Stonehenge Inner Circle and Windsor Open Top Bus Tour

Experience the Best of Windsor and Stonehenge in One Day

If you’re craving a day full of history, mystery, and royal charm, the Stonehenge Inner Circle and Windsor Open Top Bus Tour promises an engaging way to explore two iconic sites. While we haven’t personally been on this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal it offers a compelling blend of ancient wonder and regal heritage.

What we love about this experience is how it combines luxury transportation, expert guides, and unique access to the Inner Circle at Stonehenge—something most visitors only dream of. Plus, the option to enjoy Windsor’s top sights via an open-top bus or indulge in afternoon tea makes this a flexible, value-packed adventure. The only potential drawback? The long coach ride might be tiring for some, but with scenic views and comfort, it’s manageable.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to tick off two major attractions in a single day without the hassle of planning multiple trips. If you enjoy guided experiences with insightful commentary, and want to see Stonehenge from the inside, this tour could be your perfect fit.

Key Points

Convenience: Combines Windsor and Stonehenge in one day with smooth, luxury transport
Unique Access: Private entry and inner circle walk at Stonehenge are rare opportunities
Flexible Options: Choose between open-top Windsor sightseeing or afternoon tea bus tour
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides add depth and humor to the experience
Value for Money: At around $206, it’s an immersive, well-organized trip that includes exclusive access
Timing & Group Size: Small group feel with a maximum of 53 travelers ensures a personal touch

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Departure

Your day begins at Bulleid Way in London, where you’ll meet the tour coach about 15 minutes before departure. The luxury coach is air-conditioned—an essential perk on warm days—and offers a comfortable ride through the countryside. The ride to Windsor is generally smooth, giving you a chance to relax and take in some scenic views of the UK’s rolling landscape.

Windsor: Royal Charm and Optional Tours

Once in Windsor, the highlight is exploring this historic town, home to Windsor Castle—the Queen’s preferred residence. Guests rave about the option to hop on an open-top bus tour or take a more leisurely afternoon tea bus experience. The open-top bus, as many reviewers mention, is a fantastic way to see Windsor’s top sights while hearing engaging stories from your guide.

One reviewer noted, “Windsor was a nice stop. You have options as to how you spend your time,” which reflects the flexibility of this part of the tour. Some prefer wandering on their own, soaking in the royal ambiance, while others opt for guided commentary that reveals hidden stories behind the architecture and history.

Stonehenge: The Inner Circle Experience

The star of the tour is, without doubt, Stonehenge, especially with the access into the Inner Circle. Unlike standard visits that only offer views from behind fences, this tour grants a private, close-up experience—one review mentions, “Walking barefoot in Stonehenge was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” highlighting how this access elevates the visit.

Inside the stones, guides like Chris share insights into the monument’s mysteries and significance, making history feel alive. You will explore notable features such as the Heel Stone and Slaughter Stone, with plenty of time to absorb the atmosphere and snap pictures. The experience of being surrounded by centuries-old stones, some up to 40 tons, is truly breathtaking.

Duration and Timing

The total duration is roughly 9 hours, with about 2 hours allocated to Windsor and 1 hour 45 minutes for Stonehenge. The early evening arrival allows for sunset views at Stonehenge, further heightening the mystical feeling—”Stonehenge at sunset was eerie and beautiful,” a visitor notes.

The tour returns to Kensington around 10 pm, or slightly later in July/August, giving ample time for dinner or wind-down after a full day. The well-paced schedule ensures you’re not rushed, yet still able to enjoy each site thoroughly.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Private viewing of Stonehenge, including the Inner Circle access
• Return travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach
• Guided commentary from knowledgeable guides
• Discount on guidebooks at Stonehenge
• Optional Windsor open-top bus or afternoon tea tour (if selected)

Not Included:

• Gratuities (which are optional but appreciated)
• Food and drinks, unless specified (the tour includes a meal in Bath if you opt for that add-on, but not in this particular trip)

Reviewers emphasize the value of the exclusive inner circle visit, which is a rare privilege. Many see this as worth the extra money, describing it as “more impressive than I imagined” and “a very cool experience to walk among the stones.”

Transportation & Group Dynamics

The luxury coach provides a relaxing environment, crucial for the long ride out into the countryside. With a maximum of around 53 travelers, the group size strikes a good balance—small enough to foster intimacy, large enough to feel lively.

One reviewer highlights, “The bus was spacious and clean, and our guide was very knowledgeable and funny,” making the journey part of the enjoyable overall package. Another adds that the comfortable ride made the long journey manageable and even fun.

Guides and Personal Touches

A recurring theme among reviews is how much guides enhance this experience. Guides like Pauley, Tom, and Chris are praised for their knowledge, humor, and passion for archaeology and history. Their insights turn what could be a standard sightseeing trip into a memorable story-filled adventure.

For example, one quote states, “Pauly’s stories were informative and fun,” which shows how a guide’s personality can make a difference. The insider knowledge about the stones, the landscape, and Windsor makes this trip more than just a sightseeing bus ride.

Food and Additional Opportunities

While the base tour doesn’t include meals, some options allow for afternoon tea or a meal in Bath. Reviewers describe the meal in Bath as “delicious” and a highlight of their day, though it does add extra cost.

In Windsor, the choice of a guided open-top bus tour or afternoon tea allows travelers to customize their experience—whether they prefer sightseeing with stories or a relaxing tea break.

Valuing the Price

At around $205.66 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing with exclusive access. The inclusion of the Inner Circle walk at Stonehenge, guided commentary, luxury transportation, and optional Windsor activities make it a comprehensive package.

Many reviewers mention that they would gladly pay a bit more for the inner circle experience and the personalized guidance. Considering the cost of individual tickets for these sites or booking separate tours, this all-in-one experience is a time saver and often more economical.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those wanting a hassle-free way to see two major sites in one day. If you value guided insights, exclusive access, and comfortable transportation, this is designed for you. It’s also suitable for travelers who enjoy a small group environment and want flexibility with their Windsor sightseeing options.

However, if you dislike long coach rides or prefer spending more time at each site independently, you might want to consider other options. The duration and group size are generally well-managed, but the 9-hour day is still quite full.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level as walking is involved, especially around Windsor and within the Inner Circle at Stonehenge.

Can I walk barefoot inside Stonehenge?
Some reviews mention walking barefoot as a unique experience, but generally, visitors can walk among the stones with appropriate footwear. The experience of being surrounded by the stones is the key highlight.

What options are available at Windsor?
You can choose to explore Windsor with an open-top bus tour or opt for a relaxing afternoon tea experience. Both options offer different ways to enjoy the town’s charm.

How long do we spend at each site?
Expect about 2 hours in Windsor and 1 hour 45 minutes at Stonehenge, with some flexibility depending on traffic and timing. The tour is paced to allow thorough exploration without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
The tour provides private access to the Inner Circle, transportation, a professional guide, and optional discounts. Meals and gratuities are extra unless specified.

When does the tour end?
The return to London is around 10 pm, or later in July/August, giving you plenty of time to unwind after a full day.

Final Thoughts

This Stonehenge Inner Circle and Windsor Tour offers an exceptional way to experience two of England’s most iconic sights in one day without the stress of planning. The focus on luxury transport, knowledgeable guides, and exclusive access makes it stand out among typical sightseeing options.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with the chance to walk among the stones and explore Windsor at their own pace. The flexible options in Windsor and the opportunity to see Stonehenge from the inside set this apart, making it a memorable addition to any UK trip.

While a long day, the comfort, insights, and unique access justify the price, especially for those eager for a deeper connection with these historic landmarks. This tour is a strong choice for those who prioritize value, authenticity, and rich storytelling in their sightseeing adventures.