Dreaming of standing among England’s ancient stone circles or climbing the mystical Glastonbury Tor? Whether you’re planning your first trip to the UK or returning for another adventure, here’s your comprehensive, practical guide to making the most of your visit to Stonehenge, Avebury, and Glastonbury.
1. Getting There: Navigating the English Countryside
From London or Bath:
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By Car: Renting a car offers flexibility, but remember—driving is on the left! The journey from London to Stonehenge is about 2 hours; Avebury and Glastonbury are within an hour’s drive of each other.
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By Train & Bus: Salisbury is the nearest train station to Stonehenge. From there, local buses or tour companies can take you to the stones. Avebury and Glastonbury are less accessible by public transport, so guided tours or car hire are recommended.
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Guided Tours: For a truly immersive experience, my guided driving tours offer more than just transportation—I share the hidden stories, local legends, and secret spots you’d miss on your own, handle all the logistics, and tailor each journey to your interests for a personal, stress-free adventure.
2. What to Pack and Prepare
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Weather: English weather is famously changeable. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes.
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Essentials: Bring a portable phone charger, a reusable water bottle, and some cash for village shops or cafés.
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Travel Adapters: UK plugs use Type G; don’t forget your adapter!
3. Entry and Booking Tips
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Stonehenge: Advance booking is recommended, especially in summer. Early morning or late afternoon slots are less crowded.
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Avebury: The stone circles are open to the public and free to enter.
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The Alexander Keiller Museum and Avebury Manor require tickets.
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Glastonbury Abbey: Tickets can be purchased on arrival, but check for special events or closures before visiting.
4. Driving and Navigation in the UK
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On the Left: Remember to drive on the left side of the road. Take extra care at roundabouts and junctions.
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Speed Limits: Typically 30 mph (48 km/h) in towns, 60 mph (97 km/h) on single carriageways, and 70 mph (113 km/h) on motorways.
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Parking: Stonehenge and Avebury have dedicated parking (fees apply). Glastonbury offers several pay-and-display car parks in the town centre.
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Navigation: Google Maps and Waze work well, but having a paper map as backup is wise in rural areas.
5. Local Customs and Etiquette
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Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. 10-15% in restaurants is standard.
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Pubs: Order and pay at the bar. It’s polite to say “please” and “thank you” to staff.
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Respect the Sites: Don’t climb on the stones and always follow posted guidelines—these are protected heritage sites.
6. Food, Facilities, and Accessibility
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Food: Enjoy classic English fare at local pubs or tearooms. Many sites have cafés with light meals and snacks.
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Restrooms: Facilities are available at all three sites, but options are limited in the countryside—plan ahead.
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Accessibility: Stonehenge and Glastonbury Abbey are accessible for most visitors, though some paths may be uneven. Avebury’s open fields can be muddy after rain.
7. Safety and Emergency Information
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Emergency Number: Dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance services.
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Health: Pharmacies are called “chemists” in the UK. Carry any necessary medications and travel insurance details.
8. Insider Tips from a Local Guide
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Hidden Gems:
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Don’t miss the West Kennet Long Barrow near Avebury—a Neolithic tomb you can enter!
- Take a bath (more like baptism) in the Chalice Well Baths.
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Best Views: Climb Glastonbury Tor early in the morning for magical sunrise views over the Somerset Levels.
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Local Events: Check for seasonal festivals or markets in Glastonbury and Avebury for a taste of local culture.
9. Make Your Journey Unforgettable
Planning a trip to England’s ancient sites is exciting—but it can be daunting to navigate unfamiliar roads and unearth the best stories on your own. If you’d like to relax and enjoy every moment, consider joining one of our guided driving tours. I’ll handle the logistics and share the legends, so you can focus on making memories.
Ready to explore? Contact me for a custom itinerary or to reserve your spot on our next adventure!
Did You Know?
Avebury’s stone circle is the largest in the world—and you can walk right among the stones! Let me show you the secrets that most visitors miss.
Safe travels, and I hope to welcome you soon to England’s legendary landscapes!
For more tips, stories, and tour options, explore the rest of Dragon Lore Tours.
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