Stonehenge Summer Solstice Tour from London: Sunset or Sunrise Viewing

Planning a trip to England often includes the iconic Stonehenge, and experiencing its summer solstice celebration is a unique way to connect with this ancient site. This tour promises the chance to witness the solstice either at sunrise or sunset, with options for extra visits like Avebury and a cozy pub dinner. Priced at around $187, it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to see Stonehenge during its most energetic time of year.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the chance to walk inside the UNESCO-listed stone circle, an experience that most visitors don’t get with standard visits. The option to choose between sunrise or sunset viewing adds a personalized touch. However, some reviews reveal that the organization can be inconsistent, which is worth considering. If you’re passionate about cultural gatherings, ancient history, and vibrant festival atmospheres, this tour could be just right for you.

That said, it’s not a perfect match for everyone—especially if you prefer a more relaxed, well-paced experience, or if you’re wary of rushed schedules. Travelers looking for an in-depth exploration or a hassle-free day might find the reviews of disorganization a bit concerning. Still, for those eager to feel the buzz of the solstice with a group of like-minded people, this tour offers a memorable, if occasionally hectic, adventure.

Key Points

• Unique access to Stonehenge during the solstice, including walking inside the circle.
• Flexible timing with options for sunrise or sunset viewing.
• Additional visits to Avebury and Lacock (sunset option), offering diverse prehistoric and historic sights.
• Transport is included with round-trip coach travel, but note that hotel pickup isn’t part of the package.
• Group size is capped at 55 travelers, which is manageable but still somewhat large.
• Mixed reviews highlight organizational issues, so be prepared for possible delays or changes.

An Honest Look at the Experience

Visiting Stonehenge during the summer solstice is a bucket-list event for many, and this tour aims to put you right in the middle of the festival atmosphere that unfolds each year. Starting from London, you’ll board an air-conditioned coach, which makes the roughly 2-hour journey more comfortable than some might expect, especially after a long day of travel.

The Itinerary: What You Get

Stop 1: Stonehenge
The highlight, of course, is walking inside the circle at Stonehenge. This is a rare opportunity—most visitors only view the stones from a distance. The tour includes admission tickets, so you won’t need additional purchases. Expect your guide to explain the significance of the site, its construction, and the rituals still performed today.

Travelers have expressed appreciation for the ability to get close to the stones, with one reviewer mentioning, “We loved the way the guide explained the ongoing rituals and the significance of the site during the solstice.” However, some reviews note that the organization can be hectic, with delays and rushed entries. One guest said, “The tour was hurried; we only had about 10 minutes to explore and take photos.”

Stop 2: Premium Tours – London Tours
This is the core of the day’s travel, providing a professional guide to navigate the logistics. The 15-minute stop likely refers to a quick transfer or overview point, helping set the scene for the day.

Stop 3: Avebury Stone Circle (Sunset option)
If you opt for the sunset tour, you’ll visit Avebury, an even larger stone circle with a more laid-back atmosphere. Reviewers found this visit quite enjoyable; one stated, “Seeing Avebury felt like discovering a hidden gem—more relaxed and less crowded than Stonehenge.” It’s a great opportunity to compare the two sites.

Stop 4: The George Inn (Sunset option)
For sunset travelers, a 1-course dinner in a historic pub before heading back to Stonehenge adds a convivial element. The pub, dating back to the 14th century, offers a cozy setting to unwind and chat about the day’s highlights. However, some reviews mention the dinner might be rushed, and the venue could change depending on availability.

The Experiences: What You’ll Feel

Participating in the summer solstice celebrations at Stonehenge is unlike a typical sightseeing trip. The atmosphere is electric, filled with druids, sun worshippers, and pagan gatherings. Many travelers enjoy the festival vibe, observing rituals that some still perform today. The guide’s commentary can add depth, explaining the significance of these ceremonies.

However, some reviews highlight organizational hiccups—such as late arrivals, coach issues, or brief visits—so be prepared for a potentially rushed experience. For instance, one traveler noted, “Our coach got lost, and we had to give directions ourselves,” indicating that logistical problems can happen.

The Value of the Tour

At $187, this tour offers access to a historic site during a rare event plus additional visits and a pub dinner if you choose the sunset option. The cost includes round-trip transport, admission tickets, and a professional guide—which makes it a reasonably good value considering the experience. Still, some reviews point out the poor organization and limited time at key sites, meaning you’re paying for the opportunity, but not always for a perfectly paced day.

Practical Details

• The tour departs from South Kensington in London, near public transport, making it accessible.
• The tour duration varies from 7 to 12 hours, so prepare for a full day.
• No hotel pickup is included; you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.
• Participants should have a good physical fitness level, especially if you want to explore the grounds thoroughly.
• The sunrise tour on June 20th is an early start, so be prepared for a very early morning.
• The tour is operated by Premium Tours, with a maximum group size of 55 travelers, which is manageable but still a sizable group.

What the Reviews Tell Us

The range of reviews paints a picture of a tour that’s packed with potential but not without flaws. Several reviewers, including Alicia and Emma, describe poor organization, including delays, hurried visits, and issues like toilets breaking. One even called it “diabolical,” citing a lost coach and incorrect historical facts. Conversely, a few praised it as “the highlight of their trip,” especially mentioning the value of visiting Avebury and the overall experience of being part of the solstice celebration.

The discrepancy in reviews suggests that your experience could vary based on luck, timing, and expectations. If well-organized, this trip could deliver a memorable day with fantastic photo opportunities and culture. But if the logistics fall apart, it could leave you feeling rushed or disappointed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers interested in cultural festivals, history buffs eager to see Stonehenge during its most symbolic event, or those who value group tours for the convenience of transportation and guided commentary. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a bit of chaos and are prepared for a busy, potentially hectic day.

However, it might not be the best choice if you prefer a more relaxed, leisurely exploration or are concerned about organizational reliability. If you’re someone who values punctuality and in-depth visits, you might want to explore other options or prepare for some flexibility.

The Sum Up

This Stonehenge summer solstice tour offers a meaningful way to witness the ancient monument during a once-a-year festival that draws thousands. With access inside the stones, options for viewing at dawn or dusk, and additional visits to Avebury and Lacock, it packs a lot into a day from London. The tour is particularly appealing for those seeking to experience the vibrant, ritualistic side of the solstice and are comfortable with some organizational unpredictability.

While reviews point to some logistical issues, the overall value remains fair considering the included features—admission to two iconic sites, transportation, guides, and optional dinner. If you’re flexible, adventurous, and eager to participate in one of the most atmospheric events surrounding Stonehenge, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

For travelers craving a more structured or serene experience, or those with very tight schedules, it might be worth exploring other options. But for most, the chance to see the stones during their most celebratory moment makes this tour a memorable addition to a London trip.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup is not included. You’ll need to meet at the designated starting point near South Kensington.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers round-trip coach transportation, admission tickets to Stonehenge (and Avebury if on the sunset tour), a professional guide, and dinner if you select the sunset option.

Can I visit the site at sunrise or sunset?
Yes, you can choose between a sunrise or sunset viewing, with specific dates for the sunrise tour (June 20).

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration ranges from 7 to 12 hours, depending on the day and activities.

Is there enough time to explore Stonehenge?
Visitors have a limited window—about 10 minutes at Stonehenge, which many find rushed. If you want a more relaxed visit, consider this when planning.

What about visiting Avebury?
Avebury is included in the sunset tour, offering a larger, less crowded site. Reviewers appreciated this visit for its relaxed atmosphere.

Are meals included?
A single-course dinner is included only if you choose the sunset tour, served at a historic pub.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Participants should have a strong physical fitness level, as exploring the grounds involves walking and standing for periods.

In the end, this tour offers a chance to experience one of the UK’s most iconic sites in a festive setting. While organization can sometimes falter, the memories of being part of the solstice celebration—inside the stones, with the sun rising or setting—are bound to be unforgettable for many travelers.