On the latest episode of BBC One’s Countryfile, archaeology expert Dr. Jennifer Wexler couldn’t help but interrupt her own presentation as snow began falling unexpectedly during the segment on Stonehenge.
The episode, which aired on Sunday, December 14, featured presenter Joe Crowley exploring the history of Wiltshire’s iconic prehistoric monument. Early in the show, Dr. Wexler joined Joe to explain the fascinating construction techniques behind Stonehenge’s massive stones.
She described how the stones are shaped to fit perfectly together, using what archaeologists call mortise and tenon joints—similar to interlocking Lego pieces. “Stonehenge is a completely unique circle,” she said, demonstrating how the bottom stones slot into the lintels above them.
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Just as Dr. Wexler was detailing these intricate features, snow began to fall around them. Unable to ignore the sudden change, she laughed and paused to remark on the unusual weather conditions. “We have some really crazy weather going on here,” she said between chuckles.
Joe Crowley noted the irony, saying, “Yeah, it doesn’t feel very close to the summer solstice right now, does it, with snow coming in?” Dr. Wexler agreed, adding that the harsh weather made it clear why ancient peoples revered the sun—especially considering the monument’s alignment with the solstice.
She explained, “The people who built Stonehenge were early farmers, and their livelihoods really depended on the sun doing its job.”
Later in the programme, Dr. Wexler shared new scientific findings about the origins of the enormous stones. A core sample taken from Stonehenge during 1958 conservation work had been taken to America and only recently returned to British scientists. Analysis of this sample revealed a precise geological match approximately 15 miles north of Stonehenge, near Marlborough.
Joe Crowley then visited the ancient woodlands where the stones are believed to have been quarried, connecting the dots on the monument’s mysterious beginnings.
Countryfile’s latest episode is currently available for streaming on BBC iPlayer.