Winter Solstice at the Barrow

The Soulton Long Barrow is a unique space—a contemporary architectural monument that serves as a  atmospheric gathering place, perfectly aligned to capture the celestial movements that have marked time for millennia.

The event organizer has shared the following detailed description of the ceremony, which blends ancient storytelling, music, and communal warmth to mark this turning point:

Saturday 20th December, 2.30pm for a 3pm start

As the year draws to its quiet close and the sun makes its slow descent, we gather once more at Soulton Long Barrow to honour the turning of the light.

The barrow will open at 2.30pm, with the event beginning at 3pm, held in the stillness and beauty of midwinter’s glow. We are joined by two remarkable artists whose gifts weave story, song, and spirit together into something truly unforgettable.

Danielle Free, storyteller and scholar of Celtic Studies, brings tales that shimmer with ancient wisdom. Her storytelling is immersive and alive, each listener drawn into the heart of the tale as if around a fire long ago.

Elin Gittins, a luminous folk singer, will share songs in both Welsh and English – songs that hold the ache and beauty of winter, of remembering, of returning to light.

Together, they will guide us through story and song as the sun begins to set, spilling its final light through the magnificent stained glass at the back of the barrow – a sight that, if the skies are kind, feels nothing short of enchantment.

As the light fades, song will gently lead us across the land to Soulton Hall, where warmth awaits. There, we’ll gather by the glow of winter lamps, sharing mince pies and warm drinks, and the quiet companionship of kindred souls marking the solstice together.

Come and be part of this soulful celebration – an afternoon of beauty, reflection, and community as we stand on the threshold of light’s return.

Please park at Soulton Hall and enjoy a ten-minute gentle walk over to the barrow following the standing stones. If you require parking closer to the barrow, it’s very limited and you need to email ahead of time to reserve a space.

Please note, there are no facilities at the barrow itself and so you will need to use the facilities at Soulton Hall ahead of your walk over to the barrow.

Click here for the ticket link.