The surrounding bank and ditch reach 9 meters in height and depth respectively, enclosing 28.5 acres.
The stones used are sarsen, a type of silicified sandstone found naturally in the nearby Marlborough Downs.
Archaeologist Alexander Keiller bought much of the site in the 1930s to fund his research and preserve it from modern development.
The site was partially 'decommissioned' in the 14th century when some stones were buried or toppled, likely for religious or land-use reasons.
The A4361 road cuts directly through the henge, dividing the village and the stone circles.
Unlike many Neolithic sites, the stones at Avebury are largely unhewn and retain their natural shapes.
Excavations have revealed that the site was once painted or marked with white chalk to make it stand out against the landscape.
There are no records of the original purpose or the builders' identity, as they left no written history.
Avebury Henge and Stone Circles is the largest prehistoric stone circle in the world, dating to the Neolithic period around 2600 BCE. Unlike Stonehenge, the village of Avebury is situated directly inside the henge, with houses and a church built among the megaliths. The site comprises a massive bank and ditch enclosing a large outer circle that originally contained approximately 98 stones. Two smaller inner circles are located within the northern and southern halves of the main enclosure. Archaeological evidence suggests the site was a major ceremonial center that remained in use for centuries. Today, the site is managed by the National Trust and English Heritage. It remains an unfenced, open-access landscape accessible to the public year-round. Several of the large sarsen stones were re-erected in the 20th century by archaeologist Alexander Keiller. The site forms part of the Stonehenge and Avebury UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From the top of the bank on the southern edge for a wide panoramic view of the entire henge.
Wear waterproof, sturdy footwear, as the grass can be muddy and the terrain uneven.
The site is vast and exposed; bring layers, as wind speeds across the open fields are often high.
Check the National Trust's Alexander Keiller Museum nearby for context before walking the stones.
Trying to park on the village streets; use the designated overflow car park provided by the National Trust.
The stone circles themselves are open access at all times, but the on-site museum and facilities follow seasonal operating schedules.
Respect the sheep that graze within the henge and do not climb on the stones.
