Stonehenge and The Stone Circles of Avebury Day Trip from London

Traveling to England and craving a glimpse into its prehistoric past? This tour promises a full day out exploring some of the most iconic stone circles and monuments, all just a short journey from London. While we haven’t taken this trip ourselves, its glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-organized way to connect with the country’s Neolithic roots without the hassle of driving or planning.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines visits to Stonehenge and Avebury—two sites that couldn’t be more different yet equally fascinating. Plus, the inclusion of West Kennet Long Barrow adds an inside look into ancient burial practices. That said, one thing to consider is the length of the day—at around 10 hours, it’s quite full and involves some walking, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels and a keen interest in history.

This trip is ideal for history buffs, curious travelers wanting a more personal experience of these famous sites, or anyone who prefers guided tours that handle logistics smoothly. If you’re after an easy, informative day in the countryside with plenty of time to explore, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• All entrance fees are included, so no surprises or extra costs once you’re on the tour.
• Small group size (max 25 travelers) means more personalized attention and a less crowded experience.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned coach with USB charging makes the long day easier.
• Expert guides offer engaging commentary, making the sites come alive with stories and insights.
• Flexible exploration time at each stop lets you wander and absorb the atmosphere.
• Weather considerations: the visit to West Kennet Long Barrow might be affected by bad weather, as it involves walking uphill.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Dawn to Dusk

Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup

You’ll meet bright and early at Earl’s Court Station (Stop C) around 8:30 am. The bus will be ready and waiting, air-conditioned, with USB ports for your gadgets—important for those long travel days. A comfortable ride out into the Wiltshire countryside kickstarts your day, with guides providing commentary along the way.

First Stop: Stonehenge (Approx. 2 hours)

Your first major destination is Stonehenge, that world-famous prehistoric stone circle. Once you arrive, you’ll have about two hours to explore at your own pace, walking around the stones, taking photos, and visiting the exhibition. The allure of this site is undeniable—standing among its massive stones, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe.

Reviews highlight that you get plenty of time here, which is a huge plus. One traveler mentioned, “Stonehenge was truly magical,” and many appreciated the freedom to explore without feeling rushed. The included entrance ticket means you won’t need to pay extra, and the quiet moments to reflect are a gift in a usually crowded tourist spot.

Second Stop: Avebury Stone Circle (Approx. 2 hours)

Next, you’ll visit Avebury, the largest stone circle in the world. Unlike the tightly cordoned-off Stonehenge, Avebury feels more lived-in—built into a charming village, complete with a Neolithic henge. You’ll get a guided tour upon arrival, offering background on the site’s purpose and history. Afterwards, you’re free to wander independently, soaking in the scenery or exploring the village’s quaint shops and pubs.

Multiple reviews mention the peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere and the personal touch guides bring. One traveler said, “Enjoyed every minute at the sites, and Michel’s guided tour was very enjoyable,” emphasizing how the guides add depth to the experience.

Third Stop: West Kennet Long Barrow (Approx. 45 minutes)

After lunch, your group will walk uphill to West Kennet Long Barrow, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial tomb. Inside, you can step into this ancient chamber and get a sense of early burial customs. The site isn’t suitable for wheelchairs, and weather can influence accessibility. Still, many guests find this visit particularly meaningful—walking through one of the oldest man-made structures in Britain.

Reviews praise the guide Michel for sharing engaging stories about the site, with one noting “the mini-conjuring session” and the awe of experiencing such an ancient monument firsthand.

Additional Highlights: Silbury Hill & The Countryside

While not part of the core stops, the tour often includes glimpses of Silbury Hill from the valley, and you’ll enjoy the scenery of the Wiltshire landscape—field after field of wildflowers, thatched cottages, and peaceful countryside.

Return Journey

Your day wraps up with a smooth, timely journey back to Earl’s Court in London, arriving roughly around 6:30-7 pm. Most reviews mention how well-paced and organized the trip is, with drivers navigating traffic efficiently and guides ensuring everyone feels cared for.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

The reviews paint a generally glowing picture. Many appreciate the knowledgeable guides—a recurring theme is how guides like Michel, Richard, Colin, and others bring history to life with storytelling and enthusiasm. Several mention the comfortable, well-equipped coach, which makes all the difference on a 10-hour day.

One review captures the essence: “The sites were wonderful to see, and the tour was run very well—an easy, comfortable way to get to these ancient sites,” which sums up what many think: this is a hassle-free, educational experience.

Naturally, no trip is perfect. One reviewer mentioned a flat tire early in the day, leading to a delay, which is a reminder that unforeseen issues can happen. Still, they appreciated how the tour managed to keep the day enjoyable despite the hiccup.

Pricing at $156.99 per person offers solid value considering all entrance fees, transportation, and guided commentary. Travelers seem to agree the experience is worth the price, especially when you factor in the convenience and depth of insight provided.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, guided day out without the stress of planning transport and tickets. It suits curious travelers with a medium level of physical fitness, as walking is involved, especially uphill at West Kennet Long Barrow. History enthusiasts, especially those interested in prehistoric Britain, will find the guided stories and site visits particularly enriching.

It’s also well-suited for small groups, creating a more intimate atmosphere that allows for questions and personal interaction. If you’re after a straightforward, reliable way to see iconic Neolithic monuments and learn about their significance, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, your round-trip transportation from Earl’s Court is included, and the coach is air-conditioned with USB ports for charging devices.

Do I need to worry about entrance fees?
No, all entrance fees are included in the price, so you won’t need to pay extra at any site.

How long is the day?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending around 6:30-7 pm.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, the moderate walking and interest level suggest it’s suitable for older children or teens with an interest in history. It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues, especially at West Kennet Long Barrow.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 25 travelers, which helps keep things personal and manageable.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Bad weather may affect the visit to West Kennet Long Barrow because of walking uphill, and guides will advise on the day. Be prepared for possible delays or adjustments.

Can I customize this tour?
The itinerary is set, but guides offer engaging commentary, and you might find some flexibility during free exploration times.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-organized, informative way to connect with Britain’s ancient past, this tour from London offers a lot. The combination of Stonehenge, Avebury, and West Kennet Long Barrow covers a wide spectrum of Neolithic history, and the small group format ensures a more personal experience.

While it’s a full day and involves some walking, the comfort of the coach and the expertise of guides make it manageable and worthwhile. This tour is especially recommended for anyone wanting a hassle-free way to see these iconic sites, learn their stories, and enjoy the scenic countryside.

Whether you’re a history lover, a curious traveler, or simply want to tick off some truly unique sights, this trip provides a rewarding window into the ancient world right outside London.