Stonehenge Coach Trips from Bath

The ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is one of the most famous sights in Britain, and one of the most enigmatic. There are plenty of theories as to the monument's function and history, but very little is known for certain. For visitors who are staying in Bath without a car, or who prefer not to drive, there are a number of companies offering coach trips to Stonehenge.

> More about Stonehenge

Holidaymakers should consider which option suits them best - a straightforward coach trip to Stonehenge, a guided tour driving through scenic villages, or a full day out. Obviously prices vary considerably according to what type of Stonehenge trip you choose. Check whether entrance to Stonehenge is included in the tour price; usually you are expected to buy your own ticket on arrival. An adult ticket costs £5.50, but entrance is free to English Heritage or National Trust members. We haven't experienced these tours, so can't advise which one to choose - read their advertising and decide which suits you best. It's advisable to book in advance online, by telephone, or in Bath Tourist Information Office (by the Abbey). The tours listed all depart from the Orange Grove, next to Bath Abbey, or adjacent Grand Parade.

The Ultimate Stonehenge Tour - Scarper Tours

Scarper Tours offer daily tours from Bath to Stonehenge. Theirs is a three-hour scenic trip with 'lively commentary', departing from the Orange Grove in Bath at 9.30am (Easter-September) and 1.30pm (all year). £12.50. Monument admission price not included. Tour includes: 'chalk hill carvings, ancient burial mounds, Celtic hill forts and thatched villages'.

Stonehenge and Bradford-on-Avon - Mad Max Tours

This half-day tour leaves Bath at 2pm most days of the year, also leaving from the Orange Grove. As well as an hour at Stonehenge, their tour includes 'burial chambers, thatched cottages, a chalk horse carving', Cley Hill and the historic town of Bradford-on-Avon. Their maximum group size is 16, and tickets cost £12.50.

Stonehenge Express

3¼ hour trip running twice daily between April and October, departing at 10am and 2pm. They offer 'priority entrance' to Stonehenge and, like their competitors, drive past Wiltshire villages, Westbury White Hourse, long barrow burial chambers and Cley hill. Their tour is more expensive at £19.50 per adult, although this does include entrance to Stonehenge.

Stonehenge - Avebury - Lacock - Castle Combe - Mad Max Tours

If you don't have a car and you want to see more of the south-west, it may be worth spending £22.50 on this full day tour. Departing at 8.45, the tour includes both Stonehenge and Avebury stone circles, chalk hill carvings, and the picturesque villages of Lacock and Castle Combe. The tour groups are small in size, and Mad Max Tours promise knowledgeable local guides.

> More Bath days out