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The 8 best stonehenge tours from london.

Stonehenge tours from London are a popular and easy day trip.

The Best Stonehenge Tours

Stonehenge Sunset juust after the winter solstice.

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Stonehenge poses more questions than answers, making it one of the most mysterious prehistoric monuments in the world. And because of its proximity to London, the famous landmark makes for a popular day trip from the city . Organized Stonehenge tours from London typically include round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned coach, as well as visits to other nearby landmarks, such as the Avebury stone circles, Bath or the Cotswolds.

These tours from London, evaluated by U.S. News using both expert opinion and traveler sentiment, offer some of the best ways to experience Stonehenge.

The English Bus – Stonehenge, Bath & A Secret Place

Price: From 134 pounds (around $170) per person Duration: 12 hours

For adventurous travelers who want to see Stonehenge and Bath, and don't mind a little mystery, The English Bus's full-day tour offers both. Limited to 16 people, the tour departs from London in a Mercedes minibus, complete with panoramic windows and a glass roof. As you drive through the countryside, you'll enjoy live, in-depth commentary from your expert guide before arriving in Stonehenge. After exploring Stonehenge, you'll head to Bath to enjoy lunch and time to roam on your own or join an optional guided tour. Your final stop is a "secret" destination selected by your tour guide. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable, humorous guides and particularly recommend this tour for its small size and luxurious transportation.

Tours depart from central London daily. Ticket pricing does not include food or Stonehenge tickets. You can buy entry tickets to Stonehenge on-site for about 20 to 25 pounds (around $25 to $31) depending on the time of the year when visiting or online in advance for a slight discount. Other tours offered by The English Bus visit the Cotswolds, Canterbury and more.

Check prices & availability:

Premium Tours – Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, Lacock, Bath and 14th Century Pub Lunch

Price: Adults from 149 pounds (about $189); kids from 139 pounds (about $175) Duration: 13 hours

You'll be among the first visitors of the day to step inside Windsor Castle – the largest continuously occupied castle in the world – on this daylong tour. Other highlights include lunch in a 14th-century pub in the charming town of Lacock, a walking tour of Bath and, finally, the day is capped with a visit to Stonehenge. Though most tourgoers were happy with the trip (especially the patient, organized guides), they do warn it makes for a long day and wish they had extra time at certain attractions. The tour (which runs daily) leaves London at 7:45 a.m. (from Victoria Coach Station) and returns around 9 p.m.

Lunch and admission tickets to attractions are included. Ticket options that do not include entry or lunch are also available for a lower price. Premium Tours also offers excursions to Leeds, Canterbury and Greenwich, among other locations.

Check prices & availability:  

Evan Evans Tours – Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath

Price: Adults from 142 pounds (about $180); kids from 132 pounds (around $167) Duration: 11 hours

In addition to Stonehenge, this 11-hour bus tour stops at Windsor Castle and the historic city of Bath, where you'll be given the choice to explore freely on your own or visit the world-famous Roman Baths. Reviewers praise the guides, who they describe as humorous and fun, and say the tour is jampacked, but well-paced.

Tickets do not include Stonehenge entry and are available for a lower price. Evan Evans Tours operates a variety of trips outside of London to destinations like Oxford and the Cotswolds, in addition to tours within the city.

Golden Tours – Stonehenge and Bath Tour

Price: Adults from $183; kids from $170 Duration: 10.5 hours

Ideal for tourists with a dual interest in the city of Bath and Stonehenge, this approximately 11-hour tour offers access and expert insight into both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. While in Bath, you'll take a guided walking tour of the city and visit its ancient Roman Baths and Pump Room. The second stop is Stonehenge, where you'll have time to explore the mysteries of this ancient Neolithic structure. Travelers rave about the excellent and informative guides, as well as the drivers.

Ticket options do not include entry to Stonehenge or the Roman Baths are also available for a lower price. Tours depart from London daily at 8:30 a.m. The company offers a variety of tours to destinations in and around London.

Best Stonehenge Tours

Anderson Tours – Avebury and Stonehenge Small Group Tour From London

Price: Adults from 109 pounds (about $139); kids from 99 pounds (about $125) Duration: 12 hours

The full-day Avebury and Stonehenge excursion with Anderson Tours picks up in London starting at 7:30 a.m. and makes its first stop at West Kennet Long Barrow – one of the largest Neolithic burial tombs in Britain. Here, participants have the chance to visit the burial chambers. From there, the group visits the medieval village of Avebury, home to the largest prehistoric stone circle in the world. After a guided walking tour of Avebury and free time for lunch and exploration, guides lead the way to Stonehenge, where tourgoers can explore the site at their leisure with the aid of audio guides (accessible via a free smartphone app). The group returns to London around 7 p.m. Visitors say the guides are excellent and they learned a lot.

Tours run Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Anderson Tours also offers excursions to Oxford, Windsor and Canterbury, among other day trips.

International Friends – Stonehenge, Bath & Windsor

Price: Adults from 164 pounds (about $207); kids from 144 pounds (around $182) Duration: 11 hours

Travelers approve of this tour for its small group (up to 16 participants) and knowledgeable guides, who are well-versed in British history. On this approximately 11-hour journey, you'll visit Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and the city of Bath, where you'll have the choice to tour the Roman Baths or wander the ancient city for some sightseeing.

Tours depart daily; exact departure times from London vary by season. International Friends also offers "Harry Potter" tours and excursions to "Downton Abbey" filming locations, among other areas of the English countryside.

British Tours – Windsor, Stonehenge & Oxford

Price: From 1,310 pounds (about $1,655) for up to six participants Duration: 12 hours

Visit some of England's most famous landmarks with this private daytrip. Among the sites you'll see with your personal tour guide are Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and the University of Oxford. Travelers enjoy the tour and appreciate the guides' sense of humor and wealth of information. Plus, they appreciate that guides pick up patrons from central London hotels .

Prices range from 1,310 to 2,090 pounds (about $1,655 to $2,641). Prices do not include entrance fees or meals. British Tours offers a variety of other excursions from London, including day trips to explore Paris .

Premium Tours – Stonehenge Private Viewing, Lacock and Bath

Price: Adults from 143 pounds (about $181); kids from 133 pounds (approximately $168) Duration: 11 hours

If you want to experience Stonehenge without the crowds, consider this approximately 11-hour tour, which visits Stonehenge when it's closed to the general public. What's more, you'll tour the site's stone circle – an area most visitors only view behind a rope barrier. The day also includes a meal at a 14th-century pub in Lacock, as well as a stop in Bath. In Bath, you can join an optional walking tour to see highlights like the Jane Austen Museum, Pulteney Bridge and the Bath Abbey. Many reviewers call this tour the highlight of their London trips and highly recommend the evening tour if you'd like to see Stonehenge at sunset.

Travelers should note, there is also an option to buy a ticket that includes entry to the Roman Baths. Morning tours (available Mondays and Thursdays) depart at 5:30 a.m.; evening tours (which run Sundays and Wednesdays) depart at 11:10 a.m.

Stonehenge Tours from Bath

Best Stonehenge Tours

If you'll be staying in Bath during your visit to England and want to see Stonehenge, consider one of the following tours:

Mad Max Tours – Stonehenge, Cotswold Villages and Avebury Stone Circles

Price: Adults from 70 pounds (about $88); kids from 35 pounds (around $44) Duration: 9 hours

On this eight- to nine-hour tour, you'll board a bus from Bath to visit historic sites and towns around the English countryside. You'll stop at Stonehenge first ahead of the crowds for a two-hour visit. From there, the next destination is the Avebury stone circles and village. Then, it's off to the Cotswolds to explore a handful of small, charming towns; Lacock National Trust village is the designated stop for lunch. Patrons give the tour high marks and especially praise the visit to the Cotswolds villages. Others say the tour is well-paced. Tours depart daily from Bath beginning at 8:25 a.m.

This tour is not recommended for kids younger than 5. Tickets to Stonehenge are not included in the tour price; you will need to pay your guide for the tickets on the day of your tour. Mad Max operates several other outings, including a tour devoted solely to visiting the villages of the Cotswolds.

Bath Insider Tours – Ancient Britain Tour

Price: From 505 pounds (about $640) for two people Duration: 8.5 hours

On this daylong excursion, you'll join a local expert for an exclusive private tour (for up to six people in your party) that departs from Bath. Your guide – a lifelong Bath resident – takes you on an approximately 8.5-hour journey to explore sites near Bath, including Avebury, the West Kennet Long Barrow burial site and Stonehenge. The tour includes a stop at a traditional English pub for lunch. Patrons heap praise on the guide for his knowledge and good nature.

Tours depart daily at 9 a.m., but exact availability will vary. Pickup from central Bath, its hotels and its train station is included, as are admission tickets to sites. Lunch and drinks are not included in the cost. Additionally, keep in mind the cost per person will vary depending on the number of people in your party. Bath Insider Tours also offers private tours of Bath and other custom tours, including half-day excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can visit Stonehenge without a tour. It is accessible to visitors year-round.

However, there are a few benefits to choosing an organized Stonehenge tour, including the commentary and knowledge tour guides are able to provide and the ease of a tour provider's transportation. Tour companies will typically pick you up in central London (usually multiple pickup points are available) and Bath and take you directly to the historical site; then provide return transportation back to the city at the conclusion of the tour.

Stonehenge is located in Salisbury, England, about 90 miles southwest of London. The train ride from the London Waterloo station to Salisbury takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. After that, you can hop on a bus from the train station to Stonehenge, which takes about 30 minutes.

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London To Stonehenge

How to get from stonehenge from london.

The 87-mile journey from London to Stonehenge can be easily undertaken by car or public transportation, such as trains or buses, making it a convenient day trip for those eager to explore this mystical destination. Upon arriving at Stonehenge, visitors are greeted by an awe-inspiring sight - the massive rocks and bluestone pillars arranged in a precise circular formation. This enduring monument continues to puzzle scholars and spark the imagination of all who witness its beauty. Whether attending a special event like the summer solstice or embarking on a guided tour, a visit to Stonehenge is an unforgettable experience that showcases the rich and mysterious heritage of Britain.

By Train

Hop into the South Western Railway from London Waterloo Station to Salisbury Station which leaves every hour and the journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Also, from Salisbury Station, there is a direct bus to Stonehenge which takes approximately 30 minutes to reach or you can take a taxi to the desired destination. It is important to note that there are no direct trains from London to Stonehenge, however, it is a budget friendly option and the view on this route is gorgeous.

Also Checkout: Stonehenge Stones

By Car

It is approximately a 2-hour drive from London to Stonehenge with a distance of 90 miles. This would be the right opportunity to enjoy the picturesque view of the English countryside. Along the way, there are two must-visit spots, that are, the beautiful Cotswolds and the city of Winchester. However, there are a few things that you might wish to consider before opting for a drive like there can be vehicles coming from the opposite side of the road, congestion taxes, and heavy traffic during the rush hours.

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By Bus

There are no direct buses to Stonehenge unless you opt for a tour bus. This is the cheapest option available, although it takes approximately 3 hours to reach the place. Public buses as well as private tour buses leave from Victoria Coach Station to Salisbury Station. Private tour buses will be the most convenient way to travel as it will be an organized tour and it will drop you right at the Stonehenge Visitor Center. This organized tour will also include free wifi on the bus as well as audio-guided walking tours once you reach the destination.

Do Checkout: Best Time To Visit Stonehenge

Tours To Stonehenge From London

Half- Day Tour

Explore one of the world's most enigmatic landmarks on this half-day tour from London to Stonehenge, including round-trip transport by coach. You can gain access to the site with an included admission ticket and audio guide. Allow yourself with ample time to marvel at the 5,000-year-old stones, while thinking about the enigmatic origins of these ancient marvels. Departing from Victoria in central London, this self-guided tour allows you to explore Stonehenge at your own pace and learn about the many Stonehenge theories surrounding this World Heritage Site.

You'll also have the opportunity to visit the site's exhibition and Stonehenge Visitor Center , displaying 250 ancient objects and models of Neolithic houses. Therefore, you can enjoy a comfortable journey with air-conditioned transportation. Gain access to the site with an included admission ticket and audio guide, and allow yourself ample time to marvel at the 5,000-year-old stones, while pondering the enigmatic beginnings of these ancient marvels.

Also Checkout: Oxford To Stonehenge

Half-Day Morning Tour

Embark on an exciting half-day morning London to Stonehenge tour. Explore the fascinating site at your own pace with the help of an audio guide available in various different languages. Learn about the mysteries surrounding the megalithic monument and marvel at the 25-ton rocks standing alone in a vast tract of open land at Stonehenge. Immerse yourself in the diverse theories surrounding Stonehenge’s exact purpose and origin. With more than 2 hours at your disposal, you will have enough time to contemplate and form your own unique perspective on this mystery. End your tour with an optional meal of fish and chips, a British favourite served at a classic London venue.

Read More: How To Reach Stonehenge

Half-Day Trip with Audio Guide

Embark on a half-day trip from London to Stonehenge, with entry tickets for the inner circle included. Enjoy the tour and get a chance to delve deep into the various theories surrounding the origins and purpose of Stonehenge. Travel to the site by air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy the English landscape en route. Discover the fascinating theories behind the construction of the site with a downloadable audio guide on your smartphone, while exploring the site on your own. Visit the new world-class visitor centre located a short shuttle bus ride away from the stone circle site, which provides further insights into the monument's history with cutting-edge audio-visuals and exhibitions of ancient objects.

Do Checkout: Places To Visit Near Stonehenge

Special Access - Evening Tour

The special access evening tour from London to Stonehenge offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk among the stones of this world-renowned monument. This tour includes a visit to the enigmatic village of Avebury and a stop at the ancient burial tomb of West Kennet Long Barrow. You will be guided through the burial chambers, where your guide will bring its rich history to life. The tour also provides free time for you to explore the charming village and enjoy lunch at the famous Red Lion Pub, known for its ghostly tales. You will then be granted privileged access to the Stonehenge inner circle, giving you an hour to marvel at the mystical stones in the tranquil evening atmosphere. 

Check This Out: Things To Do Near Stonehenge

Book Stonehenge Tickets & Tours

Stonehenge Admission Tickets

Explore the captivating mysteries and legends that surround Stonehenge, a site steeped in intrigue

Take in the breathtaking beauty of the Salisbury Plain, providing a stunning backdrop to the ancient site

Enhance your experience with an informative audio guide, providing fascinating insights and historical context

Book your Stonhenge tickets and capture the magic of the moment as you witness the iconic silhouette of this iconic attraction

  • The schedule is subject to change depending on traffic and weather conditions on your activity date.
  • Please dress accordingly depending on the day's weather conditions.
  • Arrive at the meet-up location 15 minutes before the scheduled activity time.
  • Latecomers or no-shows can't be refunded.
  • Make sure to arrive on time.
  • The tour bus will leave sharply on time.
  • All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of arrival.
  • Last admission is 2 hours before closing.
  • Service dogs are welcome.

Stonehenge Express: Day Trip from London

Book Windsor, Stonehenge And Oxford Tour From London

Tour with Guide Without Entrance Ticket

Take a tour of the largest occupied fortress in the world for over 900 years: the Windsor Castle

Get insights about the mysterious architecture of stone circle- Stonehenge

Explore the famous university city- Oxford, also known as "The City of Dreaming Spires"

Learn historical and cultural facts about London and these buildings by an English-speaking guide

Visit 3 iconic attractions of London- Windsor, Stonehenge & Oxford in a whistle-stop city tour

  • Windsor Castle is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
  • As a working royal palace, the castle is used frequently by the Queen for state ceremonies and official entertaining. Therefore, opening arrangements may change with no notice.
  • The order in which the attractions are visited may vary seasonally or for operational reasons.
  • Travel time back to London (approximately 2 hours) can vary with traffic congestion an unknown variable. Please be mindful of this when making post-trip arrangements.
  • Viewing at Windsor Castle is restricted on Sundays. Also, St George's Chapel is closed to visitors on this day.
  • Fixed day ticket implies that this ticket will be applicable only for the date that you've booked the ticket, it won't be carried forward to next or any other day.
  • Children aged 0-2 years can join free of cost. Child Tickets are applicable for visitors aged 3-16 years. Adult Tickets are applicable for visitors aged 17-65 years. Senior Tickets are applicable for visitors aged 65-99 years.
  • Entrance tickets to the attractions and any other personal expenses are not included in the package.
  • All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of arrival and entry.

Tour in English with Stonehenge Only

How do you get to Stonehenge from London?

  • By Car: One can rent a car and drive to Stonehenge, which takes approximately 2 hours.
  • By Train: Take a train from London Waterloo to Salisbury and then take the Stonehenge Tour Bus or a taxi to the Stonehenge site.
  • By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate regular services from London to Salisbury. From there, one can take a Stonehenge Tour Bus or a taxi to the Stonehenge site.

You Must Checkout: Stonehenge Exhibition

What is the easiest way to get to Stonehenge from London?

The easiest way to get to Stonehenge from London is to take a private tour bus as it will drop you right at the Stonehenge Visitor Center approximately within 2 to 2.5 hours. You can simply sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery outside, without having to drive yourself or worry about taking any other transport.

Do Checkout: Stonehenge Opening Hours

How to get to Stonehenge from London by train?

You can get a train from London Waterloo Station to Salisbury Station which would take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. From Salisbury Station you can either take a bus or get a taxi directly to Stonehenge. The trains to Salisbury Station are pretty frequent and it runs every hour. Additionally, this is one of the cheapest ways to reach Stonehenge which also gives you an amazing view.

You Must Checkout: Plan Your Visit To Stonehenge

How long does it take to travel from London to Stonehenge?

The time it takes to travel from London to Stonehenge depends on the mode of transportation. By car or bus, the journey takes around 2 hours, while by train it takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. It is important to note that traffic can affect the travel time if travelling by car or bus. Additionally, the duration of the tour, if booked, can also affect the time spent at Stonehenge.

Also Checkout:   Facts About Stonehenge

Are there guided tours available from London to Stonehenge?

Yes, there are guided tours available from London to Stonehenge. Visitors can choose from a variety of options such as half-day tours, full-day tours and even private tours. These tours often include transportation to and from Stonehenge, admission tickets and other inclusions. You can also avail the services of a knowledgeable guide during a London to Stonehenge tour and enjoy gaining insights about the site's history and significance.

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What is the best time to visit Stonehenge?

The best time to visit Stonehenge is during the shoulder season, which is from April to May and from September to October, to avoid the crowds of tourists. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the site. It is also advisable to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to experience the site in a more peaceful and atmospheric setting.

Must Read: Stonehenge FAQs

Why is Stonehenge so famous?

Stonehenge is famous because it is an ancient monument consisting of prehistoric stones and is one of the most well-known prehistoric sites in the world. It was built over 5,000 years ago and the purpose of its construction remains a mystery. It is believed to have been used for various purposes such as religious ceremonies, burials and astronomical observations. The construction of this monument was a remarkable feat of engineering and design, especially considering the tools and technology available at that time. The iconic stone circle has fascinated people for centuries and continues to be a source of wonder and inspiration.

Check This Out: Brighton To Stonehenge

Know Before You Go To Stonehenge

  • Visitor's Guide
  • Travel Guide
  • Day Trips To Stonehenge

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day trip from london to stonehenge

Day trips to Stonehenge from London

Trips, tours and chopper rides: there’s plenty of bookable stuff to do around this wonder of the ancient world

Spinal Tap may well have once sung of the demons that dwell at Stonehenge, but you can't believe everything you hear. Unless the ’Tap were referring to the coachloads of tourists and gaggles of pipe-playing New Age types during each solstice, you can rest assured that this 5,000-year-old Wiltshire stone circle is demon-free.

Stonehenge remains a truly remarkable relic of the prehistoric world: older than the Great Pyramids, and still largely a mystery. Was it a Druidic site of worship? A place of pilgrimage? Or just a general neolithic hangout with street food, drinks and DJs? (Okay, maybe not.) Find out for yourself with one of these great day trips to Stonehennge from London.

RECOMMENDED: Day trips to Oxford from London

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Stonehenge day trips

Full-day Bath and Stonehenge tour from London

Full-day Bath and Stonehenge tour from London

Enjoy both Bath – a beautiful Georgian spa town – and the prehistoric Stonehenge on this double-dip day trip. Stop-off points include Bath Abbey and the Jane Austen Centre.

Salisbury, Stonehenge and Bath day trip from London

Salisbury, Stonehenge and Bath day trip from London

You can’t get much more quintessentially English than a round-trip to Salisbury, Stonehenge and Bath. All entrance fees are included and you’ll be led around by a Blue Badge tour guide. They know their stuff.

Day trip to Stonehenge from Central London in a private vehicle

Day trip to Stonehenge from Central London in a private vehicle

Treat yourself (and why wouldn't you?) to a private  drive  down to Stonehenge. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the stones before being taken back to London by your chauffeur. There's nothing like a little bit of luxury every now and then.

Private Stonehenge, Woodhenge and Avebury Stone Circle day trip from London

Private Stonehenge, Woodhenge and Avebury Stone Circle day trip from London

Ever heard of Woodhenge? It's the little sister to the big stone circle and is every bit as magical (literally, according to some). And then there’s the Avebury Stone Circle – built a few thousand years later than Stonehenge but just as enthralling. 

Tandem skydive near Stonehenge from Salisbury

Tandem skydive near Stonehenge from Salisbury

You’ll need to make your own way down but there can’t be many better ways to enjoy Stonehenge and the nearby area than by plunging from a plane at 15,000 feet height in a tandem skydive. Make sure those straps are tight though, eh?

Stonehenge helicopter tour from Salisbury

Stonehenge helicopter tour from Salisbury

Slightly less stressful than a skydive but probably just as good. Here’s how to get a very different view of the stone circle – via a 30-minute chopper ride across the Salisbury Plain.

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The 5 Best Stonehenge Tours From London [2024 Reviews]

Stonehenge is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site  and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world!

These are the top Stonehenge tours from London that will show you some of the most beautiful sites that England has to offer, like Bath, Windsor and Oxford.

With a guided tour you learn more and appreciate the history and significance of Stonehenge. So mark Stonehenge off your bucket list with one of these tours!

Best Stonehenge Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best rated stonehenge day trips from london.

  • Best Value Tour: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Day Tour from London
  • Best Private Tour: Stonehenge Private Car Tour
  • Best Combination Tour: Day Trip to Stonehenge and Roman Baths
  • Best Budget Tour: Windsor, Oxford and Stonehenge Day Tour from London
  • Best Full Day Tour: Bath, Stonehenge and The English Countryside Day Tour

Below are our reviews of Stonehenge tours from London, providing overviews and highlighting the details of each. We also make recommendations on staying in London in our guide section. Whether you are looking to add a tour of the ancient Roman baths or enjoy lunch in a 14 th -century pub each of these Stonehenge tours will give you a very different experience.

Stonehenge Tour Reviews

1. best value tour: windsor castle, stonehenge & bath day tour from london.

  • Departure/Return : Gate 1 inside Victoria Coach Station
  • Estimated Duration : 11.5 hours
  • Departure Time : 8:00 AM
  • Food/Drink : Stop for Lunch & dinner (not included)
  • Family Friendly : Not Listed

This tour of Stonehenge offers several options. While both available options include lunch or dinner at a 14 th -century English pub.

You can choose either a walking tour of Windsor with a visit to Stonehenge and a meal at a pub in Lacock or you can visit both Windsor Castle and Stonehenge with a delicious pub lunch.

You’ll be guided around the ancient site of Stonehenge, as well as taken on a coach to visit the English city of Bath, a city Jane Austen once called home. Along the way to several tour destinations, you can take in the beautiful, rural English countryside.

There are plenty of photo ops available, and many places in Bath stop for souvenirs and snacks.

This tour of Stonehenge, Windsor, and Bath with a stop for a pub lunch or dinner can bring you experiences of many top tourist sites in England all with the educational and entertaining guide aboard your air-conditioned coach.

This is our Editor’s Choice as the best Stonehenge day trip from london!

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other london experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best private tour: stonehenge private car tour from london.

  • Departure/Return : Hotel pickup included
  • Estimated Duration : 6 hours
  • Departure Time : Anytime between 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM
  • Food/Drink : Bottled water
  • Family Friendly : Any age children welcome

If you want the flexibility of taking the tour at you time of choosing AND see it with your group only with a private guided tour, this is the one for you!

Not only will you enjoy an independent tour of Stonehenge on this day trip from London your guide will be able tell you the complete history and be able to ask all the questions you like.

Being able to tour the popular World Heritage Site independently allows you to learn about the history of the location. It also allows you to take as much time as you’d like for photographs and just exploring at your leisure,

You will be picked up at the location of your choosing and driven there in a luxurious Mercedes vehicle. After your tour is complete, you can request to be dropped off anywhere in the London area. There is no better way to see this iconic landmark!

Search For London Experiences You May Enjoy:

3. best combination tour: windsor castle, stonehenge, and oxford day trip.

  • Departure/Return : Bus Stop 1 Bulleid Way, London SW1W 9SL
  • Estimated Duration : 10 hours
  • Food/Drink : Places to Purchase
  • Family Friendly : Infants/Toddlers Must Sit on a Parent’s Lap

Stonehenge isn’t the only popular tourist site in the area that can be reached through a guided day tour out of London. Oxford is a well-known city focused on education at Christchurch College.

On this guided day trip, you’ll be able to explore the college itself plus the Bodleian Library and other historically significant sites on the campus.

You’ll also experience a guided audio tour of Windsor Castle. Windsor Castle is one of the official residences of Queen Elizabeth II. On your tour through Windsor, you may also visit George’s Chapel, where most recently, Prince Harry married Ms. Meghan Markle.

If Queen Elizabeth II is staying at Windsor Castle, you may see the Royal Standard flying at the Round Tower and the Changing of the Guard ceremony. This ceremony is a significant and beautiful exhibition of the pageantry that the British are famous for.

Your entry into Stonehenge and Windsor Castle are provided and your professional guide will take you on the walking tour through Oxford, also known as the “City of Dreaming Spires” and for having examples of nearly every architectural period from the modern age as far back as Saxon times.

4. Best Budget Tour:  Stonehenge, Bath & West Country Day Trip

  • Departure/Return : Gloucester Road Underground station, London, SW7 4SS
  • Estimated Duration : 11 hours
  • Departure Time : 7:45 AM
  • Family Friendly : Children 4+ Welcome

Enjoy the beauty of the English countryside as you travel via air-conditioned coach on a small-group tour of both Stonehenge and Bath. Your local guide will provide live commentary as you pass beautiful and historical sites on this day tour from London.

The maximum number on this tour is 42 people and you will have a separate driver and tour guide, which means your guide can focus on your tour as well as your questions.

During a three-hour stay in Bath, you will learn about famous and popular sites such as the Royal Crescent, the Roman baths, and even Pulteney Bridge.

You will also have time to walk the city on your own. During that time, you can take in more of the city, perhaps even visiting Bath Abbey for a small donation.

This Stonehenge day tour from London provides both guided tours of Stonehenge and Bath as well as time to explore independently.

This allows you to search for the best photo ops as well as to shop for souvenirs. You may even meet other tourists on your walks around the site, adding to the value of your tour.

5. Best Full Day Tour: Stonehenge Inner Circle and Windsor Day Trip From London

  • Departure/Return : Victoria Park Plaza, 239 Vauxhall Bridge Rd
  • Departure Time : Contact tour operator
  • Family Friendly : Older Children Welcome

Not many visitors to Stonehenge are allowed to experience this historic site from inside the roped off area surrounding the stones.

On this full day tour, you can choose to visit Stonehenge in the morning or the evening, increasing your chances of experiencing a sunrise or sunset over the monolithic stones. You can tour the ancient site without the daytime crowds.

If you choose a morning tour you will enjoy a delicious breakfast in Lacock, or dinner if you choose the evening tour.

This meal is at your own expense, but time will be given for you to enjoy it. Lacock is also the site of several scenes in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. This makes it the perfect place to take photographs.

You will also get a guided tour of the famous Windsor Castle that has been home to British kings and queens for over a 1000 years! You will also have an informative and interesting walking tour of the town of Windsor.

London Travel Guide

Airports & entry, planning tips, restaurants & eating out, nightlife & entertainment, getting around, accommodations, attractions.

If you’re planning a trip to London anytime soon, be sure to add a tour of Stonehenge from London to your itinerary. But which ones are the best? We’ve reviewed the top 5 Stonehenge tours and provided you with a guide for visiting both Stonehenge and London.

Most likely, your day trip to Stonehenge from London will be a small part of your vacation to this historic English city. Here, we offer a guide to visiting London, from the airport you will be arriving at to other attractions you may want to visit and even the weather.

Let’s help you make the most of your vacation to London!

There are five airports that service London, England. If you are traveling abroad, you will most likely be arriving at London Heathrow . For shorter flights departing European airports, should you be heading to London from a previous vacation spot, you may fly into one of these smaller London airports:

  • London City
  • London Gatwick
  • London Luton
  • London Stansted

To enter the United Kingdom, UK, you will need a valid passport. Your passport must be valid for your entire stay and can’t expire before your expected departure.

Visiting London is unlike visiting any other city on earth. Because of this, we would recommend you take a tour of the city of London so you can familiarize yourself with the locations that you want to spend more time to explore.

We list our top 5 tips for visiting London below. Do you have additional tips to suggest? We’d love for you to comment them below!

Tip #1: Bring Your Walking Shoes

Much of your travel around the city will be walking. Even when you head out of town for a day tour, such as those to Stonehenge, most of the tours require quite a bit of walking. It’s best to be relaxed wearing athletic shoes instead of wearing more fashionable shoes that can make the necessary walking uncomfortable.

Tip #2: Bring a Converter or Transformer

Your electric and electronic devices made for use in the US will not work in the UK without a converter or transformer. A converter is made to use with electronics such as your phone or tablet and a transformer with electric devices such as a hairdryer. The US runs on 120 V and the UK on 240. This means that using your US devices without a voltage converter or transformer in the UK may damage them.

Tip #3: Start Planning Your Trip Early

London receives millions of tourists each year. This means that you will most likely have to book tours well in advance. You should also book your accommodations and reservations in restaurants as soon as possible. This is especially true for tickets to theater events and shows.

Tip #4: Always Bring an Umbrella

It doesn’t matter what time of year you’re visiting London, quick showers and rainstorms are always a possibility. It’s best to bring an umbrella with you as purchasing one at a convenient location in the city will most likely cost much more. A collapsible umbrella that is easy to carry with you is ideal.

Tip #5: Start Budgeting in Advance

London is quite an expensive city to visit but it’s worth it. Be sure you have budgeted for your flight and accommodations as well as your daily meals. You should have plenty of British pounds, the local currency, on hand as taxis and some stores may not take debit or credit cards. Also, keep in mind that the farther out your trip is planned, the better deals you will get, especially on accommodations.

There are several Dishoom restaurants located around the city. These restaurants serve high quality and delicious Indian food within a modern atmosphere. London is one of the best places to enjoy Indian food outside of India. These restaurants often have a wait but the wait is well worth it.

Not only will you want to experience the delicious Indian food, it also wouldn’t be a trip to London without an afternoon tea. There are plenty of places around town to enjoy your tea, but afternoon tea at The Savoy Hotel, London is something not to be missed. Sketch is another afternoon tea hotspot offering a unique experience.

If you’re looking for a meal with a great view, you’ll want to make reservations at the Duck & Waffle. However, don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy the most popular meal in London, fish and chips, at many local hotspots.

Nightlife in London can be anything you’d like it to be. There are nighttime tours of the city and surrounding areas for something a little more low-key, or you can head to a nightclub or one of the many music venues to turn up the entertainment dial.

From standup comedy and dramatic theater to the trendy clubs of the West End and even the casinos that can be found around town, nightlife in London is perfect for everyone.

As mentioned, visiting London requires a lot of walking. However, you can also choose to ride the subway, board a boat, or even hop on a bus or take a taxi. You may find the subway also referred to as “the underground” or “the tube.”

The cost of transportation by any of these methods will be determined by your destination’s distance from central London. The city and surrounding areas are divided into zones that determine distance and cost. If you’re going to be visiting for at least a few days, you may want to invest in a daily or weekly Travelcard pass .

There are many choices in accommodations when visiting London. You may find a great Airbnb location, and you can also find everything from a small hostel to a five-star, luxury hotel. The accommodations you choose should be determined by your budget, but also by the type of experience you’re looking for. An Airbnb can instantly make you feel like a local.

A hostel can provide plenty of opportunities to meet other tourists and learn more about attractions and eateries. If you’re looking for a luxury experience, the Camden Enterprise Hotel or even the Dorset City London can provide it.

The average low temperatures during the winter months are in the mid-40s Fahrenheit or around 7°C. These mild winter temperatures make London an ideal vacation spot for the holidays. July, London’s hottest month of the year, usually doesn’t reach the 70s Fahrenheit, or above 18⁰ Celsius.

Even with mild temperatures during the summer, it can feel quite humid and you may run into a short shower or two. Once again, always have an umbrella handy.

A vacation to London necessitates a visit to Buckingham Palace. Other attractions include the Coca-Cola London Eye , the Ferris wheel easily seen in every London skyline, as well as historical landmarks such as Kensington Palace, the London Tower, or the Churchill War Rooms.

While in London, be sure to visit one of the many museums and art galleries that can be found in nearly every area of the city. Parks, waterfronts, and bridges provide great photo ops and can provide a beautiful place to rest and take in the local sights.

If you are a fan of the Harry Potter series, you are in luck! We would recommend a tour of Harry Potter locations from the books and movies.

Maybe the best way to see most of the sights to see in London is a Thames River sightseeing and dinner cruise . You will glide by the sights on the beautiful Thames River while enjoying lunch or dinner and avoiding the crowds.

If you want to see a castle, the Windsor Castle is a don’t miss! This 1000 year old castle has been home to 39 monarchs and currently the Queen spends many weekends there. To fully appreciate the splendor, be sure to take a guided tour of Windsor Castle .

The History, Beauty, and Mysticism of Stonehenge

When planning your vacation to London, be sure to plan for a day trip to Stonehenge while there. The best guided tour from London to Stonehenge will allow you to experience the English countryside, the 18 th -century city of Bath, the ancient Roman baths, 14 th -century English pubs, and more.

However, that doesn’t mean you can skip on visiting the many museums and art galleries, enjoying some of the best food available, and taking time to appreciate the beautiful mix of modern style and historical sites that London provides.

Enjoy your trip to London and Stonehenge!

Tour Guides

The Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Day Tour from London is our Editor's Choice for the best Stonehenge tour with its combination of sites seen, tour guides and value.

Krysha Thayer

Related articles, the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews], the 7 best paris walking tours [2024 reviews].

girl gone london

7 Best Stonehenge Tours from London in 2024 (ranked!)

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Ready to tour the mysterious Stonehenge on a Stonehenge tour from London?

You’ve come to the right place, as we’re going to explore the best 7 Stonehenge tours that depart from London – all led by expert guides who want to share the mystery of this intriguing landmark.

If you’re like, just cut to the chase already, then don’t worry.

The best Stonehenge tour from London is this Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London.

It has over 6,000 amazing reviews, so there’s no going wrong.

Stonehenge is one of the most beautiful, picturesque and incredible parts of England. People travel from all over the world to visit this attraction.

If you want to see what your other options are, here are 6 more tours, including bus tours to Stonehenge from London that are definitely worth your time.

So let’s get into the list of the best tours of Stonehenge from London so you can book it already!

PS – booking in advance is highly, highly recommended so you don’t miss out.

day trip from london to stonehenge

⏳ Don’t have time to read the whole list?

The best Stonehenge tour from London is this Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath tour.

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

Easy Guide: Best Stonehenge Tours from London

1. stonehenge, windsor castle, and bath from london.

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 9,400+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

day trip from london to stonehenge

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

  • Windsor Castle
  • The Roman Baths
  • Personal Audio Headset
  • Superior Coach, Wi-Fi and USB Charging On-board

This tour has great reviews and a great price – a great Stonehenge tour from London!

You’ll spend the day with a fun group of people as you explore 3 major sites.

Before heading to Stonehenge, you’ll make 3 other stops first. Windsor Castle is a must-see attraction in England.

You’ll be glad you visited.

St. George’s Chapel is located at Windsor Castle.

You’ll make a quick stop at this beautiful gothic cathedral.

The Roman Baths are the preserved remains of ancient spas.

The unique thermal springs still flow through this landmark!

You’ll also pass by Pulteney Bridge, Bath Abbey, and the No. 1 Royal Crescent.

These stops will be gorgeous to see through your window!

Finally, you’ll come to Stonehenge.

Learn all about it from the passionate tour guides!

You’ll also be able to visit the world-class exhibition center, where you’ll be able to learn even more.

2. Windsor, Stonehenge and Bath Trip from London

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 300+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

day trip from london to stonehenge

  • Panoramic tour of Georgian city of Bath and entry to The Pump Room
  • Air-conditioned vehicle with Free Wi-fi
  • Professional guide

Want a one day tour of Stonehenge from London?

Get an early start to your morning so you can spend all day exploring these British attractions!

You’ll cruise through the countryside in a comfortable vehicle.

This will allow you to see several beautiful sights!

You’ll pass by Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge, and the Royal Crescent.

Have your camera ready to snap a few pictures!

These iconic attractions draw in visitors from across the world.

You’ll stop at the Roman Baths, Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and St. George’s Chapel.

Not only will you get to explore these attractions, but you’ll also learn about the history.

The professional guide on your excursion will share loads of knowledge with you throughout the day.

Their expertise makes this tour absolutely amazing. You can ask them any of your questions and they’ll have a helpful answer.

3. Stonehenge and Bath Day Trip from London 

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 1,700+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11.5 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

Bath ghost tour

  • Jane Austen Museum

With only two stops, this tour – a Stonehenge day tour from London – allows ample time to explore.

You can upgrade your trip to also visit the Jane Austen Visitor Center or Roman Baths.

You’ll also pass by the No. 1 Royal Crescent and Pulteney Bridge.

This tour will ensure your day is full of fun sights!

Very few Stonehenge tours include a stop at the Jane Austen Museum.

If you’ve fallen in love with her stories, you’ll be captivated when you visit the museum.

The tour guides and drivers are quite knowledgeable and personable.

They receive many rave reviews from happy tourists!

If professional tour guides are important to you, you’ll appreciate touring with this company.

The other main appeal of this tour is that you’ll be able to explore Bath at your own leisure.

Instead of worrying about following a strict schedule, just keep an eye on your watch and return before the bus leaves!

4. Windsor Castle, Oxford and Stonehenge Tour from London : best Stonehenge day tours from London

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 530+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours 30 minutes | ✔️  BOOK NOW

day trip from london to stonehenge

  • Windsor Castle (if chosen) 
  • Walking tour of Oxford
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach
  • Friendly expert guide

History buffs will love this tour because the guides are full of English history information.

They’ll share so many fun facts while you travel to the attractions on a Stonehenge guided day trip from London.

Another exciting aspect about the tour guides: many of them are bilingual!

This makes communication easy for people whose native language isn’t English.

Like most Stonehenge tours, you’ll have the option of visiting Windsor Castle and St. George’s Chapel.

What sets this tour apart from the others is that you’ll also stop in Oxford! Oxford especially is full of history to learn about.

Guests will go on a walking tour of this historic university town.

You’ll catch a glimpse of the Radcliffe Camera and Bodleian Library.

Walk the streets of Oxford and learn even more about the city and university.

While you could easily spend a week in Oxford without running out of things to do, this tour is great for anyone who can’t schedule a vacation in Oxford.

5. Stonehenge and Bath Day Tour from London

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars, 320+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

day trip from london to stonehenge

  • Admission to Stonehenge
  • Walking Tour of Bath
  • Luxury air–conditioned vehicle

Since this is one of the more affordable tours to Stonehenge, budget travelers should consider it.

While the price is low, the quality is high!

If you read through the reviews, you will see that most people thoroughly enjoyed their time on this tour.

Spend the morning leisurely exploring Bath.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts people from all over the globe.

You’ll pass by the Royal Crescent, get a glimpse of the Bath Abbey, and see the Roman Baths and Pump Rooms.

Most tours pass by the Pulteney Bridge.

This tour actually stops!

You’ll have a short amount of time to explore the shops along this iconic bridge.

You’ll end the day at Stonehenge, learning about its mysterious history.

The professional tour guide will have answers to all your questions throughout the day.

6. Stonehenge and Bath Guided Day Tour from London

⭐️  RATING:  4 out of 5 Stars, 340+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11-12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

day trip from london to stonehenge

  • Live commentary on board
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Smaller groups, no double-decker coaches
  • Audio commentary in multiple languages

This tour gives you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

You can spend 2 hours at Stonehenge and 3 hours in Bath.

This means you don’t have to rush at all!

The coach is air-conditioned which is a welcome relief after walking outside for hours.

The guides will share their wealth of knowledge throughout the drive, as well.

This makes for an enjoyable and relaxing drive between destinations.

You can book tickets for the Roman Baths.

Or you can just explore the local shops and eateries in Bath on your own.

With 3 hours, you could even do a little bit of both.

If your trip to London is packed full of activities, this excursion may be a good option.

You will get to see two popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites while having a mostly relaxing day.

This tour will not be as exhausting as some of the others on this list.

7. Private Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath from London

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars, 160+ reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✔️  BOOK NOW

  • Bottled water 
  • Professional guide and driver
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off 
  • Private tour for up to 8 guests

This tour costs just over $1k.

However, that cost is for the entire group of up to 8 people.

That makes it quite affordable if you’re traveling with a bunch of family and friends!

They’ll pick you up at your hotel, cruise port, or wherever you will be in the morning.

Then they’ll give the VIP treatment all day on this small group tour!

You’ll drive through Eton College as you head off to see the many attractions scheduled for the day.

You’ll make quick stops at Woodhenge and the Royal Crescent.

You’ll spend extra time at Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath. 

Since you’ll be traveling with a local, you’ll be able to eat at one of the best restaurants around.

The tour company suggests Crystal Palace or Sally Lunn’s.

Both of these will offer traditional grub.

You’ll have more flexibility with this tour than any of the others.

It is a great option if you want a casual sightseeing experience!

Hey! Want to use our trusty guides to the best tours in other places across the UK? Check these out!

  • 11 Best Tours of the Cotswolds from London in 2023
  • 11 Best Tours of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh in 2023
  • 5 Best London Open Top Bus Tours
  • 9 Best Scottish Outlander Tours
  • 9 Best Ghost Tours in Oxford
  • 5 Best Bath Ghost Tours
  • 9 Best Bus Tours in Edinburgh
  • 19 Most Unique London Tours
  • 9 Best Day Trips to Oxford from London
  • 7 Best Changing of the Guard Tours in London
  • 5 Best Tours of York, England
  • 11 Best Oxford Walking Tours
  • 21 Best London Walking Tours
  • 11 Best London Rock ‘n’ Roll Tours
  • 11 Best Beatles Tours in London
  • 11 Best London Museum Tours
  • 3 Best Morse Tours in Oxford
  • 11 Best Walking Tours in Bath
  • 13 Best Harry Potter Tours in Oxford
  • 11 Best Jack the Ripper Tours in London
  • 9 Best London Literary Tours
  • 9 Best Street Art Tours in London
  • 13 Best Evening & Night Tours of Edinburgh
  • 15 Best London Pub Crawl Tours
  • 11 Best London Bus Tours for Families
  • 17 Best Harry Potter Tours in London
  • 17 Best London Foodie Tours
  • 13 Best Ghost & Haunted Tours in Edinburgh
  • 11 Best Edinburgh Walking Tours
  • 11 Best Private Tours in London
  • 11 Best Ghost Tours in London
  • 11 Fun Tours of Royal London
  • 13 Isle of Skye Tours for a Magical Time
  • 13 Mysterious Tours of Loch Ness
  • 7 Best James Bond Tours in London
  • 7 Best Paris Tours from London
  • 7 Best Stratford-upon Avon Tours from London
  • 7 Best Tours of Bath from London
  • 7 Best Black Cab Tours from London
  • 11 Best Downton Abbey Tours in the UK

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

day trip from london to stonehenge

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

day trip from london to stonehenge

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  • Stonehenge Tours

Uncover the mystery behind Stonehenge

  • Evan Evans Tours

STONEHENGE TOURS FROM LONDON

Embark on a captivating journey through time with our Stonehenge Tours from London, where ancient mysteries and awe-inspiring landscapes await you. Join us for a day of exploration and discovery as we take you on a scenic adventure to one of the world's most iconic and enigmatic landmarks.

Our professionally guided tours start from the heart of London, where you'll board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach for a picturesque drive through the English countryside . As you travel, our knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights into the rich history and legends surrounding Stonehenge , providing context to this prehistoric wonder.

Combine your trip with a visit to Windsor , Oxford , or the beautiful Bath and its famous Roman ruins. Our special Inner Access Day Tour allows you to walk inside the stone circle. Or uncover the mysteries of Stonehenge at your own pace on a Private Chauffeured Tour .  Evan Evans is the best-rated tour, and you can cancel your tour free of charge. Every tour coach comes equipped with free Wi-Fi, USB charging, comfortable seats, air conditioning, and one of our expert guides on board.

POPULAR STONEHENGE TOURS

Why not choose from a selection of our most popular Stonehenge Tours?

day trip from london to stonehenge

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath

Our immersive and guided day tour to the impressive official Royal residence Windsor Castle, the world's top neolithic site, Stonehenge, and the beautiful Georgian city of Bath.

day trip from london to stonehenge

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford

stonehenge stone circle and the heel stone

Stonehenge and Bath Tours

stonehenge express tour from london

Stonehenge Express

day trip from london to stonehenge

Stonehenge 'Inner Circle Access' & Windsor

day trip from london to stonehenge

Stonehenge & Bath - Private Chauffeured Tour

day trip from london to stonehenge

NEW - Stonehenge & Windsor Tour

day trip from london to stonehenge

Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour

day trip from london to stonehenge

Windsor, Stonehenge & Bath - Private Chauffeured Tour

Recommended stonehenge day trips, stonehenge and bath tour.

From £95.00

Step back 5,000 years in time to pre-historic Britain at the world's most famous Neolithic monument and explore the resplendent Georgian city of Bath and its ancient Roman Baths.

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Oxford Tour

From £79.00

Visit the Queen's weekend retreat and the ancestral home of the British monarchy before heading off to uncover the mystery of Stonehenge and explore the historic university city of Oxford.

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?

As experts in sightseeing and driven by service, we're passionate about creating memories which will last our guests a lifetime

Make Travel Matter

day trip from london to stonehenge

This is our goal. We recognize our responsibility to ensure our impact on the planet we call home, the people we visit, and the wildlife we find there, is a positive one. We take steps to address our impact in two ways; through our sustainability strategy, How We Tread Right, and through our TreadRight Foundation.

treadright foundation

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BEST VALUE STONEHENGE DAY TOURS

Stonehenge sighsteeing tours from London. Take a guided tour from London to Stonehenge and explore an area that has fascinated millions for generations and considered a national treasure!. See iconic Stonehenge and feel its power on a day trip from London. Discover the mystery of the pre-historic monument as you learn about the many theories explaining its origins and purpose. We have half day, full day and overnight touring options available. ‍ We are the only UK tour company to focus exclusively on Stonehenge. We live, breathe and sleep Stonehenge...

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Stonehenge and London Open Top Bus Tour

What better way to see the highlights of London than from onboard a vintage open top double Decker bus? Your tour includes a live guide to bring the history of London to life, escort you on your scenic cruise on the River Thames and take you to the perfect spot to watch the Changing of the Guard. Then, in the afternoon, we join an independent coach tour to Stonehenge that includes a fast track ticket

£70 per adult

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Stonehenge Express™ Morning Stonehenge Direct Service

Board our luxury coach for a direct Express service to Stonehenge. On arrival our driver will take you onto the site, where you can enjoy the stones at your leisure with a fascinating audio-guide tour, in the language of your choice. Languages on the Audio Guide: English, Italian, Swedish, Russian, German, Mandarin, Spanish, Japanese, French, Dutch

£65 per adult

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Stonehenge Guided Walking Tours. Meet at Stonehenge Option.

Stonehenge Landscape, Monument and Visitor Centre. These walks provides you with spectacular views of the Stonehenge area rarely seen by the millions of people who visit the monument each year. This really is a wonderful walk with some tantalising glimpses of the Stone Circle as you approach. You can meet the tour guide at Stonehenge or as part of a driver / guided tour.

Prices from £25

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The Great Heritage Trail ™ Full Day Tour

We savour the atmosphere and Golden beauty of Bath, famous for its Roman history and elegant Georgian architecture. We spend over 3 hours in this World Heritage city including a comprehensive guided tour to the Roman Baths and Pump rooms. Afterwards we take a scenic drive throurh the leafy lanes of the Cotswolds visiting Jane Austen's Lacock and then Stonehenge Stone Circle

£129 per adult

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Best Value Small Group Day Tour Visiting Stonehenge and Bath

Exclusive: Voted Best Value Small Group Tours for 2023 - Our best selling Stonehenge and Bath tour just got better. We now include Salisbury Cathedral and a champagne reception at the new fabulous visitor centre and an expert talk about the ancient landscape and recent theories.

£99 per adult

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Romans, Royals and Ruins Small Group Tour™

Discover the secrets of Stonehenge and hear about the many myths, legends and mysteries. A scenic country drive along the 'back roads' takes us to Bath, famous for its elegant Georgian architecture, beautiful crescents, terraces and squares. As we head back towards London we finish the day with a visit to Windsor castle.

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Small Group Tour visiting Stonehenge and Bath.

This small group mini coach tour of 17 guests or less gives you the chance to have a more personable experience when visiting two of the UK’s top locations – Stonehenge and Bath. Led by an expert guide, you’ll get to ask as many questions as you like as you learn and discover more about British culture and history.

£165 per adult

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Small Group King Arthurs Avalon Day Tour from London.

Head out from central London on a full day mini coach tour of King Arthur’s realm. Explore the ancient stone circle in Avebury, the iconic Stonehenge, and visit Glastonbury Tor, steeped in history. This small group mini coach tour of 17 guests or less gives you the chance to have a more personable experience.

£149 per adult

Stonehenge, salisbury and avebury archaeology small group tour.

Stonehenge, Salisbury and Avebury Stone Circle. Archaeologist Guided Tour 6000 years of culture - Neolithic, Bronze Age, Medieval, present day

£139 per adult

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Stonehenge Express™ Afternoon Stonehenge Direct

Board our luxury coach for a direct Express service to Stonehenge. On arrival our driver will take you onto the site, where you can enjoy the stones at your leisure with a fascinating audio-guide tour, in the language of your choice. Languages on the Audio Guide: English, Italian, Swedish, Russian, German, Mandarin, Spanish, Japanese, French, Dutch.

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Stonehenge and Bath with all afternoon in Bath

Great value day out that allows you more time at Stonehenge and Bath. Arrive in beautiful Georgian Bath with plenty of time to shop and explore the Roman Baths, the Abbey, Jane Austen centre and more...

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Stonehenge, Salisbury Cathedral and the Roman Baths

Visit mysterious Stonehenge - Entry to Salisbury Cathedral and see the famous Magna Carta Free Walking Tour - Special bonus Choose to embark upon one of many enthralling walking tours – for absolutely FREE

£77 per adult

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Stonehenge, Oxford and Windsor Castle Tour from London

Visit three of England’s architectural treasures on a full-day tour to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Oxford from London. On this coach tour departing from London, you get the whistle-stop tour of these unique sites with interesting commentary from your tour guide along the way.

£104 per adult

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Bards and Battles Cotswolds Day Tour™

A full day in the English Cotswolds visiting Bath, a world heritage site and beautiful Georgian city with delightful crescents, terraces and architecture.Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare, the greatest writer in the English language and Stonehenge all in one day tour from London

£98 per adult

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Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle, Stonehenge & Salisbury

New Small Group Tour for 2022. Visit the real Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle, home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon. This full day tour also includes Salisbury Cathedral / medieval City and mysterious Stonehenge Stone Circle in Wiltshire

£179 per adult

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Bath Departure - Full Day Small Group Tour to Stonehenge

This is the perfect way to experience the history and beauty of the countryside around Bath . You can explore most impressive megalithic monument in Europe as well as visiting Lacock, a Cotswold village used in the filming of Pride and Prejudice and the Harry Potter movies.

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Stonehenge Inner Circle Tours for Private Groups

In addition our regular 'scheduled group tour' departures we are often able to get permission from the English Heritage for additional 'inner circle' tours for small groups (1-30 persons). Private tours can depart from London, Salisbury, Bath, Oxford or Southampton

From £175 per day

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Stonehenge, Oxford, Cotswolds, Bath and Lacock Village - 2 Days

Small Group Tour. This is without question the best value tour available to this region, combining the Cotswolds, Bath and Stonehenge over a leisurely 2 days. This tour is driven and guided by a friendly driver who is very familiar with the area its many back-roads. This means that you will venture off the beaten track to see and enjoy some of the area's most beautiful places. Departs every Friday

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Weird Wiltshire Day Trip 2024 - Mysterious Crop circles

Why do weird and wonderful patterns suddenly appear in the corn fields of our countryside? 2020 / 2021 showed some impressive formations and the summer of 2022 is expected to be even better. Stonehenge, Crop Circles, Avebury Stone Circle, Silbury Hill, Chalk Hill Figures, West Kennet Long Barrow, Burial Mounds, Haunted Pubs and much more.

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King Arthur's Magical Day Tour

Visit Glastonbury Abbey, the final resting place of King Arthur; the tranquil Chalice Well Gardens - the reputed burial site of the Holy Grail and drink the red and white spring waters. Enjoy spectacular views from the Isle of Avalon, see giant chalk hill figures and explore Stonehenge and Avebury the world's largest stone circle

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Stonehenge, Bath and Avebury Archaeology Tour

This feature-packed archaeological tour takes in the iconic stone circles of Stonehenge and Avebury and a delightful break in the beautiful cathedral city of Bath. We also have a Stonehenge, Avebury and Salisbury Cathedral option

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Mysterious, Megalithic Britain Tour

Our fully guided return coach tour includes: Walking Tour of Avebury Free Time for lunch and to explore Avebury A visit to West Kennet Long Barrow A visit to Silbury Hill Entrance into Stonehenge

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Stonehenge Small Group Tours with Social Distancing in Place

The safety of our travellers, tour leader, local guide and support staff has always been our top priority and with the new guidelines for public health and safety for keeping safe for destinations around the world, we’ve developed our plan to give you peace of mind when travelling with us.

From £100 per adult

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Ancient England Small Group Guided Tour™

Entrance to Stonehenge • Visit to Old Sarum Castle Entrance to Salisbury Cathedral - see an original Magna Carta of 1215 Visit to Avebury Stone Circle Visit to Neolithic burial chamber at West Kennet Visit to Silbury Hill

£119 per adult

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5000 Years of History' in a Day Tour™

Magnificent Salisbury Cathedral with the tallest spire in England and medieval town, home to the original Magna Carta. Visit awe inspiring Stonehenge over 5000 years old; Avebury, Europe's largest stone circle; ancient burial tombs; Old Sarum, an ancient hillfort and one of Britain's earliest settlements. See mysterious chalk hill figures and any crop circles en route.

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Southampton Cruise Ship Tours / Transfers

If you are arriving into Southampton port on board one of the many cruise liners then it is the perfect opportunity to explore what the local area has to offer by booking one of our tour / transfer options. We can tailor a tour / transfer to suit any budget. Share your vision with us by contacting us today

Prices from £295

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From London to Stonehenge: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jan 3, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Thanks to its size – you could literally fit it into the United States around 70 times – England is an easy country to tour. And for those planning to spend much of their time in the nation's capital, this is especially good news. England is crisscrossed by an excellent network of roads and rails, most of which either start in London or pass by close enough to make them handy for travelers.

Take Stonehenge as an example. One of England's top places to visit , Stonehenge can easily be reached by car, guided tours, or a combination of rail and bus transportation options. Best of all, the journey itself can offer many more great sightseeing opportunities, especially if you choose to have a tour company do the driving.

To help you plan your England travel itinerary, we've put together the following list of the best ways to get from London to Stonehenge.

On This Page:

  • From London to Stonehenge by Tour
  • From London to Stonehenge by Shuttle Bus
  • From London to Stonehenge by Train and Bus
  • From London to Stonehenge by Car

1. From London to Stonehenge by Tour

Stonehenge

For those wanting to see multiple attractions while in England, an organized day trip from London to Stonehenge via Windsor Castle and including Bath is a great option. This superb day-long excursion lasts approximately 11 hours and manages to allow you to tick off three of the country's most popular tourist destinations in one go (albeit a long one!).

After an early 8am departure from the Victoria Coach Station in Belgravia, London, you'll kick things off with a visit to majestic Windsor Castle. Famous as the world's oldest castle still in use by royalty, much of it can be toured when there's no one home (check whether the flag is flying; it is when the Queen's home).

There's certainly much to see and do in Windsor Castle , so the hour and 15 minutes you get to spend here is pretty crammed. Rest assured, though, your professional guide will ensure you get to see the best bits while you're here. Highlights include famous St. George's Chapel (where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle), a tour of the State Apartments, as well as catching the colorful Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Next stop is the beautiful city of Bath in Somerset. You know you've arrived when you drive past famous Pulteney Bridge (so have your cameras ready). This most romantic of English cities is fun to explore, and you'll be provided with a chance to see top Bath attractions , including a 40-minute tour of the Roman Baths. As you head to your next destination, you'll also take a drive past Bath Abbey and those famous, elegant Georgian-era Royal Crescent townhomes.

Then, it's on to your final destination: Stonehenge in Wiltshire. Here, armed with the provided audio guide headset and interactive map, you'll learn not only how this magnificent 5,000-year-old structure was built, but also its cultural significance over the centuries. Your hour-long stop here includes entrance to the excellent Stonehenge Visitor Centre, along with the chance to buy some souvenirs.

In addition to audio guides and the services of a professional tour guide, this top tour of Stonehenge from London includes ticket admissions and transportation.

2. From London to Stonehenge by Shuttle Bus

Aerial view of Stonehenge

For those wanting to spend more time at Stonehenge, this is another option that's well worth considering. While this one also hands the responsibility of getting you to your destination to others happy to do it for you, it allows a great deal more freedom to explore this historic attraction at your own pace.

From the moment you climb aboard your London to Stonehenge shuttle bus at Victoria Coach Station, you're free to relax and enjoy the scenery as you travel from London through the charming English countryside to your drop-off point directly at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre. The drive is around two hours each way.

With two hours to explore at your own pace, you'll have plenty of time to truly get to know this amazing landmark. To help, a handy audio-guide is provided With your admission, and you can add to the experience by enjoying the many interactive exhibits and artifacts on display at the visitor center.

In addition to your transportation, admission is included with the cost of the trip. There's also an option to add a basic one course meal to your adventure, or you can opt to pick something up for yourself in the on-site restaurant.

3. From London to Stonehenge by Train and Bus

Close up of Stonehenge

While there are no direct trains from London to Stonehenge - it's located in the middle of Salisbury Plain - rail travel is certainly something to consider, especially if you've got time on your hands.

The best option is to hop aboard the South Western Railway service to Salisbury at London Waterloo station. Trains depart regularly (there are usually two or three an hour), and the journey takes between 1.5 to 2 hours . The cheapest fares kick in after the morning rush hour, while savings can be enjoyed by travelers with advance purchase of a BritRail Pass , which can be acquired online.

While a bus from London to Salisbury can be cheaper, it can take longer than the train (up to three hours) and offers fewer departures. Buses leave from London's Victoria Coach Station as early as 6am.

However you get here, once in Salisbury, you'll need to have made plans to either rent a car and drive the 20 minutes to Stonehenge, grab an Uber or taxi, or take a bus. Cyclists may want to look into renting a bike, as you could even cycle to it in around an hour.

Fortunately for travelers, a company called Salisbury Red offers a convenient hop-on, hop-off shuttle bus service that connects directly from Salisbury city center to Stonehenge (admission included). An option to stop at the ruins of Old Sarum is available.

4. From London to Stonehenge by Car

Snow at Stonehenge in the winter

While some may enjoy driving from London to Stonehenge, it's important to remember a few key things. First, the Brits do drive on the opposite side of the road to most other countries, something that can be a little disorienting if you aren't used to it.

Their cars are also right-hand drive, meaning there's a bit of a learning curve for those traveling from places like the US, Canada, and Europe. Add to this the heavy traffic in London, plus congestion taxes, and you may want to make use of the various options mentioned above.

That said, if you're planning on taking a couple or more days, you can certainly make the most of the opportunity to explore the English countryside. And there are no end of lovely spots to visit along the way, from the beautiful Cotswolds to the charming city of Winchester . That said, journey times may be a little shorter if you pick up a car upon arrival at Heathrow Airport, so you may wish to collect a car and hit the road upon your arrival in England.

For those heading straight to Stonehenge from central London - a distance of around 88 miles - expect the journey to take between 2 to 2.5 hours , depending on traffic. From London, you'll head due west along the usually busy M3, before taking the A303 and eventually the A360 direct to Stonehenge. While parking at Stonehenge is free for those with tickets, it can be busy, especially in peak season.

An alternative that will avoid the usually heavy traffic along the approaching roads to Stonehenge is to park in Salisbury and grab the shuttle bus service mentioned in #3 above. Five park-and-stay options are available, all convenient to the city center and the shuttle bus. An added advantage is that you can also spend time exploring popular Salisbury attractions , including its magnificent cathedral.

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Visiting Stonehenge From London as a Day Trip, Including Bath & the Cotswolds

Last updated: February 23, 2022 . Written by Laurence Norah - 14 Comments

In this post, I’m going to share you with you the best ways of visiting Stonehenge from London, specifically as a day trip. I’ll also be including some other nearby locations such as Bath and the Cotswolds, to help you plan a full day out. I’ll also tell you how you can actually walk amongst the stones themselves when you visit.

Stonehenge is one of the most popular sights in the UK, and for good reason – it’s one of the world’s most spectacular ancient monuments, with the reasons for their placement and the exact method of their construction still not fully known today. We’ve been lucky enough to visit Stonehenge a number of times, including as part of a day trip from London.

In this post, we’re going to give you everything you need to plan your own trip to Stonehenge from London.

We’ll cover visiting Stonehenge as part of a guided tour like this , and also provide full instructions for how to visit Stonehenge using public transport, depending on your preference.

British field day trip from London

We’ll also go over our experiences visiting Stonehenge from London on a tour. You can use the menu below to head straight to the part of the post you are interested in if you prefer. First, we’ll start with some practicalities.

How Far is Stonehenge from London?

Stonehenge is 88 miles driving from London on relatively fast roads, although the traffic can definitely impact trip times. If you are driving, expect the journey to take around two hours.

How to Get To Stonehenge from London?

There are a number of ways to get to Stonehenge from London, including driving yourself, taking public transport, or taking a guided tour. Here are instructions for the first two of those.

Drive yourself to Stonehenge from London

The easiest option is to drive yourself, just pick up a hire car in a London location, and drive out here. This will give you lots of flexibility, although of course, I appreciate not everyone wants to drive themselves!

If you do this, you’ll want to book your ticket in advance to guarantee entry.

Public transport to Stonehenge from London

The other main option for getting to Stonehenge is to take public transport. The best option is to take the train from London to Salisbury, and then there’s a shuttle bus that goes directly from Salisbury train station to Stonehenge. You’ll want to book your Stonehenge ticket in advance to guarantee entry.

There are a couple of trains an hour from London Waterloo, which take around 90 minutes each way. You can check times and book your train tickets online in advance here .

The shuttle bus is around 30 minutes. You can see the timetable and book tickets in advance here .

Taking public transport will let you explore both Stonehenge and Salisbury at your own pace, and is a good option if you’d rather not take a guided tour or drive, however, I do think Stonehenge does definitely benefit from a guide, and if you can visit some cute Cotswolds villages as part of your day trip from London, then you might as well!

Beyond Stonehenge and Salisbury, without your own transport, visiting all these sights in a day would be logistically challenging, whereas a day trip tour lets you have all the fun with none of the effort! And who doesn’t enjoy that!

Church Castle Combe Cotswolds UK

Tours to Stonehenge from London

There are a great many tours that run from London to Stonehenge, and they usually include a number of other stops as well.

In terms of specific tours we can recommend, here are some options:

  • This full day tour focuses on Stonehenge and Bath , giving you lots of time to really explore both these destinations.
  • This tour includes Stonehenge, Bath, Windsor Castle and Lacock , and includes a pub lunch too!
  • This tour of Stonehenge, Bath, Lacock and Avebury gets many of the highlights in in one busy day, and can also be booked as a private tour for up to 15 people.
  • If you are in a rush, this is a half day tour that exclusively features Stonehenge , having you back in London in time for lunch
  • If you want a really special experience, this tour includes the opportunity to actually walk amongst the stones of the circle (normally you are not allowed this close), as well as time in Bath and Lacock

Our suggestion is to shop around and find the tour that best meets your needs in terms of attractions visited as well as your budget. Most tours are fairly similar, but there are a few differences of course.

For the most part they are full day tours, and whilst Stonehenge remains the main highlight, they vary in a number of ways in terms of which other sights you will see.

Quite often, these bus tours will include between 1 and 3 additional stops. Be aware that more is not always better, as you have to get between all the stops and so you can end up spending a lot of time on a bus, and not as much time sight-seeing as you would like.

If lunch is not included, whilst time will be set aside for lunch, it will be during your stop somewhere, so keep this in mind. To maximise sightseeing time, you might want to book a tour that either has an included picnic style lunch, or just pick up sandwiches while you are out.

My suggestion would be to take a tour that includes no more than two additional stops on top of Stonehenge, so you actually have some quality time to explore. Good stops in my mind would be Bath, Oxford, a Cotswold Village like Lacock, Salisbury or Windsor Castle.

Many tour companies have had to include three or even four stops in order to be competitive – after all, more is better, right? We would really urge you to consider tours that focus on 2 – 3 stops, so you can really enjoy the experience rather than just sit in a bus with brief stops.

It’s up to you though – it is your trip, and there’s no wrong way to travel! We’ve put together a variety of recommendations so you can decide based on your interests and what you want to see.

Cotswold village Castle Combe house

Our Experience Visiting Stonehenge from London on a Tour

We were invited on a tour with City Wonders Tours from London, which covered Bath, the Cotswolds and of course, Stonehenge. The exact tour we took is no longer available, but the overall experience of a tour from London visiting Stonehenge will be similar.

We wanted to share our experience so you can get an understanding of what a typical tour looks like, and plan your own trip accordingly.

If you are looking for a tour, we would recommend one like this one . We have more options in the tours to Stonehenge section of the post.

The tour we took, like many tours to Stonehenge from London, covered a lot of distance. It shouldn’t come as any surprise therefore that there was an early start.

In our case, we met up at 7.15am at Gloucester Road tube stop in London. When planning your own tour, try and find one that isn’t too far from where you are staying. In our case, it was a five minute walk from our accommodation in London.

Everyone was on time, and our group was a good size, there being 18 of us.

City Wonders bus

That smaller group size meant there was plenty of room on the bus, which was a medium size, and had oodles of legroom and exceptionally comfortable seats.

As we pulled out of London at 7:30am, largely avoiding the morning rush hour, our guide Phil got started on chatting to us about our day and what we could expect.

First stop: Bath

Our first stop was to the Roman city of Bath, a good 2.5 hour drive from London. We arrived mid-morning, and Phil took us on a quick introductory tour of Bath, sharing with us some of his highlights and the history of the city.

Then we were presented with a choice, we could visit the Roman Baths (admission extra), or take a guided walking tour with Phil.

Bath Cathedral dramatic

This option was presented to us as the heavens opened, with many on our group opting for the drier, interior choice.

Myself and a couple from the US were the only brave souls who were happy to brave the weather, and Phil set us off on a 45 minute guided tour of Bath, taking in all the highlights, while Jess went inside to see the Roman Baths.

Bath royal crescent cloud people

We saw the remarkable Pulteney Bridge (one of only four bridges in the world with shops on), as well as Bath Abbey, the Circus and of course, the Royal Crescent , as well as many other sights.

Throughout the tour, despite the weather, Phil kept us informed and entertained as to what we were seeing, which happily distracted me from the fact my jeans were slowly affixing themselves to my legs as the rain moistened me.

bath buildings cloudy

Finally, we reconvened back at the Roman Baths, where Jess and I had just enough time for a Bath Bun and a spot of tea at the Pump Room , the cafe attached to the Roman Baths, to the pleasing sounds of a live string orchestra.

Then it was back to the bus, and around half an hour’s drive to our lunch stop in the Cotswolds, in the picturesque village of Castle Combe.

Bath bun and tea at pump house

Lunch in the Cotswolds

As mentioned previously, the tour we took is no longer available. Unfortunately, a pub lunch is no longer included on most tours, likely due to cost and time restraints.

This is sad, as the lunch made the tour really excellent value for money. If you would like a tour that includes lunch, this similar tour includes lunch .

I’ll also add a little bit here about Castle Combe, a picturesque village in the Cotswolds, so you can decide if you’d like to visit it yourself. As I mentioned, it’s very picturesque. So much so in fact, that while we were there a feature film was in the process of being shot on the main street.

It’s pretty much everything you could want from a quaint English village in the Cotswolds, with incredibly cute stone houses, an old market cross, an ancient church (replete with crumbling gravestones and 13th century clock) and flowing stream.

Cotswold village Castle Combe

And of course, it has a lovely pub, where we had a fantastic two course meal, in between which I dashed around taking pictures and trying to catch the moments of sun that the day was at that point attempting to bestow upon us.

Visiting Lacock

After lunch, and a few more minutes wandering around Castle Combe (it’s not a big place!), it was back in the bus for another 20 minute ride or so to Lacock.

This is another lovely village in the Cotswolds, also stuffed with cute houses and streets, and almost entirely owned by the National Trust , who have preserved its natural appearance.

Beyond being pretty, Lacock is also interesting for two more reasons, both of which revolve around Lacock Abbey , a 13th century country house in the heart of Lacock.

Wolf Hall Lacock

The first reason, interesting to me as a photographer at least, is that it was at Lacock Abbey in 1835 that the oldest surviving photographic negative was taken, by William Henry Fox Talbot .

If photography doesn’t rock your boat, then maybe its direct descendent will – the art of the motion picture. Lacock Abbey has played a starring role in a number of films as well as TV series.

Most notably in film, Lacock Abbey was featured in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets , as well The Other Boleyn Girl . You can read more about its role in Harry Potter in our Harry Potter filming locations guide .

TV-wise, Lacock Abbey is the home of recently aired BBC TV show Wolf Hall , and Lacock itself was used as a location for the sixth season of Downton Abbey .  All of which should firmly put this place on the map of film and TV buffs!

Lacock war memorial Cotswolds UK

Having spoken so much about Lacock Abbey, I of course now have to tell you that our tour didn’t actually include a tour of this property, we just got to peer at it through the gates.

We were given all the above details though, although the photographer in me was keen to get inside and check out the photography exhibition.

Instead, we had a tour around Lacock instead, with Phil pointing out points of particular interest, including a 14th century tithe barn, one of the best surviving examples in the country.

On to Stonehenge

After our walk around Lacock, it was back in the bus once more for another drive, this time to the highlight of the tour – the mystical Stonehenge.

Stonehenge UK

I’ve visited Stonehenge before, but it was quite some time ago, and things have changed for the better since my last visit. The road that used to hurtle traffic past the stones has been torn up and rerouted, and the visitor centre has been relocated to a site over a mile away.

Now, the magnificent stone circle is a much more pleasant visiting experience, feeling somewhat more back to nature than in years past.

It felt particularly natural on the day we visited, as the weather was quite spectacular in its ferocity. As mentioned at the beginning, there was a bitingly cold wind filled with fat raindrops, and clouds scudded low over the skies. We did have at least three seconds of sunshine in which I was able to grab an entirely unrepresentative photo of our visit, so I should be thankful for that at least.

Stonehenge sunny moments UK

The weather didn’t deter Phil though. He said that anyone who wasn’t keen on visiting the Stones was welcome to stay behind, but he was going to plough on regardless. And plough on he did, sharing with excitement and in detail the history of this incredible construction, with all the latest scientific theories alongside the myths and legends.

Phil’s enthusiasm was infectious, and somehow everyone stayed in the group for the whole ninety minute tour around the rocks, in spite of the weather. Bravo, Phil.

City Wonders Guide Stonehenge

After this, it was back in the bus, and our noses turned back to London, and a relaxing drive home, on which pretty much everyone grabbed a bit of shut-eye. All in all, an excellent tour experience.

Now, let me share some facts and thoughts on the whole thing, to help you decide if this sort of tour is going to be for you.

Facts about doing a day trip from London to Stonehenge, Bath and the Cotswolds

How long did we have at each location.

  • Our Stonehenge tour left London at 7.30am and returned to our pick-up point at 8.30pm (13 hours!)
  • We had 1.5 hours in Bath (supposed to be 2 hours but traffic was bad)
  • We had 1.5 hours in Castle Combe, including lunch
  • We had 30 minutes in Lacock
  • We had 1.5 hours for Stonehenge

As you can see, this was quite a long day out. We had four stops at various sights, and five hours of sightseeing accompanied by eight hours of driving.

Cotswold village Castle Combe clouds

What was included on the tour?

Whilst tours vary in terms of what is and isn’t included, our particular tour had the following inclusions:

  • Transport, guide, and driver
  • Excellent pub lunch (note, not included any more as of 2017)
  • bottled water
  • guided walking tour of Bath, Castle Combe, and Lacock,
  • Entry and guided tour of Stonehenge

What wasn’t included?

Whilst tours vary in terms of what is and isn’t included, our particular tour had the following exclusions:

  • Alcoholic beverages with lunch
  • Entry to the Roman Baths (or any other museums in Bath)
  • Tips for the guide / driver

Always check the inclusions and exclusions box on any tour you book, so you know what to expect.

Would you change anything about the tour?

Well, obviously, the weather!

Bath cathedral rain

Apart from that though, the tour really packed a lot in, whilst not feeling rushed. Personally, I would have liked a little more time in Bath to explore, and a little less time at Stonehenge.

I also felt that the Roman Baths entry price should have been included, or at least, offered at a discount, as this was clearly a popular option. This is a tricky one though as on a fine day no doubt many people would take the Bath walking tour instead.

I’d also have loved to actually visit Lacock Abbey, although I appreciate that there was never going to be time for that given the schedule. Plus I understand not everyone is *that* excited about photography or Harry Potter. One to explore on a future trip methinks.

The lunch was fantastic, and it was excellent to have that included. Free WiFi on the bus would have been nice, but that could just be because I’m a blogger! Overall I’m just nit-picking – this tour was really comprehensive and the guide was excellent.

Cotswold village Castle Combe river

How should I prepare for a tour to Stonehenge from London?

You don’t need to prepare too much. I’d advise bringing along layered clothing (British weather is not the best), ideally something windproof, and cash for tips or any other extras.

If you’re the sort to get oddly hungry, you might want to bring snacks, although most tours should include enough time to pick up a snack or too, and they will either include a lunch or time for lunch.

You’ll also want to eat something before you start the trip, and a water bottle is also a good idea.

Jess Lacock

Further Reading

Well, that sums up our experience visiting Stonehenge, Bath and the Cotswolds as a day trip from London. We hope you found it useful in planning your own trip.

If you’re looking for more inspiration for your UK trip, here are some resources to help you out:

  • Our detailed guide to  what to pack for London , to help you prepare for your trip to London.
  • For ideas of what to do in London, check out our  1 Day London itinerary , 2 Day London Itinerary , and if you’re here for longer or just want some more ideas for you visit, check out our detailed  six day London itinerary
  • For the Harry Potter fans amongst you, take a look at our guide to finding  Harry Potter in London
  • If you enjoy military museums, take a look at our guide to  London’s Best Military Museums and Memorials
  • Our tips for taking   a Two Week road trip in the UK , should you want to have London as the start of a bigger adventure
  • For budget planning, see our guide to  how much it costs to travel in the UK
  • Our experience  taking a full day walking tour of London , in case you like the idea of a fully guided day
  • We have a complete guide to where to stay in London , with over 60 recommendations across all the main areas in London we recommend.
  • We also have ideas for other days trips from London, including tips for visiting  Oxford in a day , things to do in Cambridge , and Blenheim Palace from London
  • Heading further north? We have loads of content on  Scotland , including a  2 Day Edinburgh itinerary , a guide to the  North Coast 500  and a  2 Day Glasgow itinerary
  • The  Eyewitness Travel Guide to London , which has all sorts of information within, including more itineraries and ideas for your trip
  • Rick Steve’s London 2018  guide, the #1 bestseller on Amazon for UK travel guides, and always an excellent source of relevant information

A detailed guide to visiting Stonehenge from London, including an overview of doing this as a day trip, other sights in the vicinity you should visit, and tips on doing it yourself #travel #uk #stonehenge #london

Disclosure: We were guests of City Wonders on this tour, but we paid for our own ticket to the Roman Baths and covered the guide tip ourselves. All opinions remain our own – see our code of ethics for more.

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7th January 2024 at 11:04 am

Thoroughly enjoyed reading your post.

We are 2 folks planning for a 15 days trip to UK. We were wondering in addition to covering the entire UK (London + scotland +Ireland) , should we also include one EU country say Paris or Switzerland or focus mainly on UK only?

Laurence Norah says

9th January 2024 at 1:40 pm

So this will really depend how much of each destination you want to see. If you are just thinking of spending a few days in the main cities of each country, and then just seeing the main highlights in each location (London, Edinburgh, Dublin and Belfast) then you could of course add in another country. Generally I would normally suggest trying to focus more on a smaller area and focusing in, but I also appreciate of course that it is often a long way to travel for people and not it’s not always an area they are necessarily planning to return to. So in that case, adding in another country or destination can make sense. I’d say Paris would be a good option from London as you can easily take the train there direct. There are also lots of cheap regional flights from the UK to destination across Europe. The only thing I would suggest is trying to give yourself a minimum of two days (ideally three) in each city, so you have time to explore. Adding a third day will also let you take some day trips such as to Stonehenge from London, the Highlands from Edinburgh, the Giant’s Causeway from Belfast / Dublin, and so on.

Have a great trip!

Asha Jerome says

28th August 2022 at 1:26 pm

Hi Laurence and Jessica,

Enjoyed reading your blog. I plan to visit Bristol and then visit Stonehenge from there. Are there any tour buses that you can suggest for this route? I am from India :), planning to visit my daughter who is studying at Bristol this October 🙂 Regards, Asha

28th August 2022 at 1:59 pm

Great to hear from you! So as you have probably noticed most day tours to Stonehenge depart from London. I wasn’t able to find a tour company currently operating tours from Bristol to Stonehenge, the closest option I could find was this company which operates from Bath. This might work for you as their schedule shows they run from Bath at 1pm in October. It is easy to get from Bristol to Bath, you can go by train in about 11 minutes, and Bath is well worth visiting as well.

The other option is you can just take a train from Bristol to Salisbury, which takes about 1hr and 20 minutes. Then you can take the shuttle bus as described in my post to Stonehenge. This wouldn’t be a guided tour though, but it is still quite easy I think.

Let me know if you have any more questions, I am happy to help!

28th August 2022 at 3:59 pm

Thank you. Looks like going to Bath and then to Salisbury and take the shuttle to Stone henge, as you have suggested.

Sandy Chang says

25th May 2022 at 5:21 am

Hi, thank you for a terrific summary of your trip to Stonehenge. I was wondering how close your group got to the structure. Do you admire the stones from a long distance or closer? And can you tell me more about the new visitors center? Thanks Sandy

25th May 2022 at 11:18 am

So you get quite close to the stones. Unless you book a specific experience where you go inside the circle, all the tours go on the path which goes around the stones. These get quite close, about 10 metres / 30 ft at the closest point. So they are definitely close! If you look at Google maps here you can see the path and the stones.

The visitor centre has an informative display all about the history of the site and the area, and is well worth visiting.

Let me know if you have any more questions!

Gabbie says

28th July 2019 at 11:24 pm

thank you so much for your honest insight, we are plan to go see London and Stonehenge soon. this post gave me a clear idea how should we spend our day! thank you again for this good work!

29th July 2019 at 7:42 pm

Our pleasure Gabbie – have a great trip and let me know if you have any questions!

Mary Rameson says

24th May 2019 at 7:40 pm

This has been a wonderful learning experience for our trip to the UK. I have been all through the UK, but am bringing my boys in January 2020 and they want to see Stonehenge, Lalock, etc. We will probably hire a car and drive down so we can go at our own pace. Thank you for your knowledge and tips.

24th May 2019 at 8:41 pm

Our pleasure Mary – have a wonderful trip, and do let us know if you have any questions at all 🙂

Andy Newton says

23rd October 2019 at 8:52 pm

Whilst you are in the vicinity of Stonehenge, I really do urge you to travel a bit farther to the even more ancient stone circle at Avebury. These are big stones! It is much more atmospheric, and has a village within the circle (and a couple of good pubs). Better still, access is free, but there is a parking charge. http://www.stone-circles.org.uk/stone/avebury.htm

And in the area my home town of Shaftesbury, with its iconic Gold Hill – https://goldhillshaftesbury.co.uk/gold%20hill%20photos.htm

joe hernandez says

21st March 2018 at 10:59 pm

Arriving Saturday 3/24. I’ve done this type of tour in the past (11yrs ago!). This was a Very helpful synopsis and lovely photos! Thank you.

22nd March 2018 at 9:18 am

Thanks Joe, have a great trip!

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London to Stonehenge: From Metropolis to Mystery

Druid temple, ancient cemetery or alien landing site (depending on who you ask), Stonehenge is one of the UK’s prime historical sites.

Located amidst the rolling hills of Wiltshire (2.5 hours from central London), it draws visitors by the coach load, with its uncertain purpose adding to the wonder. Whether you’re visiting the UK or have decided to explore the sights a little closer to home while travel’s out, a trip to Stonehenge is a great chance to see an iconic landmark.

  • Day trips and organised tours
  • Getting to Stonehenge
  • Stonehenge FAQ: tickets and more

Stonehenge: A long and mysterious history

Aerial view above Stonehenge.

Stonehenge dates back to prehistoric times, and it’s purpose is still unknown. Thanks to archaeologists, though, we do know quite a bit about its construction. The circle was built in six stages between 3000 and 1520 BCE, when the Neolithic period was transitioning into the Bronze Age. The site has been significant since 8000 BCE, however, with wooden monuments built nearby by the Mesolithic and Neolithic people.

The most intriguing factors of Stonehenge are the artificially shaped sarsen stones and the use of bluestones, which were brought from South Wales, over 100 miles away. The positioning of the stones is known as post and lintel, meaning two upright stones with a third balanced across their tops. There are many barrows surrounding the circle, which are burial mounds containing ashes and remains, making it the largest known cemetery from the 3rd millenium BCE in the UK.

Archaelogical digs have taken place here for centuries, be it looking for treasure or studying earthworms, with the first serious dig taking place at the start of the 20th century. Developments in technology like carbon dating have increased the understanding of the area’s significance, discovering the burial mounds and construction holes.

What does it all mean?

The elements of the circle design do give some hints as to its possible purposes, fuelling centuries of often wild speculation. The close burial sites of chieftans, priests and aristocrats suggest it was religiously significant and a show of power, or it may have been dedicated to the ancestors. While it is broadly agreed to have religious significance, it is also has practical elements. The stones are aligned to the sun and could have been used to work out agricultural calendars.

Many theories from the 17th century onwards suggest it is a druid temple. Although recent scholars have generally disproved as the site predates druids by thousands of years, it is still a popular place for druids to visit—especially to mark the summer solstice. More recent theories focus on computer-like calendar uses, while an early Bronze Age skeleton found nearby with a broken knee lead experts to think it could have been a place of healing, although there is little other evidence to support this.

Visiting Stonehenge: What to do

While looking at the stones is great, you’ll be glad to know that there’s a litte more to do once you get to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The award-winning visitor centre

Stonehenge visitor centre

Housing an impressive exhibition, the visitor centre uses historic artefacts loaned from local museums and modern technology to showcase the amazing presence of Stonehenge. Enjoy 360° audio-visual tours through the seasons, admire excavated jewellery and remains, and step into Neolithic houses to experience the 4,500 years of history that separate us and the beginnings of Stonehenge.

Neolithic straw houses

Stepping into the Stone Circle

Now, before you get too excited, for regular ticket holders Stonehenge is a look-and-don’t-touch kind of sightseeing experience. These rocks are old, and having every Tom, Dick and Harry stroking them and climbing them would not be great, so most of us will have to remain at a safe distance to admire them.

If you really want to get up close to them, you can book one of the Stone Circle Access tickets , which are limited and pricey, but allow that inner-circle experience. These tickets allow access outside of regular visiting hours, so it’s between 5 am and 9 am and then 8 pm and 9 pm during summer, for example. There are only 30 tickets per 1-hour timeslot, so you have to plan ahead. Tickets cost £ 47.00 for adults, £ 28.20 for children, with carers and toddlers going free. There are no concession tickets, but reductions of £ 9.00 for adults and £ 5.00 for children are available for English heritage members.

Winter and summer solstice at Stonehenge

Stonehenge sunset summer solstice

Thanks to its somewhat erroneous connections to druids, the stone circle is a popular place for modern-day druids. Summer solstice is a massive event in the calendar, with hundreds of people gathering to watch the sun rise behind the Heel Stone for free. The chillier winter solstice sees crowds gather to watch the sun set to the southwest.

Options for visiting Stonehenge

Whether you’re determined to make it yourself or are happy to jump on a bus for the ease of it, there are options for seeing the stones.

A DIY day trip to Stonehenge

It is possible to visit Stonehenge from London under your own steam. You can catch one of the South Western sevices to Salisbury, taking two hours and costing around £ 45.00 off-peak return, with cheaper tickets available if you book in advance. From Salisbury you can catch a bus to the site, taking around 20 minutes. They run quite infrequently, so do plan in advance—use the Wiltshire transport planner for schedules.

Organised day trips from London to Stonehenge

Stonehenge is a bit of a trek, so if you prefer to nap on a bus, the arranged coach tours are a great option. Klook has an express half-day tour which is not currently available, but is expected to return soon. You can squeeze it into a half day, but if you’re going all that way it makes sense to combine it with some other nearby sites.

Combined day trips with Oxford, Bath and beyond

Long walkway up to Windsor castle

Given the time it takes to reach Stonehenge from London, it makes a lot of sense to visit other popular spots in the vicinity as well. Nearby cities include Salisbury (worth a trip just for the cathedral, and also has copies of the Magna Carta from 1215) and Bath, which is home to the eponymous Roman baths. Windsor Castle is also close-ish, and is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, with expansive grounds and incredible stately rooms. Klook have some great day trip options:

  • Stonehenge and Bath: See the streets of Bath from a panoramic coach tour, with added time to explore, before visiting the stones — starting from [price amount=75]
  • Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath : Combine Stonehenge with William the Conqueror’s castle and stroll the historic streets of Bath all in a day. Starting from £ 99.00 .

oxford day trip - view of the city

  • Stonehenge, Windsor and Oxford : This organised day trip is chockfull of historic sites and cities. Wander around the royal town of Windsor and the university town of Oxford before seeing the 5,000-year-old stones. Starting from £ 58.50 .
  • Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, Salisbury and Bath If you're keen to pack in as much as possible you can enjoy a real trip through Britain's ancient history - starting from [price amount=110] .
  • Stonehenge, Bath, Stratford and the Cotswolds If you're looking to include some Shakespeare into your day, this is the tour for you, with his school along with chocolate-box views, those famous baths and the stones of course - starting from [price amount=120]

Getting to Stonehenge: Everything but aliens

If you’re keen to make your own way to Stonehenge, you can drive from London, with the site signposted from the A303 off the A360 The drive takes 2–3 hours from London, depending on where you start out. There is parking with a visitor bus running every 10 minutes to the site.

On public transport, you can take public buses from Salisbury to the stones, taking around 25 minutes. These run hourly from 10 am to 2 pm, so be sure to plan in advance—you can use the Wiltshire transport planner .

Given the limited times for public transport, if you’re a non-driver, it’s a good idea to consider the organised bus tours from London, as they are a convenient way to get to Stonehenge and to see other nearby sites.

Stonehenge FAQ

These famous stones pose more questions than they answer, like Who built them?, How did they move them?, and Do I need to book in advance? We aren’t so sure about the first two (aliens, maybe?), but we for sure know the last one (also aliens—just kidding, the answer is yes).

Where is Stonehenge?

Stonehenge is located in Wiltshire, near Salisbury and is a 2–3 hour drive from London. It’s in the South of England, prime rolling hills and green pastures territory. While this means it’s beautiful, it also means that access is not very convenient without organised tours or a car, but it’s certainly doable if you plan!

London to Stonehenge say trip guide

How much is a ticket to Stonehenge?

Tickets are available in three forms: peak, standard and off peak, based on when you visit Stonehenge. This mainy revolves around school holidays and weekends, with term-time weekdays being the cheapest ( £ 19.50 for adults and £ 11.70 for children) and school holiday weekends being the most expensive ( £ 22.80 for adults and £ 13.70 for children. You can buy your tickets online for the price of £ 19.90 , which generally doesn’t fluctuate based on peak times.

There is also an option to add a donation of a pound or two to your ticket, going to English Heritage, which is the charity taking care of sites like Stonehenge across the country—they’re making plenty though, so don’t feel pressured.

Can you see Stonehenge for free?

Yes. If you want to see the stones from a distance you can see it from the free car park at Woodhenge, with a public footpath running running just outside the paid grounds. You can follow the ususal directions to the car park, and from there, walk 15 minutes along the gravel path towards Stonehenge. At the drop-off bus stop for the visitor center there’s a wooden gate marked ‘Permissive Path for Pedestrians and Cyclists’—take this route and you’ll see the stones for free (just ignore the fence!).

If you are a local resident (with a pass), member of English Heritage or the National Trust you can enter for free, but you do still need to book due to limited numbers. You can also enter the site on June 20th each year for summer sostice and sit among the stones—busy but worth it!

Do you have to book for Stonehenge?

Due to Covid restrictions, you must book for tickets to visit Stonehenge, even if you are entitled to free entry with local resident pass, National Trust or English Heritage Pass. The bookings can be made online for a specfic time slot, with last entry 2 hours before closing time.

Can you walk among the stones of Stonehenge?

Regular entry to see the momuments means you can only see them from a little way back, but there are options if you want to stand in the stone circle. You can book the Stone Circle Access (mentioned above), which runs outside regular opening hours, or you can get free entry for the special solstice events.

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Inner Circle Access of Stonehenge including Bath and Lacock Day Tour from London

Inner Circle Access of Stonehenge including Bath and Lacock Day Tour from London

  • The Roman Baths - Admission not included
  • Stonehenge - Admission included
  • Lacock Abbey
  • The George Inn - Admission not included
  • No. 1 Royal Crescent
  • Pulteney Bridge

How to get there?

Millennium Gloucester Hotel London Kensington

4-18 Harrington Gardens, London, SW7 4LH

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day trip from london to stonehenge

How to Plan a Day Trip to Stonehenge and Oxford from London

I f you are spending a week in London , you will have time to take at least one or more day trips to see more of England. There are many destination options such as Bath , the Cotswolds , Stonehenge, and Oxford. Some are easily accessible by train, such as Bath or Oxford, but to combine destinations, you can either rent a car, take a coach bus tour, or hire a private driver guide.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to take a day trip to Stonehenge and Oxford from London, and what to do while you are there.

Since we had our hearts set on seeing both Stonehenge and Oxford on our day trip, a bus trip was out of the question. Not that I would recommend a bus trip with a family anyway, but they are cost-effective. Unfortunately all the bus trips usually add in another spot like Windsor Castle — nothing was exactly what we wanted.

Also, after driving on the left in Ireland , I wasn’t excited about the prospect of driving through the English countryside on this trip. And there was no way I wanted to attempt to drive within London.

I scoured the Internet for hours looking for an option until we eventually decided it would be worth it to book a private tour to provide us with exactly the trip we were looking for. I wanted to make sure we included a Harry Potter tour on our Oxford day trip, since we were planning the ultimate London trip for Harry Potter fans .

But I also wanted someone that could explain Stonehenge’s rich history to us, versus just exploring the world’s most famous stone circle on our own. I found just what I was looking for with British Tours .

StoneHenge and Oxford Day Trip from London

British Tours offered me a media rate for purposes of this review. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Day Trip to Stonehenge Tour

Located about 1.5 hours from London, a Stonehenge day trip is one of the most popular for families. There is just something about those mysterious prehistoric stones that fascinates kids and adults alike — especially families like ours that have a special interest in sci-fi and fantasy. After all, isn’t it fun to imagine that those stones were placed there by aliens? (But don’t worry, they weren’t.)

If you are visiting Stonehenge on your own, you will want to spend some time in the visitor center to understand its history. You will park at the visitor center up the road and then take a shuttle over to the stone circle. You can no longer walk right up and touch the stones, as barriers have been erected to preserve this historical site.

Our driver-guide Michael from British Tours filled us in on the history of Stonehenge on the ride up from London. We don’t really know the purpose of the stones, since they are 5100 years old (built around the same time as the pyramids) and pre-date written history.

We don’t know what is special about the area, but we have to assume that the whole area was considered sacred as there is also another mini Stonehenge nearby. The smaller stones are 5,000 lbs. and they came from Wales 125 miles away. It is mind-boggling to consider how the ancient Druids crafted and moved these stones when the wheel hadn’t even been invented yet and there was no metal yet to use to shape the stones. The larger stones came from only 25 miles away but they are tens of thousands of pounds!

They even rounded the stones slightly to make them fit the circular shape of Stonehenge (henge meaning circle.) In the middle is what they call the Slaughter Stone. There is no real evidence of ritual sacrifice at Stonehenge but it does make for a good story. You see, when it rains, the stone looks reddish. But it isn’t blood, just iron in the stone that causes the coloration.

Our Stonehenge private tour just happened to fall on one of the most popular days to visit — the Winter Solstice. The longest and shortest days of the year are popular to visit and if you get there early on the longest day of the year, you can see the sun rise above the Heel Stone (a stone that actually predates Stonehenge that the Druids may have thought was put their by the Gods.) Even though there were plenty of pagans and other visitors camping out to see the sunrise and sunset over the stones, overall it really wasn’t very crowded for our Stonehenge tour.

Day Trip to Oxford Tour

Oxford is another great London day trip pick for families. There is enough to see that you could spend a weekend in Oxford . This university town is both quaint and rich in history. In warmer weather, families can enjoy taking a punting boat out on the river.

But one of the main draws for us (and other families) is that it was the filming site for many scenes in the Harry Potter movies. If you visit on your own, you can join a Harry Potter walking tour. But since I told British Tours that this was important to us, our driver guide Michael was able to focus much of our visit on seeing these sites.

Oxford used to be called Oxenford (where oxen crossed or forded the Thames to be brought to market), but it became a place for study after students were thrown out of the Sorbonne in France because of a war in the 1200s. They came to Oxford to study and it grew until it was granted status as a University. Today, the University of Oxford has 38 individual colleges.

There is so much to see in Oxford you can really spend at least a full day but our Oxford tour started off at New College, where Michael pointed out the Cloisters, which were used for many hallway scenes in the Harry Potter movies. You can also see the tree where Draco Malfoy was turned into a ferret.

After lunch at the Turf Tavern, which has fed any number of famous people from Bill Clinton in the 1960s to Elizabeth Taylor, Ben Kingsley, and the cast and crew of the Harry Potter movies,  we moved on to Christchurch College.

The Great Hall at Christchurch College was where they filmed scenes for the dining hall at Hogwarts. And the staircase was where McGonagall greeted all the first year students in the first movie. Something about it just makes you want to put on a robe, head into the library and start studying (magic or something else!)

Oxford is such a wonderful place to visit for those with a literary bent. Famous authors like C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkein, Lewis Carroll and others have spent time in Oxford and it is fun to follow in their footsteps.

Visiting both places was a full day, departing at 8am and returning to our central London hotel by 6pm. In the summer, it would be light longer and attractions would stay open later. If that was the case, we would have included a stop in the village of Lacock in the Cotswolds, another Harry Potter filming site.

This day tour with British Tours was exactly what we had hoped for with a warm and informative guide that was as comfortable explaining ancient history as describing filming sites for Harry Potter movies. Michael was able to connect with our teen and she was so enchanted with Oxford, that she wanted to apply to go to college in Oxford. We would definitely recommend working with British Tours for a group trip or, even better, hiring a private driver guide for your own custom trip from London.

British Tours offers all types of day tours from London including private and group tours to Windsor Castle, Bath, Stratford Upon Avon, Blenheim Castle, and Highclere Castle (the real Downton Abbey.) SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave SaveSave

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The post How to Plan a Day Trip to Stonehenge and Oxford from London appeared first on We3Travel .

Have some extra time in London? Plan a custom day trip to Stonehenge and Oxford from London (here’s how and what to do!)

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Info on Summer Solstice at Stonehenge 2024 - United Kingdom Forum

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day trip from london to stonehenge

Entry: is it really free to enter Stonehenge on Summer/Winter solstice?

opening: what time do the gates normally open on Solstice?

Crowds: when would be the best time to arrive before the tsunami of people hits? I'd imagine the place will be crowded anytime of day, but if I can time it to when people are drifting in before it gets undoubtedly crowded, this will be the most ideal.

Travel: is it advisable to travel on the 20th and stop overnight, or is it fine to travel early in the morning and arrive around 11AM/12:00PM? will the site be too busy by this time?

if there's any solstice regulars who can help with this, I'd be very grateful!

4 replies to this topic

' class=

People I know who do Solstices tell me that Avebury is a far more pleasant experience these days.

This post has been removed at the author's request.

day trip from london to stonehenge

If you plan to arrive at that time, you are several hours too late for the solstice gathering (which is at sunrise).

And will the sky be cloudless or overcast ?

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stonehenge/things-to-do/solstice/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8CVoTHZJYs

https://www.timeanddate.com/sun/uk/salisbury?month=6&year=2024

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  3. How To Get To Stonehenge From London: 4 Easy Ways

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  4. How to take a day trip to Stonehenge from London

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  5. Day Trip From London To Stonehenge

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  6. 6 Essential Stonehenge Day Trips from London

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COMMENTS

  1. Stonehenge Tours from London

    In addition to visiting iconic Stonehenge and historic Windsor Castle, trace the footsteps of famous students who have graced Oxford University on this escorted tour with an experienced guide. This day trip includes return coach travel from London, plus admissions to Windsor Castle and Stonehenge. Duration: 11 hours. Prices from £79.00 Book now.

  2. 8 Best Stonehenge Tours from London (2024)

    The full-day Avebury and Stonehenge excursion with Anderson Tours picks up in London starting at 7:30 a.m. and makes its first stop at West Kennet Long Barrow - one of the largest Neolithic ...

  3. Stonehenge and Bath Day Trip from London, Roman Baths option 2024

    Discover two gems of southern England on this full-day coach trip to Stonehenge and Bath from London. Travel to Stonehenge, a prehistoric stone monument that rises imperiously from Salisbury Plain. Gaze at the gigantic stones, learn how the monument was used, and then continue to the UNESCO-listed city of Bath to discover this gorgeous 18th-century city independently. Choose to stroll the ...

  4. London to Stonehenge Shuttle Bus and Independent Day Trip

    Ponder one of Europe's greatest prehistoric monuments on this independent day trip to Stonehenge from London. Travel from central London by air-conditioned coach, and on arrival, enjoy ample free time to explore this UNESCO-listed ancient masterpiece and the Stonehenge visitor center. Stroll around the monument perimeter, marvel at the stones, and more. This round-trip London to Stonehenge ...

  5. How to Plan the Perfect Stonehenge Day Trip from London

    This option is also perfect for those who want a guided day trip. You can find plenty of tours like this in Viator, or check The Stonehenge Tour website. They tend to be longer, lasting eleven to twelve hours. Traveling by shuttle bus is your second alternative to visiting Stonehenge from London. It is an excellent option if you want to devote ...

  6. Stonehenge, London

    Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London. 12,065. Visit three top attractions outside London on this day trip to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath. Start at Windsor Castle (if option selected; the castle is closed Tuesday-Wednesday) for a tour of the State Apartments and St. George's Chapel.

  7. London To Stonehenge

    By Train. Hop into the South Western Railway from London Waterloo Station to Salisbury Station which leaves every hour and the journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Also, from Salisbury Station, there is a direct bus to Stonehenge which takes approximately 30 minutes to reach or you can take a taxi to the desired destination.

  8. Day trips to Stonehenge from London

    Full-day Bath and Stonehenge tour from London. Enjoy both Bath - a beautiful Georgian spa town - and the prehistoric Stonehenge on this double-dip day trip. Stop-off points include Bath Abbey ...

  9. The 5 Best Stonehenge Tours From London [2024 Reviews]

    This is our Editor's Choice as the best Stonehenge day trip from london! More Information & Tour Booking 100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience. Other London Experiences You May Enjoy: 2. Best Private Tour: Stonehenge Private Car Tour From London.

  10. 7 Best Stonehenge Tours from London in 2024 (ranked!)

    Easy Guide: Best Stonehenge Tours from London. #1 PICK. Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath tour. 4.5 out of 5 Stars, 9,400+ reviews. Book Here! #2 PICK. Stonehenge and Bath Day Trip from London. 4.5 out of 5 stars, 1,700+ reviews. Book Here!

  11. How to Visit Stonehenge on a Day Trip From London (Plus Other Cities)

    Stonehenge is located approximately 90 miles (145 kilometres) southwest of London. The journey from London to Stonehenge takes around 2 to 3 hours by car or coach, depending on traffic conditions. If you prefer public transportation, there are several options available, including trains and buses. The distance may seem far, but the journey is ...

  12. How to Take a Day Trip from London to Stonehenge

    Getting to your first stop will take around 2 hours and £197 ($262) for a Stonehenge and Bath tour. Continue on the coach bus from Stonehenge for another 2 hours to reach London, costing about £240 ($317). Some all-inclusive packages cost around £437 (or $581) for the whole day. You should return to London at 9 pm.

  13. Stonehenge Tours from London by coach

    Stonehenge and Bath Tour. (362) From £95.00. Step back 5,000 years in time to pre-historic Britain at the world's most famous Neolithic monument and explore the resplendent Georgian city of Bath and its ancient Roman Baths. VIEW TOUR.

  14. Stonehenge Rock Tours

    Stonehenge sighsteeing tours from London. Take a guided tour from London to Stonehenge and explore an area that has fascinated millions for generations and considered a national treasure!. See iconic Stonehenge and feel its power on a day trip from London.

  15. From London to Stonehenge: 4 Best Ways to Get There

    1. From London to Stonehenge by Tour Stonehenge. For those wanting to see multiple attractions while in England, an organized day trip from London to Stonehenge via Windsor Castle and including Bath is a great option. This superb day-long excursion lasts approximately 11 hours and manages to allow you to tick off three of the country's most popular tourist destinations in one go (albeit a long ...

  16. Top Stonehenge Tours from London by Coach

    London to Stonehenge Tours. Take a Stonehenge day trip from London and discover this world-famous ancient monument for yourself. Visit Stonehenge by bus for a family day out and find out why these 5,000 year old stones on Salisbury Plain are considered a national treasure! Our low cost tours to Stonehenge make visiting the attraction a simple and comfortable way to sightsee with audio guide ...

  17. Visiting Stonehenge From London as a Day Trip, Including Bath & the

    Facts about doing a day trip from London to Stonehenge, Bath and the Cotswolds How long did we have at each location? Our Stonehenge tour left London at 7.30am and returned to our pick-up point at 8.30pm (13 hours!) We had 1.5 hours in Bath (supposed to be 2 hours but traffic was bad) We had 1.5 hours in Castle Combe, including lunch

  18. Stonehenge Morning Half-Day Tour from London Including Admission

    Admission and shuttle bus tickets are included, as are audio headsets. Explore the world-famous landmark at your own pace before returning to London by mid-afternoon. This speedy, seamless tour makes visiting Stonehenge stress-free. Admission, shuttle bus, round-trip transit, and headsets all included. Arrive early to beat the crowds, and save ...

  19. How to plan a day trip to Stonehenge from London

    Getting to Stonehenge from London. Nearly 90 miles from London, situated close to historic Salisbury, the landmark site can be visited by train, car and bus. However, the train is often the preferred route for a day trip, taking just 1h 23m from London Waterloo on the direct train to Salisbury. Take me there.

  20. 2024 Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

    Both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Stonehenge and Bath are two of southern England's landmark destinations. On this tour, don't worry about the logistics of leaving London and organizing transit: Round-trip transportation via air-conditioned coaches, which depart directly from central London, makes it simple to see both destinations in a day.

  21. London to Stonehenge Day Trip Guide: Tickets, Transport and History

    A DIY day trip to Stonehenge. It is possible to visit Stonehenge from London under your own steam. You can catch one of the South Western sevices to Salisbury, taking two hours and costing around £ 45.00 off-peak return, with cheaper tickets available if you book in advance. From Salisbury you can catch a bus to the site, taking around 20 minutes.

  22. Inner Circle Access of Stonehenge including Bath and Lacock Day ...

    England in One Day: Stonehenge, Bath, the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon Day Trip from London. £20.00. Walking Tour: Churchill and London in WW2. £109.00. Royal London & Windsor Castle: Day Trip from London. From £16.00. See London By Night! £74.00.

  23. How to Plan a Day Trip to Stonehenge and Oxford from London

    Located about 1.5 hours from London, a Stonehenge day trip is one of the most popular for families. There is just something about those mysterious prehistoric stones that fascinates kids and ...

  24. Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London

    Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London + Admission. 2,869. from $107.66. London, England. United Kingdom Self-Guided Audio Walking Tours Collection. from $63.32. Likely to Sell Out. London, England. Guided Luxury Paris Day Trip with Optional Lunch at the Eiffel Tower.

  25. Info on Summer Solstice at Stonehenge 2024

    Info on Summer Solstice at Stonehenge 2024 5:42 am; Place to hire a Mini Cooper? 5:41 am; UK trip 5:42 am; Boat trip 5:35 am; Greenock to Glasgow 5:28 am; Heathrow to Cardiff car service 5:26 am; Eye Surgery 5:17 am; Converting money 5:12 am; Seeking Feedback on My 4-Day London Itinerary & Budget Plan 5:06 am; oyster charge? red bike charge? 4: ...

  26. Stonehenge Half-Day Tour from London with Admission

    Visit one of England's most mesmerizing historic sites on this independent and unescorted Stonehenge half-day tour, including round-trip transport by coach from London. Make the most of your extended visit and use your free time and audio guide to admire the majestic 5,000-year-old stones and ponder the much-debated origins of the mysterious landmark.