THOUSANDS of people are expected to gather at Stonehenge for the Winter Solstice on December 21.

English Heritage has issued a series of important notices to ensure the event runs safely and smoothly.

Advance booking for car parking has now completely sold out, meaning visitors are strongly encouraged to use alternative transport.

A regular bus service will operate throughout the morning from Salisbury city centre, where ample public parking is available.

Officials have warned against parking on the A303 or nearby roads and rights of way, stressing that illegally parked vehicles or those causing obstructions will be towed away.

Visitors are also reminded that Stonehenge is a World Heritage Site and a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

Touching or climbing on the stones is strictly prohibited, as it can damage both the stone surfaces and the rare lichens that grow on them.

Photo: Alamy

Those walking from the Stonehenge Visitor Centre to the stone circle should allow 25 to 30 minutes for the journey.

The route, around 1.5 miles across uneven National Trust land, requires sensible footwear, and visitors are advised to bring a torch.

A shuttle bus will operate at regular intervals with priority boarding for those with accessibility needs.

Security staff, Wiltshire Police and the South Western Ambulance Service will be on site, and visitors are urged to follow instructions in the unlikely event of an emergency.

For those unable to attend in person, English Heritage will live stream the Winter Solstice sunrise for free on its Facebook pages and YouTube channel, allowing people around the world to share in this ancient tradition.