Cardiff to Stonehenge is a longer day trip but well worth the journey ÔÇö the route via Bristol and Salisbury is comfortable and straightforward. Here's how to plan it.
Train: Cardiff Central to Salisbury
The most efficient route from Cardiff Central to Salisbury runs via Bristol Temple Meads. Take a Great Western Railway service to Bristol (approximately 50 minutes), then change for a Bath Spa or direct Salisbury service. Total journey time from Cardiff to Salisbury: approximately 2ÔÇô2.5 hours.
Some journeys require two changes (CardiffÔÇôBristolÔÇôBathÔÇôSalisbury). Check nationalrail.co.uk for the current fastest direct-ish routing. For the 10:05 or 11:05 shuttle, aim to leave Cardiff before 07:30 or 08:30 respectively.
Salisbury to Stonehenge
The Salisbury to Stonehenge Shuttle takes you from opposite Salisbury station to Stonehenge in 35 minutes. Return fare £20 per person, all-inclusive. Book in advance at salisburytostonehenge.com.
A Note on the Bluestones
The bluestones at Stonehenge ÔÇö the smaller inner circle ÔÇö were transported from the Preseli Hills in west Wales, approximately 150 miles from Stonehenge. Travelling from Cardiff to Stonehenge, you are following (in reverse) the approximate route these stones may have taken 4,500 years ago. Worth reflecting on as you sit in a comfortable train carriage.
Ready to visit Stonehenge from Salisbury? The shuttle departs directly opposite Salisbury Train Station. Just £20 return per person, all in.
Check availability 