fly drones during this time. Any unauthorised drone use may result in equipment being seized and pilots prosecuted.

Please help keep the Solstice sunrise skies safe so everyone can enjoy the event.

Parking at both sites is limited, and car parks have now sold out. Police are working with English Heritage and partners to manage traffic flow effectively, and visitors are strongly encouraged to use public transport wherever possible.

Any vehicles parked illegally will be dealt with appropriately.