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Episode 153 Guide to visiting Stonehenge
In episode 153 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug share everything you need to plan a smooth and memorable visit to Stonehenge. From how to get there from London or Bath to choosing the best tours and tickets, they cover all the essentials. Hear their first-hand advice on what to expect on arrival, how to make the most of your visit, and why dressing for the unpredictable British weather is key.
They also compare Stonehenge with the nearby Avebury stone circle, explore whether you can see both in a day, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions from travellers. If Stonehenge is on your UK itinerary, this episode is packed with practical tips and insights to help you plan with confidence.
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Book a tour to Stonehenge with the English Bus
Other tour and ticket options
| TICKET/TOUR | BUY HERE | INFO |
|---|---|---|
| Stonehenge Entrance Ticket | CLICK TO BUY | Skip the line |
| Private Driver Guided Tour with Discover Real London | CLICK FOR INFO | Travel in a London black cab |
| Private Driver Guided Tour with My Tailored Tours | CLICK FOR INFO | Beat the crowds + tour guide |
| From London: Stonehenge Express Half-Day Tour | CLICK FOR INFO | Perfect for those with limited time |
| Stonehenge Special Access – Evening Tour from London | CLICK FOR INFO | Access the inner circle |
| From London: Stonehenge Inner Circle & Windsor Day Trip | CLICK FOR INFO | Exclusive access to the stones + visit to Windsor |
| English Heritage Attractions Pass | CLICK FOR INFO | Exclusive to overseas visitors |
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Episode 153 Notes
What you’ll learn in this episode
- 🗿 Discover why Stonehenge is one of the world’s most iconic and mysterious landmarks, from its prehistoric origins to its UNESCO World Heritage status
- 🌅 Learn about the remarkable solstice alignments and the immense effort it took to transport the enormous stones from as far as Wales—over 150 miles away!
- 🚗🚆 Get expert tips on the best ways to reach Stonehenge—by car, train, guided tour, or from popular cities like London and Bath (including detailed pros and cons for each)
- 🚌 Hear practical advice about using the Stonehenge Tour Bus from Salisbury and what to do with your luggage if you’re visiting en route
- 🏛️ Uncover what to expect on arrival: from the modern visitor centre—with its museum, Neolithic houses, cafe, and gift shop—to the shuttle or scenic walk to the stones
- 🦮 Understand visitor rules: where you can roam, whether you can touch the stones, and access tips for special “inner circle” tours
- 🌦️ Get essential weather and packing tips—learn why it’s vital to dress for the famously changeable English weather, regardless of the season
- 🕑 Find out how much time to allow for your visit, with tried-and-tested itineraries that maximise your experience without feeling rushed
- 🏞️ Compare Stonehenge to Avebury—another impressive stone circle nearby where, unlike at Stonehenge, you can touch the stones and walk amongst them (sheep and all!)
- 👀 Decide if Stonehenge is “worth it”: hear personal stories and listener feedback on why it’s a must-see, plus strategies for avoiding crowds
- 🎟️ Get clarity on ticketing, including why booking ahead is smart, parking options, and special entry if you’re an English Heritage or National Trust member
- 💡 Finish with top insider tips: from visiting the museum first for context to the best ways to combine Stonehenge with Bath, Salisbury, or Avebury for an unforgettable day out
UK places, foods and words/concepts mentioned
Places
- Stonehenge – prehistoric stone circle, UNESCO World Heritage Site in Wiltshire, southern England
- Wiltshire – a county in southern England, location of Stonehenge
- Marlborough Downs – a region in Wiltshire, source of Stonehenge’s sarsen stones
- Wales – a country in the UK; source of Stonehenge’s bluestones (about 150 miles away)
- Avebury – a village in Wiltshire, home to another famous prehistoric stone circle
- Salisbury – a city in Wiltshire, the nearest mainline train station to Stonehenge
- Bath – a historic city in Somerset
- London Waterloo – major train station in London
- Marlborough – area near the source of Stonehenge’s large sarsen stones
- Victoria (London Victoria) – major train station and meeting point for some tours to Stonehenge
- Windsor – a historic town with a royal castle
- Winchester – a city in Hampshire
- Exeter – city in Devon,
- Portsmouth – a coastal city in southern England
- Old Sarum – a historic site near Salisbury
- Neolithic Houses – reconstructed homes at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre
- The Heel Stone – a notable stone at Stonehenge, close to the public path
Words / Concepts
- UNESCO World Heritage Site – international designation of global cultural significance (as given to Stonehenge)
- Sarsen stones – large sandstone blocks used in Stonehenge, from Marlborough Downs
- Bluestones – smaller stones at Stonehenge, transported from Wales
- Summer Solstice/Winter Solstice – key dates (21 June and 21 December) when the stones align with the sun
- Visitor Centre – the main facility serving Stonehenge, located 1.5 miles from the stones
- Shuttle bus – transport between the Stonehenge Visitor Centre and the monument itself
- Inner Circle Access – special tour option permitting entry inside the main ring of stones
- English Heritage – an organisation managing Stonehenge
- National Trust – an organisation involved in the stewardship of the Stonehenge site
- Avebury Stone Circles – a prehistoric monument, larger area than Stonehenge, with free access to the stones
- Day trip – term used for visiting Stonehenge from cities like London or Bath
- National Rail – (implied by discussion of trains and railway stations)
- Guide/Guided Tour – concept of visiting Stonehenge with an expert
- Gift shop – retail facility at the visitor centre
- Muddy path/plastic mesh – description of the walking surfaces at Stonehenge
- Special (private) tours – reference to tailored, small-group or private travel options
- Weather preparation – importance of dressing appropriately for outdoor visits
- Audio guide/headphones – available option for self-guided interpretation
- Luggage storage – practical consideration for visiting Stonehenge during travel days
- No drones/no dogs (except guide dogs) – important site rules
- Free entry for English Heritage/National Trust members – benefit mentioned for certain visitors
- School/public holidays – identified as busy periods for visiting Stonehenge
Related content on UK Travel Planning and London Travel Planning
Podcasts
- Episode #109 – Day Tours with The English Bus: From London to Stonehenge, Bath & more
- Episode 104 – From Stonehenge to Canterbury & Beyond with Tailored Tours
- Episode 139 – Exploring Bath and Beyond: Unique Tours and Tips with Daniel Hancock
Articles
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