10-Day England Road Trip from Southampton to Oxford, Sheffield, and London
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 10-day road trip through England that promises to leave you speechless. With this exciting adventure, you will have the chance to explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Southampton, Oxford, Salisbury, Bath, Lichfield, Alrewas, Crich, Edensor, Sheffield, Leavesden, Westminster, London, Kensington, Greenwich, East Ham, Camden Town, Richmond, and Eton. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey where every moment becomes a lasting story.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Southampton, 2 nights in Oxford, 1 night in Sheffield, and 4 nights in London. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in England. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Southampton, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover England on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in England. London Eye and Buckingham Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Southampton, Oxford, Salisbury, Bath, Lichfield, Alrewas, Crich, Edensor, Sheffield, Leavesden, Westminster, London, Kensington, Greenwich, East Ham, Camden Town, Richmond, and Eton, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of England. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in England.
Throughout your road trip in England, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in England.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in England fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in England today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Southampton - Arrival day
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- Houdini's Escape Room Experience - Escape Room Southampton
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Welcome to Southampton, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Southampton's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Southampton is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Houdini's Escape Room Experience - Escape Room Southampton or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Southampton. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Southampton. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Lakaz Maman, a top-rated dining spot in Southampton. If you're in the mood for something new, try Soleto Bistro, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ennio's. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Southampton.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. The Hobbit Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Firehouse, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Guide Dog. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Oxford
- Southampton
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Drive 110 km, 1 hour 57 min
- Westgate Hall
- Mayflower Park
- Red Funnel Ferries
- Solent Sky
- Southampton Common
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Southampton. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Oxford, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Westgate Hall. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 191 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Mayflower Park. This park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,453 reviews.
When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Red Funnel Ferries. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 8,788 visitors.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Solent Sky. This aviation museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,033 visitors.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Southampton Common. This common land is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,033 visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Oxford, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Oxford's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at The Big Society, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Antep Kitchen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Victoria. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Oxford tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Mad Hatter after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The White Horse, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The House also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 3
- Oxford
- Salisbury
- Bath
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Drive 297 km, 3 hours 59 min
- Stonehenge
- Roman Baths
- Bath Abbey
- Pulteney Bridge
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On day 3 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in Salisbury, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Oxford for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Salisbury and Bath to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Salisbury, 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 Oxford to Salisbury may take around 1 hour 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Salisbury, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Stonehenge. This tourist attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 51,913 reviews.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Salisbury, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bath may take around 1 hour 3 min. Upon your arrival in Bath, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Roman Baths. This extraordinary thermae has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 31,875 visitors.
Next, make your way to Bath Abbey. This parish church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,492 reviews.
While in Bath, we also recommend a visit to Pulteney Bridge. This road bridge has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,931 reviews.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Oxford.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Oxford's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at La Cucina, a top-rated dining destination in Oxford. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bbuona, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kazbar Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Oxford this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. The Jolly Farmers is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Turf Tavern, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Sandy's Piano Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 4
- Sheffield
- Lichfield
- Alrewas
- Crich
- Edensor
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Drive 256 km, 3 hours 52 min
- Beacon Park
- National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
- National Tramway Museum
- Chatsworth House
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Lichfield, Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sheffield. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lichfield. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Beacon Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,774 visitors.
When you’ve had your share of Lichfield, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Alrewas. Your travel time is around 16 min.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to National Memorial Arboretum. This extraordinary arboretum is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 12,026 visitors.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Sheffield, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Sheffield.
Make sure to book a table at Piccolo's, a popular restaurant in Sheffield. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sheffield at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Sheffield, 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 Wildcard Bar and Grill. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sheffield tonight.
Keep the evening going at The Bar Stewards, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Three Tuns, S1, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Sheffield Tap, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Head back to your accommodation in Sheffield and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!
Day 5
- London
- Leavesden
- Westminster
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Drive 284 km, 4 hours 19 min
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
- Buckingham Palace
- Borough Market
- The Shard
- London Bridge
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On day 5 of your road trip in England, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Leavesden, Westminster, and London. In the evening, you’ll end up in London, where you will stay for 4 nights.
After soaking in Sheffield’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Leavesden. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 39 min. When you arrive in Leavesden, it's time to take a break from the road.
A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. Previous visitors have rated this exhibition room an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 82,133 reviews.
Set your GPS to Westminster and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 54 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Westminster beckons with new experiences!
Journey into the unknown at Buckingham Palace, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable royal palace has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 164,776 reviews.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of London. London offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in London. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Cahoots London, 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 Bill's Soho Restaurant, 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 Estiatorio Milos, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Américain, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Connaught Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Polski offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- London
- Kensington
- Westminster
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 15 min
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Science Museum
- Royal Albert Hall
- Kensington Gardens
- Hyde Park
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Kensington. You’ll stay in Kensington for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Your discoveries in Kensington do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Kensington on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of London's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at The Palomar, a top-rated dining destination in London. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Berners Tavern, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Artesian, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to American Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Old Shades, another top-rated place in the area.
Head back to your accommodation in London and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!
Day 7
- London
- Greenwich
- East Ham
- Camden Town
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Drive 37 km, 1 hour 46 min
- Greenwich Park
- ExCeL London
- Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
- British Museum
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Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 2 nights left in London, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
East Ham’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Greenwich behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. East Ham welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Greenwich Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 44,005 visitors.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. East Ham, 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 Greenwich to East Ham may take around 20 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in East Ham, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Journey into the unknown at ExCeL London, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable convention center has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 38,559 reviews.
When you arrive in London, it's time to take a break from the road.
Make Tower of London your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 101,481 reviews. More than 2,741,126 people visit this place of interest every year.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to London and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in London. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Rules, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hawksmoor Seven Dials, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Simpson's in the Strand. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Scarfes Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. BFI IMAX is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Old Bank of England offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 8
- London
- Westminster
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Drive 10 km, 1 hour 7 min
- Regent's Park
- Madame Tussauds London
- National Gallery
- Trafalgar Square
- St James's Park
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Day 8 of your road trip across England promises a magnificent time exploring London. You have 1 night left in London. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Regent's Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 44,079 reviews.
Continue your journey at Madame Tussauds London. This wax museum is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 71,843 travelers from near and far.
London is also the home of National Gallery. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 48,134 visitors. Each year, around 6,011,007 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.
You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Trafalgar Square. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 121,847 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.
To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in London, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in London below.
As you explore more of London, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Smith & Wollensky, 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 Hawksmoor Air Street, 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 Premier Inn London County Hall hotel, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the evening going at The Ship & Shovell, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 9
- Southampton
- London
- Westminster
- Richmond
- Eton
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Drive 148 km, 2 hours 50 min
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Big Ben
- Westminster Abbey
- Kew Gardens
- Windsor Castle
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Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore London, Westminster, Richmond, and Eton, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Southampton. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Kick off the day at Big Ben, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This cultural icon is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 61,373 reviews.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, London.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to London Eye. This ferris wheel is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 171,401 reviews.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Southampton, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Southampton. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Bedford, a highly-rated dining destination in Southampton. If you're eager to try something different, consider Smugglers Bar & Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bill's Southampton Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Southampton this evening.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Beards & Boards Craft Beer Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, London Hotel offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Heartbreakers. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 10
- Southampton - Departure day
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- Bargate
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Day 10 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Southampton before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at Southampton’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.
Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of England. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of England forever.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bargate. This much-appreciated city gate is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 631 reviews.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Southampton.
As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Anesti Limited T/A Sulas Greek Taverna, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Everest Cuisine is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Southampton. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in England!
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