Stonehenge From London: How to Get There & Best Transport Options [2023 Edition]

Looking to take a day trip to Stonehenge from London?

Stonehenge is one of the most iconic prehistoric monuments in the world, located in Wiltshire, England. The mysterious standing stones have captivated people’s imaginations for centuries, and visitors from all over the globe come to witness this ancient marvel.

As one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Stonehenge is not only a unique and fascinating historical monument, but also a symbol of Britain’s rich cultural heritage.

In this article, we will explore all of the options and the best routes to the iconic landmark, including car, train and bus routes from London to Stonehenge, and discover the fascinating history and mystery surrounding this remarkable Neolithic structure.

So, let’s dive in and explore the wonder and intrigue of Stonehenge from London.

Planning your trip? Use my favorite resources!

🏨 Accommodation: I recommend Booking.com
✈️ Flights: for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner
🚗 Rental Car: I recommend Discover Cars
🛡️ Travel Insurance: for the best deals I rely on SafetyWing

Stonehenge Essentials Checklist:

An excellent pair of walking shoes (for all that walking)
A hoodie or warm sweater (to stay warm and keep the wind at bay)
A decent raincoat (it rains a lot here)
A good quality compact camera (for taking great pics)

Stonehenge From London: How to Get There

My complete guide to the quickest and most convenient way to get to Stonehenge, plus the best day trips to Stonehenge From London, and more.

London to Stonehenge distance

The distance from London to Stonehenge is approximately 85 miles (137km). The driving time between the two locations is approximately 1 hour and 31 minutes, depending on the traffic and the specific route taken. The train takes 1 hour 25 mins, while the bus takes around 3 hours.

How To Get From London To Stonehenge – Tours, Trains, Bus And Car

If you’re dreaming of venturing from London to the captivating realm of Stonehenge, fear not! There are several transportation options to Stonehenge from London available to you. I will go through the most popular and convenient options below:

By Train: For a seamless and convenient adventure, hop on a train departing from London Waterloo station bound for Salisbury. Once you arrive in Salisbury, a short local bus or taxi ride of approximately 9 miles will take you to Stonehenge.
By Bus: If you prefer a relaxed and scenic voyage, consider taking a bus from London directly to Stonehenge. The Stonehenge Tour bus sets off from London Victoria Coach Station and, after approximately 2 hours of travel, unveils the captivating landscape that surrounds the monument.
By Car: For those seeking the freedom to set their own pace, renting a car offers the perfect opportunity to explore the countryside on your terms. Set off from London and embark on a picturesque 2-hour drive to Stonehenge, where ample parking awaits.
By Tour: If you want a guided experience that combines transportation, admission, and insightful commentary, a guided tour from London to Stonehenge is the answer. Choose from a plethora of tours that cater to diverse preferences and interests.
By Private Transfer: If you’d prefer a tailor-made adventure, a private transfer offers unparalleled flexibility and personalization. Arrange a private transfer service from London to Stonehenge, allowing you to dictate your own schedule and indulge in a customized exploration of this ancient wonder.

London to Stonehenge Map

How to travel from London to Stonehenge by train

>> ⏱️ 🚂💨 Journey time: 1 hour 25 minutes <<

Taking the journey from the heart of London to Stonehenge by train is an effortless experience. Here’s your guide to traveling from London to Stonehenge by train:

London Waterloo Station: Begin at London Waterloo station. This bustling hub will be your starting point for the train journey to Stonehenge. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable expedition into the mysteries of the past.

Book Your Train Tickets: To ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip, it’s best to book your train tickets in advance. You can purchase them online here or buy them at the station on the day of your travel. Planning ahead guarantees peace of mind and allows you to secure the best fares.

Travel to Salisbury: Board one of the regular trains departing from London Waterloo station to Salisbury. The journey takes around an hour and 30 minutes, offering you a chance to relax and soak in the scenic countryside views.

Stonehenge From London: How to Get There & Best Transport Options [2023 Edition] 2

Reach Stonehenge: Upon arriving at Salisbury train station, it’s time to make the final leg of your journey to Stonehenge. From the train station, you can take a local bus or a taxi to reach Stonehenge, situated just 9 miles away. Look out for the Stonehenge Tour bus, which operates regularly, providing a convenient transportation option to the Stonehenge site.

➤ Book your train tickets to Stonehenge here

➤ Further reading: For all the best day trips from the capital, check out my guide: Unforgettable day trips from London.

How to travel from London to Stonehenge by bus

>> ⏱️ 🚌💨 Journey time: approx. 3 hours <<

If you’re looking to travel from London to Stonehenge by bus, you’ll find it to be a convenient and affordable option. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the journey:

London Victoria Coach Station: Begin your trip at the London Victoria Coach Station. This is where the Stonehenge Tour bus departs from.

Book Your Bus Tickets: To ensure a smooth travel experience, it’s advisable to book your bus tickets in advance. You can easily purchase them online here or through the official Stonehenge Tour website, or buy them at the station on the day of your travel. Booking in advance guarantees availability and allows you to secure your preferred departure time.

Take the Stonehenge Tour Bus: Board the Stonehenge Tour bus at London Victoria Coach Station. The bus journey from London to Stonehenge usually takes around 2 hours, providing you with ample time to enjoy the scenic route and anticipate the wonders that await you.

Arrive at Stonehenge: Once you reach Stonehenge, you can disembark from the bus and begin your exploration of this captivating UNESCO World Heritage site.

➤ Book your bus tickets to Stonehenge here

How to travel from Salisbury to Stonehenge by bus

>> ⏱️ 🚌💨 Journey time: 21 minutes <<

If you’re planning to travel from Salisbury to Stonehenge by bus, you’ll find it to be a convenient and straightforward option. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the journey:

Stonehenge From London: How to Get There & Best Transport Options [2023 Edition] 3

Salisbury Bus Station: Begin your trip at the Salisbury bus station, where you can catch a bus that will take you straight to Stonehenge.

Purchase Your Bus Tickets: You have the option to buy your bus tickets at the station on the day of your travel, or, you can purchase them in advance online for added convenience.

Take the Stonehenge Tour Bus: The Stonehenge Tour bus operates regularly from Salisbury bus station to the Stonehenge site. Hop on the bus, and enjoy a scenic journey as you make your way to this iconic ancient monument. The bus ride takes around 30 minutes.

Arrive at Stonehenge: Once you reach Stonehenge, you can disembark from the bus and start your exploration of this fascinating monument.

🚄 Price to travel from London to Stonehenge by public transport

The cost of traveling from London to Stonehenge by public transport can vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose:

Train: A round-trip train ticket typically costs around £30-£50 per person, depending on factors such as the time of day and how far in advance you book. Bear in mind that this price covers the train journey only, and additional costs may apply for transportation from Salisbury to Stonehenge.
Bus: The price for taking the Stonehenge Tour bus, which includes transportation and admission to the site, is typically around £55-£60 per person. This option provides a convenient and hassle-free way to reach Stonehenge directly.
Coach: Another option is to take a National Express coach from London Victoria Coach Station to Salisbury. Coach tickets start at around £15 per person each way. Similarly to the train option, additional costs may apply for transportation from Salisbury to Stonehenge.

How to travel from London to Stonehenge by car

>> ⏱️ 🚗💨 Journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes <<

When traveling from London to Stonehenge by car, you have the freedom and flexibility to enjoy the journey at your own pace. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do it:

Rent a car: If you don’t have your own car, you can rent one from London here. I always use Discover Cars for the best deals and reliable service. There are several options available, ranging from small economy cars to larger vehicles suitable for groups or families.

Stonehenge From London: How to Get There & Best Transport Options [2023 Edition] 4

Plan your route: The most direct route from London to Stonehenge is via the A303 road. However, it’s always a good idea to use Google Maps or a traditional map to plan your specific route based on your starting point in London.

Pay for parking: Once you arrive at Stonehenge, you’ll need to park your car. Stonehenge has its own parking facilities, and the cost of parking varies depending on the time of year. Generally, parking fees range from £5 to £15 per vehicle. Be prepared to pay with cash or card. Want free parking? Read my guide on how to park near Stonehenge for free AND get close to the monument for free.

Explore the site: After parking your car, you can enjoy exploring Stonehenge and its surroundings.

➤ Book your rental car here

🅿️ Parking at Stonehenge

When visiting Stonehenge by car, there are parking facilities available on-site to accommodate visitors. Here’s my complete guide to parking at Stonehenge:

Car park location: The Stonehenge car park is conveniently situated just off the A303 road, a short walk from the visitor center. It provides easy access to the monument and the surrounding areas.

Parking fees: The cost of parking at the Stonehenge car park varies depending on the time of year and the duration of your stay. As of 2023, the parking fees were £5 for up to 2 hours, £10 for up to 3 hours, and £15 for more than 3 hours. These prices are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the latest rates before your visit. Alternatively, you can park for free by parking on Fargo Road and then walking across the field to the monument, or park up on the dirt track close to the Stonehenge visitor center.

Payment methods: Payment for parking can be made at the machines located in the car park. They accept both cash and credit/debit card payments.

Accessibility: Stonehenge offers designated parking spaces for disabled visitors near the visitor center. If you require accessibility accommodations, it is recommended to contact Stonehenge in advance to make any necessary arrangements and ensure a smooth visit.

Security: The Stonehenge car park is equipped with CCTV monitoring to ensure the safety of vehicles and visitors.

Stonehenge tours from London

There are a variety of luxury and affordable tours to Stonehenge from London available, ranging from group tours to private tours. Here are the most popular options:

Multi-stop Stonehenge tours from London

📍 Stonehenge, Bath, and the Cotswolds: This tour offers a comprehensive experience by combining visits to Stonehenge, the historic city of Bath, known for its Roman baths and stunning Georgian architecture, and the picturesque Cotswolds region with its charming villages and scenic landscapes.

📍 Stonehenge, Salisbury Cathedral, and Avebury Stone Circle: This tailored tour takes you to not only Stonehenge but also Salisbury Cathedral, which houses the Magna Carta, one of the most significant historical documents. Additionally, you’ll visit the Avebury Stone Circle, another intriguing prehistoric stone circle in the area.

📍 Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Oxford: This tour provides an opportunity to explore three iconic destinations. Alongside Stonehenge, you’ll visit Windsor Castle, the residence of the British royal family, and the historic city of Oxford, famous for its prestigious university and stunning architecture.

📍 Stonehenge, Glastonbury, Avebury and the Cheddar Gorge: This tour offers a unique combination by including visits to Stonehenge, the mystical town of Glastonbury associated with Arthurian legends and the Holy Grail, and the breathtaking Cheddar Gorge, known for its limestone cliffs and ancient caves.

Private tours from London to Stonehenge

Private tours offer a more personalized experience and the ability to customize the itinerary to your interests. They also typically include transportation in a luxury vehicle and a private guide. Use the widget below to book a private tour.

Stonehenge sunrise tours from London

For a unique experience, consider a sunrise or sunset tour of Stonehenge. These tours offer the opportunity to experience the site at the most magical times of day, outside of regular opening hours. These tours are usually more expensive than daytime tours, but well worth it for the unforgettable experience.

➤ Stonehenge sunset tours from London

Stonehenge inner circle access tours from London

For a truly exclusive experience, consider an inner circle access tour. These tours offer the opportunity to enter the stone circle and get up close.

➤ Stonehenge summer solstice tours from London

🏨 Where to Stay near Stonehenge:

Below are my best recommendations on where to stay near Stonehenge:

📍$ Best Budget option: Guest Room in Salisbury (quadruple room, private bathroom)

📍$$$ Best Luxury option: The Stones Hotel Amesbury (Deluxe double room)

Stonehenge from London FAQs:

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about traveling to Stonehenge from London:

How to get Stonehenge from London?

Stonehenge can be reached from London by various modes of transportation including train, bus, or car. Train services from London Waterloo to Salisbury are available, followed by a local bus to Stonehenge. Buses and organized tours from London are also popular options.

Can you do a day trip to Stonehenge from London?

Day trips to Stonehenge from London are common and convenient. Many tour operators offer day trips that include transportation, admission to Stonehenge, and often visits to other nearby attractions such as Bath or Windsor Castle.

Is there a direct train from London to Stonehenge?

There is no direct train from London to Stonehenge. The closest train station to Stonehenge is Salisbury, from where you can take a local bus or join a guided tour to reach the monument.

How much is the train from London to Stonehenge?

The train ticket price from London to Stonehenge varies depending on factors such as time of travel and how far in advance you book. As of the information available, the round-trip train ticket cost from London Waterloo Station to Salisbury ranges from £30 to £50 per person.

Is Stonehenge a full day?

Stonehenge can be explored within a few hours, but many visitors choose to spend additional time at the site, including visiting the visitor center and exploring the surrounding landscapes. Depending on your interests, you can make it a full-day experience or combine it with visits to other nearby attractions.

Is it worth paying to see Stonehenge?

Stonehenge is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a globally renowned ancient monument. While opinions may vary, for many people, the historical and cultural significance, along with the unique atmosphere, make it worth paying to see and experience Stonehenge firsthand.

What is the best time to visit Stonehenge?

Stonehenge can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit depends on personal preferences. Some visitors prefer the solstice events in June and December, while others enjoy the quieter months. To avoid crowds, it’s advisable to visit early in the day or during off-peak seasons.

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Conclusion: London to Stonehenge

Visiting Stonehenge from London is an experience unlike any other. The enigmatic and awe-inspiring monument is a testament to the ancient world and the people who created it. From witnessing the solstices to learning about the history and mystery surrounding the structure, there is something for everyone at Stonehenge.

Whether you choose to take a tour or plan your own trip, visiting Stonehenge is a journey back in time that will stay with you forever. So, if you’re looking to explore the best of Britain’s cultural heritage, make sure to add Stonehenge to your list of must-visit destinations.

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