We take advantage of our early arrival in Bath to make a pilgrimage to Salisbury Plain. The prospect of visiting Stonehenge captures the imagination, so arising in time to meet our guide at 4 AM is definitely justified.
Solitude and early morning clouds enhance the experience. The overwhelming impression is one of mystery and awe, which requires the quiet we are fortunate to enjoy.
On leaving Stonehenge, we ask our guide to drop us off in Salisbury to visit the Cathedral, where we are too early to view the Magna Carta, but appreciate the sculptures before catching a train back to Bath.
Avebury Stone Circle provides a fascinating counterpoint to Stonehenge, being much larger, and containing a village within the circle. The phenomenon of the present coexisting with the distant past is something we notice frequently while in England.
Dramatics skies, wandering sheep, and a bucolic setting make for an invigorating walk around the circle.
While not as overwhelming as Stonehenge, Avebury is perhaps more accessible.
Castlerigg Stone Circle near Keswick, our personal favorite.
Next up is the Cotswolds, famous for golden stone and thatched roofs.