How to Get from London to Stonehenge: Train, Bus, Car & Tour Options

Visiting Stonehenge, the iconic prehistoric monument, is a must-do for many travellers to England. While located in Wiltshire, a fair distance from the bustling capital, getting there from London is straightforward with several convenient options catering to different budgets and travel styles.

Whether you prefer the ease of an organised tour, the flexibility of driving yourself, or the adventure of public transport, this guide will help you plan your journey to the mystical stones. Each method offers a unique experience, allowing you to choose the perfect way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Organised Tours: The Easiest Option

For many, an organised tour is the most hassle-free way to visit Stonehenge. These tours typically include transportation from London, admission tickets, and often a knowledgeable guide who can enrich your experience with historical context and intriguing facts.

Types of Tours

• Half-Day Tours:These focus solely on Stonehenge, providing direct transport and sufficient time to explore the stones and the visitor centre before returning to London. They are ideal if you have limited time.
• Full-Day Combination Tours:Many tours combine Stonehenge with other popular destinations in the south of England. Common pairings include the historic city of Bath, famous for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture, or the charming university city of Oxford. Some extended tours might even venture into The Cotswolds or include a stop at sites like Warwick Castle, though these are less common for a direct Stonehenge focus.
• Sunrise/Sunset Tours:For a truly magical experience, some operators offer special access tours outside regular opening hours, allowing you to witness the stones bathed in the soft light of dawn or dusk. These often require early bookings.

Pros and Cons of Organised Tours

• Pros:Convenience (no navigation, pre-booked tickets), expert guides, often include other attractions, comfortable transport.
• Cons:Less flexibility in schedule, can be more expensive than public transport, set itineraries.

Tip:When booking a tour, check what's included in the price. Some tours cover entrance fees to Stonehenge and other attractions, while others require you to purchase them separately.

Train and Bus: A Flexible Public Transport Approach

If you prefer a more independent journey using public transport, a combination of train and bus is a popular and efficient method. This option gives you more control over your schedule and allows for potential stops in other towns.

Step 1: Train from London to Salisbury

The most direct train route departs from London Waterloo station. South Western Railway operates frequent services to Salisbury. The journey is scenic, passing through charming English countryside, and typically takes around 1 hour 30 minutes.

Step 2: Bus from Salisbury to Stonehenge

Upon arrival at Salisbury train station, you can connect to the dedicated Stonehenge Tour Bus. This hop-on hop-off bus service runs regularly from Salisbury city centre and the train station directly to the Stonehenge Visitor Centre. The bus journey itself takes approximately 30-40 minutes.

Pros and Cons of Train and Bus

• Pros:Flexibility to explore Salisbury, scenic train ride, avoids driving, generally reliable.
• Cons:Involves multiple transfers, can be time-consuming depending on connections, bus tickets are an additional cost.

Fun Fact:Salisbury Cathedral, located in the charming city of Salisbury, boasts the tallest church spire in the UK and houses one of the four original copies of the Magna Carta.

Driving to Stonehenge: Maximum Freedom

Renting a car offers the ultimate freedom to explore at your own pace and combine your visit to Stonehenge with other nearby attractions or a wider road trip across England.

The Route from London

The drive from London to Stonehenge typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. The most common route involves taking the M3 motorway southwest out of London, then connecting to the A303, which leads directly to the Stonehenge site. The A303 can get busy, especially during peak holiday seasons.

Parking at Stonehenge

There is a designated car park at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre. Parking is included with your admission ticket. If you haven't pre-booked tickets, you may need to pay for parking upon arrival, which is then refunded if you purchase tickets on-site.

Combining with Other Destinations

Driving allows you to easily extend your trip. You could combine Stonehenge with a visit to Bath, explore the stunning coastline of South Dorset, or embark on a longer journey through Devon and Cornwall.

Pros and Cons of Driving

• Pros:Complete flexibility, ability to visit multiple sites, comfortable for families or groups.
• Cons:Dealing with traffic (especially leaving London), navigating unfamiliar roads, left-hand driving for international visitors, parking fees (if not pre-booked), fuel costs.

Bus (Coach) Services: Budget-Friendly Travel

Long-distance coach services offer a generally more economical way to travel from London to the vicinity of Stonehenge. While less frequent than trains, they provide a comfortable and direct option for budget-conscious travellers.

From London Victoria Coach Station

National Express operates services from London Victoria Coach Station to Salisbury. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. From Salisbury, you would then transfer to the Stonehenge Tour Bus, as detailed in the "Train and Bus" section.

Pros and Cons of Coach Travel

• Pros:Often the most affordable option, comfortable seating, no need to navigate or drive.
• Cons:Longer journey times compared to train or car, less frequent services, still requires a transfer in Salisbury.

Essential Tips for Visiting Stonehenge

• Book Tickets in Advance:Stonehenge is a popular attraction, and tickets, especially for timed entry slots, can sell out. Booking online well in advance is highly recommended to guarantee admission and often comes with a slight discount.
• Check the Weather:The site is exposed, so dress appropriately for the weather. English weather can be unpredictable, so layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes are advisable, regardless of the season.
• Visitor Centre Experience:Don't just see the stones! The modern visitor centre offers fascinating exhibitions, a 360-degree virtual experience, and reconstructed Neolithic houses, providing valuable context to your visit.
• Accessibility:The site is generally accessible, with pathways leading to the stones. The visitor centre also provides facilities for those with mobility challenges.
• Best Time to Visit:To avoid the largest crowds, aim to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.

Conclusion

No matter which method you choose, a trip to Stonehenge promises to be a memorable experience. From the convenience of an organised tour to the independence of driving or the charm of public transport, each option offers a unique pathway to this ancient wonder. Plan your journey carefully, consider your budget and time constraints, and prepare to be captivated by the enduring mystery of the stones.