Stonehenge may be Britain’s best-known place to mark the summer solstice, but it is far from the only spot that comes into its own on the longest day of the year.
New research from Inghams Walking has named the best places in the UK to experience the solstice, using six factors — sunshine minutes, cloud cover, visibility, rainfall, average temperature and humidity — to identify the destinations most likely to offer long, light-filled days, clear views and lovely weather for a midsummer outing.
Top 10 summer solstice spots
At the top of the list is Amesbury (58.7), thanks to its proximity to Stonehenge, where the summer solstice has been marked for centuries. For many, this is the classic midsummer setting: ancient stones, wide-open skies and one of the country’s most extraordinary prehistoric landscapes. If you want the full sense of occasion, this is where to find it.
In second place is Portree on the Isle of Skye (55.0), one of the most spectacular destinations on the list. Skye’s dramatic cliffs, changing light and far-reaching sea views make it a glorious place to spend the solstice, especially if your ideal celebration involves being out in the landscape rather than in a crowd. Nearby the Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock are both unforgettable places to watch the day unfold.
Third is Betws-y-Coed (54.7), a pretty Welsh village surrounded by the landscapes of Snowdonia. With rivers, woodland and mountain scenery all close at hand, it offers a softer, greener sort of midsummer experience. Swallow Falls is one of the area’s best-known beauty spots, while the wider national park is full of walking routes and wide, open views.
In fourth place comes Fort William (54.6), one of the great Highland gateways. The scenery here is on a grand scale, with Glen Nevis and Loch Linnhe both close by, and the solstice feels all the more special for the sheer drama of the setting. This is a wonderful choice if you want mountains, water and the feeling of a day spent properly outdoors.
Glastonbury ranks fifth (54.3) and brings a very different atmosphere to the list. Best known for its legends, folklore and spiritual associations, it has long held a special place in the English imagination. Glastonbury Tor is the obvious place to head, with far-reaching views across Somerset and a sense of quiet ceremony that suits midsummer beautifully.
At number six is Kirkwall (52.4), bringing the Orkney Islands into the ranking. This is one of the more distinctive entries, with its extraordinary light, rich archaeology and strong sense of place. Nearby ancient sites such as the Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae make Orkney an especially memorable setting for the solstice, with sea, sky and history all playing their part.
Seventh is Lowestoft (51.6), the easternmost town in the UK and one of the first places in the country to see the sunrise. That alone gives it a natural midsummer appeal. Add in its sandy beaches and easy access to the Suffolk coast and Broads, and it becomes a lovely option for anyone drawn to the idea of greeting the longest day beside the sea.
In eighth place is Brighton (49.5), which brings a more relaxed feel to the list. With its broad beach, lively seafront and Regency architecture, it offers a summer solstice with a little more bustle than ancient ritual— the sort of place where you can start the day with a sunrise walk along the promenade and end it with dinner overlooking the water.
Keswick comes ninth (47.8) and is one of the loveliest bases in the Lake District. Surrounded by fells and close to Derwentwater, it offers a solstice framed by some of England’s most beautiful scenery. Castlerigg Stone Circle is an especially strong draw at this time of year — ancient, atmospheric and beautifully set against the hills.
And finally there is Whitby in tenth place (46.7), where the appeal lies in its mix of coastline, history and character. Whitby Abbey is a magical spot to watch the sunset, but there is also the harbour, the beach and the wider North Yorkshire coast to enjoy. For those who like their solstice with a little sea air and a sense of history, it is hard to beat.
The full top 10 UK destinations are:
1. Amesbury — 58.7
2. Portree — 55.0
3. Betws-y-Coed — 54.7
4. Fort William — 54.6
5. Glastonbury — 54.3
6. Kirkwall — 52.4
7. Lowestoft — 51.6
8. Brighton — 49.5
9. Keswick — 47.8
10. Whitby — 46.7
From ancient landmarks and mountain villages to seaside towns and island escapes, the list is a reminder that there is more than one way to spend the summer solstice well. Whatever your idea of the perfect midsummer day — ancient stones, sea air or a long walk in the hills — Mother Nature has it covered.
