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South West England

Our most recommended things to do in South West England

Stonehenge Admission Ticket

Stonehenge Admission Ticket

Stonehenge is perhaps the most famous prehistoric monument in the world. It was built in several stages, beginning as a simple earthwork enclosure. The unique linteled stone circle was erected in the late Neolithic period, around 2500 B.C. Your timed admission ticket gives you access to a site that has continued to attract interest for centuries. Today Stonehenge, Avebury, and other associated locations comprise a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a unique and dense concentration of prehistoric monuments. Stonehenge has been the subject of speculation and fascination since at least the early medieval period. How did Neolithic people construct this masterpiece of engineering using only the simple tools and technologies available to them? Hundreds of prehistoric objects from the Stonehenge World Heritage Site are on display in the visitor center. One of the new features at Stonehenge is an outdoor gallery that includes several reconstructed Neolithic houses. Using archaeological evidence and authentic materials, these buildings provide a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Neolithic people who built Stonehenge. Stonehenge has many different meanings to people today. It is an icon of Britain, a wonder of the world, a spiritual place, and a source of inspiration.

London: Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath, and Roman Baths Day Trip

London: Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath, and Roman Baths Day Trip

Explore several top highlights around London on this bus day trip from London. Experience the elegance of Windsor Castle, unlock the mysteries of Stonehenge, and admire the Georgian architecture in the city of Bath. Visit a well-preserved Roman Bathhouse. Windsor Castle Steeped in history, Windsor Castle perches proudly on a lush wooded hill overlooking the Thames. Dating back to Norman times, with sweeping landscaped gardens and turreted Round Tower, it’s easy to see why it’s the King’s favourite weekend residence royal Windsor. Enjoy a fascinating through–the–keyhole peek at the lavish State Apartments, home to priceless artworks by Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci, and visit St. George’s Chapel, the atmospheric final resting place of former monarchs including Henry VIII. You can visit Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, a truly incredible structure complete with working lifts, running water, electricity and wine bottles, all in miniature! Mysterious Stonehenge Wander around the world heritage site and be captivated by the unique rock formation. Situated on Salisbury Plain, 40-ton rocks stand alone since their arrival 5,000 years ago. An abundance of theories surround Stonehenge; from a religious temple to an astronomical clock and even a Bronze Age burial ground. Decide for yourself whilst discovering the history of this mysterious monument. Bath Standing proudly on the slopes of the River Avon, Bath was the first city in England to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the gorgeous 15th-century Bath Abbey, the stunning Georgian architecture, and the romantic Pulteney Bridge. Roman Baths Famed for its Roman Baths, Bath houses the best preserved Roman Spa from the ancient world. Miraculously hidden from view until the 1870s, delve into the history of this magical monument and admire its architectural splendor.  Arrival time back in London is at approximately 8:00 PM.

London: Stonehenge Half-Day Morning or Afternoon Tour

London: Stonehenge Half-Day Morning or Afternoon Tour

Visit one of the most famous prehistoric monuments in the world as you depart London by bus for a visit to the mythical Stonehenge. End your tour with an optional meal – the classic British fish and chips. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site with a downloadable audio guide available in multiple languages to learn more about the mysteries surrounding the incredible megalithic monument. Marvel at the 40-ton rocks standing alone in a vast tract of open land. A feat of engineering and design dating back nearly 5,000 years, the curious Stonehenge structure continues to divide historians as to its precise purpose. Theories include that Stonehenge was a temple to the sun, an elaborate cemetery, and even that Merlin had a giant build the structure for him. Make up your own mind as you explore this marvel of the ancient world at your own pace and learn about its origins. Conclude your tour with an optional meal of fish and chips, a British favorite served at a classic London venue.

London: Full-Day Windsor, Stonehenge, and Oxford Tour

London: Full-Day Windsor, Stonehenge, and Oxford Tour

Enjoy a full day of English heritage visiting the exquisite Windsor Castle, captivating Stonehenge, and the beautiful university city of Oxford. On this day trip departing from London, you get the whistle-stop tour of these unique sites with interesting commentary from your guide along the way. Start your day at Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of HM King Charles III. Visit the magnificent State Apartments still used for state occasions and royal receptions (if option selected). Take some time to explore the castle grounds and the 14th century St. George's Chapel, where you can admire one of the most beautiful examples of medieval church architecture in England. Next, go to the standing stones of Stonehenge, still clouded in mystery as an amazing feat of human engineering. Explore the prehistoric stone circle and learn about the theories around its construction (if option selected). Continue to the university city of Oxford, known as "The City of Dreaming Spires." A seat of learning since 1249, it's an idyllic location to explore on a fascinating walking tour.

From London: Full-Day Cotswolds Small-Group Tour

From London: Full-Day Cotswolds Small-Group Tour

Spend a day exploring the quintessentially British countryside of the Cotswolds, an area known for its green landscapes, charming villages, and honey-colored stone cottages. Enjoy the highlights of the Cotswolds, as well as some of the quieter, less-seen areas of the countryside. First, stop in the small town of Burford, one of England’s most unchanged medieval towns with many buildings over 500 years old. Visit the historic church, stroll along the attractive high street, and explore the town. Next head to Bibury, known as the prettiest village in all of England. Wander along the river and see Arlington Row, a set of weaver's cottages that are now one of the symbols of the Cotswolds. Enjoy free time to explore the enchanting village. Continue on to the picturesque town of Bourton-on-the-water. Take ample time to stroll by the river and its small bridges, admire the stone cottages and have some lunch.  Cap your tour with a visit to Stow-on-the-Wold, a jumble of inns and antique shops situated around the ancient market square. Stow has been a center of trade in the Cotswolds for centuries and was the location of the last battle of the English Civil War in 1646. It's also the location of ‘England’s oldest pub’.  Afterward, the tour returns to the meeting point.

From London: Cotswolds and Oxford Guided Day-Trip

From London: Cotswolds and Oxford Guided Day-Trip

Embark on a full-day guided tour of the English countryside from London. Admire the fairytale houses of the Cotswolds, the historic Oxford University, and the beauty of the English Countryside. Depart London on a full-day tour that takes you west to experience the beauty of the Cotswolds countryside, and the university city of Oxford. Drive through the Cotswolds, as you enjoy views of the lovely landscape and stone villages. A designated area of outstanding natural beauty, this is the English countryside at its finest. We will stop at Burford and Bourton-On-The-Water, the two most loved villages of the Cotswolds. Continue to Oxford to explore the most famous university city in the world. Free-time for lunch in the heart of the city. Take a walk among the college buildings and admire their dreamy spires. Your guide will recommend a walking route that covers the most famous sites, including the Bridge of Sighs and Christchurch Cathedral. Learn about Oxford’s connection with Alice in Wonderland and Harry Potter. Find a great place for a meal (you guide will provide recommendations), or join local scholars and academics over a pint in the city’s most haunted pub. You'll be back in London by 6 in the evening and you can use the London Underground to travel quickly to all areas of London.

From London: Stonehenge Morning Day Trip with Admission

From London: Stonehenge Morning Day Trip with Admission

Visit one of the most famous pre-historic sites in the world on this half-day morning tour to Stonehenge. Your priority group admission ticket is included, allowing access to the monument, exhibition and site shuttle bus.   Depart London at 7:30 AM to be some of the first visitors that arrive at the site. Learn about the history of this monument from your driver/guide, and take advantage of the audio-guides available upon arrival.   Situated on Salisbury Plain in the Wiltshire countryside, Stonehenge is said to have been constructed more than 5,000 years ago. Enjoy the views of the surrounding plain, visit the monument, and explore the exhibition for approximately 2 hours. Head back to Central London for around 2 PM, so you’ll have time to explore London for the rest of the day.

London: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Full-Day Tour

London: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath Full-Day Tour

Take a full-day tour from London to see the famous Windsor Castle, the mysterious stone circle of Stonehenge, and the beautiful Georgian city of Bath, with the option to include entry tickets in the tour. Enjoy transportation by bus and guided tours at all locations. Start at Windsor Castle, home to the Royal Family for 900 years. Visit the magnificent State Apartments, still used for state occasions and Royal receptions. Explore the castle grounds and the 14th-Century St. George's Chapel, one of the most beautiful examples of medieval church architecture in England and a burial place of kings and queens, including Henry VIII and his third wife Jane Seymour. Continue through the Wiltshire countryside to Stonehenge. Shrouded in mystery, the ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is an amazing feat of engineering and the most important prehistoric site in England. Head west to Bath, a beautiful Georgian city with handsome honey-colored architecture and the famous Roman baths. Enjoy a panoramic tour of some of Europe’s finest architectural sights, including Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, the Circus, Assembly Rooms, and Pulteney Bridge. Choose the option to explore the Roman Baths, built around thermal springs, which have been supplying water for over 2,000 years.

Poole Harbor and Islands Cruise

Poole Harbor and Islands Cruise

Take a cruise around Europe's largest natural harbor, home to the town of Poole, the golden beaches of Sandbanks and Brownsea Island. From either open deck seating or comfortable saloon you will see stunning views of the exceptional landscape that surrounds it. Your 70 minute trip will start on charming Poole Quay with its old buildings and buzzing atmosphere.  Next you will go past Brownsea Island, home to wildlife and picturesque Brownsea Castle, built to protect against French invasions. After that comes the Sandbanks Peninsula and the luxurious houses of the ‘Golden Mile’. Then you will tour the great natural expanse of the harbor and the remaining islands: Green, Furzey, Long and Round. Fronting onto beautiful scenery it helped inspire classics like Lord of the Rings and Gulliver's Travel. 

From Poole: Round-trip Jurassic Coastal Cruise to Swanage

From Poole: Round-trip Jurassic Coastal Cruise to Swanage

Discover the impressive Jurassic Coast on a cruise through Dorset. See Round Island, marvel at the iconic chalk formations on the coast, and learn fascinating facts about the area from live commentary onboard. Begin your trip at Poole Harbour and board an open deck boat with seating and comfortable saloons. From here, start your journey through 185 million years of history along the Jurassic Coastline. As you cruise, pass some of Dorset's most famous landmarks. See the golden beaches of Sandbanks, Brownsea Island, and the Old Harry Rocks, named after a notorious pirate. Enjoy expert commentary from your captains as you glide by. Sail by Dorset's small islands, including Furzey, Long, Green, and Round Islands, as you make your way to Swanage. Once reaching Swanage, head back towards Poole and capture the perfect picture of the famous chalk formations from the boat's outer deck.

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What people are saying about South West England

Overall rating

4.5
(19,481 reviews)

Allen was so passionate about Cornwall and that made the trip fantastic! He really went the extra mile to show us the best of Cornwall. I really didn't have any expectations for the trip so we were amazed at all the places we visited. The scenery was spectacular, we certainly had a complete tour. The hotels were nice and the food was wonderful.

A must do thing when you visit bath is do the Abbey tower tour. Very interesting and informative tour, including the bells and the clock and stunning views of the city from the roof of the building. Special mention to guides Anna and Paulo.

A great trip organised from start to finish. A very enjoyable day out which was stress free with adequate own time to spend and explore. Olga was great! Stonehenge was fascinating and Bath Abbey was a delight to visit.

Lovely trip, though wish there was 30 more minutes in Stonehenge and less time in bath. Wonderful guide, learned a lot and would recommend.

Our Guide Toby was extremely personable and full of great information and good humour.