While thousands of people flocked to Stonehenge to mark the summer solstice - the longest day of the year - Northern Ireland had its own celebrations.
Some greeted the solstice in Portrush.
I knew I would not get the #SummerSolstice #sunrise through the arch this year, but hoped for clouds to go red, didn't seem likely so left early :)
— Brian Cunningham (@BC_Tweeting) June 21, 2023
Total serenity with the whole beach to myself, Whiterocks #Portrush@bbcniweather pic.twitter.com/fAMrkI12CR
Some ventured to the Giant's Ring in Belfast.
For the day that's in it...Giant's Ring Dolmen in Belfast...#StormHour #Solstice#KeepDiscovering pic.twitter.com/nxueIAQY7Q
— Olly Griffin (@OllyGriffin) June 21, 2023
Swimmers took a dip in the Fisherman's Quay, Carrickfergus and White Rocks, Portrush
Crowds gathered at Newgrange, the prehistoric monument in the Republic of Ireland, to watch the setting sun illuminate the inner chamber.
What is the summer solstice?
The summer solstice marks the sun's highest point in the sky and is closest to the Northern Hemisphere, resulting in the shortest night for the majority of the world's population in this region. This annual event, which typically falls between June 20 and June 22, draws visitors from far and wide to Stonehenge in England.
The summer solstice, a globally observed event, holds particular significance at Stonehenge. Although numerous mysteries surround the ancient stone circle, one fact stands out: the monument's design aligns with the rising sun during the solstices.
Britain and Ireland experience approximately 16 hours of sunlight on this day.
In Scarborough, North Yorkshire, members of the Happy Seal Yoga class celebrated the Summer Solstice at Cayton Bay by stretching and swimming as the sun rose.
Others went out to catch the beautiful sunrise.
