7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from London traveling south to Canterbury, Chichester, and Southampton

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Photo of Westminster palace (Houses of Parliament) and Big Ben, London, UK.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-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 London, 1 night in Canterbury, 1 night in Chichester, 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 London, 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. London Eye and Buckingham Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Tower Bridge, learn more about the unique British Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hyde Park.

As you hit the open road and drive through London, Kensington, Canterbury, Brighton, Chichester, Mottisfont, Salisbury, Southampton, Oxford, Woodstock, and Eton, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Trafalgar Square
Tower BridgeTower of LondonBritish MuseumHyde ParkVictoria and Albert Museum
St James's ParkBuckingham Palacelastminute.com London EyeTate ModernBorough Market
Canterbury CathedralLeeds CastleRoyal Pavilion & GardenBrighton i360
Paultons Park Home of Peppa Pig WorldNational Trust - MottisfontStonehenge
Oxford University Museum of Natural HistoryBlenheim PalaceSt George's ChapelWindsor Castle
Big Ben

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Day 1

Day 1

  • London - Arrival day
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  • Trafalgar Square
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach London and pick up your car. You’ll stay in London for 2 nights 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.

London 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 Trafalgar Square, 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 London. 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 London, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Américain, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Connaught Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Juno Rooms likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in England!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • London
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 18 min

  • Tower Bridge
  • Tower of London
  • British Museum
  • Hyde Park
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in London, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in London and Kensington. You still have 1 night left in London.

London is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a castle, a museum, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the wondrous Tower Bridge and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Tower Of London, a historic castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to British Museum, one of the city’s most wondrous spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the world-famous Hyde Park. When you're finished at the park, Victoria And Albert Museum awaits your visit. This museum is an eye-catching highlight on today's itinerary.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in London.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in London. 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 Hawksmoor Guildhall, an iconic dining spot in London. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bill's Soho Restaurant, a popular restaurant in London. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Estiatorio Milos, a hidden gem nestled in London. 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, Lyaness offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Polski is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Buckingham Arms is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • London
  • Canterbury
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Drive 104 km, 2 hours 33 min

  • St James's Park
  • Buckingham Palace
  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • Tate Modern
  • Borough Market
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, London. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Canterbury, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at St James's Park. This top-rated park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Buckingham Palace, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out London Eye, one of the most timeless places to see in London. This observation deck is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Tate Modern. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this art gallery offers. Then, head to Borough Market, a top-rated food market that adds another dimension to your day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Canterbury. 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 Canterbury. 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Canterbury by securing a reservation at The Sportsman. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern british cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Il Posticino boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Bell & Crown offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Pegasus Tap Room is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Houdini’s Magic Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Canterbury
  • West Sussex
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Drive 200 km, 3 hours 28 min

  • Canterbury Cathedral
  • Leeds Castle
  • Royal Pavilion & Garden
  • Brighton i360
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Canterbury, Broomfield, and Brighton. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Chichester, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Canterbury. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church, a castle, a palace, an observation deck and much more! Begin your adventure at Canterbury Cathedral. This is a locally renowned church you should not miss. Another must-see is Leeds Castle, a locally renowned castle in Canterbury.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Royal Pavilion. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Brighton I360, another of the city’s notable attractions.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Chichester. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Viento De Levante - Chichester, an iconic dining spot in Chichester. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Ivy Chichester Brasserie, a popular restaurant in Chichester. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The White Horse, a hidden gem nestled in Chichester. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Rocking Horse, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Hornet Alehouse. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Head back to your accommodation in Chichester and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • West Sussex
  • Southampton
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 40 min

  • Paultons Park Home of Peppa Pig World
  • National Trust - Mottisfont
  • Stonehenge
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Ower, Mottisfont, and Salisbury, 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 Southampton. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and scenic views in the charming hamlet of Chichester. Your adventure starts at Paultons Park Home Of Peppa Pig World, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is National Trust - Mottisfont. This intriguing sightseeing destination is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Chichester's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Stonehenge. This UNESCO world heritage-designated archeological site offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Southampton, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Southampton, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Dhaba 59 Sports Bar & Grill, a top-rated dining spot in Southampton. If you're in the mood for something new, try Blue Island, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Shenanigans. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Southampton.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Oasis Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Hobbit Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. 5 Rivers Sport Bar & Grill likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Southampton
  • London
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Drive 238 km, 4 hours 3 min

  • Oxford University Museum of Natural History
  • Blenheim Palace
  • St George's Chapel
  • Windsor Castle
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On day 6 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 Oxford, Woodstock, and Eton. In the evening, you’ll end up in London, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Southampton on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Oxford University Museum Of Natural History is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic museum before continuing your journey. Blenheim Palace is your next stop. This well-known palace is one of the best-rated sights in Southampton.

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 St George's Chapel, Windsor. This picture-perfect church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Windsor Castle.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in London. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

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

Continue your lively evening at Merchant House London, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Artesian is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Jin Bo Law ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • London - Departure day
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  • Big Ben
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Day 7 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of London 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 Big Ben, a historic monument before you head out.

As your final day in England unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in London's best shopping area, Covent Garden. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to England. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Goodman City, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Burger & Lobster Leicester Square offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to London. 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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