So You Want to See Some Big Rocks, Huh? A Totally Unofficial Guide to Getting to Stonehenge from London
Ever wondered what it would be like to stand in a field surrounded by giant, mysterious stones? Well, my friend, that's Stonehenge for you – a prehistoric monument older than pizza (and arguably tastier depending on your topping choices). But before you get your Instagram filters ready, you gotta get there first. Luckily, this guide is here to help you navigate from the bustling streets of London to the curious world of Stonehenge, without getting lost (well, hopefully not too lost).
Your Chariot Awaits (Unless It's a Train, Bus, or Car)
There are a few ways to conquer this stonehenge quest, each with its own quirky charm:
Train and Bus: This is a solid, budget-friendly option. Catch a train from London Waterloo to Salisbury, a delightful cathedral city. From there, a special Stonehenge tour bus (complete with Stonehenge puns, probably) will whisk you to the site.
Coach Tour: Fancy a hassle-free trip with Stonehenge tickets included? Several companies offer coach tours directly from London. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery (or catch up on some crucial nap time).
Car: If you're feeling adventurous (and have a good sense of direction), you can rent a car and drive yourself. Just be prepared for some potential traffic and follow those brown tourist signs – they're your best friends on this journey.
Important Note: Whichever mode of transport you choose, be sure to book your Stonehenge tickets in advance. Nobody likes a hangry tourist (and trust me, those stones won't share their snacks).
Beware of Druids (Just Kidding, Probably)
Stonehenge is steeped in history and mystery. While you probably won't encounter any actual druids performing ancient rituals (although that would be pretty cool), there are a few things to keep in mind:
Opening Times: Stonehenge isn't a 24/7 tourist trap (thankfully). Check their website for opening times before you go – especially important if you're an enthusiastic sunrise or sunset chaser.
Dress Code: There's no formal dress code, but comfortable shoes are a must. Remember, this is a field trip, not a night at the opera (though a toga party near Stonehenge might be an interesting tourist attraction concept…).
Facilities: There's a visitor center with a cafe and gift shop, so you can refuel after your stone-gazing adventure and pick up a souvenir spork emblazoned with Stonehenge (because sporks are awesome).
How to Get to Stonehenge From London: FAQ
Q: How long does it take to get to Stonehenge from London?
A: Travel time depends on your chosen method. Trains and buses take roughly 1.5 to 2 hours (not including Stonehenge tour bus time). Coach tours can vary depending on the itinerary, but expect a similar timeframe.
Q: Can I walk to Stonehenge from London?
A: While impressive, we wouldn't recommend it. That's a trek of over 80 miles! Unless you're training for the Tour de France, stick to the wheels.
Q: Is Stonehenge worth seeing?
A: Absolutely! It's a fascinating piece of history and a truly unique sight.
Q: Are there any tours of Stonehenge?
A: Yes! Many coach tours offer guided tours of Stonehenge, often combined with visits to other historic sites. You can also book audio guides at the visitor center.
Q: What else is there to do near Stonehenge?
A: Salisbury is a lovely city with a beautiful cathedral. Old Sarum, an Iron Age hillfort, is also nearby and worth exploring.
