10-Day England Road Trip from Southampton traveling east to Birmingham, Cambridge, London, and Canterbury
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in England as you embark on an unforgettable 10-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Southampton, Birmingham, Willington, Alton, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Leavesden, Cambridge, Richmond, Camden Town, London, Westminster, Kensington, Greenwich, Canterbury, Eton, Cheapside, and Winchester. Set off on the ultimate European adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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 Birmingham, 1 night in Cambridge, 3 nights in London, and 1 night in Canterbury. 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, Birmingham, Willington, Alton, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Leavesden, Cambridge, Richmond, Camden Town, London, Westminster, Kensington, Greenwich, Canterbury, Eton, Cheapside, and Winchester, 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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- Red Funnel Ferries
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Say hello to Southampton! Your exciting road trip through England is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Southampton for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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 Red Funnel Ferries or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Southampton. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in England. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Lakaz Maman, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Soleto Bistro offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ennio's is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Southampton.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Hobbit Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Firehouse is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Guide Dog is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Birmingham
- Southampton
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Drive 234 km, 3 hours 17 min
- John Hansard Gallery
- Guildhall Square
- SeaCity Museum
- Mayflower Park
- Southampton Common
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Southampton, 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 Birmingham. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Journey into the unknown at John Hansard Gallery, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable art gallery has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 193 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Guildhall Square is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 441 reviews.
Another must-see attraction in Southampton is SeaCity Museum. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,539 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Southampton offers an experience you will remember.
Mayflower Park is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Southampton. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,453 reviews.
Lastly, don't miss out on Southampton Common. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,033 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Birmingham. Birmingham 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Birmingham's best restaurants.
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.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Equator Bar Birmingham. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bacchus Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham, another top-rated bar in the area.
Say good night to Birmingham and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 3
- Birmingham
- Willington
- Alton
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Drive 190 km, 2 hours 55 min
- Mercia Marina
- Alton Towers Resort
- The Smiler
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Birmingham, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate village. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Willington and Alton. You still have 1 night left in Birmingham.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Willington, 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 Willington may take around 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Willington, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Mercia Marina. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,342 visitors.
Alton’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Willington behind. This drive usually takes around 39 min. Alton welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Alton Towers Resort. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 49,065 visitors.
When you’re finished at Alton Towers Resort, head to The Smiler. This one-of-a-kind steel roller coaster is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,308 reviews.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Birmingham.
As you explore more of Birmingham, 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.
Dine in style at La Galleria, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Ivy Temple Row boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Malmaison Birmingham. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Birmingham.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in England.
Day 4
- Cambridge
- Stratford-upon-Avon
- Warwick
- Leavesden
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Drive 299 km, 3 hours 54 min
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Warwick Castle
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, and Leavesden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cambridge, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Stratford-on-Avon, 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 Stratford-on-Avon may take around 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stratford-on-Avon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Kick off the day at Shakespeare's Birthplace, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This birth house is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 16,156 reviews.
When you’ve had your share of Stratford-on-Avon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Warwick. Your travel time is around 19 min.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Warwick Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 21,167 reviews.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Cambridge, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cambridge. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Midsummer House, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Restaurant Twenty-Two, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another top-rated restaurant to try is The Clarendon Arms. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cambridge tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Cambridge Tap, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Free Press provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Eagle offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.
Day 5
- London
- Richmond
- Camden Town
- Westminster
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Drive 122 km, 3 hours 5 min
- Kew Gardens
- British Museum
- National Gallery
- St James's Park
- Trafalgar Square
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Richmond, Camden Town, London, and Westminster. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in London. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Richmond’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cambridge behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 38 min. Richmond welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. This non-departmental public body is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 45,021 reviews.
Set your GPS to Camden Town and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Camden Town beckons with new experiences!
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to British Museum. This extraordinary national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 148,750 visitors. Each year, around 5,906,716 people visit this site to learn more about it.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to London, 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 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.
Dine in style at Cahoots London, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bill's Soho Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Estiatorio Milos. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Américain, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Connaught Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bar Polski is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 6
- London
- Westminster
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 29 min
- Hyde Park
- Buckingham Palace
- London Bridge
- Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
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Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Westminster has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Westminster by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of London's best restaurants.
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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Artesian is an excellent place to start. You could also check out American Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Old Shades. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in England.
Day 7
- London
- Westminster
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 16 min
- Madame Tussauds London
- Regent's Park
- Big Ben
- Westminster Abbey
- Borough Market
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Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Madame Tussauds London, a remarkable wax museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 71,843 reviews.
Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Regent's Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 44,079 travelers.
Big Ben is another must-visit attraction. This renowned cultural icon offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 61,373 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.
There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in England that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else London has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in England by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in London.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Rules, a top-rated dining destination in London. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hawksmoor Seven Dials, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Simpson's in the Strand. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Scarfes Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. BFI IMAX is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Old Bank of England provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 8
- Canterbury
- Westminster
- Kensington
- London
- Greenwich
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Drive 109 km, 2 hours 25 min
- Royal Albert Hall
- Science Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Greenwich Park
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Westminster, Kensington, London, and Greenwich. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Canterbury, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Upon reaching Westminster, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Make Royal Albert Hall one of your first sightseeing stops in Westminster. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 37,841 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
When you arrive in Kensington, it's time to take a break from the road.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Science Museum. This science museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 65,368 visitors. Science Museum welcomes around 2,989,000 visitors every year.
Victoria and Albert Museum is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 55,517 visitors. Victoria and Albert Museum attracts up to 3,932,738 visitors every year.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Canterbury. Canterbury 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Canterbury. 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.
Start your culinary exploration in Canterbury by securing a reservation at The Sportsman. This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of modern british cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Il Posticino, a popular restaurant in Canterbury. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cafe du Soleil, a hidden gem nestled in Canterbury. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Bell & Crown, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Pegasus Tap Room is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Houdini’s Magic bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 9
- Southampton
- Eton
- Cheapside
- Winchester
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Drive 248 km, 3 hours 38 min
- Windsor Castle
- St George's Chapel
- Windsor Great Park
- Winchester Cathedral
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On day 9 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 Eton, Cheapside, and Winchester. In the evening, you’ll end up in Southampton, where you will stay for 1 night.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Eton. This car ride takes around 1 hour 46 min.
Your sightseeing of the day begins at Windsor Castle, a remarkable historic house museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 53,263 reviews.
Next, satisfy your wanderlust at St George's Chapel, Windsor. This castle chapel has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,434 travelers.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cheapside, 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 Eton to Cheapside may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cheapside, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Windsor Great Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,319 reviews.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Southampton, 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 Southampton.
Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Bedford, a top-rated dining spot in Southampton. If you're in the mood for something new, try Smugglers Bar & Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bill's Southampton Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Southampton.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Beards & Boards Craft Beer Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, London Hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Heartbreakers provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Southampton and get some rest in preparation for another magical day 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.
Make the most of your final day in England by visiting Southampton’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in England. Take home a piece of England with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.
Make Bargate one of your first sightseeing stops in Southampton. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 631 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Southampton.
This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.
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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