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London to Stonehenge train: Pros, cons & travel tips
London To Stonehenge ToursLondon to Stonehenge Trains
- About Stonehenge
- History
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- Inside
- Half day tour from London
- Stonehenge, Windsor & Oxford day tour from London
- Day trip destinations near Stonehenge
- London to Stonehenge Tours
- Summer Solstice
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- Stonehenge Mystery
- Facts for Kids
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- Stonehenge Visitor Center
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- Madame Tussauds London
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- SEA LIFE London Aquarium
- London To Windsor Castle Tours
- Moco Museum London
- London Dungeon
- Frameless London
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- Up At The O2 Climb
- Buckingham Palace
- Heathrow Airport transfers
- St. Paul's Cathedral
- London City Passes
- National Express London
Contents
Why choose the train for your journey to Stonehenge?
Traveling by train is one of the most efficient and comfortable ways to get from London to Stonehenge. Here’s why the train is an ideal option for visitors:
1. Better connections and flexibility
- Multiple London departure points: While London Waterloo is the main hub for direct trains to Salisbury, you can also board the same train at Clapham Junction, or at Woking slightly further out in the suburbs.
- Frequent departures: Trains run up to 2 per hour off‑peak on weekdays (once hourly on Sundays), and the Stonehenge Tour bus departs Salisbury station hourly from 10am.
2. Scenic countryside views
- Rolling Wiltshire plains: As you leave London, the line winds through green fields, quaint villages, and the edge of the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- A more relaxed pace: Unlike coach tours that rush from point to point, the train lets you settle in, soak up the landscape through large windows, and even stretch your legs during the bus hop at Salisbury.
3. Explore Salisbury Cathedral and the town
- Magna Carta on display: Salisbury Cathedral houses one of only four original 1215 Magna Cartas, newly secured in a high‑tech display in the Chapter House—just a 15 min walk from the station.
- Medieval streets and local life: With an extra hour or two in Salisbury, you can wander its historic market square, café‑lined lanes, and the Cathedral Close—the largest enclosed close in Britain—before heading on to Stonehenge.
How to get from London to Stonehenge by Train (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Take the train from London Waterloo to Salisbury
Start your trip by catching a direct train from London Waterloo to Salisbury—that’s the nearest station to Stonehenge. The journey takes about 1 hour 25 minutes, and trains run roughly twice an hour during the day.
You can check schedules and prices at National Rail and book online in advance to lock in lower fares (typically £18–£34 round-trip if booked early). If you're staying in South London then you can board the same train from Clapham Junction.
Step 2: Transfer to the Stonehenge Tour Bus outside Salisbury Station
Once you arrive in Salisbury, the simplest way to reach the stones is by taking the Stonehenge Tour bus, operated by Salisbury Reds. It picks up right outside the station and runs hourly throughout the day. Know that, as its name suggests, it’s not a guided tour—just a reliable shuttle service out to the site and back, with stops at Old Sarum and Salisbury Cathedral.
The bus ride to Stonehenge takes about 30–35 minutes, and you can buy a combo ticket that includes your admission to Stonehenge and the return ride.
Step 3: Explore Stonehenge (and maybe Salisbury too)
You’ll be dropped off at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, with time to see the museum, grab a bite, and take the shuttle or walk to the stones themselves. If you’re efficient with timing, you can also fit in a visit to Salisbury Cathedral—home to one of the original Magna Carta manuscripts—or even catch evensong if you're staying late.
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Frequently asked questions on London to Stonehenge train
How do I get from London to Stonehenge by train?
From London, take a train to Salisbury station. From there, board a Stonehenge Tour Bus for a 30-minute ride to the monument.
How long does the train ride from London to Salisbury take?
The train ride from London to Salisbury typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the service you choose.
Do I need to buy tickets for both the train and the bus to Stonehenge?
Yes, you’ll need separate tickets for the train from London to Salisbury and the bus transfer from Salisbury to Stonehenge. It’s best to book these in advance.
What time should I leave London to visit Stonehenge?
To get the most out of your visit, plan for an early morning train to Salisbury. This allows you ample time to explore Stonehenge and even visit Salisbury if you wish.
Are the trains from London to Salisbury frequent?
Yes, trains run regularly throughout the day, with departures every 30 minutes.
Can I visit Stonehenge during the winter months?
Yes, Stonehenge is open year-round, though the weather may be cooler. The train and bus services operate throughout the winter, so you can visit any time of year.