On the night of 24th August 2024, I headed out to the area of Avebury in Wiltshire, UK, camera in hand, hoping to capture something extraordinary. Not only was it the night of the Perseids Meteor Shower, but thanks to the solar maximum, the northern lights graced the skies again, providing another opportunity this year to photograph these ancient landmarks under the aurora.

As the sun set, the air was charged with quiet anticipation. I began the night at Silbury Hill, a location that has long been on my photography wish list. As the sky darkened, a soft, violet hue appeared on the horizon, gradually intensifying into the unmistakable bands of the aurora. The sight of this ancient mound under the northern lights brought a deep sense of happiness.

From here, I quickly made my way to Avebury Henge. Although the aurora was not as strong by the time I arrived, it could still be seen towering over the stones. The atmosphere was calm, with a gentle breeze rustling through the trees and the prehistoric stones standing silently as they have for millennia.