3-Day Stonehenge*, Glastonbury, Bath & the South West Coast Tour from London

Exploring Southwest England in Just Three Days: An Honest Look at the Stonehenge, Glastonbury, Bath & Coastal Tour

If you’re considering a quick escape from London to experience some of England’s most iconic sights, this 3-day guided tour offers a solid way to tick off a handful of must-see destinations. It’s a package designed for travelers who want to see a lot in a short time without the hassle of planning each detail.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with historic and prehistoric sites—Stonehenge, Durdle Door, Dartmoor—and charming towns like Glastonbury and Bath. Plus, traveling in a comfortable Mercedes minivan and staying in a cozy Exeter hotel keeps things easy and relaxed.

However, a potential catch is that some reviews hint at variability in guide knowledge and pacing. If you’re someone who values detailed storytelling or a more leisurely pace, this may not be the perfect fit. Still, for those who want an efficient overview of southwest England’s highlights, this tour hits the right notes. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors or anyone short on time but eager to explore.

Key Points

• Comfortable Group Size: Small groups mean more personalized attention and easier navigation through sites.
• Diverse Itinerary: From prehistoric monuments to coastal scenery and historic towns, you’ll get a taste of everything.
• Quality Accommodation & Breakfast: Two nights in Exeter with en-suite rooms and breakfast included help start each day right.
• Expert Guide: Stories and information from an English-speaking driver-guide add context, though the depth of knowledge varies.
• Transportation: Traveling in a top-range Mercedes mini-coach allows for smooth, comfortable drives across varied terrain.
• Cost & Value: At $755, including entrance to Stonehenge and hotel stays, this offers decent value for an organized, guided experience.

Deep Dive into the 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From London to the Iconic & Scenic

The tour begins bright and early at the Green Line Coach Station in London, with a departure time around 9:15 am. The first major highlight is Stonehenge. For many travelers, this is the main reason to go on this tour, and it’s a highlight worth the price of admission—entry is included. Standing among those massive stones, you can’t help but feel a sense of connection to the past. One reviewer mentioned, “This was a memorable experience,” which highlights how powerful being there can be.

Following Stonehenge, the journey takes you along the coast to see the Durdle Door, a breathtaking limestone arch that looks like a natural gateway into the ocean. It’s a quick stop but one that’s well worth it for the picture-perfect views and the chance to breathe in the fresh sea air. This is a place you’ll want to take your time exploring, even if just for an hour and fifteen minutes.

Afterward, the tour heads to Exeter, a city steeped in history with Roman roots, Norman architecture, and a lively quayside. The group stays here for the next two nights, which lets you get a feel for a smaller, authentic English town. You’ll find the city’s ancient walls, a beautiful gothic cathedral, and a vibrant food scene—perfect for unwinding after a day of travel.

Day 2: Exploring Nature and Historic Tavistock

Dartmoor National Park kicks off day two, and it’s a highlight for many. Its windswept moorlands, native ponies grazing close to rocky outcrops, and diverse flora and fauna make it feel like stepping into a different world. Though some reviews pointed out that the guide’s knowledge varies, the scenery itself is undeniable and memorable.

Next up is Tavistock, a charming market town linked to Sir Francis Drake. Its history as a stannery and religious site gives it a layered atmosphere. Many visitors appreciate the local produce and quaint shops—something to enjoy at your own pace.

Returning to Exeter in the early afternoon allows more freedom to explore at leisure. Some reviews mentioned how the city’s Norman cathedral, old city walls, and lively quayside make for a rewarding visit, especially if you’re into history and architecture. A reviewer noted, “We enjoyed the places we visited, though the guide’s knowledge was sometimes limited,” which echoes the importance of managing expectations about commentary depth.

Day 3: Glastonbury & Bath—Spirituality, Legends, and Roman Heritage

The final day starts with a visit to Glastonbury, a site overflowing with myth, legend, and religious significance. Glastonbury Abbey, the Tor, and the town’s pagan roots make it a fascinating stop. It’s also known globally for its music festival, adding a modern cultural twist. Two hours here might feel a bit short, but it’s enough to get a sense of the spiritual energy and history.

Then it’s on to Bath, a city famed for its Georgian architecture and Roman baths. You’ll have time for lunch (on your own) and a relaxed afternoon exploring the city’s highlights—like the impressive medieval Abbey, the Roman Baths complex, and the Pulteney Bridge. The leisurely pace here suits those who prefer to soak in the atmosphere rather than rush from sight to sight.

The tour wraps up with a return to London in the evening, bringing an end to three jam-packed days.

What This Tour Means for You

This is a tour that balances structured sightseeing with some flexibility. The included hotel stays and breakfast help offset the overall cost, making it a reasonable option for those wanting a guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail. Traveling in a small group ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the Mercedes minivan adds to the comfort for long drives.

The sites you visit are genuinely remarkable—Stonehenge’s ancient stones, the stunning coastal Durdle Door, Dartmoor’s wild landscapes, and the historic charm of Bath and Exeter. The scenery alone makes this tour worth considering, especially if you’re a fan of outdoors and history.

That said, some reviews highlight that the depth of commentary can vary, and at times, the guide may not be as knowledgeable as some travelers hope. If you’re looking for a deep dive into mythology, history, or local stories, this might be a minor inconvenience. Also, given that most stops are fairly brief, expect to get a quick overview rather than an in-depth exploration of each site.

Who is this tour best suited for?

Travelers who want a well-rounded snapshot of southwest England in a manageable package will find this appealing. It’s ideal for those who prefer organized tours with comfortable transport and aren’t too fussed about detailed local stories. Families with older children (minimum age 5) can enjoy the trip, especially those wanting to introduce kids to England’s historic sites without the burden of planning.

If you’re someone who values good logistics, scenic views, and a mix of natural and cultural highlights, this tour hits those notes. However, if you’re a history buff craving detailed narratives or a traveler seeking a slower, more immersive experience, you might find this tour a little rushed or surface-level.

Practical Details & FAQs

• Transportation: The tour uses a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, providing a smooth ride through varied terrain.
• Luggage: You’re limited to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage—think carry-on size—so pack light and efficiently.
• Guide & Group Size: Small groups (up to 16 travelers) mean better interaction, but guide knowledge can vary, as some reviews noted.
• Accommodation: Two nights are spent in Exeter, often in 3-star en-suite hotels with breakfast included.
• Departure Point: The tour starts at Green Line Coach Station, Bulleid Way, London SW1W 9SZ.
• Booking & Cancellation: You can cancel up to 21 days in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if plans change.
• Child Policy: The minimum age is 5 years, and children must be able to manage stairs and walking, as lifts may not be available in some accommodations.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day tour provides a convenient way to explore some of England’s most iconic and scenic sites without the stress of DIY travel. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate well-organized trips, enjoy a mix of nature and history, and are happy with a pace that covers a lot in a short time.

While it might not satisfy travelers craving deep storytelling or extended exploration, it offers a solid overview with comfortable transport, decent accommodation, and a chance to see Stonehenge, the Jurassic Coast, Dartmoor, Glastonbury, and Bath—all in just three days.

If you’re looking for a practical, scenic, and well-structured introduction to southwest England, this tour could be just what you need. Just be prepared for some variability in guide commentary and brief stops—those are trade-offs for efficiency and comfort.

FAQs

Is the entrance to Stonehenge included in the tour price?
Yes, your entry to Stonehenge is included, which is a great perk given how iconic this site is.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from the Green Line Coach Station at Bulleid Way, London, around 9:15 am, and returns to the same spot in the evening.

Can I bring luggage on the tour?
You’re limited to 14kg, which is roughly a carry-on size. Make sure your bag is light and manageable for the stairs and transport.

Is there a restroom on the coach?
No, there aren’t restrooms onboard, but the group makes regular breaks for bathroom stops throughout the day.

What if I have mobility issues?
The bus isn’t wheelchair accessible, but storage is available for foldable wheelchairs or walking frames. Guests need to handle their own boarding unless assistance is arranged.

How much free time do I get at each site?
Most stops are a couple of hours long, giving enough time for sightseeing, photos, and some quick explorations. However, some reviewers felt that in Glastonbury, the time was a bit short.

Is this tour family-friendly?
The minimum age is 5, so families with older children can enjoy it. Be aware that accommodations might involve walking or stairs, so plan accordingly.

Traveling through southwestern England in just three days is ambitious, but with the right expectations, this tour offers a worthwhile glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and historic treasures. It’s a practical choice for those who want to pack a lot into a short trip, appreciating the scenic drives and iconic sights along the way.