From London: Stonehenge & The Stone Circles of Avebury Tour

Explore the ancient wonders of Wiltshire with this 10-hour guided tour from London that takes you deep into Britain’s prehistoric past. For a reasonable price, you’ll visit Avebury, home to the world’s largest stone circle, and West Kennet Long Barrow, one of Britain’s biggest Neolithic burial chambers, before enjoying ample free time to explore Stonehenge with an audio guide. The tour includes round-trip luxury coach transportation, an expert guide, and entrance fees to Stonehenge, making it a smooth and informative day out. The small group size of up to 19 participants ensures a more personal experience, trusted by many with a high rating of 4.6/5 from 145 reviews.

While the tour offers a comprehensive look at these iconic sites, it does omit meals, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase food at the stops. The timing and pacing generally receive praise, though some reviews note that at certain stops, like Avebury, more time would be appreciated. This trip suits those interested in archaeology, history, or spirituality, and who prefer a guided experience that balances exploration with expert commentary.

Key Points

• Visit Wiltshire’s iconic prehistoric sites, including Avebury, West Kennet Long Barrow, and Stonehenge
• Small-group tour with a maximum of 19 participants for a personalized experience
• Round-trip luxury coach transportation from London, with entrance to Stonehenge included
• Expert guide offers insightful commentary, making history accessible and engaging
• Ample free time at each site, especially at Stonehenge for self-guided exploration
• Tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability

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The Unique Charm of Avebury’s Medieval Village

The tour starts with a visit to Avebury, a medieval village surrounded by the largest stone circle in the world. Unlike Stonehenge’s more iconic stones, Avebury offers an authentic glimpse into ancient Britain, with a landscape that feels both mystical and accessible. The guided walking tour of Avebury provides context on the site’s history and significance, allowing visitors to walk among the stones and absorb the atmosphere.

Many appreciate the opportunity to explore beyond just Stonehenge, noting that Avebury’s less crowded environment offers a more intimate connection with the site. The tour also includes a visit to Red Lion Pub, located within the stone circle, famous for paranormal activity, adding an intriguing layer for those interested in ghost stories or local legends.

Discovering West Kennet Long Barrow’s Ancient Tombs

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to West Kennet Long Barrow, a Neolithic burial chamber that dates back more than 4,000 years. The guide leads visitors into the dark, stone chambers, bringing the site’s history alive through storytelling. It’s notable that West Kennet Long Barrow is one of the largest burial tombs in Britain, offering a rare chance to walk inside and get a sense of the ancient people’s funerary practices.

Travelers often describe the experience as powerful and surreal, especially when entering the burial chambers. This stop is considered a major highlight of the tour, with some reviews emphasizing how entering such a space feels profoundly moving.

Exploring Stonehenge with Flexibility

The final stop, Stonehenge, provides a significant amount of free time for self-guided exploration using an audio guide included in the tour. The site’s expansive landscape and the massive stones are a sight to behold, and the flexibility allows visitors to absorb the atmosphere at their own pace.

The entrance fee to Stonehenge is included in the tour price, making it convenient for visitors. Many reviews praise the well-organized schedule, although some wish for slightly more time at Avebury to explore the village afterward. The audio guide enhances understanding of the stones’ history and mystery, helping to deepen the experience without the need for a lengthy guided narration.

Practical Details of Meeting and Transportation

The tour departs from London at 9:00 AM, meeting across from Earls Court underground station at the Warwick Road exit, specifically at bus stop C in front of the former Earls Court Exhibition Centre (postcode SW5 9TB). The round-trip transportation is provided via luxury coach, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Groups are limited to 19 people, fostering a friendly atmosphere and allowing the guide to dedicate more attention to each participant. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, making it easy to plan further activities in London afterward.

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Guides and Customer Experience

Multiple reviews highlight the expertise and personality of the guides, with Nick, Michel, Hailey, and others receiving praise for their knowledge, engaging storytelling, and friendly demeanor. Notably, some reviews mention that guides like Nick go beyond expectations, offering entertaining and informative commentary that enhances the entire experience.

The small group size is a strong selling point, making the day feel less rushed and more personal. Several reviews also mention the driver’s skill and humor as contributing to a smooth, enjoyable trip.

Additional Site Visits and Highlights

Depending on weather and conditions, the tour sometimes includes additional sites such as Silbury Hill, chalk horses, or burial sites. In cases where access to certain locations like Long Barrow is restricted (e.g., due to flooding), guides offer alternative sites, ensuring the day remains engaging.

Travelers often enjoy the beautiful countryside scenery during the drive, with some noting the charming small villages and thatched roofs encountered along the route. This scenic drive adds a relaxing element to the busy day of sightseeing.

Suitability and Considerations

This tour is most suitable for those interested in archaeology, history, or spirituality, and who prefer a guided experience rather than independent exploration. Although most stops are accessible, some physical activity is involved, such as walking around sites like Avebury and Stonehenge.

Reviews mention that bus temperature can be warm and that the coach’s legroom might be limited for taller travelers. The tour does not include meals, so participants should plan to bring snacks or purchase food at the stops. Weather considerations, such as rain or flooding, may affect access to certain sites, but guides typically provide alternatives.

Overall Value and Experience

With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 145 reviews, this tour offers a well-organized, informative, and engaging day exploring some of Britain’s most famous prehistoric sites. The expert guides and personalized small-group setting stand out as key strengths. The inclusive entrance fee to Stonehenge and comprehensive itinerary make it a good value for those interested in archaeology or wanting a hassle-free day trip from London.

While some may find the duration of the stops slightly tight or wish for more free time at Avebury, the overall consensus is positive. The opportunity to explore West Kennet Long Barrow and Avebury in addition to Stonehenge makes this tour appealing for anyone seeking a deeper connection with Britain’s ancient past.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from London?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting around 9:00 AM and returning to London in the late afternoon or early evening.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour guide, round-trip transportation by luxury coach, entrance to Stonehenge, a guided walk of Avebury, and a visit to West Kennet Long Barrow are included.

Are food and drinks available during the trip?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are hot beverage and food options available at the stops.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a small group of up to 19 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I explore the sites at my own pace?
Yes, especially at Stonehenge, where you have free time with an audio guide. The itinerary also allows some flexibility for exploration.

What guides are available?
Guides are English-speaking and are praised for their knowledge, engagement, and personality, with some reviews highlighting guides like Nick and Michel.

Is there any physical effort required?
Most sites are accessible with walking involved. Some stops, such as West Kennet Long Barrow, involve entering enclosed chambers, which may be dark or uneven.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a small administration fee for amendments made earlier.

How do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is across from Earls Court underground station, at bus stop C in front of the former Earls Court Exhibition Centre (postcode SW5 9TB).

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially for those keen on archaeology or seeking a convenient, well-guided day exploring ancient Britain’s most famous sites.

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