Summer Solstice 2018: The celebrations at Stonehenge in pictures

Every year, revellers and druids flock to Stonehenge in Wiltshire to celebrate the summer solstice – and this June was no different.

Thousands gathered at the prehistoric ring of standing stones to mark the longest day of the year, on June 21st, and watch the sun rise. Luck was on their side for this year’s annual festivities as the skies remained clear and the sun shone strikingly over the Neolithic monument.

The date marks the first official day of summer and is the time when the northern hemisphere is tilted closest to the sun. To honour the occasion, English Heritage opens up the stones for public access, which are usually cordoned off from visitors.

Here are some of the best pictures capturing this year's special midsummer event...