When tourists think of England, they often picture Big Ben, the Tower Bridge, and Stonehenge. While locals may dismiss Stonehenge as just “a pile of rocks,” it holds much more importance for visitors, historians, and enthusiasts.
Once you arrive at Stonehenge, you’ll receive an audio guide that helps bring the ancient stones to life. Many people are struck by the site’s majesty and understand why it’s a popular spot during the spring and fall equinoxes.
Getting to Stonehenge is easier with a rental car, as public transport options are limited and can be costly. A rental car offers convenience and may allow you to visit other nearby towns. Rental rates can be as low as £20 per day. If driving isn’t for you, Tourist England offers daily tours from Central London, starting around £41 per person. They also have full-day tours that include Windsor Castle and Bath.
If you’d rather not drive, you can take a train to Salisbury Station and then a 9.5-mile taxi ride to Stonehenge. Direct bus services have been discontinued, so taking an organized tour is the best bus option. It’s a good idea to purchase tickets from the English Heritage website in advance, as there are limited walk-up passes available. The last entry is two hours before closing, and the site is closed from December 24th to 26th. National Trust and English Heritage members get free entry.
Admission prices and opening times vary throughout the year, with adult tickets ranging from £8.70 to £37.70. Once inside, a shuttle will take you from the visitor’s center to Stonehenge, and you’ll have access to a free audio guide available in multiple languages. The visitor’s center is also worth a visit for its historical exhibits.
Most visits last between 90 minutes to 2 hours. A trip to Stonehenge is nicely complemented by visits to Salisbury and Avebury.
Salisbury, located 15 km south of Stonehenge, is a beautiful cathedral town and World Heritage site. It’s an ideal stop on your way from London or Brighton. Highlights include the Salisbury Cathedral and Old Sarum, which has been occupied since 5000 BC.
Avebury, 31 km north of Stonehenge, is another great stop but may be difficult to see along with Salisbury and Stonehenge in one day. In Avebury, you can explore the West Kennet Avenue, a two-kilometer row of stones leading to the Sanctuary on Overton Hill, also worth a visit.
A road trip to Stonehenge offers a quintessential English experience. Renting a car and making a day of it will likely be a highlight of your trip to the UK.
