Two-Week Relaxed England Road Trip from Southampton to Bristol, Birmingham, and London

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Southampton, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.

Make Southampton Common one of your first sightseeing stops in Southampton. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,033 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

East Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 804 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Guildhall Square. This park has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 441 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Southampton City Art Gallery. A trip to this popular art museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 599 previous visitors.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about England. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in England and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of England. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Southampton, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in England.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Beards & Boards Craft Beer Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of London Hotel, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Heartbreakers likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in England!

Day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour in England is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Salisbury and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Bath and the city of Bristol. You’ll stay in Bristol for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Salisbury. This car ride takes around 41 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Salisbury Cathedral, a remarkable anglican or episcopal cathedral where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,491 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Stonehenge. This tourist attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 51,913 travelers.

Bath’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Salisbury behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour. Bath welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Pulteney Bridge your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this road bridge an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,931 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Roman Baths. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 31,875 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this thermae every year.

Thermae Bath Spa is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This spa has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,744 visitors.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in England at Bristol. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring the food culture in Bristol offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Bristol by securing a table at COR. Esteemed as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional modern british menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Bulrush, famous for its scrumptious modern british dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Root, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite vegetarian and modern cuisine in Bristol. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for vegetarian and modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Bristol and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Boardroom, known for its inviting atmosphere. Gin & Juice is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Watershed provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in England!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across England, you’ll go deep into Bristol, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bristol, and meet locals along the way!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Clifton Suspension Bridge. This suspension bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 16,318 visitors.

Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery is another popular attraction you could visit today. This art museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,638 visitors. Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery attracts up to 450,954 visitors every year.

Cabot Tower is also highly recommended by travelers. This observation tower has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,905 visitors.

Brandon Hill, Bristol is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This hill is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,524 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Brunel's SS Great Britain. This museum has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,847 travelers.

England makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, England also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Bristol offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bravas, an iconic dining spot in Bristol. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Catch22 Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Bristol. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Pieminister, a hidden gem nestled in Bristol. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bristol and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Hyde & Co, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Humbug is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Filthy XIII also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across England.

Day 5 of your easy and relaxed road trip through England gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Westonbirt. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Birmingham, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Westonbirt. This drive usually takes around 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Westonbirt Arboretum. This extraordinary arboretum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,388 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Westonbirt, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rendcomb. This drive usually takes around 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Cotswolds AONB. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,563 reviews.

After soaking in Rendcomb’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gloucester. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 34 min. When you arrive in Gloucester, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Gloucester Cathedral. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,954 visitors.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Birmingham. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in England by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Birmingham has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Purnell's in Birmingham by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Purnell's offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Opheem, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing indian cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Adam's, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Birmingham.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Equator Bar Birmingham after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bacchus Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in England. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in England tomorrow with new energy.

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through England means 24 hours of making the best memories in Sutton Coldfield. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the town of Sutton Coldfield!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. This much-appreciated art museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,255 reviews. Each year, 856,000 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is National Sea Life Centre. This zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,832 visitors.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in England more special is by joining unique tours and activities in England. Sutton Coldfield offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Birmingham, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Birmingham’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in England.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across England.

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in England is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the town of Warwick and end it in the city of London. You’ll stay in London for 6 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in England.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Birmingham, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Warwick. This drive usually takes around 45 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Warwick Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 21,167 reviews.

Set your GPS to Stratford-on-Avon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stratford-on-Avon beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Stratford Butterfly Farm. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,018 visitors.

Shakespeare's Birthplace is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This birth house has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 16,156 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stratford-on-Avon and set your GPS to Leavesden. 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 37 min. Upon reaching Leavesden, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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.

In the city of London, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in England.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of England. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in London, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cahoots London, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bill's Soho Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Estiatorio Milos as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in London.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in London.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Américain offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Connaught Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar Polski is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of London and visit amazing attractions in England that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in England.

Take the opportunity to see Madame Tussauds London. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 71,843 visitors.

Regent's Park is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 44,079 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Camden Town, you’ll hit the road in the direction of London. This drive usually takes around 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Tower Bridge one of your first sightseeing stops in London. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 151,949 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Camden Town, you’ll hit the road in the direction of London. This drive usually takes around 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Tower of London. This castle is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in London, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 101,481 visitors. Around 2,741,126 people visit this attraction every year.

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!

Make British Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Camden Town. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 148,750 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This national museum attracts 5,906,716 visitors every year.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in London.

Make sure to book a table at The Palomar, 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 Berners Tavern, 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 Burger & Lobster Leicester Square. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to London tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in London.

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

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across England.

On day 10 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around East Ham, where you’ll be staying for another 4 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of East Ham will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of England.

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

Be one of the day’s first visitors at ExCeL London. This convention center is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 38,559 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to East Ham and set your GPS to Greenwich. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Greenwich, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Greenwich Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 44,005 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Westminster, 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 Greenwich to Westminster may take around 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Westminster, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, St James's Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 55,261 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Buckingham Palace. This royal palace has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 164,776 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Green Park. The park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 24,389 visitors.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around London, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Rules, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hawksmoor Seven Dials offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Simpson's in the Strand. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Scarfes Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out BFI IMAX, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Old Bank of England. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 11, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of England and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Richmond and beyond. With 3 nights left in London, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Journey into the unknown at National Gallery, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 48,134 reviews. Every year, National Gallery welcomes more than 6,011,007 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Trafalgar Square is a recommended place to visit. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 121,847 reviews.

Set your GPS to London and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 35 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. London beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. This popular non-departmental public body has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 45,021 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, London. This car ride takes around 35 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is London Eye. This ferris wheel is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 171,401 reviews.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of England. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in London, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at Smith & Wollensky, 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 Hawksmoor Air Street, 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 Premier Inn London County Hall hotel, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in London.

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

Soak in the unique atmosphere of London as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through England with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in England!

Day 12 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Westminster, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.

Drop by the renowned Big Ben. This popular cultural icon has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 61,373 visitors.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Westminster, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across England.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Dine in style at The Red Lion, Parliament Street, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Holiday Inn London - Bloomsbury, an IHG Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Wolseley. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in London.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

On day 13 of your leisurely self-drive tour across England, you’ll go deep into Kensington, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the town’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the town's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Kensington, and meet locals along the way!

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across England. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in England.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in London.

Make sure to book a table at Social Eating House, 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 The Ivy, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in England!