5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling south to Exeter and Southampton
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through England. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. 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 got 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. Marvel at the remarkable Clifton Suspension Bridge, learn more about the unique The Tank Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre.
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, accommodation, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Bristol - Arrival day
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- Clifton Suspension Bridge
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach Bristol and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bristol for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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, or just 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 Bristol. 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. 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.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in England!
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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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bristol. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Exeter, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Bristol is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Bristol City Museum And Art Gallery, an up-and-coming museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Brunel's Ss Great Britain, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Blaise Castle Estate. This castle is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Exeter. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Last Drop, a top-rated dining spot in Exeter. If you're in the mood for something new, try iFood Thai Taste, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Premier Inn Exeter (M5 J29) hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Exeter.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Crocketts, known for its lively atmosphere. Pig & Pickle Micropub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Angel Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 3
- Exeter
- 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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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Bovington, Corfe Castle, and Ashley Heath. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Southampton, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Exeter on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. The Tank Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich military museum before continuing your journey. Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre is your next stop. This captivating zoo is one of the best-rated sights in Exeter.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Corfe Castle. This majestic castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Moors Valley Country Park & Forest.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Southampton's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Dhaba 59 Sports Bar & Grill, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Blue Island is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Shenanigans. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Southampton tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Oasis Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Hobbit Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, 5 Rivers Sport Bar & Grill also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 4
- Southampton
- Bristol
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Drive 302 km, 4 hours 16 min
- Windsor Castle
- St George's Chapel
- Stonehenge
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Eton and Salisbury. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bristol. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in the charming town of Southampton. Your adventure starts at Windsor Castle, a widely recognized local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is St George's Chapel, Windsor. This worthwhile church is known for its picture-perfect appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Southampton's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Stonehenge. This historic archeological site offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bristol. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bristol. 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.
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. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bristol.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Hyde & Co, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Humbug is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Filthy Xiii is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Head back to your accommodation in Bristol and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!
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 captures the true essence of Bristol. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Maximize your last day in England and go on a shopping spree in Bristol’s shopping center, the lively Clifton Village. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in England. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe. Take one last moment to soak in England, and unwind with tea or coffee at a cozy cafe.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bristol.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Bravas, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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