From London: Stonehenge Inner Circle & Windsor Open Top Bus

Planning a day trip from London that covers two iconic sights—Stonehenge and Windsor—can feel overwhelming, but this tour makes it both manageable and memorable. For around 11.5 to 12 hours, you’ll travel comfortably on a luxury coach, visiting the mystical stones of Stonehenge with exclusive access into the inner circle, and exploring the charming royal town of Windsor.

What we love about this experience is how it offers intimate access to Stonehenge, something few see, and a well-paced tour of Windsor that balances guided sightseeing with free time to explore. The private viewing of Stonehenge means you can stand among the stones without the crowds, and the open-top bus tour of Windsor gives a fantastic overview of the town’s royal and historic highlights.

A potential downside is the long day’s schedule, which might be tiring for those with limited stamina or young children. Also, if you’re hoping for a lot of free time at the sites, the tight itinerary might feel a bit rushed—especially in places like Bath or Lacock.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, photography lovers, and those craving a taste of royal Britain—especially if you want to experience Stonehenge at sunset or inside the stones, which many reviews call a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Key Points

Exclusive Access to the inner circle of Stonehenge offers a rare and unforgettable experience.
Comfortable transportation on a luxury coach keeps the long day relaxed and hassle-free.
Guided commentary enriches your understanding of Windsor’s royal history and significance.
Flexible options include an open-top bus tour or afternoon tea, adding a personalized touch.
Perfect for those seeking authentic experiences with a mix of guided and free exploration.
Long day but well-paced, suitable for most fit travelers comfortable with early mornings and full schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour begins in London, departing from a central location at Bulleid Way. From there, you’ll settle into a luxury, air-conditioned coach that promises a smooth ride through the English countryside. The first major stop is Windsor, a town synonymous with royalty, history, and charm.

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Windsor: A Royal Town with a Rich Past

Once in Windsor, you’ll hop aboard an open-top bus if you’ve chosen that option. This part of the trip is a highlight, offering you a panoramic view of Windsor’s most famous sights. Expect to see Windsor Castle, the Queen’s weekend residence, with its impressive towers and sprawling grounds. Also included are sights like Holy Trinity Church and Eton College, a school that has educated many British leaders.

Throughout this segment, your guide will share stories about Windsor’s royal connections, hidden gems, and local legends. It’s a great way to get a feel for the town’s atmosphere before spending some free time wandering its cobbled streets. Many visitors enjoy strolling down the Long Walk, which offers stunning views of Windsor Castle, or ducking into cozy cafes and shops.

Lunch and Free Time in Windsor

After the guided tour, you’ll have time for a leisurely lunch or a quick snack at one of Windsor’s many eateries. This is your chance to soak up the local vibe, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax with a cup of tea.

The Journey to Stonehenge

Post-lunch, the coach departs Windsor for Wiltshire. As you settle in again, you can look forward to a scenic ride through England’s pastoral landscape, with commentary from your guide about the history and theories surrounding Stonehenge.

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The Private Inner Circle of Stonehenge

Arriving at Stonehenge in the early evening, you’ll have the rare opportunity to visit the inner circle—a privilege most travelers never get. This exclusive access allows you to walk among the massive stones, feeling their weight and imagining what life was like 5,000 years ago. Many reviews emphasize this as the most memorable part of the trip, with travelers describing the experience as “blown away” or “a once-in-a-lifetime moment.”

During your time inside, you can take photographs, soak in the mystical atmosphere, and reflect on the archaeological mystery of how these stones were transported and assembled. The sunset timing, as mentioned by some reviewers, adds an extra layer of magic to the experience.

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Returning to London

After your visit, the coach begins the journey back to London. Due to driver working hours, if your return is after 7:45 pm, you’ll be dropped at Gloucester Road Underground Station, just a short walk from Victoria. This arrangement is practical, but it’s worth noting if you plan to continue your evening in central London.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

Private access into the inner circle of Stonehenge
Windsor Open-Top Bus Tour (if selected)
Return trip on a luxury coach
An expert guide providing insights throughout the day

Not Included:

Entry to the Roman Baths (if you’re hoping to visit Bath, that’s an extra)
Optional meals or drinks, unless specified (though some options for lunch or afternoon tea are available)

The tour’s pricing reflects the special access and guided experience, making it a good value compared to visiting each site independently, especially considering the private inner circle tour.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides—with comments like “Pauly and Aileen were excellent,” and “Dolly knew her history.” The personalized storytelling seems to make the experience richer, and many mention how the guides keep the group engaged and entertained.

The inner circle at Stonehenge is a crowd favorite, with visitors describing it as “incredibly moving” and “a truly special moment.” The sunset visit has been highlighted as particularly memorable, with some reviewers wishing they had more time to linger.

Windsor’s tour receives high marks for covering the main sights thoroughly, with many appreciating the scenic walk along the Long Walk and the chance to explore at leisure afterward. The open-top bus, in particular, is noted for giving a panoramic view of Windsor’s iconic sights.

Some reviewers mention the long day can be taxing, especially if you’re not used to early mornings or back-to-back sightseeing. A few wished for more time in Bath or Lacock, suggesting that the schedule might feel tight for those wanting to linger.

The Value of This Tour

Considering the cost—which includes private access to the inner circle—this tour offers excellent value for those keen on experiencing Stonehenge in a more exclusive way. The transportation on a luxury coach keeps the day comfortable, especially after long drives, and the guided commentary adds depth to what you see.

The option to choose between an open-top bus tour or afternoon tea makes it adaptable for different interests. Families, history lovers, and couples alike will find this trip a good mix of guided insight and free exploration.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that combines iconic sights with exclusive access. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided storytelling and want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport and tickets.

If you’re interested in seeing Stonehenge at sunset or walking among the stones, this tour will meet those desires. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy combined visits—Windsor with its royal charm and Stonehenge’s mystery—offering a balanced dose of history, culture, and scenery.

The Sum Up

This tour from London offers an excellent mix of history, scenery, and comfort. The private visit inside Stonehenge’s inner circle is a standout feature, making it a rare chance to connect with one of the world’s most mysterious monuments. The Windsor portion is lively and informative, perfect for those wanting to soak in royal ambiance without the hassle of planning logistics.

While the day is long, the thoughtful organization and knowledgeable guides help keep it engaging and enjoyable. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value authentic experiences and insider access over hurried sightseeing.

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure with a personal touch and memorable moments, this tour is a worthy choice, especially if you want to combine iconic sights with a touch of luxury and insider access.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most children can handle a day that lasts up to 12 hours, but keep in mind that the day is quite long. The experience of walking among the stones at sunset might be especially magical for older kids interested in history.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private access into the inner circle of Stonehenge, the Windsor open-top bus tour (if selected), round-trip transportation on a luxury coach, and a professional guide.

Can I skip the optional Windsor bus tour or afternoon tea?
Yes, you can choose whether to include these options when booking. The core experience is the private visit to Stonehenge.

How much free time will I have in Windsor?
After the guided tour, you’re free to explore Windsor at your leisure, usually with enough time to walk along the Long Walk, visit shops, or grab a bite.

What happens if the tour is delayed?
The tour schedule is designed to be flexible, but if delays occur, especially on the return trip, you might be dropped off at Gloucester Road Underground Station for convenience.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking, especially at Stonehenge and Windsor, so mobility limitations should be considered. The open-top bus offers good views but does involve some walking.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking among the stones and exploring Windsor. Don’t forget your camera to capture the unforgettable scenery.

In sum, this tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience of two British treasures, with the added bonus of exclusive access at Stonehenge. It balances guided insights with leisure time and scenic views, making it an excellent choice for most travelers looking to deepen their understanding of Britain’s historic sites without the hassle of independent planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: