5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Penzance to Exeter and surrounding area

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Aerial view of Penzance harbour, dock and yacht club, Cornwall,
St Michael's Mount from a drone, Marazion, Penzance, Cornwall, England
5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Penzance to Exeter and surrounding area
5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Penzance to Exeter and surrounding area
5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Penzance to Exeter and surrounding area
5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Penzance to Exeter and surrounding area
5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Penzance to Exeter and surrounding area
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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 Penzance, Tintagel, Tresillian, Porthcurno, Brixham, Paignton, Exeter, Salcombe Regis, and Tavistock.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in England. You will spend 3 nights in Penzance and 1 night in Exeter. 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 Penzance, 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Penzance, Tintagel, Tresillian, Porthcurno, Brixham, Paignton, Exeter, Salcombe Regis, and Tavistock, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Penzance - Arrival day
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  • St Michael's Mount
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Say hello to Penzance! 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 town. You will stay in Penzance for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Penzance is a beautiful town 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 St Michael's Mount. Taking a stroll in the town center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Penzance. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in England. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in 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 Penzance, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Old Lifeboat House Bistro, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Smugglers Den? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Quirky Bird Cafe as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Penzance.

Continue your lively evening at One And All, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Crown is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Penzance
  • Tintagel
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Drive 231 km, 4 hours 26 min

  • Tintagel Castle
  • National Trust - Lanhydrock
  • Lost Gardens of Heligan
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Penzance, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Tintagel, Trebyan, Pengrugla, Tresillian, and Penzance.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Trebyan. This drive usually takes around 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Tintagel Castle, a notable castle in Tintagel. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tintagel and set your GPS to Trebyan. 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 45 min. Upon reaching Trebyan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to National Trust - Lanhydrock, an increasingly popular castle in Trebyan. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Pengrugla’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Trebyan behind. This drive usually takes around 37 min. Pengrugla welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Lost Gardens Of Heligan and explore the eye-catching features.

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

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

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Penzance
  • Porthcurno
  • Brixham
  • Paignton
  • Exeter
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Drive 258 km, 4 hours 22 min

  • Minack Theatre
  • Berry Head National Nature Reserve
  • Brixham Harbour
  • Paignton Zoo
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On day 3 of your road trip in England, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Porthcurno, Brixham, and Paignton are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Exeter, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brixham. This car ride takes around 2 hours 53 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Porthcurno is Minack Theatre, a captivating performing arts theater that draws attention for its standout features.

When you’ve had your share of Porthcurno, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Brixham. Your travel time is around 2 hours 53 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Berry Head National Nature Reserve and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Brixham Harbour, another highlight in Brixham.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Paignton, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Brixham to Paignton may take around 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Paignton, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Paignton Zoo, a locally renowned zoo that draws visitors from near and far.

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 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 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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Exeter
  • Salcombe Regis
  • Penzance
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Drive 254 km, 4 hours 14 min

  • Exeter Cathedral
  • The Donkey Sanctuary
  • Dartmoor National Park
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Exeter, Salcombe Regis, and Tavistock. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Penzance, where you'll spend 1 night.

To truly experience Exeter, make sure to drop by Exeter Cathedral. This frequently visited church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.

After soaking in Exeter’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Salcombe Regis. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 36 min. When you arrive in Salcombe Regis, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to The Donkey Sanctuary, a frequently visited petting zoo that draws visitors from near and far.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Dartmoor National Park, a well-known national park in Exeter. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Penzance. Penzance 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Penzance, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Shore Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Penzance. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mermaid Alley, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Singing Rooster. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Penzance this evening.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Penzance - Departure day
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  • Jubilee Pool Penzance Pool & Cafe
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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 Penzance 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, begin at Jubilee Pool Penzance Pool & Cafe. This increasingly popular swimming pool is a hotspot among locals.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Blacks of Chapel Street, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Penzance. 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.

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

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