6-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bournemouth traveling north to Stratford-on-Avon, Bristol, and Exeter
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in England as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bournemouth, Christchurch, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Woodstock, Oxford, Bristol, Bath, Salisbury, Exeter, Bovington, Corfe Castle, and West Lulworth.
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 Bournemouth, 1 night in Stratford-on-Avon, 1 night in Bristol, 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 got you covered.
Upon arriving in Bournemouth, 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. Stonehenge and Roman Baths are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Warwick Castle, learn more about the unique Shakespeare's Birthplace, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Blenheim Palace.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bournemouth, Christchurch, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Woodstock, Oxford, Bristol, Bath, Salisbury, Exeter, Bovington, Corfe Castle, and West Lulworth, 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
- Bournemouth - Arrival day
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- Bournemouth Upper Gardens
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach Bournemouth and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bournemouth 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 town.
Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth Upper Gardens or taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Bournemouth. 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 Bournemouth, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Slug & Lettuce Old Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, a popular restaurant in Bournemouth. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bournemouth at Hermitage Hotel Bournemouth, 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 Bournemouth East (Boscombe) hotel. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bournemouth tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Smokin' Aces - Cocktail Bar & Whiskey Lounge after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Felsons Bournemouth, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Brewdog Bournemouth also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Bournemouth
- Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
- Stratford-upon-Avon
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Drive 248 km, 3 hours 22 min
- Bournemouth Beach
- Boscombe Pier
- Mudeford Quay
- Christchurch Priory
- Norman House
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bournemouth and Christchurch. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Stratford-on-Avon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bournemouth today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Bournemouth Beach. This romantic beach will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Boscombe Pier and learn what makes this romantic pier unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bournemouth and set your GPS to Christchurch. 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 Christchurch, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Mudeford Quay is an intriguing pier we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Christchurch Priory, a stunning church that’s well-regarded in the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Stratford-on-Avon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Stratford-on-Avon's best restaurants.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Garrick, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.
Day 3
- Stratford-upon-Avon
- Warwick
- Woodstock
- Bristol
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Drive 224 km, 3 hours 32 min
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Stratford Butterfly Farm
- Warwick Castle
- Blenheim Palace
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Woodstock, and Oxford. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bristol, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in Stratford-on-Avon. Begin your sightseeing with Shakespeare's Birthplace. This popular museum is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Stratford Butterfly Farm, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.
After soaking in Stratford-on-Avon’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Warwick. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 19 min. When you arrive in Warwick, it's time to take a break from the road.
Spend your afternoon discovering Warwick Castle, an interesting castle known for its romantic features.
Set your GPS to Woodstock and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 57 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Woodstock beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at Blenheim Palace, a well-known palace that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Bristol. Bristol offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bristol's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at COR, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern british menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bulrush is one of the best restaurants for modern british cuisine in Bristol. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Root. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for vegetarian and modern cuisine in the city.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Boardroom after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gin & Juice, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Watershed also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 4
- Bristol
- Bath
- Salisbury
- Exeter
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Drive 243 km, 4 hours 11 min
- Roman Baths
- Pulteney Bridge
- Salisbury Cathedral
- Stonehenge
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On day 4 of your road trip in England, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Bath and Salisbury. In the evening, you’ll end up in Exeter, where you will stay for 1 night.
Set your GPS to Bath and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 43 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bath beckons with new experiences!
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Roman Baths, a popular archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Pulteney Bridge, where you can soak in the majestic surroundings.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bath, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Salisbury may take around 1 hour 6 min. Upon your arrival in Salisbury, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Take your self-guided tour to Salisbury Cathedral, a popular church that everyone visiting Salisbury should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Stonehenge. This picture-perfect archeological site is one of the most widely recognized attractions in the region.
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 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Last Drop, an iconic dining spot in Exeter. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of iFood Thai Taste, a popular restaurant in Exeter. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Premier Inn Exeter (M5 J29) hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Exeter. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Crocketts offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Pig & Pickle Micropub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Angel Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in England.
Day 5
- Exeter
- Bovington Camp
- Corfe Castle
- West Lulworth
- Bournemouth
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Drive 185 km, 3 hours 21 min
- The Tank Museum
- Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre
- Corfe Castle
- Durdle Door
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Bovington, Corfe Castle, and West Lulworth. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bournemouth. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bovington. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Exeter, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bovington may take around 1 hour 44 min. Upon your arrival in Bovington, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Your self-guided tour starts at The Tank Museum, a captivating military museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre and admire its picture-perfect features.
Set your GPS to Corfe Castle and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Corfe Castle beckons with new experiences!
Begin your journey at Corfe Castle and explore the visually striking features.
West Lulworth’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Corfe Castle behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. West Lulworth welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Spend your afternoon discovering Durdle Door, an underrated rock formation known for its romantic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bournemouth. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bournemouth. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Aruba, a top-rated dining destination in Bournemouth. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Langtry Manor Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Green House. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bournemouth this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Be At One - Bournemouth, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Eden provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Four Horsemen Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 6
- Bournemouth - Departure day
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- Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens
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Day 6 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bournemouth before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in England by visiting Bournemouth’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Westbourne. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in England. Savor your final moments in England at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bournemouth allows for both. Start by heading to Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens. This frequently visited park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bournemouth.
You’ll then say farewell to Bournemouth. 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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