Stonehenge, Avebury & Sacred Sites Private Day Tour

Experience the Best of Salisbury and Wiltshire’s Sacred Sites with a Private Guide

This 8-hour private tour from Salisbury offers an engaging journey through some of the most iconic prehistoric monuments in England. Priced at $333.23 per person, the tour is designed for those keen to explore Stonehenge, Avebury, and other historic sites with the comfort of a knowledgeable guide and included entrance tickets. Starting from Salisbury, the tour features visits to Durrington Walls, Woodhenge, and the Old Sarum, culminating in a guided exploration of Stonehenge.

The tour also takes you into the scenic landscapes of Wiltshire and the South Cotswolds, with ample opportunities to enjoy photo stops, relax at traditional country pubs, and absorb the local atmosphere. With group discounts and a mobile ticket option, this tour suits visitors seeking a personalized experience in a comfortable setting. Its availability is highly requested, typically booked 60 days in advance, making it a popular choice for those planning ahead.

Key Points

• Price: $333.23 per person for an 8-hour private experience
• Includes: Entrance tickets to Stonehenge, air-conditioned transport, expert guides in English and Italian
• Highlights: Visits to Salisbury Cathedral, Old Sarum, Durrington Walls, Woodhenge, the White Horse at Alton Barnes, and the Avebury Stone Circle
• Special Feature: Guided tour of Stonehenge with a driver-guide
• Not Included: Meals, but plenty of opportunities for lunch or drinks at local pubs during the trip
• Flexibility: Pickup offered, with private group participation and a flexible cancellation policy

Salisbury: The Starting Point for the Journey

This tour begins in Salisbury, a historic city renowned for its tallest spire in the UK. Visitors will appreciate the 45-minute stop here, with free admission, to admire Salisbury Cathedral from the outside. This cathedral is a major highlight, and the stop provides an excellent introduction to the area’s medieval architecture and history.

From Salisbury, the journey continues smoothly through the Woodford Valley along the River Avon, setting a peaceful tone for the day ahead. The local guide shares insights on Salisbury’s history, including its connection to the Magna Carta and King John, as the tour passes by Old Sarum—a notable historical site that offers a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

Exploring Durrington Walls and Woodhenge: Neolithic Marvels

The tour’s next stops include Durrington Walls and Woodhenge, both Neolithic sites with free admission. At Durrington Walls, visitors encounter an ancient Neolithic site, where they can learn about the people who built these impressive earthworks thousands of years ago. The site is a key part of understanding the context of Stonehenge.

Woodhenge offers a similar glimpse into prehistoric life, with its Neolithic origins still visible today. The guide explains the significance of these sites, which are often less crowded than Stonehenge but equally important to understanding prehistoric Britain. Each stop lasts about 30 minutes, allowing enough time for photos and brief explanations.

The Iconic Stonehenge: Guided Tour Included

A major highlight of this tour is the guided visit to Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The entrance tickets are included, and the guided tour lasts approximately 2 hours, led by your driver-guide. The walk around the stones provides insights into their construction, purpose, and the mysteries that surround them.

While the admission is not included in the ticket price, the tour ensures you experience Stonehenge with expert commentary, making it more meaningful. The tour is carefully timed to balance the visit with other sites, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of this legendary monument, which remains one of the most sophisticated stone circles in the world.

Visiting the White Horse at Alton Barnes

A quick 10-minute stop at the Alton Barnes White Horse allows for a photo opportunity of one of Wiltshire’s landscape chalk designs. Dating back to the 1600s, this hill figure is a distinctive feature of the local scenery and offers a picturesque backdrop for photos.

This landscape chalk figure is a subtle but charming addition to the tour, providing travelers with a glimpse into historic landscape art and local traditions. It also serves as a brief breather before heading to the next major site.

The Magnificent Avebury Stone Circle and Local Pubs

The tour’s highlight is the Avebury Stone Circle, a Neolithic henge monument that contains three large stone circles. With a 2-hour stop here, visitors can walk among the stones, enjoy the scenic surroundings, and explore the site’s impressive scale. The site also features a cafe or local pub, perfect for enjoying lunch or a drink (lunch costs not included), with plenty of options to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

Along With sightseeing, there is a gift shop on-site to browse for souvenirs, making the stop both enjoyable and practical. The Avebury complex offers an authentic experience of prehistoric Britain away from the more crowded attractions.

Scenic Drive Through Wiltshire and South Cotswolds

Throughout the tour, the vehicle travels through the beautiful Wiltshire countryside and into the South Cotswolds, with several photo stops along the way. The drive showcases rural landscapes, historic villages, and iconic countryside views, providing a relaxed pace for sightseeing and photography.

This scenic aspect of the tour appeals to those who appreciate picturesque landscapes and want an overview of rural southern England’s natural beauty. The comfortable air-conditioned vehicle ensures a smooth journey, while the local guides provide context at each stop.

Practical Details and Booking Considerations

The meeting point is in Salisbury, with the end point returning to the same location. The tour operates daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM between May 1, 2025, and June 10, 2026. Because it’s a private experience, only your group participates, which offers a personalized touch.

Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour is popular and typically booked about 60 days ahead. The price includes admission tickets to Stonehenge and a knowledgeable guide in English and Italian. The tour does not include meals, but guests have ample opportunities to enjoy lunch or drinks during the stops.

The tour is accessible for travelers with moderate physical fitness, though some walking and standing are involved. Service animals are allowed, adding convenience for travelers with pets.

Why This Tour Stands Out from Similar Experiences

Compared to other options, this private day tour combines comprehensive sightseeing with the benefit of included entrance tickets—especially for Stonehenge, a major cost-saving. The guided tour of the stones enriches the experience, turning a simple visit into a meaningful exploration.

The stops at Durrington Walls, Woodhenge, and Alton Barnes White Horse provide unique insights into Neolithic Britain that aren’t always included in larger group tours. The ample time at Avebury allows for a relaxed exploration of one of the world’s largest stone circles.

Final Thoughts on the Salisbury Sacred Sites Tour

This private tour offers a well-balanced combination of historic sites, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights. Its focus on Neolithic monuments and medieval Salisbury makes it ideal for history enthusiasts and photography lovers alike.

The expert guidance and included Stonehenge entrance tickets add significant value, while the flexible itinerary allows for a comfortable pace. The price point reflects the personalized nature of the experience, making it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a thorough and intimate exploration of Wiltshire’s sacred sites.

Travelers who appreciate well-organized tours with local insights and beautiful scenery will find this tour highly satisfying. It suits those with moderate physical fitness who want to avoid large crowds and enjoy a private, informative day immersed in history and landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the entrance to Stonehenge included in the tour price?
Yes, Stonehenge entrance tickets are included in the price, ensuring direct access to the site.

What stops are included in this tour?
Stops include Salisbury, Durrington Walls, Woodhenge, Old Sarum (pass by), Stonehenge, Alton Barnes White Horse, and Avebury Stone Circle.

How long is the guided tour at each site?
The Stonehenge guided tour lasts about 2 hours, with other stops ranging from 10 to 30 minutes.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, meals are not included, but there are plenty of options for lunch or drinks during the stops at local pubs or cafes.

What language options are available for guides?
Guides are available in English and Italian.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour has a free cancellation policy, which allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.