Stonehenge winter solstice: Wiltshire motorists warned of disruption

Crowds are expected to gather at Stonehenge to watch the sun rise on the shortest day of the year

Motorists have been advised to plan journeys ahead of the expected traffic during this week's winter solstice celebration at Stonehenge.

The site will be open to visitors on 22 December in the early hours.

National Highways warned a speed limit will be in place on the Salisbury A303 between Countess and Longbarrow roundabouts before and after the event.

English Heritage has urged visitors to use public transport due to expected limited parking on the day.

The Monument Field will be opened around 07:45 GMT, dependent on light levels, and entry will close at 10:00 GMT, while the Stonehenge car park will open at 05:15 GMT.

Kathryn Wiltshire from National Highways said the measures are for safety and to minimise disruption.

"In view of a potential increase in traffic volumes for the Christmas getaway, we advise all road users to check our traffic and travel information channels, plan their journeys and allow plenty of time," she said.

The winter solstice celebration and sunrise will be live streamed on the English Heritage website.