Summer Solstice 2024: Top ten Stonehenge alternatives in the UK for the best sunrise views

The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year, a day when the tilt of Earth's axis is most inclined towards the sun, resulting in the maximum hours of daylight. This celestial event, traditionally celebrated with festivals and gatherings, attracts crowds to iconic locations like Stonehenge to witness the sunrise. However, for those seeking alternatives to the bustling crowds, the UK offers a plethora of stunning locations to experience the solstice sunrise. Here are the top 10 destinations for an unforgettable summer solstice experience.

Summer solstice: Top 10 locations to visit for the ultimate sunrise scenes

1. Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh, Scotland

Once an active volcano, Arthur’s Seat provides a majestic viewpoint over Edinburgh. The three-mile ascent to its summit rewards you with panoramic views of Holyrood Park, Edinburgh Castle, and the Lothians. Rated 4.5 on TripAdvisor and tagged 91,000 times on Instagram, it's a fantastic spot for both sunrise and sunset, making it perfect for solstice celebrations.

2. Primrose Hill, London

Steeped in history with connections to ancient pagan and druidic practices, Primrose Hill offers spectacular views of London’s skyline. Just an eight-minute walk from the nearest tube station, this hilltop park is a favorite for sunrise and sunset watchers alike, providing an easily accessible spot for solstice revelers.

3. Dartmoor National Park, Devon

With its rolling hills and moors, Dartmoor National Park is a magnificent place to witness the solstice sunrise. Its 4.5 rating on TripAdvisor and 91.8 million TikTok hashtags attest to its popularity. For a more adventurous experience, hike up Haytor Rocks for a 360-degree view of the park, or explore the ancient stone rows and circles dating back to the Neolithic era.

4. Ullswater, Lake District, Cumbria

Ullswater Way in the Lake District offers several peaceful spots to catch the first rays of the day. Popular locations like the Memorial Seat viewpoint and the Duke of Portland boathouse, the most photographed spot in the Lake District, provide breathtaking views of Ullswater and the surrounding mountains, making it an idyllic place for solstice celebrations.

5. Seven Sisters, Sussex

The white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters turn radiant gold at sunrise, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. With panoramic views from Birling Gap beach to Beachy Head lighthouse, this location is perfect for those who love coastal scenery. The easily accessible trails and proximity to the beach make it a fantastic spot for a full day of solstice activities.

6. Mam Tor, Peak District, Derbyshire

Known as the "Mother Hill," Mam Tor in the Peak District offers a challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views of Hope Valley. Its prominence on social media, with 13.5 million hashtags on TikTok and 145,000 location tags on Instagram, reflects its popularity among hikers and nature lovers seeking a tranquil solstice sunrise.

7. Malvern Hills, Herefordshire

Rising to 1,394 feet, the Malvern Hills provide an exceptional sunrise setting. The Worcestershire Beacon, the highest point, offers striking views across Herefordshire and Worcestershire, areas rich in greenery. Recognized as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Malvern Hills are perfect for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

8. Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland

Stretching 73 miles across northern England, Hadrian’s Wall offers numerous spots to enjoy the solstice sunrise. Historical sites like Housestead Cragg provide stunning views and a sense of ancient history. With 8.3 million hashtags on TikTok and a 4.5 rating on TripAdvisor, this UNESCO World Heritage site is ideal for a unique solstice experience.

9. Belhaven Beach, East Lothian, Scotland

Famous for its “bridge to nowhere,” Belhaven Beach in East Lothian is a serene coastal spot near Edinburgh. This beach, nestled within John Muir Country Park, offers stunning views of the Forth Estuary and a chance to explore grasslands, sand dunes, and salt marshes. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful solstice sunrise.

10. Whitby Abbey, Yorkshire

Perched on a hill overlooking the seaside town of Whitby, the 17th-century Whitby Abbey is steeped in gothic history and legend. Known for inspiring Bram Stoker’s "Dracula," the abbey ruins provide a dramatic backdrop for sunrise. With a 4.5 rating on TripAdvisor and over 3 million views on TikTok, Whitby Abbey offers a blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty.