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Definitive Guide: How and Where to See the Major Lunar Standstill at Stonehenge & Avebury (2025)

Your Essential Guide to Visiting Stonehenge, Avebury Glastonbury Practical Travel Tips for Americ
Your Essential Guide to Visiting Stonehenge, Avebury Glastonbury Practical Travel Tips for Americ

Introduction

The major lunar standstill of 2025 is a rare event, and witnessing it from England’s ancient sites is a once-in-a-generation experience. This guide provides precise instructions—including exact dates, times, and locations—so you and your group can enjoy the spectacle with confidence.

Key 2025 Full Moon Dates for Standstill Viewing

The most dramatic lunar standstill effects occur at full moons near the solstices. For 2025, these are:

  • July 10 (Buck Moon)
  • August 9
  • September 7
  • October 7
  • November 5
  • December 4

How Moonrise and Moonset Work During the Standstill

  • Moonrise and moonset times and directions change daily.
  • During the standstill, the Moon’s rise and set points reach their most extreme northern and southern positions.
  • For each event, you must check the specific time and azimuth (compass direction) for your chosen date and location.

Stonehenge: When and Where to Watch

Where to Stand

  • Best Viewing Point: Just outside the northeastern entrance, facing the Heel Stone.
  • Why: The Heel Stone and the main axis of Stonehenge align closely with the Moon’s extreme northern and southern risings/setting during standstills.

When to Arrive

  • For Moonrise: Arrive at least 30 minutes before the calculated moonrise time for your date.
  • For Moonset: Arrive at least 30 minutes before the calculated moonset time for your date.

Example for July 10, 2025 (Buck Moon)

  • Moonrise: 21:45 BST, azimuth ~136° (southeast).
    • Arrive by: 21:15 BST.
    • Where to Stand: Outside the northeast entrance, looking toward the Heel Stone.
  • Moonset: 04:54 BST (July 11), azimuth ~225° (southwest).
    • Arrive by: 04:25 BST.
    • Where to Stand: Southwest edge of the circle, looking back toward the center.

Tips

  • Use a compass or astronomy app to confirm you are facing the correct azimuth.
  • The Moon will appear just above the horizon at the appointed time—be patient and watch for its first appearance.

Avebury: When and Where to Watch

Where to Stand

  • For Moonrise: Stand at the southern entrance of the main circle, facing northeast along the axis of the West Kennet Avenue.
  • For Moonset: Stand within the northwestern quadrant of the main circle, facing the prominent gap in the northwest perimeter (azimuth ~299°–319°).
  • The Cove: For winter full moons, stand near The Cove (north inner circle) and face the rising Moon.

When to Arrive

  • Moonrise: Arrive at least 30 minutes before the calculated moonrise time for your date.
  • Moonset: Arrive at least 30 minutes before the calculated moonset time for your date.

Example for July 10, 2025

  • Moonrise: 21:45 BST, azimuth ~136° (southeast).
    • Arrive by: 21:15 BST.
    • Where to Stand: Southern entrance, looking northeast along West Kennet Avenue.
  • Moonset: 04:54 BST (July 11), azimuth ~225° (southwest).
    • Arrive by: 04:25 BST.
    • Where to Stand: Northwestern quadrant, facing the northwest gap.

Tips

  • Bring a compass or use an astronomy app to ensure you are aligned with the correct azimuth.
  • For the “window” effect, position yourself so the Moon appears framed by stones or gaps as it rises or sets.

Summary Table: 2025 Standstill Viewing at Stonehenge & Avebury

Date Event Moonrise Time & Direction Where to Stand for Moonrise Moonset Time & Direction Where to Stand for Moonset
July 10-11 Buck Moon 21:45 BST, 136° (SE) Stonehenge: NE entrance, face Heel Stone 04:54 BST, 225° (SW) SW edge, face center
21:45 BST, 136° (SE) Avebury: S entrance, face NE along avenue 04:54 BST, 225° (SW) NW quadrant, face NW gap
Aug 9-10 Full Moon Check local almanac As above Check local almanac As above
Sept 7-8 Full Moon Check local almanac As above Check local almanac As above
Oct 7-8 Full Moon Check local almanac As above Check local almanac As above
Nov 5-6 Full Moon Check local almanac As above Check local almanac As above
Dec 4-5 Full Moon Check local almanac As above Check local almanac As above

For each date, confirm exact times and azimuths with an astronomy app or local almanac for your site.

Essential Planning Tips

  • Double-check times and directions for your specific date and location.
  • Arrive early to secure your spot and adapt to any unforeseen circumstances.
  • Bring a compass or astronomy app to ensure you are facing the correct direction.
  • Respect site regulations—some areas may have restricted access, especially at night.
  • Be weather-aware—clouds can obscure the Moon near the horizon.

Conclusion

By following these precise instructions—arriving at the right time and standing in the right place—you will maximize your chances of witnessing the major lunar standstill in all its glory, without risking misinformation or disappointment.

Information on Stonehenge’s lunar alignments and the significance of the major lunar standstill.
Moonrise/set times and directions for July 2025 in southern England (consult local almanac or astronomy apps for updates).

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