Wiltshire Travel Hacks. Money Saving, Time Saving, Local Secrets

Money-Saving Strategies

Many pubs and some restaurants feature "2 for 1" or set-menu deals for lunch or early dinner (often known as "early bird" specials). Look for these promotions, often advertised outside establishments or on their websites. Pubs often have a cheaper 'lunch menu' compared to their evening offerings.

Discount Cards and Passes

National Trust Overseas Visitor Pass: This pass is a cost-effective way to access them.
English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass: For Stonehenge and other English Heritage sites, this pass can mean substantial savings if you visit several properties.
Railcards: If you travel extensively by train across the UK, investigate eligibility for a Railcard (e.g., 26-30 Railcard for young adults, Senior Railcard for those 60+, Two Together Railcard for couples). These give a third off most train fares.

Free Activities and Attractions

Avebury Stone Circle: Access to the stones themselves costs nothing, allowing you to walk among them (parking charges apply).
Walking/Hiking: Wiltshire features an extensive network of public footpaths and bridleways, providing access to stunning landscapes.
Local Parish Churches: Many historic village churches are open to visitors without charge, offering architectural interest.
Exploring Historic Villages: Wander through picturesque villages like Lacock and Castle Combe.

Transportation Savings

Book Train Tickets in Advance: Booking "Advance" tickets online can lead to substantial savings.
Bus Day Tickets: For multiple local bus journeys, ask the driver for a "Day Rider" or similar ticket.
Group Car Rental: For groups, renting a car and splitting costs is often more economical than multiple train tickets.

Accommodation Alternatives

Hostels or Budget B&Bs: These represent the most affordable lodging options.
Camping or Glamping: If traveling in good weather, camping has a budget-friendly and enjoyable choice.
Stay in Larger Towns: Consider staying in larger towns like Swindon for potentially lower hotel rates.

Time-Saving Tips

Efficient planning supports you in maximizing sightseeing time in Wiltshire.

Skip-the-Line Options

Pre-booking tickets online for major attractions often includes a specific entry time.
This approach lessens potential wait times at the entrance.
For attractions without timed entry, arriving just after opening often bypasses largest crowds.
Early arrival can lead to a more peaceful experience.

Best and Worst Times for Popular Attractions

Best Times: Early morning or late afternoon/evening, especially outside of peak summer.
Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.
Worst Times: Midday during summer, school holidays, and public holidays.
These periods see the highest number of visitors.

Express Transportation Alternatives

Trains: Faster than buses for inter-town travel, especially for longer distances.
Car: Offers flexibility and is often the quickest way to move between attractions.
Consider car travel for exploring rural areas with limited public transport.
Car travel is suitable if your itinerary includes multiple stops.

Efficient Routing Suggestions

Group Attractions Geographically: Plan days by grouping nearby attractions (e.g., Stonehenge, Old Sarum, Salisbury).
Use Google Maps: Utilize for real-time travel time estimates and traffic conditions.
Check Opening Hours: Verify times for all planned attractions to create a realistic schedule.

Pre-booking Recommendations

Pre-booking secures your place and can offer savings.

Accommodation & Car Rental

Accommodation: Essential, especially during peak tourist season or for specific properties.
Rental Cars: Secure your vehicle well in advance for better rates and availability.

Travel Tickets

Train Tickets: Purchase "Advance" fares as soon as they become available for cost savings.
Coaches: Book for longer journeys or if seeking cheaper fares.

Attractions & Tours

Stonehenge: Timed entry tickets are highly recommended and often required.
Special Tours or High-Demand Activities: Book for hot air ballooning or specific guided tours.

Dinner Reservations

Popular Restaurants: Make dinner reservations, especially on weekends or for fine dining.

Local Insights

A few local customs and unofficial rules to enhance your visit.

Common Tourist Mistakes

Underestimating Travel Times: Rural roads can be slow; public transport to smaller villages is infrequent.
Not Booking Ahead for Stonehenge: Book a time slot, especially during peak season, for entry.
Thinking All Pubs Serve Food: Many traditional pubs are mainly for drinks. Check ahead if you plan to eat.
Driving on Narrow Lanes: Be prepared for single-track roads with passing places. Drive slowly.

More Mistakes to Avoid

Not Carrying Some Cash: Some small independent shops or rural pubs might prefer cash.

Local Customs to Know

Queuing: Lining up is a common practice; do it.
Politeness: "Please," "thank you," and "sorry" are used frequently and sincerely.
Pub Etiquette: Order at the bar. Do not sit at a table if you have not ordered a drink.
"Are you alright?": A common greeting, not an actual question. A simple "Yeah, thanks, you?" is a fine reply.

Unofficial Rules and Phrases

Personal Space: People generally prefer a bit more personal space than in some other cultures.
"Small Talk": Talking about the weather is a common and safe topic for conversations.
Punctuality: Be punctual for appointments and reservations.
Recycling: While public bins are limited, separate your waste for recycling at your accommodation.

Important Considerations for Your Visit

Access to many historical sites like Avebury Stone Circle is freely available, while others, like Stonehenge, benefit from pre-booking.

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Tailor your approach to Wiltshire based on your travel companions.

Solo Traveler Tips

Wiltshire is a very safe county for solo travelers. Take usual precautions in towns at night. Stay in B&Bs for interaction with hosts. Pubs are good places to strike up conversations.

Group Logistics

Holiday cottages or hotels with multiple rooms are often best for groups. Renting a larger vehicle or a minibus is often the most efficient way to travel around.

Family Adaptations

Many attractions have family tickets and child-friendly activities. Most pubs and restaurants offer children's menus or smaller portions. Build flexibility into your itinerary.

Local Phrases & Accessibility

Phrases that Impress Locals

Knowing a few local place names correctly (e.g., "Marlborough" pronounced "MAWL-bruh").
"Lovely jubbly" (an informal, slightly dated but often understood phrase meaning great/excellent).
"Fancy a cuppa?" (Would you like a cup of tea?). This shows you understand a cornerstone of British culture.

Accessibility Considerations

Always contact attractions and accommodation directly in advance to confirm specific accessibility needs can be met.
Research accessible routes for walks or transport if needed.
See section 11.4 for more detailed accessibility information.

Wiltshire Travel Hacks