Private Access to Stonehenge & Windsor Open Top Bus Tour

Exploring the best of Windsor and Stonehenge in one day offers a fascinating blend of royal history and ancient mystery. This tour, provided by Golden Tours, promises a comfortable, informative experience with exclusive access to the inner circle of Stonehenge — a rare opportunity most visitors only dream of.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to enjoy private access to Stonehenge’s inner circle makes it stand out. Second, the open-top bus tour of Windsor offers sightseeing with a real sense of fun and freedom. Lastly, the expert guides provide engaging stories and insights that bring these iconic sites to life.

A possible drawback? The long 12-hour day might feel a bit intense for those who prefer more relaxed, shorter trips. Still, for those eager to maximize their sightseeing and explore historic sites, it’s a well-paced and rewarding journey.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an immersive, hassle-free day exploring two of England’s most famous landmarks without needing to organize transportation or tickets themselves. It’s especially suited for history buffs, photography lovers, and anyone wanting a deep dive into England’s royal and prehistoric past.

Key Points

Private Inner Circle Access: A rare opportunity to stand among the stones and capture photos without the usual crowds.
Windsor’s Royal Charm: An open-top bus tour of Windsor’s key sights, including Windsor Castle and Eton College, with expert commentary.
Comfortable Transport: Round-trip luxury coach from London ensures a smooth, relaxing ride.
Flexible Free Time: Post-tour leisure in Windsor, with options to explore or relax at your own pace.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides who weave stories and facts into the experience, making history engaging.
Optimal for a Full Day: The itinerary balances sightseeing, learning, and free time within a 12-hour window.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Departure

The tour begins at the Golden Tours Bus Stop 1, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London, where you’ll meet around 15 minutes early. With a departure around 12 pm (or 10 am in March 2026), you’ll settle into a modern, clean, and comfortable coach for your day of exploration.

Windsor: A Royal Town with Charm and History

Upon arrival in Windsor, the open-top bus takes you on a scenic ride through this historic town. You’ll pass Windsor Castle, the Queen’s official residence that’s been a royal stronghold for over 1,000 years. The guide shares stories about Windsor’s royal connections and highlights hidden gems, providing a layered understanding of this charming place.

Other sights include Holy Trinity Church, where many royal figures are buried, and Eton College, one of the most prestigious schools in the world. Reviewers praised the guide’s engaging storytelling — one noted, “The guide’s commentary made Windsor’s streets come alive, and I loved the mix of famous landmarks and lesser-known stories.”

After the bus tour, you’ll have free time to stroll down the Long Walk, a stunning avenue leading to Windsor Castle, perfect for photos and soaking in the regal atmosphere. The cobbled streets are lined with shops, cafés, and pubs — great spots to enjoy lunch or a quick coffee.

Transition to Stonehenge: Mysteries and Magnificence

Post lunch, you’ll board the coach again for the roughly 2-hour drive to Stonehenge. This part of the journey offers a chance to settle in and anticipate the awe-inspiring sight ahead.

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Inside the Inner Circle of Stonehenge

The highlight of this tour is the private access to the inner circle — a rare privilege that allows you to stand among the towering stones and capture incredible photos without the usual crowds. Only a limited number of visitors are allowed inside at a time, giving you a more intimate and less hurried experience.

Guided by an expert, you’ll learn about the theories surrounding Stonehenge’s construction, its origins in the Neolithic period, and its astronomical significance. Reviewers have appreciated the depth of knowledge shared by guides, with one noting, “Standing inside the stones felt like touching history, and the guide’s explanations helped me understand the mystery behind them.”

The atmosphere here is almost mystical, especially with fewer visitors making the experience quieter and more contemplative. You might find that this close encounter deepens your appreciation for the monument’s ingenuity and enduring enigma.

Return Journey and End of the Day

After spending ample time at Stonehenge, the coach makes its way back to London, arriving at Gloucester Road Underground Station around 9:30 pm (or 7:45 pm in March 2026). The day wraps up with a comfortable ride, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Transportation and Comfort

The journey is on a modern, air-conditioned coach, which is a major plus after a long day of sightseeing. The vehicles are maintained to high standards and kept clean daily, ensuring a pleasant ride. While Wi-Fi is available on most days, some peak periods may require traveling without it.

Group Size and Guide Expertise

Though the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest the tour operates with a knowledgeable live guide in English, who makes efforts to keep the group engaged. The guide’s storytelling and insights are widely praised, adding personal touches that make the history more relatable.

Duration and Flexibility

With approximately 12 hours, the tour is a full-day commitment but offers a good balance between sightseeing and free time. The flexible pickup and drop-off points, along with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, add a layer of convenience.

Price and Value

While the cost isn’t mentioned explicitly, the inclusion of private access to Stonehenge, a guided Windsor tour, and round-trip transportation makes it a valuable package. It’s especially beneficial for travelers who prefer an all-inclusive, stress-free experience rather than buying tickets separately or organizing transport on their own.

What We Appreciated Most

• The rare opportunity to step inside the inner circle of Stonehenge — easily the most memorable part.
• The engaging commentary that brought Windsor and Stonehenge’s stories to life.
• The scenic, open-top bus providing fresh air and fantastic views, especially in good weather.
• The leisurely free time allowing exploration and relaxation in Windsor after the tour.

Things to Keep in Mind

This tour isn’t suited for children under 5, or those with mobility impairments or wheelchair needs. Also, a 12-hour day means lots of walking and standing, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a must.

Summary: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day experience is ideal for travelers seeking a well-organized, hassle-free way to visit two of England’s most famous sites. If you’re a history enthusiast, photography lover, or someone keen to see the mysteries of Stonehenge up close, this tour offers exceptional value.

It’s perfect if you want to avoid the logistics of booking separate tickets or navigating public transport. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or shorter trips, the long hours might be less appealing.

This tour balances comfort, education, and adventure, making it a standout choice for anyone eager to explore Windsor and Stonehenge in a single, memorable day.

FAQ

Is there a specific meeting point for the tour?
Yes, the tour starts at Golden Tours Bus Stop 1, Bulleid Way, Victoria, London. It’s recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes early.

What time does the tour begin and end?
In April to September 2025, it starts around 12 pm (meeting at 11:45 am) and returns by approximately 9:30 pm. In March 2026, it starts earlier at around 10 am and ends around 7:45 pm based on the schedule.

Do I need to bring any special items?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for a comfortable experience and capturing memories.

What does the tour include?
It includes round-trip transportation, a private visit inside Stonehenge’s inner circle, and the Windsor open-top bus tour with expert commentary. Meals and drinks are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 5, and those with mobility issues or in wheelchairs should consider that the tour involves walking and standing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.

What happens if I want an vegetarian or special meal during the trip?
You can request special menus (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Halal) by emailing [email protected] at least 48 hours before your tour.

Will Wi-Fi be available during the coach ride?
Most vehicles are equipped with Wi-Fi, but during peak periods, some may not, so it’s good to plan accordingly.

In the end, this tour offers an engaging, expertly guided day exploring Windsor’s regal charm and the awe-inspiring stones of Stonehenge with special access. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to experience these iconic sites comfortably and meaningfully.

You can check availability for your dates here: