Stonehenge, Avebury,Cotswolds. Small Group Day Tour From Bath

Venture beyond the bustling city of Bath to uncover the ancient wonders and picturesque landscapes of the region. This small group day tour offers an immersive experience, exploring the iconic Stonehenge, the lesser-known Avebury stone circle, and the charming Cotswolds villages. With a knowledgeable guide and a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll explore the rich history and natural beauty that have captivated visitors for centuries. What secrets will you uncover as you step back in time?

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Bath covering iconic Stonehenge, Avebury stone circle, and charming Cotswolds villages with a maximum group size of 15 travelers.
• Opportunity to explore Stonehenge with an audio guide and walk among the towering sarsen stones, learning about its history and significance.
• Discover the captivating Avebury stone circle, a lesser-known but remarkable prehistoric monument, and spend an hour wandering and learning about the site.
• Photo stops at Silbury Hill, the largest artificial mound in Europe, and Cherhill White Horse, a chalk hill figure from 1780.
• Visit the medieval village of Lacock, known for its filming locations, and the picturesque village of Castle Combe, often called the "prettiest village in England."

Tour Overview

The Stonehenge, Avebury, Cotswolds Small Group Day Tour from Bath provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of some of England’s most iconic historical sites and picturesque rural landscapes.

This full-day tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers and departs at 8:00 AM from Bath.

Highlights include visits to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Stonehenge, the Avebury stone circle, and charming Cotswolds villages like Lacock and Castle Combe.

Along the way, guests can enjoy photo stops at Silbury Hill and Cherhill White Horse.

With an expert guide, this tour offers a seamless and enlightening experience.

Exploring Stonehenge

Stonehenge, the iconic prehistoric monument, stands as the centerpiece of this immersive tour.

Visitors have 2 hours to explore the enigmatic stone circle, learning about its history and significance through the provided audio guide.

The UNESCO World Heritage site offers an opportunity to walk among the towering sarsen stones, pondering the mysteries of their construction and purpose.

Whether marveling at the grandeur of the ancient site or capturing the perfect photograph, guests are immersed in the timeless allure of Stonehenge.

This experience sets the stage for further discoveries throughout the Cotswolds and surrounding areas.

Discovering Avebury Stone Circle

After exploring the grandeur of Stonehenge, the tour continues to the lesser-known but equally captivating Avebury Stone Circle.

This free-to-enter prehistoric monument features a massive stone circle surrounded by smaller stone circles and an ancient village.

Travelers have an hour to wander among the imposing megaliths, learning about their significance and history from the guide.

The scale and mystery of Avebury offer a stark contrast to the more famous Stonehenge, providing a unique glimpse into Britain’s distant past.

This stop showcases the richness of the region’s archaeological treasures.

Visiting Silbury Hill and Cherhill White Horse

From Avebury, the tour continues with short photo stops at the ancient sites of Silbury Hill and Cherhill White Horse.

Silbury Hill is the largest artificial mound in Europe, standing at 130 feet tall. Cherhill White Horse is a chalk hill figure carved into the hillside, dating back to 1780.

These quick photo stops allow guests to:

1. Admire the impressive size and scale of Silbury Hill.
2. Capture the striking contrast of the white chalk horse against the green countryside.
3. Learn about the enigmatic origins and purpose of these ancient landmarks.
4. Stretch their legs and enjoy the scenic countryside views.

Wandering Through Lacock Village

The tour now moves on to the picturesque village of Lacock, where guests are granted 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore its charming streets and historic buildings.

Lacock is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and has served as a filming location for various movies and TV shows, including "Harry Potter" and "Downton Abbey."

Guests can wander through the quaint village, admiring the honey-colored stone cottages, visit the local shops and cafes, and perhaps enjoy a traditional British lunch.

The tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings make Lacock a delightful stop on the day’s itinerary.

Admiring Castle Combe

With the visit to Lacock village complete, the tour now proceeds to the charming village of Castle Combe.

Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Castle Combe is often referred to as "the prettiest village in England".

Visitors can expect to:

1. Stroll along the picturesque high street lined with honey-colored cottages and quaint shops.
2. Cross the 14th-century stone bridge over the River Bybrook.
3. Admire the beautifully preserved Church of St. Andrew, dating back to the 13th century.
4. Capture postcard-worthy photos of the quintessential Cotswolds scenery.

The 35-minute visit allows guests to soak in the tranquil ambiance of this idyllic village before returning to Bath.

Tour Logistics and Inclusions

While the tour begins at 8:00 am, guests are advised to arrive at the meeting point of 1 N Parade, Bath BA1 1NS, UK, outside the Abbey Hotel, a few minutes early to ensure a prompt departure.

The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who’ll lead the small group of no more than 15 travelers.

Lunch is recommended to be a picnic, though the tour doesn’t provide it.

Entrance to Stonehenge isn’t included and must be paid for on the day.

The tour returns to the original meeting point at the end of the day’s activities, which last approximately 8 hours.

Guest Experiences and Ratings

What do guests have to say about their experiences on this small group tour?

Based on reviews, travelers are highly satisfied with the knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging tour guides, with specific praise for Andy, Gerry, and Sean. Guests appreciated the informative nature of the tours, the picturesque locations, and the overall organization.

Highlights mentioned include:

1. Stonehenge and Lacock as particularly memorable.
2. The charming villages visited throughout the Cotswolds.
3. The mix of history and scenic beauty offered by the tour.
4. The efficient logistics and flexibility of the experience.

With an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5, this tour provides an exceptional small group experience exploring ancient sites and quintessential English countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, the tour allows guests to bring their own food and drinks. A picnic lunch is recommended, as the tour includes a stop in Lacock village for a traditional British lunch experience.

Is There Any Free Time to Explore the Sites on My Own?

Yes, the tour provides free time at each site for independent exploration. Travelers can wander the ancient stone circles, villages, and landmarks at their own pace during the allotted time segments.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Students?

The tour provider does not currently offer any discounts for senior citizens or students. However, they may have promotional offers or discounts available from time to time, so it’s best to check their website or contact them directly for the latest information.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, you can book this tour for a private group. The tour provider offers the option to customize the tour for private groups of any size, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What Should I Wear for the Tour to Be Comfortable?

For maximum comfort, wear comfortable walking shoes, dress in layers, and bring a light jacket or rain coat. The tour involves significant time outdoors, so dressing for the weather is key to enjoying the experience.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the ancient wonders of Stonehenge, Avebury, and the picturesque Cotswolds on this captivating small group day tour from Bath. Explore iconic sites, wander through charming villages, and gain rich historical insights, all while enjoying the stunning English countryside. This guided experience offers an unforgettable opportunity to discover the region’s captivating past and natural beauty.