From Bath: Stonehenge, Avebury & The Cotswolds (Small Group)

This small group tour from Bath offers a balanced mix of history, stunning scenery, and quintessential English villages. For 9 hours, travelers explore Stonehenge, Avebury, Lacock, and Castle Combe, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive day trip with intimate group settings and expert guiding. The tour departs early from the Abbey Hotel in Bath, ensuring plenty of time at each stop, with a small group size that enhances the experience. With a 4.8 out of 5 rating based on four reviews, the tour earns praise for its well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides, making it a popular choice among visitors.

While the tour’s pacing and inclusion of diverse sites are its main strengths, it’s worth noting that children under seven are not able to participate, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to some uneven cobbled streets and outdoor exploration. For anyone interested in prehistoric monuments and charming villages, this tour offers a well-rounded day with plenty of opportunities for photos, learning, and discovering local stories.

Key Points

• Explore two of Britain’s most famous stone circles: Stonehenge and Avebury.
• Visit the largest stone circle in the world, with free time to touch and walk among the standing stones.
• Enjoy the charm of Lacock, a national Trust village popular for its filming locations.
• See the picture-perfect Cotswold village of Castle Combe, often called the “prettiest village in England.”
• Small group size ensures a personalized experience.
• Tour lasts approximately 9 hours, with return to Bath by early evening.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins at the Abbey Hotel in Bath

The tour departs from the Abbey Hotel promptly at 8:25 am, with check-in available from 8:15 am. The meeting point’s precise location is easy to find, with coordinates provided for convenience. The early start allows for a full day of sightseeing, with plenty of time allocated at each stop for exploration and photos. The tour is designed to maximize the experience while maintaining a relaxed pace, making it suitable for most travelers who enjoy walking and outdoor activities.

Visiting the Iconic Stonehenge

The first major stop on this adventure is Stonehenge, the world-famous prehistoric monument. Visitors have time to walk around the stone circle, getting close to the massive stones that have mystified people for centuries. An award-winning exhibition provides context, myths, legends, and archaeology behind this ancient site. The guide explains the significance of Stonehenge and shares stories that bring the stones to life, providing a deeper understanding of Britain’s most recognizable prehistoric site.

Having ample time here means you can walk the perimeter at your own pace, take photos, and explore the visitor center exhibits. This site’s mystery and grandeur make it a highlight of the day, perfect for history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike.

Avebury: The Largest Stone Circle and Village Inside

Next, the tour moves to Avebury, a remarkable site where a whole village sits within the world’s largest stone circle. The standing stones here are touchable and accessible, offering a rare chance to walk among these prehistoric giants. Visitors can wander freely, touch the stones, and appreciate their extraordinary scale. The village within the circle adds a unique dimension to the experience, blending ancient history with a living community.

There is time to explore and even have lunch in Avebury, giving a relaxed break amidst ancient stones. The combination of archaeological significance and village charm makes Avebury a captivating stop on this route.

Exploring Lacock, a Film Location Favorite

In the afternoon, the tour visits Lacock, a village known for its cobbled streets, medieval cottages, and traditional inns. This National Trust village has served as a filming location for icons like Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, adding to its allure. Visitors can stroll through the streets, capture photos of historic buildings, and enjoy refreshments in a local tearoom.

Lacock’s authentic medieval charm offers a glimpse of rural England, making it a perfect spot for relaxing and absorbing the local atmosphere. The village’s cinematic reputation provides additional interest for fans of film and television.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Idyllic Cotswold Village: Castle Combe

The final stop is Castle Combe, often described as the “prettiest village in England.” Its honey-colored cottages, market cross, and a babbling brook create an idyllic scene straight from a storybook. Here, visitors can soak up the peaceful atmosphere, take photos of the picturesque landscape, and enjoy a leisurely walk.

Castle Combe embodies the charm of the Cotswolds’ traditional architecture and rural beauty. The town provides the perfect ending to the day’s exploration, offering a peaceful conclusion before returning to Bath.

Comfortable Return to Bath by Early Evening

The tour concludes with a return to Bath, arriving in the early evening. This allows travelers to continue exploring the city or relax after a full day of sightseeing. The overall schedule balances sightseeing, walking, and downtime, making it suitable for most visitors who appreciate a well-paced experience.

The Guide and Tour Experience

Guides like Bill are praised for their knowledgeability, clarity, and friendly manner. The small group setting enhances the experience by allowing for more personalized storytelling and the opportunity to ask questions. The timing of stops is thoughtfully managed to ensure each site is enjoyed without feeling rushed.

The tour is designed to be informative yet relaxed, with ample time for exploration at each location. The live English guide ensures a lively and engaging commentary throughout the day.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour not suitable for children under 7 years old and pets, baby strollers, and non-folding wheelchairs are not allowed. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes to navigate uneven surfaces, especially at outdoor sites and cobbled streets. The full-day schedule makes this tour ideal for those comfortable with walking and spending time outdoors.

Why Choose This Tour from Bath?

This Stonehenge, Avebury, and Cotswolds tour offers an excellent combination of impressive prehistoric monuments, charming villages, and scenic landscapes. Its small group format ensures a more personalized experience, guided by knowledgeable hosts who share engaging stories. The balanced itinerary provides a full day of sightseeing with plenty of photo opportunities, cultural insights, and relaxing moments.

For visitors wanting a thorough exploration of Wiltshire’s highlights without the hassle of self-driving, this tour delivers value, comfort, and expert guidance in a well-organized package.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting from early morning and returning to Bath by early evening.

Is there a minimum age for participation?
Yes, children under 7 years old are not able to participate.

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is the Abbey Hotel in Bath, with check-in at 8:15 am and departure at 8:25 am.

Are there any restrictions for accessibility?
Pets, baby strollers, and non-folding wheelchairs are not allowed on this tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to outdoor walking and uneven surfaces at sites like Stonehenge and Avebury.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

This tour from Go Tours UK offers a practical, engaging way to see some of England’s most iconic sites with expert guides, making it a highly recommended choice for those based in Bath.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby