5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Exeter to Dartmouth and surrounding area
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 3 nights in Exeter and 1 night in Dartmouth. 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 Exeter, 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. Tintagel Castle and Dartmoor National Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Paignton Zoo, learn more about the unique Brixham Harbour, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of The Donkey Sanctuary.
As you hit the open road and drive through Exeter, Salcombe Regis, Seaton, Northleigh, Brixham, Paignton, Dartmouth, Bodmin, and Tintagel, 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
- Exeter - Arrival day
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- Northernhay Gardens
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Welcome to Exeter, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Exeter's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Exeter 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 Northernhay Gardens, 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 Exeter. 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 Exeter, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Last Drop, a popular restaurant in Exeter. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Exeter at iFood Thai Taste, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Premier Inn Exeter (M5 J29) hotel. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Exeter tonight.
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 a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Exeter
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Drive 162 km, 3 hours 44 min
- Dartmoor National Park
- Exeter Cathedral
- The Donkey Sanctuary
- Seaton Tramway
- East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
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On day 2 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in Exeter, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Exeter for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Exeter, Salcombe Regis, Seaton, and Northleigh to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Exeter, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Dartmoor National Park, a captivating national park in the city. Then, head to Exeter Cathedral and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking church.
There are many interesting places to see in Exeter and when you are ready for more, go to The Donkey Sanctuary. This is one of the city’s most often recommended spots. After exploring the petting zoo, visit the frequently visited Seaton Tramway. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the locally appreciated East Devon National Landscape, a locally appreciated nature reserve in the city.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Nando's Exeter - Princess Hay? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Cosy Club as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Exeter.
Continue your lively evening at Henry's Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Mill On The Exe is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cuckoo Taproom And Bottleshop ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 3
- Exeter
- Dartmouth
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Drive 131 km, 2 hours 46 min
- National Trust - Killerton
- Haldon Forest Park - Forestry England
- Pennywell Farm
- Brixham Harbour
- Paignton Zoo
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 5 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lower Budlake, Teignbridge, Dean Prior, Brixham, and Paignton. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dartmouth, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Exeter allows for both. Start by heading to National Trust - Killerton. This underrated sightseeing destination provides an insightful glimpse into the hamlet's identity. Next, discover Haldon Forest Park - Forestry England, a visually striking hiking area, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Pennywell Farm, an intriguing farm. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the well-known Brixham Harbour. Round off your day at Paignton Zoo, another gem in Exeter with eye-catching features to discover.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Dartmouth, 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 Dartmouth. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Kendricks Dartmouth, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Cherub Inn is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bayards Cove Inn. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dartmouth tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Royal Castle. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Seven Stars, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 4
- Dartmouth
- Exeter
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Drive 235 km, 3 hours 56 min
- National Trust - Lanhydrock
- Bodmin Jail Attraction
- St Nectan's Waterfall
- Tintagel Castle
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Trebyan, Bodmin, Trethevy, and Tintagel, 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 Exeter. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Dartmouth promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at National Trust - Lanhydrock. This historic castle is a highlight of any visit in the hamlet. Then, enjoy Bodmin Jail Attraction, another heritage-rich attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to St Nectan's Waterfall, one of the hamlet’s most underrated attractions, known for its peaceful features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Tintagel Castle. This visually striking castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Exeter. Exeter offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Exeter. 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Toby Carvery Exeter, a top-rated dining destination in Exeter. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Old Firehouse, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Harry's Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Exeter this evening.
Keep the evening going at Boom Battle Bar Exeter, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Brewdog Exeter, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Lucombe Oak, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 5
- Exeter - Departure day
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- Belmont Park
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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 Exeter before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Belmont Park Exeter, a picturesque park before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in England by visiting Exeter’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in England.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Exeter.
If you're eager to try something different, consider The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Exeter, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Exeter. 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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