The first monument at Stonehenge was a circular earthen bank and ditch (or henge), which can still be seen. Unlike other henges, the ditch lies outside rather than inside the bank. Also part of this phase is the north-east entrance aligned on the midsummer sunrise.

Of the same date is the ring of 'Aubrey' holes inside the bank, named after John Aubrey, who discovered them. Some of these holes held cremated human remains. Were these placed here to mark the completion of the henge? None of them were used for posts or stones.