London: Small Group Stonehenge and Bath Tour & Secret Site

A detailed look at the Small Group Stonehenge and Bath Tour with a Secret Site

This tour from London offers a full day of exploring two of England’s most iconic locations—Stonehenge and Bath—with the added thrill of a mysterious “secret site” en route. With a focus on small groups, knowledgeable guides, and a flexible itinerary, this experience is often praised for its combination of history, scenic drives, and authentic local touches.

What I really appreciate about this trip is how it balances guided commentary with free time, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. The guides—such as Cara, Lucy, and Andy—are consistently highlighted for their enthusiasm and expertise, making the day both educational and entertaining. Another big plus is the small group setting, which makes the experience more personal and less rushed than the typical large bus tours.

One potential consideration is that entrance tickets to Stonehenge are not included, which means you’ll need to buy them in advance or on the day, adding a little extra planning. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly trip, this could be a small hitch, but many find it worthwhile for the flexibility and the guided insights.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small group size ensures a more relaxed, personalized experience.
• Expert guides like Cara, Lucy, and Andy make the journey lively and informative.
• Flexible itinerary with free time in Bath and a guided walk, plus a surprise secret site.
• Comfortable transportation in a 16-seat Mercedes minicoach makes for a smooth ride.
• Incredible scenery along back roads and rural Wiltshire enriches the trip.
• Authentic local food options such as Cornish pasties and Sally Lunn buns add flavor to your day.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

Starting Point and Early Departure
Most travelers meet at one of two convenient central London locations—either near Victoria or other designated points—making it easy to join without much fuss. The tour lasts about 11 to 11.5 hours, so be prepared for a full day. The vehicle is a cozy Mercedes minicoach, which is perfect for navigating narrow country lanes and small villages.

Scenic Drive Through the English Countryside
From the start, your driver-guide will provide background about the sites you’re heading to, making the journey as enriching as the stops themselves. Expect to pass charming villages and lush green fields before reaching Salisbury Plain. The highlight here is the mystery of Stonehenge—an ancient monument shrouded in questions about its purpose.

Stonehenge Visit
You’ll spend roughly 105 minutes at this world-famous site, giving ample time to explore. You’ll visit the new Stonehenge Visitor Center, which enhances your understanding of the site’s significance and history. Many reviews praise the guide’s explanations—like one saying Nolh was an “excellent tour guide” that made the visit memorable. While you can’t go inside the stones, the surrounding landscape and the reconstructed visitor center make for a compelling experience. Remember, tickets are not included, but your guide can book them for you in advance for around £20, with prices varying by date.

Drive Through Wiltshire Villages
On the way to Bath, you’ll pass charming old villages and rural scenery, giving you a taste of the English countryside. This part of the trip is often noted for its tranquility and picturesque views, which many travelers find relaxing and beautiful.

Arriving in Bath
Once in Bath, you’ll have about 2.25 hours to explore. Your guide provides maps and suggestions, but you’re free to wander at your own pace. You might want to visit the Roman Baths, renowned for their remarkably preserved state and fascinating history, or admire Bath Abbey, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

Walking Tour and Free Exploration
An optional guided walk of the city center is available—many travelers find this a great way to discover the city’s Georgian architecture, like the Royal Crescent, and learn about its literary connections to Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. One review fondly mentioned the “beautiful, well-preserved Georgian houses” and the charm of Pulteney Bridge, one of only four bridges in the world with shops across its full span.

The Secret Site
Before heading back to London, your guide will take you to a secret location—an exclusive, lesser-known site that most travelers miss. The exact destination varies but is consistently praised for its beauty and uniqueness; one guest called it “the highlight of the trip.” This surprise adds a sense of adventure and personal discovery to the day.

Return Journey
On the way back, you’ll enjoy more scenic views and possibly some fun stories from your guide. The ride is about 1.5 hours, giving ample opportunity to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

The Value of this Tour

Compared to larger bus tours, this experience shines by offering a more intimate atmosphere and knowledgeable guides who truly engage with travelers. The price point, which generally includes transportation, guide, walking tour, and bottled water, offers good value considering the convenience and depth of experience. The extra cost of entrance tickets to Stonehenge is reasonable and manageable.

What truly sets this tour apart is the balance of guided commentary and free time, meaning you can absorb the history at your own pace or join the guided walk for local insights. Plus, the surprise secret site adds a special touch that many reviews call “magical” and “the best part of the trip.”

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see Stonehenge and Bath without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. Its small group size makes it suitable for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere and personal interaction. It’s perfect if you enjoy a mix of history, scenery, and local culture, especially since the guide’s commentary is both informative and lively.

However, keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, so if visiting the Roman Baths or inside Stonehenge is a priority, budget accordingly. Also, since it’s a full day, it’s better suited for travelers with good stamina who don’t mind a long day on the road.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Bring snacks or a light breakfast, especially since the tour starts early and the lunch break at Bath might be around 1 p.m.
• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s walking involved at each site, and some cobbled streets in Bath.
• Book your Stonehenge tickets in advance to avoid last-minute hassle, especially during peak seasons.
• If you’re a fan of surprises, the secret site is definitely worth the wait—no spoilers here!
• Consider bringing a camera with a zoom lens—some of the landscapes and Georgian architecture are fantastic photo opportunities.
• Keep an eye on the weather forecast; the countryside views are best on clear days but can be atmospheric in mist.

FAQ

Are entrance tickets included for Stonehenge?
No, tickets are not included. You can purchase them in advance through your guide or on the day, with prices starting around £20 depending on the time of year.

How long do I have in Bath?
You’ll have about 2.25 hours for independent exploration, which is enough to visit the Roman Baths, stroll around the Georgian streets, or relax in a cafe.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking at each site, but guides like Andy offer options for those with lower mobility, such as skipping certain walks. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What’s the size of the group?
It’s a small-group tour with a maximum of 16 travelers, which makes the experience more personal and easier to move around.

Can I buy food during the tour?
Yes, there are plenty of local cafes and bakeries in Bath where you can try a Cornish pasty or Sally Lunn bun. The guide may also provide bottled water.

What’s the typical start time?
Start times vary based on the selected departure point; check with the provider when booking. Tours typically begin early in the morning.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, families enjoy the day, especially with the engaging guides and scenic stops. Just ensure children are prepared for a full day on the road.

How is the transportation?
The Mercedes minicoach is comfortable, air-conditioned, and perfect for quick access to scenic routes and small villages inaccessible to larger buses.

To sum it up, this small-group tour from London offers an engaging, well-paced way to see Stonehenge and Bath, with the bonus of a surprise location that keeps the day feeling special. It’s best suited for those who value personalized attention, local insights, and a relaxed pace. The combination of scenic drives, historical sites, and authentic local treats makes it a rewarding way to experience some of England’s top sights without feeling rushed. If you’re after a memorable, intimate day trip that balances history and charm, this tour is hard to beat.