Private Access to Stonehenge & Windsor Open Top Bus Tour

An Up-Close Look at Windsor and Stonehenge: A Tour That Combines Royal Charm and Ancient Mysteries

This tour offers a compelling way to explore two of England’s most iconic sights—Windsor and Stonehenge—without the hassle of planning. Starting from London, you’ll enjoy a luxury coach ride, a lively open-top bus tour through Windsor, and a rare private inside look at the inner circle of Stonehenge. What sets this experience apart is the combination of authentic access to the ancient stones and the engaging commentary from knowledgeable guides, making each moment both informative and visually stunning.

Two things I particularly appreciate about this tour are the private access to the inner circle of Stonehenge, which is a rare treat, and the open-top bus tour in Windsor that offers a relaxed, scenic way to see. The ability to step inside the stones’ inner circle is a highlight—it’s not only a chance for exquisite photos but also a chance to stand among 5,000-year-old giants and feel the weight of history. Also, the scenic views from Windsor’s Long Walk and the charming streets surrounding Windsor Castle make it a delightful way to experience royal England.

One potential drawback is that the day is quite packed—there’s a lot to see in a limited time, so it might feel rushed if you’re a slow explorer or want more time at each site. Plus, for those with mobility issues or traveling with very young children, this tour might not be suitable due to walking and accessibility constraints. Overall, it’s an efficient way to tick off two must-see destinations with ease, especially for first-time visitors.

Key points / Takeaways

• Private Access: The highlight is the rare opportunity to step inside the inner circle of Stonehenge, making the experience uniquely memorable.
• Scenic Windsor Tour: The open-top bus provides a relaxed way to admire Windsor’s most famous sights, including Windsor Castle and Eton College, with expert commentary.
• Expert Guides: Guides like “Tom” or other knowledgeable narrators enhance the experience by sharing fascinating insights and stories.
• Flexible Leisure Time: After the structured part of the day, you have time to explore Windsor’s cobbled streets and beautiful scenery at your own pace.
• Efficient Itinerary: The 12-hour day manages to pack in two major sights from London, perfect for those with a limited schedule but a deep curiosity.
• Value for Money: The combination of private access and guided touring at a reasonable price offers strong value, especially considering the exclusive inner circle visit.

Exploring Windsor: Royal Town and Scenic Charm

Your day kicks off in London, where you’ll board a modern, air-conditioned coach—so comfortable that you might forget you’re on a 12-hour trip. The first stop is Windsor, a town full of stories and royal connections. Upon arrival, your guide will lead an open-top bus tour, offering panoramic views of Windsor Castle, the state residence of the Queen. Expect to hear fascinating facts about Windsor’s history, its royal ties, and hidden gems tucked into its cobbled streets.

Windsor Castle is the star here, but your guide might also point out Holy Trinity Church, where King Henry VIII was buried, and Eton College, just across the river, home to Britain’s most famous boys’ school. The open-top bus is a good way to soak in the sights, especially if you want to avoid the crowds on foot. You can then explore Windsor at your leisure—walking down the Long Walk for views of the castle, browsing shops, or relaxing at a café with a scone.

Many visitors praise the scenic views of Windsor’s lush surroundings, which make for perfect photos, especially from the Long Walk. The town’s charm lies in its combination of regal grandeur and cozy, historic streets. The guide’s insights often include anecdotes about royal visits and local history, adding depth to your walk.

Tip: Take your time strolling, and don’t forget to visit the Windsor Royal Shopping area, where historic buildings are now full of shops and cafes.

Stepping Inside the Mystical World of Stonehenge

After exploring Windsor, your journey continues to the world’s most famous ancient monument—Stonehenge. Here’s where this tour truly stands out: your entry into the inmost circle. Unlike most visits where you only see the stones from a distance, here you get the rare chance to stand inside the inner circle, among the towering stones that have mystified historians and visitors alike for thousands of years.

The timing of this private access is carefully managed, so the crowd size is smaller than usual. You’ll have plenty of time with your guide, who will explain theories about how and why Stonehenge was built—whether for astronomy, ritual, or something else entirely. The atmosphere is as much about feeling the majesty and mystery of these ancient stones as it is about learning facts.

The experience of being among the stones is striking. Many reviews mention how surreal it is to be able to capture photos without throngs of travelers in the frame, and to simply stand in awe of the engineering and spiritual significance of the site. Your guide will also share fascinating theories about the construction, as well as archaeological insights, giving you a rounded picture of why this site continues to fascinate.

Pro tip: Bring a camera, and don’t forget your water and weather-appropriate clothing. The open exposure to the elements makes comfort important.

The Logistics: Transportation and Timing

The entire day is structured to maximize your experience without overly rushing. Starting around 11:45 am (for the April-September schedule), you’ll meet at Golden Tours Bus Stop 1 in Victoria, then depart at noon. The return is approximately 9:30 pm, ending near Gloucester Road Underground Station, making it convenient if you’re staying in London.

The coach is modern, clean, and comfortable, with amenities like Wi-Fi sometimes available, although not guaranteed during peak periods. The journey from London to Windsor takes about 45 minutes, giving you time to settle in and perhaps chat with fellow travelers. The drive from Windsor to Stonehenge is roughly an hour and a half, giving you scenic views and a chance to relax before the highlight of the day.

Transportation is a key part of the value here—it takes the hassle out of logistics, so you focus on the sights. The small group size (guided by a live English-speaking guide) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience appeals most to those who want a rich, hassle-free day with authentic access to the inner circle of Stonehenge and a scenic, informative tour of Windsor. It’s ideal for first-timers eager to see two of England’s most iconic sites in one day, without relying on public transport or renting a car.

If you love historical sites, scenic views, and a touch of royal elegance, this tour hits the sweet spot. However, it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or very young children, given the walking involved and the structured nature of the outing.

Price and Value

Given the private access to Stonehenge and the comprehensive guided tour, the price offers good value. You get exclusive entry, an open-top bus ride, round-trip transportation, and the chance to enjoy Windsor’s sights at your own pace. It’s a balanced package—costly compared to simple admission tickets but fair considering the unique experience and expert narration.

Final Verdict

This tour is an excellent choice if you want to combine royal scenery with a touch of ancient mystery in one day. The private access to Stonehenge makes it stand out among other day trips, while the Windsor open-top tour offers a relaxed, scenic way to soak in the sights. It’s most suited for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, good storytelling, and stunning views.

Expect a well-organized, enriching day that balances guided insights with free time, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to cover big sights efficiently.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years or those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and accessibility constraints.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and weather-appropriate clothing—especially since parts of the day are outdoors and exposed to the elements.

Does the tour include meals?
No, meals and drinks are not included. However, you can explore Windsor’s cafés and restaurants during your free time.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Golden Tours Bus Stop 1, Bulleid Way, Victoria, SW1W 9SR.

When does the tour depart?
For April to September 2025, departure is at noon, with a meeting at 11:45 am. In March 2026, departure is at 10 am, with a meeting at 9:45 am.

How long is the day?
The tour lasts about 12 hours, returning around 9:30 pm (April-September) or earlier in March.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there Wi-Fi available on the coach?
Wi-Fi may be available but is not guaranteed during peak periods.

How many people are on the tour?
It’s a small group, guided by a live English-speaking guide, ensuring personalized attention.

In essence, this tour offers a balanced blend of history, scenery, and exclusivity—making it a memorable way to experience Windsor and Stonehenge in one go.