The Summer Solstice, Stonehenge and Wedding Ceremonies.

The 21st of June is upon us, and there’s a lot of talk on TV and radio about the Summer Solstice and Stonehenge.

The Summer Solstice:

The summer solstice happens because of the Earth's axial tilt and orbit around the Sun, causing the Northern Hemisphere to be tilted towards our closest star. This results in the longest day of the year for that hemisphere and creates seasonal variations in sunlight across regions.

The Earth's axis tilts at approximately 23.5 degrees to its orbital plane around the Sun. As the Earth orbits, this tilt causes varying sunlight exposure in different hemispheres, resulting in distinct seasons. During the summer solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted directly towards the Sun, resulting in more extended daylight and the shortest night of the year.

The Sun is directly overhead at the Tropic of Cancer (23.5° North latitude) during the Northern Hemisphere's summer solstice. Conversely, at the same time, the Southern Hemisphere is tilted away from the Sun, experiencing its winter solstice, the shortest day of the year.

Stonehenge:

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England, famous for its stone circle. Its exact purpose is unclear, but it likely served as a religious site for ceremonies connected to ancestor worship and solar alignments. Construction began around 3000 BC and evolved over centuries.

Located on Salisbury Plain, Wiltshire, England, Stonehenge forms a henge with standing stones arranged in a circle. It is commonly thought to have been built in phases, starting with an earthwork enclosure, followed by the addition of bluestones and sarsen stones. Stonehenge was likely a religious complex for sun worship, ancestor veneration, and calendrical calculations. It aligns with solstices, linked to solar cycles, and was a site for honouring the dead. The Henge aids in tracking the seasons and agricultural cycles, highlighting the builders' ingenuity in astronomy and engineering. Archaeological studies continue to shed light on the history and purpose of Stonehenge, reshaping our understanding of this iconic site.

Wedding Ceremonies:

Summer Solstice weddings at Stonehenge are unique and draw large crowds for the symbolic alignment of the sunrise. While the site is closed to the public, the Summer Solstice is one of the few times when access is granted, allowing for gatherings and ceremonies to take place.

Summer Solstice weddings at Stonehenge often opt for the ancient Celtic tradition of handfasting, which involves tying couples' hands together with ribbon. It symbolises the binding of their lives, and some believe it will serve as a trial marriage before a final union.

In the Summer, the sun rises directly over the Heel Stone on the solstice, a spectacle that many gather to witness. Couples may choose to have their ceremonies timed to coincide with this event, with the sun's rays potentially streaming into the centre of the monument.

The Summer Solstice at Stonehenge is a significant spiritual event, attracting various groups, including Druids, Pagans, and those interested in the site's history and energy. The event is renowned for its lively, chaotic, yet joyful atmosphere, which is characterised by drumming, music, dancing, and a keen sense of community among attendees. If you plan to get married at Stonehenge during the Summer Solstice, it is essential to book well in advance, as access is limited and demand is high. We recommend wearing warm clothing and sensible shoes at Stonehenge due to its unpredictable weather. Although they prohibit large umbrellas, you might find a small one useful. Couples may be able to arrange a ceremony within the inner circle of stones, but the process requires prior arrangement and is subject to availability.

Other Sites:

Besides Stonehenge, other stone circles in the UK, like Avebury, Castlerigg, and Rollright, are popular locations for summer solstice weddings or ceremonies. These sites offer unique and spiritual backdrops for celebrations.

Avebury is a large stone circle in Wiltshire, similar to Stonehenge but with a unique atmosphere. Castlerigg, located in the Lake District of Cumbria, is surrounded by stunning fell scenery. The Rollright Stones in Oxfordshire are known for their ancient trackway and direct access, while Arbor Low in the Peak District is dubbed the "Peak District's Stonehenge". Lastly, Stanton Drew in Somerset has three stone circles, one of which is the second largest in England after Avebury.

What Have We Discovered?

The Summer Solstice, thanks to the Earth's axial tilt, brings us longer days and seasonal sunlight variations. It’s no wonder that Stonehenge has become a cherished spot for Summer Solstice weddings, complete with handfasting ceremonies and a vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, UK stone circles like Avebury, Castlerigg, and Rollright provide equally enchanting spiritual settings for your special celebrations.