Summer solstice events – from swims to ancient rituals

Thousands of people are expected to flock to the West of England to celebrate the solstice, an event steeped in tradition marking the official start of astronomical summer.

It takes place when the hemisphere is tilted at its maximum towards the Sun. This year that time is 09:24 BST on Sunday, though many celebrations centre on the sunrise at 04:52.

People will clamber up hilltops and station themselves beside ancient stone circles to mark the occasion.

Below is a list of events taking place across Bristol, Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire.

Thousands are expected to gather at Stonehenge in Wiltshire where parking has already sold out for visitors.

In 2025 more than 25,00 people gathered at the stone circle and English Heritage expects similar numbers again this year.

During the event, people dance and play instruments including tambourines and drums.

Elsewhere in Wiltshire, large groups are also expected at Avebury, a stone circle near Marlborough.

A spokesperson for the National Trust, which runs the site, says their carpark will be open for sunrise on Sunday.

The trust's website adds: "There are spaces available for camper vans in our main visitor car park, but we expect these to fill quickly."

In Somerset, one of the most popular locations to watch the summer solstice is at Glastonbury Tor.

Early risers, dressed in outfits inspired by the natural world, enjoy views of the Somerset countryside from what is regarded by some as among the most spiritual sites in the UK.

Michelle Cowbourne, a professional photographer who has a shop in Glastonbury, told BBC Radio Somerset she will trek up the Tor at 04:00.

"I'll be walking up there fairly steadily to take in the views and watch as the light changes on the hill," she said.

"Solstice is probably the nicest atmosphere you get up there all year. Especially when the sun is out, which it is going to be on Sunday. It will be very busy...the energy levels will be superb."

As well as the Glastonbury Tor, groups also mark the solstice at the Neolithic stone circle at Stanton Drew, near Bristol.

Meanwhile, residents have organised an early-morning swim at Vobster's Quay in Frome. "Druids need not apply," the site's website states.

While many people head to hilltops, in Gloucestershire revellers often enjoy an early-morning swim to mark the solstice.

Cheltenham Lido is hosting a special event to mark the longest day of the year, with people urged to book online.

Gates open at 04:15 and the swim finishes at 07:00.

If you want higher ground, places like Robinswood Hill - just south of Gloucester city centre - and Pan Tod Beacon - near Drybrook in the Forest of Dean - also give stunning views of the sunrise.

Severn Beach is also a popular place for people to gather to watch the sunrise over the water.

For people in Bristol, reaching higher ground will be key as the sun rises on Sunday.

Dundry Hill, just outside the city, will be a popular spot for photographers looking to capture the perfect picture, as well as Troopers Hill in St George and Perrett's Park, near Knowle.

Several events in the city will also mark the solstice, such as swim sessions at Henleaze Lake and West Country Water Park.

The Wave, Bristol's inland surf facility, will mark the solstice with the longest day of surfing from a 06:00 sunrise session to an 23:00 surf under the lights on Saturday.

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