The best places in the UK to celebrate the summer solstice

The summer solstice marks the longest day and shortest night of the year, making it one of the most magical moments in the British calendar. Falling on 20 or 21 June each year, it's a celebration that's been observed for thousands of years.

This year, the summer solstice falls on Sunday, 21 June 2026, at 9:24am, marking the moment when our hemisphere is tilted most directly towards the Sun.

And while Stonehenge is undoubtedly the UK's most famous solstice gathering, it's far from the only place to experience the beauty of the longest day. From ancient landscapes and dramatic hilltops to peaceful coastlines and national parks, there are countless places to welcome the sunrise or savour those atmospheric summer evenings.

We've picked some of our favourite places to experience the summer solstice in the UK; whether you're looking for a memorable sunrise, spectacular views or simply an excuse to spend more time outdoors.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

As mentioned above, Stonehenge is the location that’s most widely associated with solstice. Every year, thousands of visitors gather before dawn to watch the sun rise above the Heel Stone, continuing a tradition that dates back thousands of years.

I visited Stonehenge as a child and still remember the atmosphere. Even outside of the solstice celebrations, there's something undeniably otherworldly about standing amongst the stones and imagining the people who built them. During the solstice itself, that sense of wonder feels even stronger.

If you're planning to attend this uniquely special event, expect crowds, a festival atmosphere and a very early start; for many people, it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Stay nearby: The Barn In Wiltshire

Glastonbury Tor, Somerset

For a more spiritual take on the solstice, head to Glastonbury Tor. Rising dramatically above the Somerset Levels, the hill has long been associated with myths, legends and folklore, making it a fitting place to welcome the longest day of the year.

The climb to the top isn't particularly difficult, and the panoramic views are well worth the effort. Arrive before sunrise and you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas as the countryside slowly wakes beneath you.

The atmosphere here tends to be quieter and more reflective than Stonehenge, attracting walkers, photographers and those seeking a more peaceful solstice experience.

Stay nearby: The Studio At Dower House Cottage

Broadway Tower, Cotswolds

If you're looking for a summer solstice experience that's a little less crowded but no less beautiful, the Cotswolds delivers in abundance.

One of the best places to watch the sunrise is around Broadway Tower, where elevated views stretch across the surrounding countryside. On a clear morning, you'll see rolling hills bathed in golden light as the longest day begins.

The beauty of spending the solstice in the Cotswolds is that the experience doesn't end at sunrise. The region's honey-hued villages, countryside trails and characterful pubs make it easy to turn the occasion into a memorable summer weekend.

Stay: Lodges in the Cotswolds

Elan Valley, Mid Wales

Few places feel as naturally connected to the landscape as the Elan Valley; an area well-known for its vast reservoirs, dramatic hills and some of the darkest skies in the UK.

And while many visitors come for stargazing (it’s officially recognised as an International Dark Sky Park), celebrating the summer solstice here offers a different kind of magic. Early risers can watch the sunrise reflected across glassy waters, while longer evenings provide ample opportunity for scenic walks and wildlife spotting.

So if your idea of celebrating the solstice involves escaping crowds and immersing yourself in nature, this serene location is hard to beat.

Stay: Lodges in Mid Wales

Malvern Hills, Worcestershire

Stretching across Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire, the Malvern Hills are one of England's most rewarding locations for a sunrise walk.

The ridgeline offers far-reaching views in every direction, making it a popular choice for summer solstice celebrations. Arriving before dawn to watch the first rays of sunlight hit the patchwork countryside below is a simple but unforgettable experience.

The hills are also ideal for a full day outdoors, with countless walking routes to explore long after the sun has risen; perhaps pack a picnic breakfast and make a day of it.

Stay nearby: The Damselfly Retreat

Northumberland National Park

For some, the summer solstice isn't just about the sunrise; it's about making the most of every extra hour of daylight and staying outside for as long as possible.

A visit to Northumberland National Park is one of the best places in the UK to do exactly that. Home to Europe's largest protected Dark Sky Reserve, it offers vast landscapes, peaceful walking routes and an incredible sense of space that’s begging to be explored.

Spend your summer day exploring Hadrian's Wall or the surrounding countryside before watching the sky gradually darken and witnessing the magic of the sunset.

Stay: Lodges in Northumberland

Dartmoor, Devon

For those seeking a wilder solstice experience, Dartmoor won’t disappoint; its ancient stone circles, dramatic tors and the vast, craggy moorlands create a landscape that feels timeless and atmospheric.

Watching the sunrise from one of the higher tors is a memorable way to mark the longest day, with views that stretch for miles and on clear mornings, the changing colours of the landscape are simply spectacular.

The moor's long history and rich folklore also lend an extra layer of intrigue to the occasion; it's easy to see why these landscapes have inspired so many myths and legends for generations.

Stay: Lodges in Devon

The New Forest, Hampshire

Not every solstice celebration needs to involve climbing huge hills before dawn, especially if you’ve little legs in tow. The New Forest offers a much gentler way to enjoy the longest day, making it a great choice for young families and those looking for a more relaxed experience.

Here you can spend the day cycling quiet forest trails, spotting wild ponies and enjoying picnics in woodland clearings before settling down to watch the sun set through the trees.

The summer solstice is really about spending time outdoors, enjoying lighter evenings and appreciating the season, wherever you happen to be.

Stay: Lodges in the New Forest

How to celebrate the summer solstice on holiday

Can’t make it to Stonehenge? How about these alternative ways to celebrate the summer solstice on your UK staycation:

• Take a sunrise walk: Set your alarm early and watch the landscape come to life as the sun rises on the longest day.
• Pack a sunset picnic: Gather together family and friends for an evening outdoors on a balmy evening.
• Go wild swimming: Embrace nature with a refreshing morning dip in a lake, river or the sea. Cheltenham Lido have a special early sunrise swim with sunrise yoga.
• Stay up for stargazing: Make the most of the short night by huddling under a blanket to witness the first stars appear.
• Light the fire pit: Extend the celebrations into the evening with s'mores and good company.
• Dine alfresco: Take dinner outdoors and savour every extra minute of daylight together.

How will you celebrate the longest day?

Mount Hooley Lodge

Whether you're joining the crowds at Stonehenge, watching the sunrise from a Cotswold viewpoint or escaping to the lakes and mountains of Wales, the summer solstice is a wonderful excuse to embrace the outdoors and make the most of the season.

And with summer evenings stretching long into the night, there's no better time to plan a UK getaway. Browse our collection of summer lodges and discover the perfect place to enjoy the longest days of the year.

Written by Sarah Christopher | Brand Voice Strategist and Creative Copywriter 

With over 15 years of creative copywriting and strategy experience, I specialise in lifestyle and travel writing. 

It is an absolute privilege to tell the stories of the UK's most beautiful locations. Whenever I research or visit a new destination, I invariably fall in love with it a little - meaning my staycation bucket list is forever growing.