Solstice-watchers were gifted with clear skies at Stonehenge, where they saw in the longest day of the year.

Thousands gathered at the ancient site in Wiltshire to see the sun rise over the horizon at 4.52am.

Stonehenge
People gathered on Wednesday evening at Stonehenge, where it is believed solstices have been celebrated for thousands of years (Ben Birchall/PA)
Summer Sosltice 2018
A selfie at sunset ahead of an early start in the morning (Ben Birchall/PA)
Summer Sosltice 2018
Some took a more traditional approach to the ancient celebration (Ben Birchall/PA)
Summer Solstice 2018
Attendees had their patience rewarded with a glorious sunrise (Ben Birchall/PA)
Summer Solstice 2018
English Heritage said it was a perfect morning for the occasion (Ben Birchall/PA)
Summer Solstice 2018
Hula-hooping at the Henge (Ben Birchall/PA)
Summer Solstice 2018
Some were in the mood for music (Ben Birchall/PA)
Summer Solstice 2018
Up to 25,000 people were expected to gather (Ben Birchall/PA)
Summer Solstice 2018
English Heritage asked those attending to respect the stones (Ben Birchall/PA)
Summer Solstice 2018
Blending the ancient and modern (Ben Birchall/PA)
Summer Solstice 2018
On the summer solstice, the sun rises behind the Heel Stone, the ancient entrance to the Stone Circle, and rays of sunlight are channelled into the centre of the monument (Ben Birchall/PA)
Summer Solstice 2018
Meanwhile, the Coca-Cola London Eye opened early to solstice-watchers (Jonathan Hordle/PA)
Summer Solstice 2018
It was the first time the attraction has opened to mark the occasion (Jonathan Hordle/PA)
Summer Solstice 2018
The city skyline at sunrise was a stark contrast to Stonehenge (Jonathan Hordle/PA)