THOUSANDS of people celebrated the Winter Solstice at Stonehenge this morning. 

Stonehenge was built to align with the sun on the solstices. On the winter solstice, the sun sets to the south-west of the stone circle. 

Salisbury Journal: People take part in the winter solstice celebrations at the Stonehenge

Here are some of the best pictures from the event. Click the picture at the top to view the gallery. 

English Heritage's Rebecca Eade said, “It was wonderful to welcome approximately 6000 people to Stonehenge this morning to celebrate a chilly Winter Solstice. We were delighted that a further 98,500 people watched the sunrise live online from right around the world.

"It was a peaceful celebration and despite a cloudy and blustery start, people did enjoy a bright winter solstice sunrise. We’d like to wish everyone who joined us this morning a safe trip home and a very Happy Christmas.

"We are looking forward to welcoming visitors over the festive season and in the new year."