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5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling south to Exeter and Southampton

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Photo of Clifton Suspension Bridge with Clifton reflection, Bristol UK.

5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling south to Exeter and Southampton

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Explore the best of England on a remarkable 5-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Bristol, Exeter, Bovington, Corfe Castle, Ashley Heath, Southampton, Eton, and Salisbury.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in England. You will spend 2 nights in Bristol, 1 night in Exeter, and 1 night in Southampton. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in England. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Bristol, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover England on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in England. Windsor Castle and Stonehenge are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bristol, Exeter, Bovington, Corfe Castle, Ashley Heath, Southampton, Eton, and Salisbury, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of England. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in England.

Throughout your road trip in England, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in England.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in England fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in England today!

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Day1

Day 1

Bristol - Arrival day
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Clifton Suspension Bridge
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Say hello to Bristol! Your exciting road trip through England is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bristol for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Bristol 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 Clifton Suspension Bridge. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Bristol. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bristol, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Radisson Blu Hotel, Bristol, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel du Vin Bristol beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bristol tonight.

Keep the evening going at The Boardroom, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gin & Juice, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Watershed, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in England!

Day2

Day 2

Bristol
Exeter
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Drive 144 km, 2 hours 16 min

Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery
Brunel's SS Great Britain
Blaise Castle Estate
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On day 2 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 Exeter, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bristol City Museum And Art Gallery is an ideal stop early in the day. This up-and-coming museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Brunel's Ss Great Britain, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Bristol on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Blaise Castle Estate, an intriguing castle in the city.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Last Drop, a top-rated dining destination in Exeter. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider iFood Thai Taste, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Exeter (M5 J29) hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Exeter this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Crocketts, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Pig & Pickle Micropub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Angel Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

Day3

Day 3

Exeter
Bovington Camp
Corfe Castle
Ashley Heath
Southampton
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Drive 207 km, 3 hours 25 min

The Tank Museum
Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre
Corfe Castle
Moors Valley Country Park & Forest
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Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in England includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Bovington, Corfe Castle, and Ashley Heath. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Southampton, where you'll spend 1 night.

Bovington’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Exeter behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 44 min. Bovington welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at The Tank Museum and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre, another highlight in Bovington.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Corfe Castle may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Corfe Castle, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Corfe Castle is a notable castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Ashley Heath, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Corfe Castle to Ashley Heath may take around 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ashley Heath, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Moors Valley Country Park & Forest and explore the stunning features.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Dhaba 59 Sports Bar & Grill, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Blue Island beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Shenanigans. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Southampton tonight.

Keep the evening going at Oasis Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Hobbit Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is 5 Rivers Sport Bar & Grill, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day4

Day 4

Southampton
Eton
Salisbury
Bristol
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Drive 302 km, 4 hours 16 min

Windsor Castle
St George's Chapel
Stonehenge
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Eton and Salisbury. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bristol, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Eton. This car ride takes around 1 hour 20 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Windsor Castle, a famous castle 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 St George's Chapel, Windsor and admire its stunning features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Eton, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Salisbury. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 27 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Stonehenge, a spectacular archeological site that everyone visiting Salisbury should see.

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

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 Bristol, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Bristol by reserving a table at COR. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern british cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Bulrush, renowned for its delectable modern british dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Blaise Inn, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Hyde & Co, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Humbug, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Filthy Xiii provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day5

Day 5

Bristol - Departure day
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Harbourside
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Day 5 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bristol before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Harbourside, a neighborhood that you shouldn't miss while in Bristol. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Make the most of your final day in England by visiting Bristol’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Cabot Circus. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Rainbow Casino Bristol, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bravas? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bristol. 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!

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

Secure your spot

Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.

Get instant confirmation

Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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