London to Salisbury

The London to Salisbury drive is a journey through the heart of England's ancient past, connecting the bustling capital with one of the nation's most charming cathedral cities. This 84-mile route traverses the picturesque counties of Surrey, Hampshire, and Wiltshire, offering a perfect blend of motorway efficiency and scenic countryside vistas. The crown jewel of this journey is undoubtedly Stonehenge, the enigmatic 5,000-year-old stone circle that stands as Britain's most iconic prehistoric monument. What makes this route truly special is the dramatic transition from urban London to the rolling chalk hills of Salisbury Plain, where ancient history feels tangible in the landscape. Beyond Stonehenge, you'll discover medieval villages, historic market towns, and the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral with its soaring spire. This drive is ideal year-round, though spring (April-May) brings vibrant wildflowers to the Wiltshire countryside, while autumn (September-October) offers golden landscapes and fewer crowds. Summer provides the longest daylight hours for exploration, making it perfect for combining multiple stops along the way.

Begin your journey from central London by navigating to the M3 motorway, which you can access via the A316 from west London or through the A4/A30 from central areas. Head southwest on the M3 for approximately 50 miles (45-60 minutes depending on traffic), passing through Surrey and into Hampshire. You'll pass Junction 1 (Sunbury), Junction 2 (M25 interchange), and continue through increasingly rural scenery. Exit at Junction 8 near Basingstoke and merge onto the A303, the historic route to the southwest that has been used since Roman times. The A303 carries you westward for about 25 miles through classic English countryside, with the landscape opening up as you approach Wiltshire. After approximately 30 minutes on the A303, you'll spot the unmistakable silhouette of Stonehenge on your left, with the visitor center accessed via the A360 at Airman's Corner roundabout. From Stonehenge, continue west on the A303 for just 8 miles, then take the A36 or A360 south into Salisbury (15 minutes). Traffic considerations are crucial: the M3 experiences heavy congestion during weekday rush hours (7-9:30am and 4-7pm), while the A303 can be slow during summer weekends and bank holidays. The roads are all well-maintained dual carriageways and A-roads, suitable for all vehicle types and driving abilities, with plenty of signage throughout.

Stonehenge

15m from Salisbury from London

Prehistoric monument

Stonehenge (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Located just off the A303, approximately 10 miles north of Salisbury, this 5,000-year-old stone circle is Britain's most famous prehistoric monument. Tickets must be pre-booked online (£21.50 adults, £12.90 children), and you should allocate 2-3 hours for your visit. Park at the excellent visitor center, which features interactive exhibitions explaining the monument's construction, astronomical significance, and the Neolithic people who built it. A complimentary shuttle bus transports visitors to the stones themselves, though you can also walk the 1.5-mile path. The stones are most atmospheric at sunrise or sunset, with special access tours available for these times (book months in advance). The visitor center café serves hot meals, sandwiches, and cream teas, making it an ideal lunch stop. Windsor Services (Optional Early Stop): If departing London early, consider stopping at Junction 3 of the M3 for facilities and breakfast. This modern service station offers major chain restaurants and ample parking. Amesbury (Adjacent to Stonehenge): Just 2 miles from Stonehenge, this historic town offers additional dining options including traditional pubs like The Bell Inn and several convenience stores. Petrol stations are available here, with the next major fuel stops being in Salisbury. Salisbury City: Your final destination features stunning medieval architecture dominated by the 13th-century cathedral, home to the best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta. Park at the Central Car Park (SP1 2DD) or one of several park-and-ride locations around the city. The historic Market Square hosts markets on Tuesdays and Saturdays, surrounded by half-timbered buildings housing independent shops and cafés. Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the cathedral, close, and city center.

Along the Route: As you leave London on the M3, look for views of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to your south near Guildford. The landscape gradually transforms from suburban sprawl to open farmland and ancient woodlands. Watch for the dramatic chalk escarpment as you approach Wiltshire on the A303. Stonehenge Landscape: Beyond the famous stones themselves, the surrounding landscape contains over 350 ancient burial mounds, ceremonial avenues, and henges. The free King Barrow Ridge walk offers stunning panoramic views of the monument from a distance. Old Sarum: Located 2 miles north of Salisbury (10-minute detour from A345), this Iron Age hillfort contains the ruins of a Norman castle and cathedral. The elevated position offers spectacular views across Salisbury Plain and the Avon Valley. Entry is £6.60 adults, and it's managed by English Heritage. Allow 1 hour. The Wiltshire Countryside: The A303 passes through quintessentially English scenery with rolling hills, flint-stone villages, and thatched cottages. Near Stonehenge, watch for the British Army's Salisbury Plain Training Area, where you might spot military vehicles and red flags indicating live firing ranges. Salisbury Cathedral and Close: Beyond the cathedral itself, the Close contains medieval houses, museums, and manicured lawns. Mompesson House (National Trust) is a perfectly preserved Queen Anne townhouse with walled gardens. The Salisbury Museum showcases local archaeology, including Stonehenge artifacts. Walk along the River Avon through the water meadows that inspired John Constable's famous paintings. Wilton House: Four miles west of Salisbury, this magnificent 17th-century stately home features spectacular state rooms and 21 acres of landscaped grounds (£18 adults; allow 2 hours).

Departure Timing: Leave London by 8:30am on weekdays to avoid the worst traffic, or after 10am for a more relaxed start. Weekend mornings are ideal for lighter traffic. Stonehenge Booking: Always pre-book tickets online at least 24 hours in advance; same-day tickets are rarely available, especially April-September. Consider the first entry slot (9:30am) for smaller crowds and better photography light. Weather: The Wiltshire countryside is exposed with minimal shelter; bring waterproof clothing year-round as conditions can change rapidly. Stonehenge is particularly exposed to wind. Summer temperatures reach 20-25°C, while winter averages 5-10°C. Mobile Coverage: Excellent 4G/5G coverage throughout the route, including at Stonehenge. Parking: Salisbury city center parking fills quickly on weekends and market days (Tuesdays/Saturdays). Use park-and-ride facilities from Beehive (north), Petersfinger (southeast), or Wilton (west) for £3 all-day including bus transfer. The Central Car Park charges approximately £1.50/hour with a maximum daily rate of £12. Stonehenge parking is included with admission. Accessibility: All major sites including Stonehenge visitor center are wheelchair accessible, though the monument itself involves uneven grass terrain.

Fuel Costs: For an average petrol car (40 mpg), expect to use approximately 2.1 gallons for the 84-mile journey, costing around £12-15 at current UK fuel prices. Diesel vehicles may reduce this by 20-25%. Stonehenge Admission: £21.50 per adult, £12.90 per child (5-17), free for under 5s. Family tickets available (2 adults + 3 children) for £55.90. Meals: Budget £8-12 for lunch at the Stonehenge café or Salisbury chain restaurants, £15-25 for a pub meal, or £30-50 per person for dinner at mid-range Salisbury restaurants. Traditional afternoon tea in Salisbury costs £12-20. Parking: Stonehenge parking included with admission. Salisbury city center parking: £8-12 for 4 hours, or £3 for park-and-ride. Total Day Trip Estimate: £60-90 per person including fuel share, admission, meals, and parking. Optional Extras: Old Sarum £6.60, Salisbury Cathedral suggested donation £8, Wilton House £18, Mompesson House £9. Overnight Stay: If extending to an overnight trip, Salisbury hotels range from £70-150 per night for mid-range options, with Premier Inn/Travelodge from £50-80. Charming B&Bs in the Cathedral Close area cost £90-140 per room.

Spring (April-June): Arguably the best time, with wildflowers carpeting Salisbury Plain, mild temperatures (12-18°C), and manageable crowds. Stonehenge aligns with the sunrise on the Spring Equinox (March 20-21), creating special viewing opportunities. Summer (July-September): Longest daylight hours and warmest weather (18-25°C), but expect peak crowds at Stonehenge and higher accommodation prices. The Summer Solstice (June 21) brings thousands to Stonehenge for sunrise celebrations with special open access to the stones. Autumn (October-November): Beautiful golden landscapes, fewer tourists, and crisp clear days ideal for photography. Winter (December-March): Quietest period with occasional frost creating atmospheric scenes, though expect shorter daylight hours (8am-4pm) and potential weather disruptions. Winter Solstice (December 21) offers another special access event. Avoid bank holiday weekends year-round when traffic on the A303 becomes extremely heavy.