12-Day England Road Trip from Norwich traveling south to Colchester, Brighton, Oxford, and London

Welcome to Norwich, 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 Norwich's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Norwich 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 Eaton Park 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 Norwich. 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 Norwich. 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 The Ivy Norwich Brasserie, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bowling House boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Woolf & Social. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Norwich.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Fat Cat after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Temple Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Be At One Norwich 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!

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Norwich Market. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,081 reviews.

Next up, make your way to The Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 300 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Norwich Cathedral. This anglican or episcopal cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,640 visitors.

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

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Great Yarmouth. This town is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 14,018 visitors.

When you’re finished at Great Yarmouth, head to Hippodrome Circus. This one-of-a-kind point of interest is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 3,554 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.

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

Dine in style at The Centurion, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bill's Colchester Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Turtle Bay Colchester. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Colchester.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Castle Inn, known for its inviting atmosphere. Queen St Brewhouse is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Foresters Arms Colchester provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Colchester and Maldon, 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 Brighton. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Colchester Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,553 visitors.

Firstsite is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This art gallery has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,172 travelers.

Colchester is also the home of Colchester Zoo. Around 18,844 people have rated this zoo an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

When you’ve had your share of Colchester, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Maldon. Your travel time is around 29 min.

Kick off the day at Promenade Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,729 reviews.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Brighton by booking a table at Flint House. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Burnt Orange, celebrated for its delectable mediterranean menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tinto Taperia. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brighton this evening.

Keep the evening going at The Evening Star, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Brighton Rocks, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Be At One - Brighton, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 4 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 Portsmouth. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oxford, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brighton and set your GPS to Portsmouth. 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 22 min. Upon reaching Portsmouth, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at HMS Victory, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This first-rate is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,050 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a military museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,679 reviews.

Mary Rose Museum is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,672 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Spinnaker Tower. This observation tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,458 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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Big Society, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Antep Kitchen offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Victoria is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Oxford.

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.

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

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 1 night left in Oxford, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

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.

Make Stonehenge your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this tourist attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 51,913 reviews.

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

Kick off the day at Pulteney Bridge, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This road bridge is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,931 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Roman Baths. Roman Baths is a thermae with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 31,875 reviews.

Thermae Bath Spa is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This spa is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,744 visitors.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Oxford'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 La Cucina, an iconic dining spot in Oxford. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bbuona, a popular restaurant in Oxford. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Kazbar Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Oxford. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Jolly Farmers, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Turf Tavern, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Sandy's Piano Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Oxford and Woodstock. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in London, which will be your home away from home for 5 nights.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Covered Market. This market hall is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,506 reviews.

Continue your journey at University Church of St Mary the Virgin. This university church is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,335 travelers from near and far.

Oxford is also the home of University of Oxford Botanic Garden. This botanical garden has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,646 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Oxford University Museum of Natural History. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,413 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Oxford, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Woodstock. This drive usually takes around 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Blenheim Palace. This popular house museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,013 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to London, 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 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cahoots London, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bill's Soho Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Estiatorio Milos. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Américain, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Connaught Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in London. Bar Polski is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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 7 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in Westminster, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to London for 4 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Westminster, Kensington, and Richmond to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Westminster.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Hyde Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Westminster, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 126,766 visitors.

Royal Albert Hall is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 37,841 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

When you’ve had your share of Kensington, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Richmond. Your travel time is around 19 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Science Museum is a great place to start. This science museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 65,368 visitors. Science Museum attracts more than 2,989,000 visitors every year.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Victoria and Albert Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 55,517 travelers. Every year, 3,932,738 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Kensington.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Richmond. This car ride takes around 19 min.

Make Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew one of your first sightseeing stops in Richmond. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 45,021 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Palomar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Berners Tavern offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Burger & Lobster Leicester Square. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.

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 to another unforgettable day in England!

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in London, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in London and Camden Town. You still have 3 nights left in London.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Madame Tussauds London. This wax museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in London, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 71,843 visitors.

Regent's Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 44,079 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in London. This drive usually takes around 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Tower Bridge. This much-appreciated bascule bridge is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 151,949 reviews.

Set your GPS to London and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. London beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Tower of London. This castle gets 2,741,126 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 101,481 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Camden Town, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of London. Your travel time is around 9 min.

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 148,750 reviews. Every year, British Museum welcomes more than 5,906,716 curious visitors.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in London.

Make sure to book a table at Rules, a popular restaurant in London. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of London at Hawksmoor Seven Dials, 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 Simpson's in the Strand. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to London tonight.

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

Drop by the renowned National Gallery. This popular art museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 48,134 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 6,011,007 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Trafalgar Square. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 121,847 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Westminster has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Westminster offers and add your favorites to your England travel package below.

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.

Savor the flavors at Smith & Wollensky, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hawksmoor Air Street beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Premier Inn London County Hall hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Ship & Shovell.

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

Day 10 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Westminster has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Westminster by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Big Ben. This cultural icon is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 61,373 visitors.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Red Lion, Parliament Street, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider Holiday Inn London - Bloomsbury, an IHG Hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Wolseley. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Eton and Leavesden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Norwich, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Eton, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Leavesden. Your travel time is around 35 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at St George's Chapel, Windsor. This castle chapel is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,434 visitors.

When you’re finished at St George's Chapel, Windsor, head to Windsor Castle. This one-of-a-kind historic house museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 53,263 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Leavesden, 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 Leavesden may take around 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Leavesden, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

Next up, make a stop at Diagon Alley. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 600 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Norwich. Norwich 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Norwich.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Goulash House, a highly-rated dining destination in Norwich. If you're eager to try something different, consider Turtle Bay Norwich, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Eagle. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Norwich this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Garnet. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Last Pub Standing offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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 Norwich 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 Norwich’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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Pull's Ferry. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 461 visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Grosvenor Fish Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Belgian Monk? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Norwich. 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!