From London: Stonehenge Inner Circle & Windsor Open Top Bus

Experience the Best of Windsor and Stonehenge: An Honest Review of the London Day Trip

If you’re considering a day trip from London that combines history, royal splendor, and ancient mysteries, this tour offers a compelling package. It’s a well-rounded option that takes you from the bustling streets of London to the iconic stones of Stonehenge, with a charming stop in Windsor along the way.

What truly stands out is the exclusive access to the inner circle of Stonehenge, and the open-top bus tour of Windsor provide a more immersive feel than standard sightseeing. Plus, the luxury coach transport ensures comfort throughout a day that’s packed with interesting sights and stories. But, like any full-day tour, it’s a long day, and some might find the schedule a bit rushed.

If you’re someone who loves historical sites, royal towns, and a chance to walk among ancient stones at sunset, this experience could be just right. While the price might seem on the higher side, the combination of private access, knowledgeable guides, and scenic stops makes it a worthwhile pick for most travelers wanting a balanced, memorable day trip.

Key Points

• Private Inner Circle Access: Offers an exclusive, unforgettable experience walking among the stones.
• Scenic Windsor Tour: Enjoy a lively open-top bus ride and explore at your own pace afterward.
• Luxury Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned coach ensures a smooth journey.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and engaging guides enhance the storytelling.
• Flexible Options: Choose between Windsor bus tour or afternoon tea, catering to different tastes.
• Long but Worthwhile: An 11.5-12 hour adventure packed with history, scenery, and stories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting in London: Smooth and Comfortable Transport

The tour kicks off from a central London meeting point—a well-located spot at Bulleid Way, Victoria. From there, you hop aboard a luxury, air-conditioned coach, which is a real plus when you’re covering such a long day. The coach’s comfort and reliability are often mentioned positively in reviews—people appreciate not having to worry about navigating or parking.

Windsor: A Royal Town with Charm

Your first stop is Windsor, a town famous for its castle and royal connections. Upon arrival, your guide takes you on an open-top bus tour of Windsor, which is a fantastic way to get a quick yet scenic overview. You’ll pass by major sights like Windsor Castle, Holy Trinity Church, and Eton College, with commentary that’s both informative and engaging.

Travelers have noted how knowledgeable guides, like Dolly or Eileen, make a big difference by weaving history and fun facts into the ride. One reviewer mentioned, “Dolly really knew her history and gave great commentary,” which highlights how guides can elevate the experience. After the bus tour, you’re free to explore Windsor at your own pace—strolling down the Long Walk, visiting shops or cafes, or simply soaking in the views around Windsor Castle.

The Highlight: Private Access to Stonehenge

The centerpiece of this trip is undoubtedly visiting Stonehenge, but what we love about this tour is the private viewing that includes access into the stone circle. This isn’t your typical tourist scramble; you get to walk among the stones during a special time—most visitors only see the stones from a distance. Several reviews rave about this experience, with one sharing, “Walking through the stones at sunset was incredibly moving,” capturing how impactful this can be.

You’ll arrive in Wiltshire in the early evening, which is perfect for a sunset visit—many say this is the most atmospheric time to be there. Standing in the midst of these massive stones, feeling their size and imagining their purpose, is an experience few other sites can match. It’s clear from reviews that this aspect of the tour offers a truly memorable and somewhat mystical encounter.

More Great Tours Nearby

Dining and Additional Sightseeing

Later in the day, after some time in Windsor and a meal, you’ll head to Bath if your itinerary includes the optional stop. Some travelers mention that the tour includes a delicious afternoon tea, especially if you select that option. For those with specific dietary needs, it’s worth noting you can request vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or halal menus if you notify the provider at least 48 hours ahead.

While the Roman Baths are not included in the ticket, the experience in Bath still earns positive comments for its exhibits and views of the ancient baths.

Returning to London

The return journey is straightforward, and the company’s logistics are generally smooth. Due to legal restrictions on driver hours, the drop-off may be at Gloucester Road Underground Station if you’re back after 7:45 pm. This is only a short walk from Victoria Station, and the route is well-connected.

What We Love About This Tour

Knowledgeable Guides
Across reviews, guides like Dolly, Eileen, and Pablo are praised for their engaging storytelling, humor, and deep knowledge. They turn what could be a typical sightseeing bus into a lively, informative experience. Many mention how guides keep large groups entertained and well-informed, which is key for such a full day.

Unique Access to Stonehenge
Seeing Stonehenge from the inside and walking among the stones is a rare chance. Several reviews describe this as a “once in a lifetime” experience. The sunset timing adds a special glow, making this a highlight you’ll remember long after the trip.

Comfortable Transportation
The luxury coach makes the long day manageable. It’s air-conditioned, which is especially important if you’re visiting during warmer months, and the reliable service means you don’t have to stress about logistics.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights
From Windsor’s royal charm to the ancient stones of Stonehenge, and the historic streets of Bath or Canterbury, this tour covers a lot of ground, giving a well-rounded cultural taste of southern England.

Considerations Before Booking

It’s a Long Day
At 11.5 to 12 hours, this isn’t a casual outing. Expect early mornings and late returns. Some travelers have noted that the schedule can be a bit rushed, especially if visiting Bath or other stops takes longer than planned. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a little intense.

Limited Time at Some Stops
While the tour offers a rundown, the time allocated at places like Bath or Windsor might feel brief, especially if you want to explore in depth. One reviewer wished they had more time in Bath, suggesting that the visit might be somewhat rushed.

Price vs. Value
The inclusion of private access to Stonehenge and guided tours makes this a premium experience. Many reviews say it’s worth the price, especially if you value insider access and comfortable transport, but it’s worth comparing with other options if you’re budget-conscious.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history buffs, those interested in royal Britain, and anyone fascinated by ancient monuments. The guided nature makes it accessible for first-timers, and the scenic stops appeal to travelers wanting a well-organized, all-in-one day. If you’re okay with a full schedule and long hours, you’ll come away with a richer understanding of southern England’s highlights.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, children interested in history and outdoor exploration generally enjoy the stops. Just keep in mind the long travel hours.

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers private viewing of Stonehenge, access into the stone circle, Windsor open-top bus tour (if selected), return transportation on a luxury coach, and a professional guide.

Are there options for dietary restrictions during the meal?
Yes, if you opt for the afternoon tea, you can request vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal menus by notifying the provider at least 48 hours before your tour.

What happens if my tour arrives back late?
Due to driver working hours, if the return is after 7:45 pm, you’ll be dropped at Gloucester Road Underground Station, which is a short walk from Victoria.

Can I visit Bath or other stops for longer?
The tour includes time in Bath, but some reviews mention it’s limited (around 2.5 hours). If you want more time, consider exploring independently after the tour.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at Golden Tours Bus Stop 1, Bulleid Way, Victoria. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to check-in.

Is Wi-Fi available on the coach?
During peak periods, the vehicle may not have Wi-Fi, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a comprehensive, well-guided day trip that combines royal elegance and ancient mystery, this tour hits many marks. The private access to Stonehenge and scenic Windsor tour are real highlights, offering insights and moments you can’t easily find elsewhere. It’s a long day, no doubt, but most reviews agree that the experience is worth the effort.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate guided storytelling, want to avoid the hassle of planning multiple tickets, and are interested in a balanced mix of history, scenery, and culture. The combination of comfort, scenic stops, and insider access makes it a popular choice for those looking to deepen their understanding of England’s storied past during a single, well-organized day.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a royal admirer, or simply someone eager to see iconic landmarks in one go, this trip has the potential to become a memorable part of your UK adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: