Exploring Stonehenge: A Bus Journey From London

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument located in Wiltshire, about 87 to 90 miles from Central London. While there are multiple ways to get from London to Stonehenge, this paragraph will focus on the time taken to get there by bus.

The journey from London to Stonehenge by bus takes between 2 and 4 hours. There are direct buses from Central London to Stonehenge, which include entrance tickets and transportation with Wi-Fi. Alternatively, you can take a combination of train and bus by travelling from Waterloo Station to Salisbury and then taking a bus to Stonehenge. This option takes around 2 hours in total.

Direct bus from Central London

A direct bus from Central London to Stonehenge is the fastest and cheapest way to get to the ancient site. The journey takes between 2 and 4 hours, and you can book with various operators, including Golden Tours and National Express. Buses depart daily in the morning and afternoon from Victoria Coach Station, and you can expect amenities like Wi-Fi, USB charging, and audio guides.

The price of a direct bus ticket varies depending on the operator, but they typically include entrance tickets to Stonehenge and transportation. For example, Golden Tours offers a guided tour package with transportation to and from Stonehenge, site entrance, an expert guide, and onboard amenities for a single price.

If you're looking for the most budget-friendly option, National Express offers tickets as low as £8, but keep in mind that this doesn't include the cost of Stonehenge entrance.

While a direct bus is convenient, it's worth noting that some operators make a stop in Salisbury, which is about 9 miles from Stonehenge. From Salisbury, you'll need to take the Stonehenge Tour bus to the site. This bus is operated by a private company, and tickets can include stops at nearby attractions like Old Sarum and Salisbury Cathedral.

Overall, taking a direct bus from Central London to Stonehenge is a comfortable and affordable option, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey to this mystical site.

Combination of train and bus

If you want to travel from London to Stonehenge by train, you will need to go to Salisbury first as it is the closest train station to Stonehenge, and then take the tour bus to the stones. Trains depart from London Waterloo to Salisbury on the South Western Railway line every 30-40 minutes from around 6:30 a.m. until 11:40 p.m. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the return journey starts at around 5:15 a.m. and the last train back to London generally leaves Salisbury at around 10:25 p.m. The price of a super off-peak day return ticket is £34.60.

From Salisbury, you can take the Stonehenge Tour Bus, operated by the Salisbury Reds, which offers commentary in 10 different languages. It is the only bus service that runs from Salisbury to Stonehenge. The timetable changes depending on the season. During the summer, the first bus leaves Salisbury Rail Station at 9:30 a.m. and the last bus leaves at 5 p.m. On the return journey, the first bus leaves at 10:13 a.m. and the last bus leaves at 7 p.m. The bus ticket allows you to get on and off at Salisbury New Canal and Old Sarum. The price for an adult ticket is £15, and £10 for a child. The journey takes 30-40 minutes.

Therefore, the total journey time for the combination of train and bus from London to Stonehenge is between 2 hours and 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Travel time: 2-4 hours

Taking the bus from London to Stonehenge is a great option for those who want to avoid the stress of planning their journey and would rather sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery. The journey by bus from London to Stonehenge takes between 2 and 4 hours, depending on traffic and the number of stops along the way. Here is some more detailed information to help you plan your trip:

Bus Options

There are a few different bus options to choose from when travelling from London to Stonehenge. You can opt for a direct bus from Central London, which includes entrance tickets to Stonehenge and is the fastest way to get there. These buses depart daily in the morning and afternoon from Victoria Coach Station. Alternatively, you can take a combination of trains and buses, with a train from Waterloo Station to Salisbury and then a bus to Stonehenge. This option may be more flexible in terms of timing but will involve a change of transportation.

Travel Time

The travel time from London to Stonehenge by bus can vary depending on a few factors. If you opt for the direct bus from Central London, the journey will take around 2 hours. However, if you choose to take the train and bus option, the total travel time will be closer to 3-4 hours. The train from Waterloo Station to Salisbury takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, and then the bus from Salisbury to Stonehenge takes an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Advantages of Taking the Bus

Taking the bus to Stonehenge offers several advantages. Firstly, it is a convenient and comfortable way to travel, especially if you choose a direct bus. Secondly, some bus tours include entrance tickets to Stonehenge and provide informative commentary during the journey, enhancing your overall experience. Additionally, taking the bus can be a more affordable option compared to driving or taking a train, as you won't have to pay for car rental, congestion charges, or expensive train tickets.

Planning Your Journey

When planning your journey, it is important to consider the time of day and day of the week you will be travelling. London can experience heavy traffic during rush hour, so allow for extra travel time if you are departing or arriving at busy times. Additionally, the A303, which is the main road to Stonehenge, can be congested with tourists, commuters, and lorries, so be prepared for potential delays. It is also worth checking the timetable for the Stonehenge tour bus, as it changes depending on the season, with later start times and earlier end times during the winter months.

Tour buses from London

London is a city steeped in history and culture, and one of the best ways to explore it is by taking a tour bus. Whether you're a history buff interested in ancient monuments or a fan of modern attractions, there's a bus tour in London that's perfect for you. Here are some of the most popular options:

Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Tours

London offers several hop-on, hop-off bus tours that allow you to explore the city at your own pace. These tours typically have multiple routes covering different areas of the city, and you can hop off at various attractions, landmarks, and popular neighbourhoods. Some popular hop-on, hop-off bus tour providers in London include:

• Big Bus Tours: They offer 24-, 48-, and 72-hour tickets, with routes covering iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, and St. Paul's Cathedral. The ticket also includes a Thames River cruise and three guided walking tours.
• Golden Tours: With Golden Tours, you can explore London with a 24-hour hop-on, hop-off pass. Their routes include stops at Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, and more. The pass also includes a free Royal London or The Beatles walking tour, a Thames River cruise, and an optional KidZania entry ticket.
• Tootbus: Tootbus provides an extensive hop-on, hop-off experience with three main sightseeing routes, a free Thames River cruise pass, three free walking tours, and an exclusive Kids' Club. Their routes cover popular attractions like Shakespeare's Globe and Westminster Abbey.

Night Bus Tours

For a different perspective on London, consider taking a night bus tour. These tours typically showcase the city's landmarks illuminated in the evening sky, creating a magical atmosphere. Some popular night bus tour options include:

• London by Night Open Top Bus Tour: This 90-minute tour departs from Waterloo and takes you through Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Big Ben, and other illuminated attractions. It's a great way to see London after dark and costs £27 for adults and £15 for children.
• London by Night Sightseeing Tour: This tour offers a similar experience, taking you through the city's highlights such as Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. You'll learn interesting facts and tips from an expert guide during this 90-minute tour.

Themed Bus Tours

London also offers various themed bus tours that cater to specific interests:

• US Landmarks Tour of London: This eight-hour tour takes you past landmarks with historic American connections, such as pop star Madonna's former home and the Abraham Lincoln Statue. It's a unique way to explore the city through a different cultural lens.
• Bustronome Afternoon Tea Bus Tour: Combine sightseeing with a luxury dining experience on the Bustronome bus. Enjoy lunch or dinner on the top deck while learning about London's landmarks through an interactive map. It's a unique way to indulge in both food and history.
• Taylor's Version London Afternoon Tea Bus: This themed bus tour is inspired by Taylor Swift, offering a curated playlist and a range of sweet and savoury treats. It's a fun way to enjoy London's sights while indulging in a spot of tea and treats.
• The Ghost Bus Tours: For something a little spookier, climb aboard a classic 1960s Routemaster bus and uncover London's grisly history. This comedic tour takes you to sites of murder, torture, and execution, revealing the ghosts of London's past.

Day Trips from London

If you're looking to explore beyond London's borders, consider taking a day trip to nearby destinations:

• Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath: This popular day trip takes you to Stonehenge, the mysterious rock formations in Salisbury. You'll also visit Windsor Castle, home to the British royal family, and the historic town of Bath, known for its Georgian architecture and Roman baths.
• Oxford: Take a break from London and explore the historic city of Oxford. Admire the unique architecture, visit famous film locations like Harry Potter sites, and enjoy various free museums and libraries.
• The Cotswolds: Escape to the charming countryside and explore quaint villages, winding country lanes, and remote outposts. It's a great way to experience the beauty of rural England.

London offers a wide range of tour bus options, allowing you to customise your sightseeing experience according to your interests and preferences. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a foodie, or a night owl, there's a bus tour that will show you the best of London and its surroundings.

The Stonehenge Tour bus

The timetable for the Stonehenge Tour Bus changes depending on the season. During the summer, the first bus leaves Salisbury Rail Station at 9:30 am and the last bus leaves at 5 pm. On the return journey, the first bus leaves Stonehenge at 10:13 am and the last bus leaves at 7 pm. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes.

Tickets and Prices

Adult tickets cost £15 and child tickets are £10.

Getting to Salisbury

To get to Salisbury from London, you can take a train from London Waterloo to Salisbury on the South Western Railway line. Trains run every 30-40 minutes from around 6:30 am, with the last train from London to Salisbury leaving at 11:40 pm. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from London Victoria Coach Station to Ringwood, and then change to the X3 bus to Salisbury. There are around 4 coaches running throughout the day, every 3-4 hours.

Other Options

There are also organised coach tours available from London that include a visit to Stonehenge, as well as other nearby sites such as Windsor Castle, Bath, and Oxford. These tours typically cost between £50-£65 per person and include entry to Stonehenge and transport with audio guides and commentary.

The total journey time from London to Stonehenge, including the bus or train from Salisbury, is around 2-4 hours.

Frequently asked questions