Relaxed 10-Day England Road Trip from Birmingham to London and Basingstoke

Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Birmingham, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Birmingham and begin your adventure in England.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Queen Victoria, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 615 reviews.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Birmingham. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Birmingham.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Birmingham by reserving a table at Purnell's. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Opheem, recognized for its delicious indian dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Adam's, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Birmingham. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Birmingham and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Equator Bar Birmingham, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bacchus Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in England. Enjoy your first taste of Birmingham as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Dudley, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Dudley will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of England.

Set your GPS to Dudley and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Dudley beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dudley Zoo and Castle. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 10,334 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Black Country Living Museum. This living museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,335 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dudley and set your GPS to Tividale. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 9 min. Upon reaching Tividale, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, Tividale, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable hindu temple has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,072 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Birmingham and your accommodation.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at La Galleria, a top-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Ivy Temple Row, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Malmaison Birmingham. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Birmingham this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Birmingham.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Dudley can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in England!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 3, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of England and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Grindleford and beyond. With 1 night left in Birmingham, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the village.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Grindleford, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Birmingham to Grindleford may take around 1 hour 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Grindleford, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to National Trust - Padley Gorge. This landmark is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,473 visitors.

Set your GPS to Bakewell and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bakewell beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bakewell Bridge. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 854 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bakewell, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Edensor. This drive usually takes around 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Chatsworth House, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This english country house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,015 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Birmingham.

Exploring the food culture in Birmingham offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Purnells, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Dishoom Birmingham offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Canal House Bar & Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Birmingham.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Birmingham. The bars in Birmingham make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in England. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in England tomorrow with new energy.

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in England is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in London for 4 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Birmingham, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Leavesden. Your travel time is around 2 hours 1 min.

Make Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this exhibition room an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 82,133 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Leavesden, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to London may take around 41 min. Upon your arrival in London, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Regent's Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 44,079 visitors.

Madame Tussauds London is another popular attraction you could visit today. This wax museum has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 71,843 visitors.

National Gallery is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 6,011,007 people visit this top attraction every year. This art museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 48,134 visitors.

Trafalgar Square is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 121,847 reviews.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at London. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to book a table at Cahoots London, a popular restaurant in London. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of London at Bill's Soho Restaurant, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Estiatorio Milos. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to London tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in England.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Américain. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Connaught Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bar Polski, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through England means 24 hours of making the best memories in Westminster. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Westminster!

England makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, England also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at The Palomar, an iconic dining spot in London. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Berners Tavern, a popular restaurant in London. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in London. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Artesian. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, American Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Old Shades, another top-rated bar in the area.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in England!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of London and visit amazing attractions in England that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in England.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Big Ben. Previous visitors have rated this cultural icon an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 61,373 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Camden Town, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Westminster. Your travel time is around 13 min.

Drop by the renowned British Museum. This popular national museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 148,750 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 5,906,716 travelers every year.

After soaking in Camden Town’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Westminster. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in Westminster, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Westminster Abbey one of your first sightseeing stops in Westminster. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 40,223 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to London and your accommodation.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in London.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Rules, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hawksmoor Seven Dials, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Simpson's in the Strand. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in London.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Scarfes Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, BFI IMAX offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Old Bank of England, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in England!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in London, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about London, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across England.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around London, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dine in style at Smith & Wollensky, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hawksmoor Air Street boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Premier Inn London County Hall hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in London.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Ship & Shovell after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in London can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in England!

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in England is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the city of Westminster and end it in the town of Basingstoke. You’ll stay in Basingstoke for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in England.

After soaking in Westminster’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Richmond. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 32 min. When you arrive in Richmond, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to St James's Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 55,261 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Buckingham Palace. This royal palace has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 164,776 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Green Park. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 24,389 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Richmond. This car ride takes around 32 min.

Make Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this non-departmental public body an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 45,021 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Richmond and set your GPS to Eton. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 27 min. Upon reaching Eton, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Windsor Castle. This historic house museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 53,263 visitors.

In the town of Basingstoke, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in England.

When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Basingstoke, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in England. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in England tomorrow with new energy.

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of England will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in England, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Basingstoke, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Salisbury. This drive usually takes around 47 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Stonehenge. This tourist attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 51,913 visitors.

Set your GPS to Bath and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 2 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bath beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Thermae Bath Spa. This extraordinary spa is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,744 visitors.

Next, make your way to Roman Baths. This top attraction is a thermae with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 31,875 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Pulteney Bridge. This road bridge is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,931 travelers.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Birmingham. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in England by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Birmingham.

Dine in style at Gas Street Social, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Birmingham boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out @pizza Grand Central. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Birmingham.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Birmingham. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in England!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in England is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Birmingham.

As you approach the end of your journey in England, take a moment for some retail therapy in Birmingham’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of England, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of England with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Birmingham or just grab something light to keep you going.

Savor the flavors at Tapas Revolution, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Adam's Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Birmingham and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in England is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.