Ancient Stones, Modern Access: Experiencing the Stonehenge Summer Solstice with the TGA WHILL C2
All eyes were on the clear skies above Stonehenge on 21st June, as around 20,000 people gathered at the UK’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site to witness the Summer Solstice sunrise in Wiltshire.
Among them was TGA customer Andrea Cary, who made a last-minute decision to travel to Amesbury with her WHILL C2 powerchair after a change of plans. Determined to experience one of the world’s most photographed and symbolic solstice celebrations, Andrea set off for a memorable overnight adventure.
“This is something that I’ve always wanted to do,” says Andrea. “I cut some flowers from the garden and made a last-minute floral headband before setting off. I arrived at around 8.30pm that evening.”
Accessible Transport and Mobility Support at Stonehenge
Fortunately, travelling independently was made easier thanks to Andrea’s WHILL C2, which fits neatly into her car boot using a hoist that she can operate herself. After arriving in Salisbury, she boarded the accessible park-and-ride shuttle bus to Stonehenge.
“I was up and moving around all night while waiting for the sunrise,” Andrea explains. “The atmosphere was fantastic, with people from all over the world. It felt a bit like a mini Glastonbury Festival. As always, my WHILL C2 performed impeccably throughout the night. I was even interviewed by Polish television!”
Stonehenge Accessibility: Exploring the Ancient Landscape
Stonehenge is committed to welcoming visitors of all abilities. Managed by English Heritage, with the surrounding landscape cared for by the National Trust, the site includes a range of accessibility supports designed to make visits more inclusive.
Visitors can benefit from:
- Accessible toilets and facilities
- A step-free visitor centre
- Paved pathways
- Accessible shuttle buses
- Detailed accessibility guides and visitor support information
While many areas are accessible, the wider landscape around the stone circle includes compacted gravel, grass and uneven chalk terrain across Salisbury Plain. These surfaces can present challenges for some mobility aid users.
Specifically, the WHILL C2 can tackle a variety of outdoor environments with confidence. It’s four-wheel suspension and advanced shock absorbers provide a smooth and comfortable ride over grass, gravel and uneven paths, like those at Stonehenge.
Powerful dual motors and large front wheels enable it to climb inclines of up to 10 degrees and overcome obstacles up to 50mm (2 inches) high, helping users enjoy more of the historic landscape with independence.
Witnessing the Summer Solstice Sunrise at Stonehenge
After hours of anticipation, at 4:24am BST, the wait was finally over.
While dawn broke, the crowd watched the sun rise above the Heel Stone, located to the north-east of the monument’s centre. This ancient alignment marks the official beginning of astronomical summer in the Northern Hemisphere and remains one of the most significant annual events at Stonehenge.
Every year on 21st June, the Earth’s axis is tilted closest towards the sun, resulting in the longest day and the shortest night of the year.
“It was just perfect,” says Andrea. “The weather was ideal for an amazing sunrise.”
Why Stonehenge and the Solstice Remain So Important
Significantly, the tradition of gathering at Stonehenge for the Summer Solstice has evolved from ancient practices centred around observing the sun and celebrating seasonal change. While historians cannot say exactly how prehistoric communities marked the occasion there, archaeological evidence suggests a deep connection to the movement of the sun, the changing seasons and the natural world.
Constructed around 2500 BC, Stonehenge was carefully designed to align with the summer solstice sunrise and winter solstice sunset. This remarkable astronomical precision makes it one of the most sophisticated prehistoric monuments in the world. For Andrea, the experience was one she will never forget.
Thanks to accessible transport, thoughtful site facilities and the capability of her WHILL C2, she was able to tick a lifelong ambition off her list and enjoy one of Britain’s most iconic events alongside thousands of others celebrating the sun, the sky and the changing seasons.
Planning an Accessible Visit to Stonehenge
Importantly, Stonehenge offers a range of accessibility services and visitor support throughout the year. Visitors can access detailed information about facilities, mobility support and accessible routes through the site’s Accessibility Guide and visitor resources. Next, visit the English Heritage website to find out more and plan your day: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stonehenge/plan-your-visit/access/
Also, there’s a summary of the facilities and supports, alongside a detailed Accessibility Guide available as a PDF.
Whether you’re attending the Summer Solstice or planning a day out at one of Britain’s most famous landmarks, accessibility features help to ensure more people can enjoy this extraordinary historic site.
Photography Credit: Andrea Cary
