Did you know that Western Australia is home to the only full-size replica of the UK’s famous Stonehenge? Located just 15 minutes from Esperance, this impressive monument offers families a unique and awe-inspiring experience that will leave both kids and adults amazed.
What Is Esperance Stonehenge?
Esperance Stonehenge is a full-size replica of the original UK monument as it would have appeared around 1950 BC. Made from 137 stones of locally quarried Esperance Pink Granite, this impressive structure was created with incredible attention to detail. Esperance Stonehenge offers families a unique educational experience about ancient monuments without travelling to the UK. The impressive scale and craftsmanship provide excellent photo opportunities and spark conversations about history, astronomy, and engineering.
The monument features:
- 10 inner trilithon stones forming a horseshoe (weighing 28-50 tonnes each)
- A smaller horseshoe of 19 blue stones inside
- A 9-tonne altar stone
- A circle of 40 smaller stones (the Bluestone Circle)
- 30 sarsen stones around the perimeter (28 tonnes each)
Just like the ancient original, Esperance Stonehenge aligns perfectly with the solstices. On the summer solstice (December 21-22), the sun’s rays align with the heel stones and shine through to the altar stone. The winter solstice (June 21) creates the same magical alignment in reverse.
Perfect for Families
Families with children of all ages will enjoy exploring this marvel. The circular shape creates fascinating acoustics, and the natural stone provides a unique energetic feel. Kids will be captivated by the sheer size of the stones and the mystery surrounding such structures.
The site is easily accessible and offers:
- Plenty of parking
- A lovely café serving Devonshire teas, coffee, cool drinks and ice cream
- A gift shop with souvenirs and crystals
- Beautiful views of the surrounding countryside
Visitor Information
Location: 817 Merivale Road, Esperance, WA 6450
From Esperance, travel 6.5km down Fisheries Road, turn right onto Merivale Road, and continue 8km until you see it on your left.
Opening Hours: Open daily 9am-3pm (Winter hours 9am-1pm)
Closed Christmas Day
Entry Fees:
- Adults: $14
- Children (6-16): $6
- Cash and EFTPOS available
The site is coach and caravan friendly, making it perfect for family road trips. For those interested in sunset or stargazing visits, special arrangements can be made outside regular hours (additional fees apply).
For more information visit esperancestonehenge.com.au
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After spending 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie McNichol made the move to Perth in 2010. As the Co-Founder and Editor of Buggybuddys, she has been able to use her experience and passion for helping families to create a trusted online resource for parents across Perth.
Jennie is the proud mother of two daughters, aged 16 & 14 and is a big advocate of the family-friendly lifestyle that Perth has to offer.
