12-Day England Road Trip from London traveling east to Canterbury, Colchester, and Cambridge

Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach London and pick up your car. You’ll stay in London for 4 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

London is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in London. 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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at The American Bar, 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 Cahoots London, 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 Bill's Soho Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Américain after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Connaught Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar Polski also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in England!

Day 2 of your road trip across England promises a magnificent time exploring Westminster. You have 3 nights left in Westminster. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

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 Westminster has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Estiatorio Milos, 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 The Palomar, 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 Berners Tavern, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Westminster. You’ll stay in Westminster for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

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 73,606 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Regent's Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 44,964 travelers.

Your discoveries in Westminster do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Westminster on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, a top-rated dining destination in London. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Wiltons Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rules. 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 Scarfes Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Heliot Cocktail Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at BFI IMAX, another top-rated place in the area.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in London, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Journey into the unknown at British Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable national museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,665 reviews. Every year, British Museum welcomes more than 5,906,716 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Big Ben is a recommended place to visit. This cultural icon is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 65,522 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Richmond, 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 London to Richmond may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Richmond, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at London Eye. This ferris wheel is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 175,315 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Westminster.

Kick off the day at Buckingham Palace, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This royal palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 168,513 reviews.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hawksmoor Seven Dials offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Simpson's in the Strand is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in London.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Old Bank of England, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Ship & Shovell offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Brighton, 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 Canterbury. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brighton and set your GPS to Canterbury. 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 1 hour 47 min. Upon reaching Canterbury, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Brighton Museum & Art Gallery one of your first sightseeing stops in Brighton. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,470 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This art museum attracts 200,000 visitors every year.

Royal Pavilion is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This palace is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,726 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Queen's Park, Brighton. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,881 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Brighton i360. A trip to this popular observation tower is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 13,424 previous visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Canterbury, 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Canterbury. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Sportsman in Canterbury by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, The Sportsman delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern british cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Il Posticino? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cafe du Soleil as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Canterbury.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Bell & Crown, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Pegasus Tap Room. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Houdini’s Magic bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!

Greet day 6 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Canterbury for your remaining 1 night in the city 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 Kearsney, Dover, and Broadstairs.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kearsney. This car ride takes around 25 min.

Make Kearsney Abbey Gardens one of your first sightseeing stops in Kearsney. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,099 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Dover. This car ride takes around 13 min.

Journey into the unknown at National Trust - The White Cliffs of Dover, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,142 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Dover Castle is a recommended place to visit. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,998 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Dover, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Broadstairs. Your travel time is around 43 min.

Take the opportunity to see Botany Bay. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,972 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Shakespeare, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Foundry Brew Pub offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cafe Des Amis. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Canterbury.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Canterbury, Broomfield, and Hever. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Colchester, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make Canterbury Cathedral your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this anglican or episcopal cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,054 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Westgate Gardens. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,935 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Broomfield’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Canterbury behind. This drive usually takes around 41 min. Broomfield welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Leeds Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable house museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,668 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Colchester, 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 Colchester's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Centurion, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bill's Colchester Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Turtle Bay Colchester. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Colchester.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Castle Inn, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Queen St Brewhouse is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Foresters Arms Colchester is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Colchester. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cambridge, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Make Colchester Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in Colchester. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,691 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Firstsite is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This art gallery is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,197 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Colchester Zoo. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,206 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Cambridge. Cambridge 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 explore more of Cambridge, 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Cambridge by booking a table at Midsummer House, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience, Restaurant Twenty-Two shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious modern cuisine in Cambridge. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. Experience the culinary magic of The Clarendon Arms, a hidden gem nestled in Cambridge. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Cambridge Tap stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Free Press offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Eagle is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

Wake up to day 9 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 2 nights left in Cambridge, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Great Yarmouth. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 2 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Great Yarmouth, a remarkable town where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,265 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Hippodrome Circus. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 3,577 travelers.

Norwich’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Great Yarmouth behind. This drive usually takes around 36 min. Norwich welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Norwich Market. This extraordinary square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,269 visitors.

Next, make your way to Norwich Cathedral. This top attraction is an anglican or episcopal cathedral with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,829 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Twenty Two, a top-rated dining destination in Cambridge. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tu Casa Tapas Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sticks'n'Sushi Cambridge. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cambridge this evening.

Continue your lively evening at 196 cocktail bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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.

On day 10 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in Peterborough, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cambridge for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Peterborough, and Pilsgate to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Peterborough’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cambridge behind. This drive usually takes around 51 min. Peterborough welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Ferry Meadows in Nene Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,497 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Peterborough Museum & Art Gallery. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,017 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this art gallery every year.

Peterborough Cathedral is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This church has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,752 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Peterborough and set your GPS to Pilsgate. 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 29 min. Upon reaching Pilsgate, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Burghley House Gardens & Deer Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Pilsgate. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,204 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Burghley House is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This historic house museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,878 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Pint Shop, a popular restaurant in Cambridge. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cambridge at Limoncello, 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 The Cambridge Chop House. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cambridge tonight.

Head back to your accommodation in Cambridge and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Cambridge, and Duxford. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in London. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Take the opportunity to see Parker's Piece. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,073 visitors.

Cambridge is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This non-metropolitan district has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,549 travelers.

Cambridge is also the home of Fitzwilliam Museum. This art museum gets more than 364,269 visitors on an annual basis. Around 7,138 people have rated this art museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Cambridge University Botanic Garden. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 6,421 reviews, a visit to this botanical garden is a great idea.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cambridge, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Duxford. This drive usually takes around 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Imperial War Museum Duxford. This military museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 16,364 visitors. Imperial War Museum Duxford welcomes around 394,053 visitors every year.

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 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.

Dine in style at Kerridge's Bar & Grill, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Northall boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Great British Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.

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

Day 12 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of London 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 London’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Trafalgar Square, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 123,506 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in London.

Savor the flavors at Smith & Wollensky, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ikoyi Restaurant St. James's beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to London. 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!