Our journey begins with two of Wiltshire's most famous archaeological sites - Stonehenge and Avebury. These iconic sites are not only symbols of prehistoric Britain, but also key to understanding the lives and beliefs of our ancestors.

Stonehenge, one of the most famous prehistoric sites in the world, impresses with its monumentality and mystery. This stone circle, dating from 3,000 to 2,000 BC, still fascinates scientists and tourists today. The site, managed by English Heritage, offers an extraordinary experience for the whole family. Visitors can admire the impressive structure up close with audio guides available in Polish. It's worth booking tickets in advance, especially during the summer season, when the site is extremely popular. Stonehenge has received an impressive 4.5-star rating from visitors, who emphasize its magical atmosphere and good tour organization.

Avebury, on the other hand, while less well-known than Stonehenge, offers no less fascinating an experience. This huge Neolithic stone circle complex, dating to around 2600 BC, is the largest of its kind in Europe. Unlike Stonehenge, at Avebury you can walk freely among the stones, touch them and fully feel the energy of the site. The complex, managed by the National Trust, has received an excellent 4.7-star rating. Visitors praise the opportunity for close contact with history, the picturesque views and the peaceful atmosphere of the village of Avebury, where the site is located.

When comparing the two sites, it's worth noting that Stonehenge offers a more organized and educational experience, with a modern visitor center and detailed exhibits. Avebury, on the other hand, allows for a more casual and personal discovery of history, ideal for families with children to run among the stones and explore the grounds. Both sites are free for English Heritage and National Trust members, something to consider when planning an extended stay in the region.

Both Stonehenge and Avebury are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting their unique historical and cultural value. Whichever site you choose, one thing is certain - you are in for an unforgettable journey back in time that will give you a better understanding of the mysteries of our prehistoric ancestors.

Continuing our archaeological adventure in Wiltshire, we move on to lesser-known but equally fascinating sites. West Kennet Long Barrow, Silbury Hill and The Sanctuary are sites that shed new light on the lives and beliefs of the people of the Neolithic era.

West Kennet Long Barrow is an impressive chamber barrow, one of the best preserved in Britain. Dating to around 3650 BC, it is more than 1,000 years older than nearby Stonehenge. This site, managed by English Heritage, has received an excellent 4.8 star rating from visitors. The mound is accessible free of charge year-round, making it an ideal destination for family outings. Visitors praise the opportunity to go inside the barrow, which allows you to literally touch history. The trail to the barrow can be a bit muddy, so it's a good idea to bring appropriate footwear.

Silbury Hill, the largest prehistoric mound in Europe, is another Wiltshire archaeological mystery. Erected around 2400 BC, this artificial mountain still fascinates scientists today with its purpose. The site, also managed by English Heritage, has been given a 4.6-star rating. Although you can't climb the mound itself, the view from the nearby lookout point is breathtaking. Visitors emphasize the monumentality of the site and its mysterious aura.

The Sanctuary, the last point of this part of our trip, is the site where a wooden and stone circle once stood, probably associated with nearby Avebury. Although today only markings in the ground remain, the site still exudes a remarkable energy. Rated 4.2 stars, The Sanctuary offers a fascinating insight into the ritual complex of the Neolithic era. Admission is free, and information boards help visitors understand the significance of the site.

When comparing the three sites, it's worth noting that each offers a unique experience. The West Kennet Long Barrow allows the closest contact with prehistoric architecture, allowing you to step inside a barrow. Silbury Hill impresses with its scale and mystery, though visits are limited to observation from the outside. The Sanctuary, on the other hand, requires the utmost imagination, but provides valuable context for understanding the entire Avebury complex.

All three sites are free and easily accessible, making them ideal points on the map for a family trip. It's worth planning to visit these sites in one day, as they are relatively close to each other. Remember to bring comfortable footwear and a camera - the sights and atmosphere of these sites certainly deserve to be captured!

To conclude our fascinating journey through Wiltshire's archaeological treasures, we will visit Woodhenge - a site that sheds new light on prehistoric construction techniques and rituals.

Woodhenge, located just 3.2 kilometers northeast of the famous Stonehenge, is a reconstruction of a Neolithic building that originally consisted of six concentric oval rings of wooden posts. The site, which dates to around 2300 BC, is a fascinating example of the advanced engineering skills of our ancestors.

Managed by English Heritage, Woodhenge has received a 4.2-star rating from visitors. While it may not be as visually impressive as the stone circles, it offers a unique look at prehistoric construction methods and the use of wood in ritual structures. Today's Woodhenge features reconstructed concrete pillars marking the locations of the original wooden pillars, giving an idea of the scale and layout of the original structure.

Admission to Woodhenge is free and available year-round, making it an ideal place to visit for families with children or those interested in lesser-known aspects of prehistory. There are information boards on site to help understand the significance and history of the site. Visitors praise the peaceful atmosphere and the ability to freely explore the site.

When comparing Woodhenge with other archaeological sites in Wiltshire, it's worth noting that it offers a unique experience. Unlike the stone structures of Stonehenge or Avebury, Woodhenge allows you to imagine what wooden Neolithic buildings looked like. This is an excellent complement to the knowledge gained from visiting other sites in the region.

Woodhenge, though lesser known, is an important part of Wiltshire's prehistoric landscape. Its proximity to Stonehenge (you can get there in about 30 minutes on foot) makes it easy to combine a visit to both sites in one day. It's an ideal opportunity to compare two different construction techniques used by our ancestors and reflect on their ritual and social significance.

A journey through Wiltshire's archaeological treasures is an unforgettable adventure that takes you back thousands of years. From the majestic Stonehenge, to the mysterious barrows and mounds, to the lesser-known but equally fascinating Woodhenge, each site tells a unique story about the lives, beliefs and skills of our prehistoric ancestors.

It's worth planning at least a few days to explore these remarkable sites. Remember comfortable shoes, appropriate clothing (the weather in Wiltshire can be capricious) and a camera. Many of these sites offer free tours, making them accessible to families with children and history buffs of all ages.

Exploring Wiltshire's ancient mysteries is not only a history lesson, but also an opportunity to reflect on our place in the long line of human civilization. It's a journey that inspires, educates and leaves an indelible impression. Whether you are passionate about archaeology or simply looking for an unusual experience, Wiltshire will certainly not disappoint you. Embark on this fascinating journey through time and let Wiltshire's prehistoric mysteries spark your imagination!