Major Lunar Standstill at Stonehenge: A Guide to Sunrise, Sunset, Moonrise, and Moonset

June 21st, 2025, marks the summer solstice—one of the most significant days at Stonehenge. This year, the event is even more special due to the ongoing major lunar standstill, when both the Sun and the Moon reach their most extreme rising and setting points on the horizon. Here’s how to make the most of your visit, including all the key times, where to stand, and what to look for.

Key Times at Stonehenge (June 21, 2025)

All times are local for Stonehenge. Times may vary slightly; check a skywatching app for updates.

Where to Stand and What to Look For

Sunrise (4:51 am)

• Where to Stand:

  • Position yourself inside the monument, facing northeast toward the Heel Stone.

  • The best view is along the main axis, looking through the center of the stone circle.

• What to Look For:

  • Watch as the Sun rises directly behind the Heel Stone, casting its first rays through the heart of Stonehenge. This alignment is the reason the monument was built as it is.

Moonset (5:08 am)

• Where to Stand:

  • After sunrise, turn to face the western horizon (WSW, ~253°).

  • Find a clear view outside the circle for the best vantage.

• What to Look For:

  • The Moon, in its waning crescent phase, will be low on the horizon, setting at its southernmost point during the standstill. Notice how far south this is compared to typical moonsets.

Daytime Moonrise (12:13 pm)

• Where to Stand:

  • Face ESE (~241°) for the moonrise, though it may be faint in daylight.

• What to Look For:

  • The Moon will be a thin crescent, visible in the afternoon sky if conditions are clear.

Sunset (9:26 pm)

• Where to Stand:

  • Face the northwest horizon (~299°).

  • The Sun will set at its northernmost point, echoing the sunrise alignment but in reverse.

• What to Look For:

  • The stone circle will glow in the golden hour, and the Sun will dip behind the stones, creating dramatic silhouettes.

Tips for the Best Experience

• Arrive Early:

  • The field opens at 7 pm on June 20th. Crowds gather overnight, so plan ahead for parking and walking to the site.

• Stay for Both Sunrise and Moonset:

  • The magic of the solstice is in seeing both the Sun and Moon at their extremes—an experience unique to the major lunar standstill.

• Bring Essentials:

  • Warm clothes, a torch, and sensible footwear are recommended. The walk from the visitor center is about 1.5 miles (2 km).

• Respect the Site:

  • Stonehenge is sacred to many; please do not touch the stones or leave litter.

What Makes This Year Special?

• Major Lunar Standstill:

  • The Moon’s rising and setting points are at their most extreme, a phenomenon Stonehenge’s builders may have tracked. The Station Stones and the Aubrey Holes align with these lunar extremes.

• Dual Alignment:

  • On June 21, both the Sun and Moon are near their solstice and standstill limits, creating a rare visual and spiritual spectacle.

Livestream and Accessibility

• Can’t Attend?

  • English Heritage will livestream the sunrise and sunset on their YouTube and Facebook pages, so you can witness the event from anywhere in the world.

Summary Table: What to Do and When

In summary:
June 21st, 2025, at Stonehenge is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to witness the interplay of the Sun and Moon at their most extreme positions. Arrive early, position yourself along the monument’s ancient axes, and watch as the celestial dance unfolds—just as it did for the builders of Stonehenge thousands of years ago.