Getting There & Away: Wiltshire

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Bristol Airport (BRS): Approximately 40-60 miles west of Wiltshire. Good for European travelers. Airlines: Ryanair, easyJet, KLM, Lufthansa. Southampton Airport (SOU): Approximately 30-50 miles south-east of Wiltshire. Mostly UK domestic and some European routes. Airlines: Aurigny, Blue Islands. London Heathrow Airport (LHR): Approximately 60-80 miles east of Wiltshire. Major international hub, common choice for intercontinental travelers. Airlines: British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, United. London Gatwick Airport (LGW): Approximately 90-110 miles south-east of Wiltshire. Another significant international hub. Airlines: easyJet, British Airways.

Direct Flight Options

Direct flights to LHR and LGW are from most major global hubs (New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, Sydney, Dubai, Tokyo).
Direct flights to BRS or SOU are mainly from within Europe.
Prices are highest in peak summer (June-August) and around major holidays.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

All major airports (LHR, LGW, BRS, SOU) feature extensive facilities: duty-free, restaurants, currency exchange, ATMs, car rental agencies, information desks, free Wi-Fi.

Transfer Options

From Heathrow/Gatwick: Direct rail to Reading or London stations, with connections to Wiltshire. National Express coaches also go to Wiltshire towns.
From Bristol Airport: Bristol Airport Flyer bus connects to Bristol Temple Meads for train connections to Wiltshire.
From Southampton Airport: Southampton Airport Parkway station is adjacent, with direct trains to Salisbury.

Booking Early

Booking several months in advance for flights, especially long-haul or during peak periods, usually yields better fares.

Price Flexibility

Flexibility with your travel dates can also lead to savings. Shoulder seasons often show better value and pleasant travel conditions.

Car Rental

On-site car rental facilities at all airports. Renting a car is for exploring Wiltshire, given its rural nature.

Affiliate Resources for Flights & Cars

Flight Search

For flight deals: Dollar Flight Club.
For comparing flight prices: Skyscanner.
Always check airline direct sites after using comparison tools.
Look for special promotions during shoulder seasons.

Car Rental Services

For car rentals: DiscoverCars.com.
Compare options from various providers for the best vehicle.
Consider additional insurance for peace of mind.
Pick up at the airport for immediate mobility.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Wiltshire has good rail connections to London and other major UK cities. Great Western Railway (GWR) and South Western Railway (SWR) are main operators. Book "Advance" tickets for savings via Trainline.

Long-Distance Buses

National Express operates coach services connecting major UK cities and airports to towns in Wiltshire. Direct routes may be limited, and changes might be required.

Self-Driving

Drive on the left. A valid driving licence is needed; an International Driving Permit may be if your license is not in English. Minimum age for rental is usually 21.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road Network

UK roads vary significantly, from multi-lane motorways (M-roads) to dual carriageways (A-roads) and narrow country lanes (B-roads and unclassified roads). Speed limits are clearly signposted.

Driving Safely

Motorways are generally in good condition.
Country roads can be narrow and winding; extra caution is needed.
Be aware of farm vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Traffic Laws & Parking

Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Using a mobile phone while driving (unless hands-free) is illegal. Drink-driving limits are strict.

Navigating & Parking

Roundabouts are common; understand right-of-way rules (give way to traffic from your right unless signs state otherwise).
Parking is difficult and expensive in town centers. Look for designated car parks.
Hotel parking is often available but may cost extra.

Sea/River Arrivals

Wiltshire is landlocked, but accessible from major ferry ports on the UK coast via good land transportation links.

Ferry & Cruise Connections

Closest major ferry ports are Portsmouth and Southampton (routes from continental Europe, Channel Islands).
Cruise ships dock at Southampton, a major cruise port.
From these ports, extensive train and bus services connect to Wiltshire (e.g., direct train from Southampton to Salisbury).

River & Departure Info

River transport within Wiltshire is for recreational narrowboat holidays on canals (Kennet and Avon Canal) and pleasure boat trips on navigable rivers (River Avon in Salisbury). These are for leisure and sightseeing, not main modes of arrival or departure.

Departure Information

No specific exit fees or taxes are on individuals leaving the UK. Air Passenger Duty is included in flight tickets.
For international flights, arrive 2-3 hours before departure. For domestic/short-haul European, 1-2 hours.
Train/bus stations have waiting areas, toilets, often cafes or shops.

Road Safety Reminders

Drive on the left-hand side.
Be cautious on narrow country lanes.
Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal.

Observe speed limits carefully.
Look out for pedestrians and cyclists on rural roads.
Ensure adequate fuel for longer journeys, especially in rural areas.

Departure Checklist

Airport Departure

Allow sufficient time for check-in and security, especially during busy periods or if returning a rental car.

Steps

Check airline's specific recommendations for arrival time.
Utilize self-service kiosks for check-in where available.
Explore duty-free, restaurants, and lounges in the departure area.

Train & Bus Departure

Arrive at the station 15-30 minutes before your departure. This time allows finding your platform or bus stop and boarding comfortably.

Station Facilities

Stations typically have waiting areas and restrooms.
Larger stations may have more extensive retail and dining options.
Ensure your ticket is ready for inspection.

No Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes are on individuals departing the UK. Air Passenger Duty is included in the flight ticket price.

Smooth Procedures

Following airline or operator guidelines supports a smooth and timely departure experience.

Baggage Services

Check baggage allowance with your airline to avoid last-minute fees.

Departure Reminder

Confirm your flight or train status before heading to the airport or station.

Getting There & Away