13-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Exeter to Torquay, Plymouth, St. Ives, Bath, Northleach, Oxford, and Bristol and surrounding area

Greet day 2 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Exeter, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Exeter and Teignbridge.

Make time for Exeter Cathedral, a locally appreciated church that is worthwhile a visit in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Exeter, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Teignbridge. This drive usually takes around 18 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Haldon Forest Park - Forestry England, an increasingly popular hiking area that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Our first attraction recommendation in Exeter is Dartmoor National Park, a well-known national park that draws attention for its romantic features.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Exeter. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Nando's Exeter - Princess Hay, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cosy Club. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Exeter this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Henry's Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Mill On The Exe is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cuckoo Taproom And Bottleshop is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in England includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Torquay and Paignton. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Torquay, where you'll spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Torquay. This drive usually takes around 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Babbacombe Cliff Railway. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the heritage railway before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves. This up-and-coming cave system is a traveler-favorite in the town.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Torre Abbey. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, take your journey to Abbey Park And Meadows, an underrated park. Conclude your sightseeing at English Riviera Wheel, known for its romantic features.

Paignton welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Cockington Court, a worthwhile art gallery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Torquay, 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 Torquay. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Dock, a highly-rated dining destination in Torquay. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Hole In The Wall, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Torquay Seafront hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Torquay this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Devon Arms, where the evening is just getting started.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in England.

On day 4 of your road trip in England, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Cremyll and Plymouth are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plymouth, where you will stay for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Torquay and set your GPS to Cremyll. 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 36 min. Upon reaching Cremyll, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Mount Edgcumbe House And Country Park and explore the stunning features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Plymouth, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cremyll to Plymouth may take around 57 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Plymouth, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Plymouth is Royal William Yard, an increasingly popular historical landmark that draws attention for its history-steeped features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Plymouth Naval Memorial, a historic war memorial that stands out in the hamlet.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Plymouth Hoe, a beloved park that offers a unique experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Plymouth. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Plymouth's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Blues Bar & Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Plymouth. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Meze Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Barbican Kitchen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plymouth this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Jack Rabbit, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Gipsy Moth is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Queens Arms is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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 1 place, which are St. Ives. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in St. Ives, where will spend 2 nights.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to St. Ives may take around 1 hour 47 min. Upon your arrival in St. Ives, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in St. Ives is St Nicholas Chapel, a curiosity-inducing church that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Porthgwidden Beach, a romantic beach that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Tate St Ives, a frequently visited art gallery that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Barbara Hepworth Museum And Sculpture Garden, a nearby sculpture garden, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at St Ives Harbour, a visually striking marina and the perfect final attraction in St. Ives.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Bier Huis Grand Café, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sloop Inn offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Curry Garden is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in St. Ives.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pedn Olva, St Ives, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Bath. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bath, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Bath and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 47 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bath beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Devonshire Tunnel (western Portal), an up-and-coming cave that everyone visiting Bath should see. Next, head to The Circus. This respected public square is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Pulteney Bridge, an UNESCO world heritage-designated historical landmark popular among locals as well as travelers. Bath Abbey is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this up-and-coming church before you continue your journey. Lastly, visit Roman Baths, an UNESCO world heritage-listed archeological site and a top attraction in the city.

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 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.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Hideout, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Canary Gin Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Star Inn, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bath, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Salisbury is brimming with adventures.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

After soaking in Bath’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Salisbury. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Salisbury, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Stonehenge, a widely recognized archeological site in Salisbury. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Salisbury Cathedral. This notable church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, National Trust - Mompesson House is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most photogenic museum in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the curiosity-inducing Salisbury Escape Rooms and discover what makes this escape room unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Churchill Gardens, an instagrammable park many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Stratford sub Castle.

Our first attraction recommendation in Stratford sub Castle is Old Sarum, a curiosity-inducing archeological site that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Jars Meze, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Herd Steak Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Joya Italian Steakhouse as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bath.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Saint James Wine Vaults, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Grapes. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Opium Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in England.

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Bibury, Holwell, and Rendcomb. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Northleach, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bath, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bibury. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min.

Savor the day by heading to National Trust - Bibury, a locally appreciated historical landmark that draws visitors from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Holwell. This drive usually takes around 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Cotswold Wildlife Park, a well-known zoo that everyone visiting Holwell should see.

After soaking in Holwell’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Rendcomb. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 33 min. When you arrive in Rendcomb, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Cotswolds Aonb, an interesting nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Northleach. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Northleach, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Your itinerary for day 10 of your road trip in England includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Oxford. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Oxford, where you'll spend 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Oxford. This car ride takes around 44 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Oxford University Museum Of Natural History, a notable museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to University Of Oxford Botanic Garden and admire its idyllic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Covered Market, an up-and-coming market beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Christ Church, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Oxford Town Hall, an instagrammable place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Oxford is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Oxford.

Dine in style at Polish Kitchen, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Old Parsonage Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Standard. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Oxford.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Mad Hatter, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Three Goats Heads Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The White Horse provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 11 of your road trip in England, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bristol are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bristol, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bristol, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Oxford to Bristol may take around 1 hour 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bristol, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Brunel's Ss Great Britain, a beloved historic ship in Bristol. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Bristol City Museum And Art Gallery. This often recommended museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Brandon Hill, Bristol is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most eye-catching park in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the well-known Clifton Suspension Bridge and discover what makes this monument unique.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bristol, 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 Bristol. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Radisson Blu Hotel, Bristol, a top-rated dining spot in Bristol. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hotel du Vin Bristol, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bristol.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Cheddar, Wells, and Glastonbury. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Exeter, where will spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Bristol, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cheddar. Your travel time is around 38 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Cheddar Gorge, an often recommended cave system known for its visually striking features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Wells. This car ride takes around 22 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Wells Cathedral. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to The Bishop's Palace & Gardens. This frequently visited palace is a traveler-favorite in the village.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Wells and set your GPS to Glastonbury. 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 18 min. Upon reaching Glastonbury, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Glastonbury Abbey, an intriguing archeological site that everyone visiting Glastonbury should see.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Exeter. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Exeter's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Toby Carvery Exeter, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Old Firehouse? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Harry's Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Exeter.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Boom Battle Bar Exeter after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Brewdog Exeter for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Lucombe Oak is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!