Stonehenge Inner Circle and Windsor Open Top Bus Tour

Exploring Windsor and Stonehenge in One Day: A Practical Tour Review

If you’re looking to combine a taste of royal history with ancient mystery, this tour from London offers a well-balanced day out. For $205.66 per person, you get approximately nine hours of sightseeing, including private access to the inner circle of Stonehenge and a lively exploration of Windsor’s top sights. The tour departs from central London and promises a smooth, informative experience with some options to customize your day—whether via open-top bus in Windsor or a traditional afternoon tea bus tour.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances luxury transportation — with a comfortable, air-conditioned coach — and the intimate access to one of the most iconic prehistoric monuments. Both guides and drivers seem genuinely passionate, and their local insights help bring these historic sites alive. On the downside, the full-day journey involves a fairly long bus ride, which might be tiring for some. But if you’re eager to see both sites in one go, this tour makes it easy to tick both off your list without the hassle of separate tickets or multiple trips.

This tour works best for history buffs, photography lovers, or anyone craving a quick but comprehensive visit to two of England’s most famous landmarks. It’s also perfect for travelers who value guided commentary and the chance to walk inside the inner circle of Stonehenge—a rare opportunity that many reviews highlight as a highlight.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines Windsor and Stonehenge in a single day, saving time and effort.
• Exclusive Access: Offers private entry into the Inner Circle at Stonehenge, an experience most visitors never see.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel is by luxury air-conditioned coach, with a small group size maxing out at 53 travelers.
• Flexible Windsor Options: Choose between an open-top bus tour or an afternoon tea experience in Windsor.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with fascinating stories, making history engaging.
• Long Day, But Worthwhile: Expect a full day of travel and sightseeing, suitable for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and long bus rides.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Standing at the intersection of ancient past and regal present, this tour offers a compelling mix of sights. It begins in central London at Bulleid Way, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers—typically a small group, which helps create a more personal feel. The journey starts with a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the English countryside as you leave the city behind.

Windsor: The Royal Town with Options

Your first stop is Windsor, a town famous for its castle and royal connections. Here, you can opt for a lively open-top bus tour or a more leisurely afternoon tea bus journey. The open-top bus provides a scenic overview of Windsor’s charming streets, historic buildings, and royal landmarks, making it fun and informative. Multiple reviews emphasize the value of this, noting guides like Pauley and others provided insightful commentary, adding depth to the experience.

Some travelers appreciate the free time to wander independently after the guided tour, perhaps exploring Windsor Castle’s exterior or browsing local shops. The optional afternoon tea, on the other hand, offers a quintessentially British treat—scones, clotted cream, and tea—adding a touch of elegance to your day.

Journey to Stonehenge: The Highlight

Leaving Windsor, your coach heads toward Wiltshire for the main event—Stonehenge. The drive is about an hour and forty-five minutes, so expect some time on the bus. Many reviews praise the driver and guide for making the trip enjoyable with stories and local insights. When you arrive, you are granted private access to the Inner Circle, a rare privilege that elevates this tour above the usual “look from behind a fence” experience.

As you walk among the massive stones, you’ll feel a sense of awe. One reviewer described walking barefoot in the stones as “a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” highlighting how close and immersive this visit is. Your guide inside, often a knowledgeable archeologist or expert, will explain the history, theories, and mysteries surrounding these 5,000-year-old stones, helping you appreciate their significance beyond just their impressive size.

You’ll also see features like the Heel Stone and Slaughter Stone, adding context to your visit. The fact that fewer crowds tend to be present during the last tour of the day—allowing for peaceful exploration—is another highlight, as confirmed by reviews noting that they were surprised to be the only group there.

The Final Hours: A Little More Mystique

After wandering among the stones, you’ll return to your coach for the trip back to London, arriving around 10 or 11 p.m.—a late but rewarding day. The tour’s schedule maximizes your time at each site, but keep in mind it is quite full, and some may find it long. Travelers have praised the value of this seamless experience, especially the inner circle access, which is often the main reason they choose this tour.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The ticket includes private viewing of Stonehenge with access into the Inner Circle, transportation, and a friendly guide. Bonus perks include a discount on guidebooks, which many find handy for later reading. You also have the option to add Windsor options—either a sightseeing open-top bus tour or an afternoon tea.

Not included are gratuities and meals unless specified, so plan your own snacks or meals accordingly. A few reviews mention the meals during the tour, with some praising the deliciousness of the included lunch, while others skipped it for their own sandwiches or sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive day trip with expert guidance, especially those eager to stand inside the Inner Circle of Stonehenge—an experience most visitors only dream about. The small group size, comfortable coach, and optional Windsor experiences make it ideal for those who appreciate flexibility and local insights. If you’re on a tighter budget or prefer a leisurely pace, this might be a long day, but most reviews agree it’s well worth the effort.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare chance to walk among the ancient stones of Stonehenge’s Inner Circle, combined with a charming visit to Windsor, a town steeped in royal tradition. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary create a day that feels both special and manageable, especially given how packed the schedule is.

While the lengthy bus ride might challenge some, the overall value—the access, comfort, and depth of experience—is hard to beat. It’s particularly suited for those who want to maximize their time in England without sacrificing authenticity or educational value.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply someone curious about these iconic sites, this tour packs a lot into one day—making your trip to England both memorable and meaningful.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, the tour is designed for those with a moderate fitness level. You should be comfortable walking and standing, especially during the visits to Windsor and the inner circle of Stonehenge.

Can I choose different options for Windsor?
Yes, you can opt for a Windsor open-top bus tour or an afternoon tea bus experience, depending on your preferences.

What time does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is at Bulleid Way, London, with pick-up 15 minutes before departure. The tour returns to Kensington around 10 p.m., possibly later in July and August.

Is the inner circle access included?
Absolutely. This is a key feature of the tour, offering an exclusive chance to walk among the stones—a highlight most reviews praise.

How long is the trip to Stonehenge from London?
It’s approximately an hour and 45 minutes each way by coach, giving you ample time to enjoy the sites upon arrival.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included unless specified, though there may be options for lunch or refreshments at the sites or nearby.

How many people are typically on this tour?
The maximum group size is 53 travelers, which helps foster a friendly, less crowded atmosphere.

What are the main highlights according to reviews?
Most reviews emphasize the inner circle access at Stonehenge and the engaging, knowledgeable guides as the biggest draws.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Yes, the group size and guided nature make it suitable for solo travelers who enjoy meeting like-minded people.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers an authentic, well-rounded day exploring some of England’s most iconic sites, with special touches that make it stand out. Whether you’re there for the history, the scenery, or the experience of walking among the stones, it’s a trip most will look back on with fond memories.