From London: Stonehenge & The Stone Circles of Avebury Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of walking among ancient stones and imagining the lives of those who built them, this guided day trip from London might tick some boxes. It’s a well-rated experience, offering visits to Stonehenge, Avebury, the West Kennet Long Barrow, and a charming medieval village—perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike. While we haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a compelling picture.

What we like about this tour is its blend of breathtaking sights and expert storytelling. The small group size (maximum 19 people) promises a more intimate experience, and the guides seem to excel at making history come alive with their knowledge and engaging manner. Plus, the balance of free exploration time and guided segments offers flexibility, so you can soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

A potential consideration is the long day of travel—it’s about 10 hours, which can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to bus excursions. Also, note that the coach temperature can be warm, and seating might feel a little cramped if you’re tall. That said, the comfort and convenience of round-trip transportation from London make it a good value for the sights covered.

This tour is best suited for history lovers, archaeology enthusiasts, and those curious about Britain’s ancient past. It’s also a great option for travelers who prefer guided tours with a knowledgeable guide to unpack the significance of each site. If you enjoy flexible sightseeing combined with expert commentary, this trip fits the bill.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: With a cap of 19 participants, expect a more personal experience and easier interaction with your guide.
• Expert Guides: Reviews consistently praise guides like Nick, who are knowledgeable, entertaining, and passionate about these sites.
• Flexible Exploration: Ample free time at each stop allows you to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace.
• Historic Sites: Visitors get to see the world’s largest stone circle at Avebury, the iconic Stonehenge, and an ancient burial site—West Kennet Long Barrow.
• Transport & Convenience: Round-trip luxury coach from London makes the journey comfortable and hassle-free.
• Value for Money: Entrance to Stonehenge, guided walks, and visits to multiple sites make this a comprehensive day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Off: From London to Wiltshire

The tour kicks off early, with a meeting point conveniently located across from Earls Court underground station at 9:00 AM. The coach, described as a luxury vehicle, promises a comfortable ride through the countryside—perfect for settling in with a coffee and some anticipation. Expect about a 2-hour drive to Wiltshire, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and get into the vibe of the ancient landscapes.

Traveling in a small group means less time spent waiting and more time enjoying each stop, and the reviews highlight how the guides keep the journey lively with stories and interesting facts from the start. The driver’s role is also appreciated; many reviews mention safe, smooth driving, which is essential after a long day on the road.

Avebury: The Largest Stone Circle in the World

First stop: Avebury, a site often overshadowed by Stonehenge but arguably more impressive in its scale. The village is medieval and charming, ringed by the largest stone circle on Earth—about 4,500 years old. You’ll get a guided walk around the site, with time to explore independently afterward.

One traveler emphasized the significance of getting off the bus for the West Kennet Long Barrow—which is older than Stonehenge and deeply atmospheric. Entering this dark, ancient tomb was described as an incredible experience, and guides are said to bring the history vividly to life. The site also features the famous Red Lion Pub, inside the stone circle, with some paranormal activity reports from visitors, adding a fun ghostly twist for those interested.

West Kennet Long Barrow: A Neolithic Tomb

Walking up to West Kennet Long Barrow, you’ll enter one of Britain’s largest Neolithic burial chambers. Your guide will take you inside, making the experience more immersive. The dark, atmospheric space allows you to connect physically with the past, and many find it more compelling than just viewing from afar.

Based on reviews, this site is a highlight—worth getting off the bus for. It’s a tangible link to the people who lived over 4,000 years ago, and the guide’s storytelling here elevates the visit beyond just looking at stones.

The Iconic Stonehenge: The Final Stop

The crown jewel of the trip is Stonehenge. You’ll arrive with enough time to explore the site at your leisure, equipped with an audio guide to deepen your understanding. While some might find the crowds and commercial aspects a bit overwhelming, the spectacular presence of these stones still makes a strong impression.

Travelers often appreciate the balance of guided info and free time; you can wander, take photos, or sit quietly contemplating the mysteries of this prehistoric monument. Reviews highlight that the site feels more meaningful when you understand its history—something the included audio guide enhances.

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Additional Sites & Details

Some tours include extra spots like Sillbury Hill or Woodhenge, which add to the experience of Neolithic Britain. The reviews mention how the guide sometimes offers additional insights and sites, making the day more enriching.

Food & Refreshments

While the tour fee covers transportation, entrance fees, and guided walks, food isn’t included. Fortunately, both Avebury and Stonehenge have food options, and some reviews note that hot beverages and meals are available on-site. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or buy lunch during the stops—many found the timing adequate, but those wanting a leisurely meal might want to pre-arrange or reserve a spot at the pub in Avebury.

The Overall Value

At around 10 hours, this isn’t a short trip, but the combination of expert guides, all entrance fees, and transportation makes it a solid package. Many reviews praise the tour for being well-organized, with breaks that help keep everyone comfortable. The small-group aspect also adds to the overall experience, removing the chaos of large coach tours.

Some travelers mention the coach being warm and a little cramped if you’re tall, so packing a light layer or a small cushion might help. Still, the overall comfort level is appreciated, especially considering the price point.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are largely positive, especially praising the guides—Nick, Sophie, and Michel receive glowing compliments for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness. Several mention how the guide’s storytelling made the sites much more engaging, transforming a sightseeing trip into a memorable learning experience.

For example, one traveler noted, “our Guide Nick was AMAZING! such a good person, funny and entertaining,” highlighting that guides can make or break the day. Others appreciated the flexibility, with some having extra time at sites or enjoying unexpected stops.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a detailed journey through some of Britain’s most fascinating ancient sites. It hits the right notes for many travelers who want an organized, educational, and comfortable experience, with enough free time to absorb the atmosphere and take photos.

While a long day, the pace is generally well-managed, and the small-group setting helps create a more personal vibe. For those with a curiosity about prehistoric Britain or a love of archaeological sites, this trip provides a well-rounded, rewarding experience.

If you enjoy guided tours that combine storytelling with sightseeing, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s especially suited to those into archaeology, history, or ancient monuments. The small group size ensures a friendly, engaging atmosphere, and the mix of guided walks and free exploration lets you tailor the visit to your interests.

It’s also a good pick if you want to visit multiple sites without the hassle of organizing transport or entrance tickets. However, be prepared for a full day of travel and walking—comfort is key and some patience for the long hours.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation by a luxury coach from London, making the journey comfortable and hassle-free.

What’s the meeting point? You’ll meet across from Earls Court underground station (Warwick Road exit) at 9:00 AM, at bus stop C.

How much time do I get at each site? The tour generally offers about 2 hours at Avebury, West Kennet Long Barrow, and Stonehenge, with some flexibility depending on the day.

Are food and drinks included? No, food and drinks are not included. Both sites have options for hot beverages and meals, so bringing snacks or planning lunch is advised.

Are there any extra sites visited? Some tours include additional stops like Woodhenge or Sillbury Hill, depending on weather and time constraints.

Is this tour suitable for kids? The review data doesn’t specify, but given the sites’ nature, older children and teenagers interested in history will likely enjoy it, though the day is quite long.

What should I wear? Wear comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing, as you’ll be outdoors at each site. The coach can be warm, but the sites might be cooler.

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

Is there any special access to the sites? Entrance is included, and some sites like Stonehenge offer audio guides for a richer experience. Access to some sites like Silbury Hill is limited, but the guide offers additional insights.

This tour stands out for its combination of historic sites, expert guides, and the convenience of round-trip transport. Whether you’re a seasoned archaeology buff or just curious about Britain’s ancient past, it’s a solid way to spend a day outside London—rich in history, scenic views, and memorable stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: