3-Day Stonehenge*, Glastonbury, Bath & the South West Coast Tour from London

Taking a 3-day trip from London into the scenic and historic southwest England sounds tempting, and this tour promises a mix of iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and charming towns. Offered by Rabbies Trail Burners, it combines comfort, storytelling, and a carefully curated itinerary. But like all group journeys, it’s worth knowing what works well—and what might be a little less ideal—before you book.

We love how this tour packs so many highlights into just three days, giving you a chance to see Stonehenge, the Durdle Door, Dartmoor, Glastonbury, and Bath without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The inclusion of two nights in Exeter with breakfast adds convenience and a comfortable base for exploring. The small-group vibe (up to 16 travelers) means you’re less likely to feel lost in a crowd, and the Mercedes mini-coach suggests a smooth, private-driving experience.

One thing to consider is that with such a packed schedule, your time at each site can be brief—some reviewers felt the stops in Glastonbury and Tavistock could be tighter on time. Also, while the tour is generally praised for its guides’ knowledge, a few reviews mention that some guides might be less experienced, which can affect the depth of storytelling. Still, for those who enjoy a well-organized overview of southwest England, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to tick off numerous bucket-list spots in a short period.

This tour suits travelers seeking a convenient, all-in-one experience with a mix of natural and historical sights, especially if you prefer traveling in comfort and joining a small group. It’s perfect for those with limited time but eager to get a broad taste of England’s southwest heritage.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation: Travel in a top-range Mercedes mini-coach, making long days more pleasant.
• Well-rounded itinerary: Covers iconic landmarks, natural scenery, and historic towns, providing a rundown of the region.
• Small group size: Up to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Inclusion of key sites: Entrance to Stonehenge is included, saving both time and money.
• Two nights in Exeter: Offers a cozy base with breakfast, good for exploring nearby attractions at your own pace.
• Varied experiences: From prehistoric stones to coastal arches and medieval cities, there’s enough variety to keep everyone engaged.

A Deep Dive Into the 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: The Marvel of Stonehenge and Coastal Beauty

The tour kicks off early from the Green Line Coach Station in London, with a 9:15am departure. The first stop is Stonehenge, where the inclusion of the entrance fee means no extra costs and no waiting in line. Standing amid those massive stones, it’s easy to feel a sense of wonder—these monoliths are not just a photo-op but a portal into early human ingenuity and spiritual life. Several reviewers, like Raina_S, mention the guide’s storytelling as a highlight, praising how they brought the site’s history to life.

Next, you’ll venture along the coast to Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door—two natural wonders that are perfect for photos and a stretch of the legs. Durdle Door’s limestone arch is one of the most photographed coastal features in England, and most visitors find it worth lingering to soak in the views or take a quick walk along the rugged cliffs. This stop is free and roughly an hour and 15 minutes long, so it’s a good buffer before heading to Exeter.

Arriving in Exeter, you’ll find a city layered with history—from Roman fortifications to a Norman cathedral. Many reviews mention the hotel’s location, often on the outskirts, requiring a short walk to the city center, but the en-suite rooms and breakfast are generally appreciated. Exeter provides a relaxed start to the tour, with enough time to enjoy its charming streets and riverside atmosphere.

Day 2: Dartmoor’s Wild Beauty and Tavistock’s Charm

Day two begins with a visit to Dartmoor National Park, famous for its windswept landscapes, native ponies, and striking granite tors. Reviewers like Kelly P describe Dartmoor as “incredible,” highlighting the rugged scenery and the chance to spot wild ponies grazing close to the coach. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.

Next, you’ll stop in Tavistock, a town with a rich history rooted in mining and religion. Known as Sir Francis Drake’s birthplace, Tavistock’s market and local produce are often praised—many travelers mention the delightful atmosphere and the opportunity to sample authentic, local flavors. The 1.5-hour stop allows for some leisurely exploration, shopping, or just soaking in the rural charm.

Returning to Exeter in the early afternoon offers a second chance to explore its historic sites at your own pace. With an extra two hours, you can stroll the city walls, visit the Norman cathedral, or relax by the quayside—many guests appreciate the balance between guided sightseeing and free time.

Day 3: Glastonbury and Bath’s Classical Elegance

The final day begins with Glastonbury, a place steeped in myth and legend. Visiting Glastonbury Abbey, climbing Glastonbury Tor, and wandering St. John’s Church, you get a vivid sense of its spiritual history and connections to early Christianity, Arthurian legends, and pagan traditions. Reviewers mention that the two-hour stop feels a bit rushed but still offers enough time to take in the key sights and snap some photos.

Next, the journey takes you to Bath, a city famed for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture. Guests often mention how stunning the city’s buildings are—the Royal Crescent, the Circus, and the medieval Abbey are all within easy reach. You’ll have time for lunch on your own and a relaxed afternoon exploring or simply people-watching in cafes. The Roman Baths are not included in the tour price, but many find the entrance fee well worth it for a deep dive into Roman Britain.

The trip concludes with a scenic two-hour drive back to London, leaving you with plenty of time to reflect on the sights or plan your next adventure.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

• Transport and Group Size: Traveling in a Mercedes mini-coach means you’ll be snug and comfortable, with a maximum of 16 travelers. This offers intimacy without sacrificing comfort, and the driver-guide’s storytelling can often make the journey as engaging as the stops.
• Accommodation: Staying two nights in Exeter provides a solid base, with breakfast included. Many reviewers enjoy these hotels, describing them as comfortable and convenient, although some mention they’re on the outskirts, requiring short walks into town.
• Cost and Value: With a price of approximately $755 per person, the tour offers good value considering the entrance to Stonehenge is included, along with two nights’ accommodation and guided commentary. Additional costs, like meals and optional site entries such as the Roman Baths, are not included.
• Timing: The tour departs early at 9:15am, with most sites visited in the daylight hours, maximizing sightseeing time. Some reviews suggest the schedule can be tight, especially in Glastonbury, so be prepared for a busy three days.
• Accessibility: The coach involves a few steps and isn’t wheelchair accessible, but storage is available for foldable mobility aids. The tour is suitable for children aged 5 and up, but it’s worth noting that some stops are brief, so patience is needed.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

The tour’s small-group format and passionate guides are often praised. One reviewer commended a guide named Ouen, describing him as “fantastic” with “informed explanations and Welsh humor.” Others, however, mention that some guides might lack depth in storytelling, which can slightly diminish the experience for history buffs.

Several guests appreciated the balance of scenic views and historic stops. The coastal walks at Durdle Door and the rugged feel of Dartmoor make for memorable moments, while cities like Bath and Exeter provide a delightful contrast with their elegant streets, historic buildings, and local food scenes.

The reviews also highlight that while the tour covers a lot, the time at each stop can be limited. For example, in Glastonbury, a two-hour window was sometimes seen as a bit rushed, especially if you want to explore the abbey and the tor thoroughly.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of southwest England without the stress of planning transport and accommodations. It’s particularly suited to those who enjoy guided storytelling, scenic drives, and a mix of natural beauty with history. The small-group setting makes it perfect for those who prefer a more intimate experience, and the included hotel stay adds a layer of comfort.

It’s less suited for travelers looking for long, leisurely exploration or those with mobility challenges, given the walking distances and coach steps involved. Also, if you’re a dedicated museum or site enthusiast, be prepared to pay extra for some entries, like in Bath.

In essence, for a well-organized, friendly, and visually diverse trip that balances major attractions with authentic touches, this tour offers considerable bang for your buck.

FAQ

What is the departure point for this tour?
The tour departs from the Greenline Coach Station at Bulleid Way, Victoria, London, at 9:15am.

Is parking available near the meeting point?
Parking can be tricky in central London. It’s best to rely on public transportation or nearby parking facilities.

How early should I arrive?
Check-in closes 15 minutes before departure, so plan to arrive a little early to avoid rushing.

What luggage can I bring?
You’re allowed up to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage, ideally a carry-on-sized bag plus a small personal bag.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, though breakfast at the hotel is covered. You may want to bring some snacks or plan for lunch during free time.

Are entrance fees included?
The tour price includes Stonehenge entrance, but other sites like the Roman Baths are not included and will require additional payment.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach provides a smooth ride, with assistance for boarding. The coach has steps and grab handles but is not wheelchair accessible.

Can I bring children?
Yes, children aged 5 and older can join. Please note that children under a certain height may need a booster seat, which should be noted during booking.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While storage for mobility aids is available, the coach involves steps and walking, so it may not be suitable for everyone with mobility challenges.

Where will I stay?
You’ll spend two nights in Exeter, with accommodation rated as good quality and including breakfast.

Can I customize the rooms if traveling in a group?
Yes, efforts are made to book suitable room arrangements for groups of three or more, with preferences noted at booking.

This comprehensive tour offers a fantastic way to see some of England’s most cherished sights—blend history, natural beauty, and a touch of legend—all in a comfortably paced, small-group setting. Perfect for those who want an efficient, enjoyable overview of the southwest’s highlights.