Southampton Shore Excursion to Avebury

Embark on a captivating shore excursion from Southampton to uncover two of England's most enigmatic prehistoric sites: Avebury and West Kennet Long Barrow. Along the way, we'll meander through picturesque countryside, passing through charming, quintessentially English villages.

Unearthing Ancient Secrets

Just a stone's throw from Avebury lies the Early Neolithic burial mound of West Kennet Long Barrow. Built around 3,700 BC, this ancient site served intermittently as a burial ground throughout the Neolithic period. Inside its chambers, archaeologists have discovered human remains alongside flint tools and pottery shards. Stepping into the barrow offers a tangible connection to our distant prehistoric past, allowing you to reflect on the lives of those who walked this land thousands of years ago.

The Grandeur of Avebury

Next, we'll drive right into the heart of the awe-inspiring Avebury Stone Circle, one of the largest and most significant Neolithic monuments in Europe. Unlike its more famous counterpart, Stonehenge, Avebury invites you to walk among its massive stones, offering a truly immersive experience. Your knowledgeable guide will lead a fascinating walking tour, delving into the site's complex history, explaining how and when this monumental henge and stone circle developed, and sharing theories about its purpose and the ancient people who created it.

We'll explore the various rings and avenues, discussing the astronomical alignments and the rituals that may have taken place here. Avebury also boasts a charming medieval church within its boundaries, adding another layer of history to this remarkable landscape. Afterwards, you'll have time to browse the Henge Shop, an ideal place to find unique mementos, from books on ancient history to local crafts.

A Royal Tea Stop

As a delightful bonus, we'll visit the Polly Tea Rooms in Marlborough. This historic establishment, open since 1912, is renowned for its traditional British treats, all baked on-site. While it has welcomed royalty throughout its long history, it holds a particular connection with Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, who was a frequent and fond visitor during her time as a student at Marlborough College.

Marlborough High Street is one of the UK's widest, lined with a mix of independent and chain shops, cafes, and pubs in historic buildings. Its unique breadth, a legacy of a 17th-century fire, creates a spacious, attractive market town feel, known for its twice-weekly markets.

Throughout your Southampton shore excursion, your expert guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and culture of these remarkable sites, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience. We'll conclude our tour with a timely return to the Southampton Cruise Terminal.

Pricing

Our prices are based on the vehicle you choose, not the number of passengers. This means the more people in your group, the more economical the trip becomes for everyone! To get a personalised quote, simply let us know your group size and the type of vehicle you'd prefer.

Booking

Ready to book your Southampton Shore Excursion? Just get in touch with your ideal date, group size, and vehicle preference. We highly recommend booking ahead, especially if you're travelling during peak season, to ensure you don't miss out!