4 Day Tour in Cornwall, Devon and Stonehenge from Bristol

This 4-day tour in Cornwall, Devon, and Stonehenge from Bristol offers a comprehensive journey through some of England’s most breathtaking sights, all for $913.61 per person. With a 5.0/5 rating based on 12 reviews and a recommendation rate of 92%, this tour appeals to those eager to explore natural beauty, historic ruins, and charming towns in a well-organized package. The trip spans approximately four days, with transportation in a top-tier 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, led by a knowledgeable English-speaking driver-guide.

A notable feature of this tour is the inclusion of admission to Tintagel Castle and Stonehenge, both of which are major highlights. The tour is suited for most travelers, with a maximum of 16 guests, but should be avoided by children under 5 years old. Flexibility in stops and the focus on iconic landmarks make this an attractive choice for those wanting a balanced mix of scenery, history, and cultural stops.

Key Points

• Price and duration: Priced at $913.61, this 4-day journey covers a wide array of England’s scenic and historic sites.
• Major highlights: Includes Stonehenge, Tintagel Castle, Durdle Door, and the Minack Theatre (availability dependent).
• Expert guidance: Led by a friendly, knowledgeable driver-guide, who offers flexible commentary and ensures smooth travel.
• Comfort and convenience: Travel occurs in a luxury Mercedes mini-coach, with en-suite accommodation and breakfast included for three nights.
• Ideal for diverse interests: Combines natural landscapes, seaside towns, and legendary sites, perfect for history enthusiasts and scenery lovers alike.

The Tour Starts in Bristol with a Scenic Drive Through Exmoor National Park

The journey kicks off from Redcliffe Way, Bristol, at 8:15 am, with a scenic drive through Exmoor National Park. This park features a mix of moorland, woodland, coast, and rivers, providing a picturesque start to the adventure. The driver-guide maintains a flexible approach, touching base throughout the morning to tailor the experience to the group’s interests.

The first stop, Dunster, is a charming medieval village dominated by a Norman Castle. Visitors have about 45 minutes here for a quick coffee, sightseeing, and wandering the quaint streets. This stop introduces the tour’s focus on historic towns and scenic countryside.

Exploring Tintagel Castle: The Mythical Birthplace of King Arthur

After lunch, the tour visits Tintagel Castle, set on North Cornwall’s cliffs. The 13th-century ruins evoke legends of King Arthur’s origins, sitting high on the rugged coast. Visitors get around 1 hour 30 minutes to explore the site, which includes the castle ruins and spectacular views over the Atlantic.

The admission to Tintagel Castle is included, making this stop both a historical and visual highlight. The site’s dramatic setting and legendary connections make it a favorite among visitors interested in myths and history.

Falmouth and the Coastal Charm of Cornwall

The journey continues to the coastal city of Falmouth, where travelers spend the night. This picturesque harbor town offers a relaxed atmosphere, with opportunities to enjoy local dining and explore the waterfront. The visit here sets the tone for the following days filled with seaside scenery and legendary sites.

Day Two: Discovering St Ives, Land’s End, and the Minack Theatre

The second day begins with a visit to St Ives, a beloved fishing town famous for its cobbled streets, cottages, and sandy beaches. With about 1 hour 30 minutes, visitors can stroll the harbor area, soaking in the coastal charm.

Next is Land’s End, a legendary viewpoint known since ancient Greek times as Belerion, or Place of the Sun. The 15-minute stop here allows for a quick photo of the sweeping cliffs, a must-see for sea lovers.

Lunch may be at the Minack Theatre, an open-air venue perched atop rugged cliffs. Although availability depends on scheduling, this spectacular outdoor theatre offers a unique dining experience with breathtaking ocean views. The 1 hour 30 minutes allocated lets visitors appreciate the theatre’s striking setting, although note that admission is not included.

Later, the group visits Marazion to photograph St Michael’s Mount, a rocky island with a medieval church and castle, reminiscent of Mont Saint-Michel. This 1 hour 15 minutes stop is free to enjoy, offering fantastic photo opportunities of this iconic landscape.

The evening returns to Falmouth for dinner and reflection on the day’s seaside adventures.

Day Three: Exploring Devon’s Historic Towns and Dartmoor’s Rugged Landscape

The third day features Tavistock, a historic market town and the only town in Devon with world heritage status. With around 1 hour 30 minutes, visitors explore its charming streets and history.

From Tavistock, the tour heads into Dartmoor National Park, renowned for its craggy tors, forests, and wetlands. A stop in Widecombe-in-the-Moor offers insight into local folklore, especially the famous Widecombe Fair song. This stop lasts about 1 hour 10 minutes.

The tour continues to Haytor, a striking granite outcrop, before arriving in Exeter for the evening. The city’s historic sites and lively atmosphere provide a perfect end to a day immersed in natural beauty and old England.

Day Four: Coastal Wonders and the Mysteries of Stonehenge

On the final day, the tour begins with Durdle Door, one of Dorset’s most photographed landmarks. The 15-minute stop allows for photographs of this natural limestone arch, famous for its striking backdrop.

The journey then takes visitors to Stonehenge, where admission is included. The monument has stood for around 5,000 years and continues to fascinate with its mysterious origins and legends involving aliens and wizards like Merlin. Visitors spend approximately 3 hours exploring the site, hearing stories, and marveling at these ancient stones.

The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Bristol, arriving at the starting point in the evening. The return journey lasts about 2 hours, offering a comfortable end to a richly packed itinerary.

Logistics, Accommodation, and Group Experience

The tour’s meeting point is at the DoubleTree by Hilton Bristol City Centre, providing easy access via public transport. Accommodation is included for three nights in en-suite rooms with breakfast, typically located just outside town centers, requiring a short walk to local facilities.

Travel is in a luxury Mercedes mini-coach, ensuring comfort during the long drives. The group size is capped at 16 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience. The guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and flexibility, handling unexpected weather challenges effectively, especially noted during Storm Bert.

The Value and Who Will Enjoy This Tour

At $913.61, this tour offers a comprehensive look at iconic England sites, combining natural scenery, historic castles, and legendary landmarks. The inclusion of key admission tickets and overnight accommodations enhances value, though meals and optional attractions like the Minack Theatre are not included.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and cultural experiences without the hassle of self-driving or planning each stop. It suits those with an interest in history, legends, and coastal landscapes, and who appreciate small-group settings for a more personalized touch.

Cornwall, Devon, and Stonehenge: A Journey Through Legends and Landscapes

In four days, this tour manages to pack in some of the most captivating sights in England. From the legendary Tintagel Castle to the prehistoric stones of Stonehenge, the experience offers both visual splendor and storytelling. The scenic drives through Exmoor and Dartmoor showcase varied landscapes, from lush forests to rugged tors.

While the itinerary is well-paced, be prepared for some walking—especially at sites like St Michael’s Mount and Durdle Door—and for potential weather variability, particularly at outdoor stops like the Minack Theatre. The small-group size ensures attentive guides who make the trip engaging and flexible.

This tour provides excellent value, memorable sights, and a chance to see England’s legendary coastlines and historic sites with comfort and expertise. It’s perfect for those wanting a curated experience that covers both natural beauty and fascinating history in a compact timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The admission fees for Tintagel Castle and Stonehenge are included, along with three nights’ en-suite accommodation with breakfast. Transportation is in a luxury Mercedes mini-coach, and you’ll have the services of a driver-guide.

Are meals included?
Meals and refreshments are not included, giving travelers the flexibility to choose their own dining options at each stop.

How long is the tour each day?
Each day involves several stops, with the total duration around 4 days. The longest stop is at Stonehenge, lasting about 3 hours, with other stops ranging from 15 minutes to 1.5 hours.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 years old are not allowed on this tour. The tour is best suited for most adults and older children able to handle some walking and outdoor conditions.

How do I book and what is the cancellation policy?
Bookings are confirmed via the provider, Rabbies Trail Burners, with a non-refundable policy once booked. Changes or cancellations are not permitted, so plan accordingly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for outdoor walking are recommended. Be prepared for variable weather, especially at coastal sites.