West Kennet Avenue

Location

About

The West Kennet Avenue is a prehistoric landmark located in the Wiltshire countryside of England. As a tourist, this historical site offers a unique opportunity to explore the ancient past of England and experience the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Dating back to the Neolithic period, around 2500 BC, the West Kennet Avenue is a ceremonial avenue consisting of a series of parallel standing stones arranged in pairs. The avenue stretches for nearly two kilometers, leading from the Sanctuary, a circular enclosure, to the Avebury henge, one of the largest prehistoric stone circles in the world. The West Kennet Avenue is believed to have been used for processions and rituals, and it remains a significant archaeological and cultural monument.

As a tourist, visiting the West Kennet Avenue offers a chance to witness the awe-inspiring engineering feats of ancient civilizations. The sheer size of the standing stones and the precise alignment of the avenue testify to the impressive skills and knowledge of the Neolithic people. Walking along the avenue, visitors can feel the energy and mysticism of the place, imagining the rituals and ceremonies that took place there thousands of years ago.

In addition to the historical significance of the West Kennet Avenue, the surrounding landscape is also breathtaking. The Wiltshire countryside is renowned for its natural beauty, with rolling hills, green fields, and idyllic villages. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the avenue, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings and the fresh air.

To fully appreciate the West Kennet Avenue, visitors can combine their visit with other historical and cultural sites in the area. The nearby Avebury henge is a must-see attraction, as it offers another opportunity to explore the ancient history of the region. The henge is a massive circular monument, surrounded by a ditch and bank, and containing standing stones arranged in a circle. Visitors can also visit the nearby Silbury Hill, a massive artificial mound, and the West Kennet Long Barrow, a Neolithic burial chamber.

Overall, the West Kennet Avenue is a unique and fascinating historical landmark that offers an insight into the ancient past of England. As a tourist, visiting this site provides an opportunity to learn about the engineering, architecture, and spiritual beliefs of the Neolithic people, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. Whether you are a history buff or simply enjoy exploring new places, the West Kennet Avenue is an essential destination for any tourist visiting England.

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Things to do nearby

West Kennet Avenue is a prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, England, that is renowned for its fascinating history and breathtaking natural surroundings. For tourists looking to explore this historic site and the surrounding area, there are plenty of places to visit and things to do. In this article, we will highlight some of the best places to visit and things to do near West Kennet Avenue.

1. Avebury Stone Circle
Located just a short walk from West Kennet Avenue, the Avebury Stone Circle is one of the most impressive prehistoric monuments in Britain. The site features a circle of standing stones that date back to the Neolithic period, and visitors can explore the surrounding landscape and learn about the history of this ancient site.

2. Silbury Hill
Silbury Hill is a large man-made hill located near West Kennet Avenue that dates back to the Bronze Age. This impressive structure is one of the largest prehistoric mounds in Europe, and visitors can explore the surrounding area to learn more about its history and significance.

3. The Ridgeway
The Ridgeway is a National Trail that runs along the chalk ridge of the North Wessex Downs, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the trail on foot or by bike, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop off at local pubs and cafes along the way.

4. The White Horse Inn
For those looking for a taste of local culture, the White Horse Inn is a traditional English pub located in the nearby village of Compton Bassett. The pub offers a range of local beers and traditional pub food, and it's a great place to relax and soak up the local atmosphere.

5. Marlborough
The historic town of Marlborough is located just a short drive from West Kennet Avenue and offers plenty of opportunities to explore local history and culture. Visitors can explore the Marlborough College, visit the historic High Street, or take a walk along the River Kennet.

6. The Kennet and Avon Canal
The Kennet and Avon Canal is a beautiful waterway that runs through the heart of Wiltshire, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can take a boat trip along the canal, or explore the towpath on foot or by bike.

7. Stonehenge
Located just a short drive from West Kennet Avenue, Stonehenge is one of the most iconic prehistoric monuments in the world. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the history and significance of this ancient monument.

In conclusion, West Kennet Avenue and the surrounding area offer plenty of opportunities for tourists to explore local history and culture, and to soak up the beauty of the surrounding countryside. From exploring prehistoric monuments to hiking along the Ridgeway or enjoying a traditional pub meal, there is something for everyone in this stunning corner of Wiltshire.