12-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling east to Bath, Cotswold, Oxford, Bakewell, and York

On day 2 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 Bath. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bath, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at the beloved Holburne Museum, an instagrammable museum in Bristol. Next, go to Pulteney Bridge.

After visiting Holburne Museum and Pulteney Bridge, have a stroll along Bristol's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Bath Abbey. This symbolic church offers a unique experience. Roman Baths is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Thermae Bath Spa, one of the most history-steeped places to visit in Bristol.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bath, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Bath, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ole Tapas, a top-rated dining destination in Bath. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Scallop Shell, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Cornish Bakery. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bath this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Hideout after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Canary Gin Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Star Inn is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.

On day 3 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in Bath, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bath for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Salisbury and Bath to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bath, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Salisbury Cathedral, a locally renowned church in the city. Then, head to Magna Carta Chapter House and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Bath, and when you are ready for more, go to Stonehenge. This is one of the city’s most widely recognized picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the archeological site, visit the underrated The Circus. Not far away, you'll also find Royal Crescent. This historical landmark is a symbolic highlight in Bath. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Royal Victoria Park, Bath, a frequently visited park in the city.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bath. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at Jars Meze, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Herd Steak Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Joya Italian Steakhouse. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bath.

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

Say good night to Bath and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bibury, Castle Combe, and Cotswold. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cotswold, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Start your day with a visit to National Trust - Bibury. This often recommended historical landmark is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to The Market Cross, which may be one of the most symbolic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bath on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to St Andrew's Church, a locally appreciated church in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Castle Combe - Water Lane and Cirencester Park. End your day with a visit to St Michael's Park, an underrated park that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cotswold. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cotswold. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

Greet day 5 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cotswold for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Woodstock, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Evesham.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cotswold allows for both. Start by heading to Blenheim Palace. This interesting palace provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to The Model Village, an underrated sightseeing destination. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the intriguing St Edward's Church. Round off your day at Abbey Park, another gem in Cotswold with eye-catching features to discover.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cotswold's best restaurants.

Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Oxford. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Oxford. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Cotswold is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Oxford University Museum Of Natural History, an interesting museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Sheldonian Theatre, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Radcliffe Camera. This library is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cotswold at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Christ Church Cathedral. After exploring the church, head to the locally appreciated Christ Church. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Covered Market, a place of historic interest in Cotswold.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Oxford. Oxford offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Oxford. 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 Polish Kitchen, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Old Parsonage Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Standard is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Oxford.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Mad Hatter, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Three Goats Heads Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The White Horse provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Stratford-on-Avon, 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 Bakewell. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Immerse yourself in Oxford’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Anne Hathaway's Cottage. This romantic historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of Holy Trinity Church, a must-visit church in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Shakespeare's Funerary Monument, a locally appreciated monument. For a change of scene, check out Shakespeare's Birthplace, known for its instagrammable features. We also recommend visiting Stratford Butterfly Farm. This butterfly garden is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest. Lastly, end your day with a visit to The Recreation Ground, yet another intriguing attraction in Oxford.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bakewell, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bakewell's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Haddon Hall, an iconic dining spot in Bakewell. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bakewell, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Chatsworth House. This captivating palace is a romantic place to see in Bakewell. Continue your discovery at Bakewell Bridge, a stunning historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bakewell, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Blue John Cavern. This worthwhile cave offers a majestic encounter with Bakewell. Next, make your way to Buxton Museum & Art Gallery to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bakewell.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bakewell's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, York. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in York, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Bakewell covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a market, a haunted house, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at National Railway Museum. This captivating museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Shambles Market, a must-see market in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to York Dungeon. This underrated haunted house offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Jorvik Viking Centre, where you can take in instagrammable features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Clifford's Tower, York. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in York. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in York. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Yakamoz, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, House Of The Trembling Madness beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turtle Bay York. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in York tonight.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!

On day 11 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 Nottingham and Wilford. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bristol, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in York. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a monument, an art gallery, a cave system, a war memorial and much more! Begin your adventure at The Arboretum. This is a locally appreciated park you should not miss. Another must-see is Robin Hood Statue, an increasingly popular monument in York.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Nottingham Contemporary. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Caves At Drury Hill, another of the city’s frequently visited attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Nottingham War Memorial Gardens, a breathtaking place of interest in the city.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bristol. Bristol offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bristol's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Flipside, a highly-rated dining destination in Bristol. If you're eager to try something different, consider Premier Inn Bristol City Centre (Haymarket) hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Moltobuono!59. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bristol this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Hyde & Co. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Humbug, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Filthy Xiii provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!