Highlight (Segmento) • Monumento
Viale di West Kennet
Escursionismo
4.9
(47)
West Kennet Avenue is a remarkable prehistoric monument located in the heart of Wiltshire, England. This ancient avenue of standing sarsen stones forms a crucial link between two significant Neolithic sites: the Avebury Henge and The Sanctuary on Overton Hill. As an integral part of the Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site, it offers a tangible connection to the ceremonial landscapes of ancient Britain, stretching approximately 2.5 kilometers across the rolling Wiltshire countryside.
Visitors consistently express a profound sense of…
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Suggerimenti
1 luglio 2021
Escursionismo
Gli scavi hanno rivelato tombe poco profonde ai piedi di alcune delle pietre, indicando la sepoltura tra il 2500 e il 1800 a.C. Mentre in origine c'erano 100 paia di pietre, alcune furono rimosse e sepolte durante il periodo medievale. Tuttavia, il viale è in gran parte sul posto e offre un senso di genuina meraviglia mentre lo percorri.
•
20 aprile 2022
Escursionismo
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Dettagli
Informazioni
Distanza 811 m
Salita 10 m
Discesa 10 m
Meteo
Offerto da Foreca
lunedì 31 agosto
21°C
9°C
13 %
Ulteriori consigli sul meteo
Velocità max vento: 17,0 km/h
Più visitato durante
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Domande frequenti
What is the typical elevation gain when walking West Kennet Avenue?
West Kennet Avenue itself is relatively flat, connecting Avebury to The Sanctuary on Overton Hill. While there's a gentle, almost imperceptible incline towards The Sanctuary, the elevation gain is minimal, making it suitable for most walkers. If you combine it with other nearby sites like Silbury Hill or West Kennet Long Barrow, you might encounter slightly more varied terrain, but the avenue itself is not challenging in terms of elevation.
Is West Kennet Avenue accessible via public transport?
While direct public transport to West Kennet Avenue is limited, you can reach the nearby village of Avebury by bus. From Avebury, the avenue is easily accessible on foot. It's advisable to check local bus schedules, especially for routes connecting from larger towns like Marlborough or Swindon, as services can be infrequent, particularly on weekends or public holidays.
Are there any permits or entry fees required to visit West Kennet Avenue?
No, there are no permits or entry fees required to walk along West Kennet Avenue. It is freely accessible to the public year-round. As part of the Stonehenge and Avebury World Heritage Site, it is managed by the National Trust on behalf of English Heritage, ensuring open access to this significant prehistoric monument.
Is West Kennet Avenue suitable for a winter hike?
Yes, West Kennet Avenue can be visited in winter, and it offers a unique, often quieter experience. However, be prepared for typical English winter weather. The path across the fields can become muddy and slippery, especially after rain or snow. Warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy, waterproof footwear are highly recommended. The monument retains its evocative charm even in colder months, but daylight hours are shorter.
Is West Kennet Avenue dog-friendly?
Yes, West Kennet Avenue is dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome to accompany their owners, but they must be kept on a lead, especially as the avenue crosses agricultural land where livestock may be present. Please ensure you clean up after your dog to help preserve the site for all visitors.
Are there cafes or pubs near West Kennet Avenue?
While there are no facilities directly on West Kennet Avenue, the nearby village of Avebury, where the avenue begins, offers several options. You'll find cafes and traditional pubs in Avebury that provide refreshments, meals, and a chance to warm up after your walk. These establishments are typically within easy walking distance from the Avebury end of the avenue.
How long does it typically take to walk the entire length of West Kennet Avenue?
The West Kennet Avenue is approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) long. A leisurely walk along its entire length, from Avebury to The Sanctuary, typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour one way, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the stones and scenery. Allow extra time if you plan to explore The Sanctuary or return to Avebury.
Is West Kennet Avenue wheelchair accessible?
Due to its nature as an ancient pathway across fields, West Kennet Avenue is not fully wheelchair accessible. The terrain can be uneven, grassy, and muddy, particularly during wet weather, which would make navigation challenging for wheelchairs. While the start near Avebury might be manageable, the full length is generally not suitable for standard wheelchairs.
What are the key historical facts about West Kennet Avenue?
West Kennet Avenue was constructed around 2400 BC, connecting the Avebury Henge to The Sanctuary. Originally, it featured about 100 pairs of standing sarsen stones, forming a winding processional route. Archaeological excavations in the 1930s by Alexander Keiller revealed Beaker burials beneath some stones, dating to 2500-1800 BC. Today, 27 upright stones remain, with 37 concrete pillars marking original locations, offering a glimpse into its ancient past.
What other ancient sites can be easily combined with a visit to West Kennet Avenue?
West Kennet Avenue is part of a rich prehistoric landscape. You can easily combine your visit with the Avebury Stone Circle, which the avenue leads from, and The Sanctuary, which it leads to. Other nearby significant sites include the West Kennet Long Barrow, a large Neolithic chambered tomb, and Silbury Hill, Europe's largest prehistoric man-made mound. All these sites are within a few miles and can be explored on foot or by a short drive.
How crowded does West Kennet Avenue get on weekends or during peak season?
While Avebury village and the main stone circle can attract significant crowds, West Kennet Avenue tends to be less congested, offering a more peaceful experience. However, on sunny weekends or during peak summer months, you can expect to encounter more visitors. Arriving earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid the busiest times, especially if you're seeking a quieter walk.