7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from London traveling south to Tunbridge Wells and Southampton
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Description
Explore the best of England on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through London, Kensington, Colchester, Maldon, Crockham Hill, Tunbridge Wells, Portsmouth, Southampton, Salisbury, and Eton. This road trip itinerary in England seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in London, 1 night in Tunbridge Wells, 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.
As you hit the open road and drive through London, Kensington, Colchester, Maldon, Crockham Hill, Tunbridge Wells, Portsmouth, Southampton, Salisbury, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- London - Arrival day
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- Trafalgar Square
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Welcome to London, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in London's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in London. 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 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 book a table at The American Bar, a popular restaurant in London. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of London at Cahoots London, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Hawksmoor Borough. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to London tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Américain after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Connaught Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Juno Rooms also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- London
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 5 min
- British Museum
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Borough Market
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
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Day 2 of your road trip across England promises a magnificent time exploring London. You have 2 nights left in London. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
London is home to plenty of attractions that offer an eye-catching, a heritage-rich, a charming, an awe-inspiring, a grand, and an UNESCO world heritage-listed! Start at British Museum, an iconic museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find London Eye, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at Borough Market. This food market is one of the city’s most astonishing spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring London at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Tower Bridge. After exploring the monument, head to the timeless Tower Of London. This castle will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. England is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you explore more of London, 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.
Savor the flavors at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bill's Soho Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Estiatorio Milos. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Lyaness, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bar Polski is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Buckingham Arms also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 3
- London
- Kensington
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 1 min
- Hyde Park
- Science Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Buckingham Palace
- St James's Park
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On day 3 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in London, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to London for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience London and Kensington to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, a majestic, a mesmerizing, an eye-catching, and a history-steeped. Start at the globally renowned Hyde Park, a serene park in London. Next, go to Buckingham Palace.
After visiting Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace, take time to explore London's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to St James's Park. This romantic park offers a unique experience.
When you’ve had your share of London, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kensington. Your travel time is around 7 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Science Museum, an astonishing museum that everyone visiting Kensington should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Victoria And Albert Museum. This heritage-rich museum is one of the most widely recognized attractions in the region.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in London.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Palomar, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Clermont London, Victoria, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berners Tavern. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.
Keep the evening going at Merchant House London, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Artesian, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Jin Bo Law, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 4
- London
- Colchester
- Maldon
- Crockham Hill
- Royal Tunbridge Wells
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Drive 239 km, 3 hours 56 min
- Colchester Zoo
- Promenade Park
- National Trust - Chartwell
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Colchester, Maldon, and Crockham Hill. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Tunbridge Wells, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Set your GPS to Maldon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Maldon beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Colchester Zoo, a captivating zoo known for its stunning features.
When you’ve had your share of Colchester, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Maldon. Your travel time is around 29 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Promenade Park, a curiosity-inducing park that draws visitors from near and far.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Tunbridge Wells, 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 Tunbridge Wells. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Saint Johns Yard Bar & Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Tunbridge Wells. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hattusa, a popular restaurant in Tunbridge Wells. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Ivy Royal Tunbridge Wells, a hidden gem nestled in Tunbridge Wells. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Bedford. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, White Bear Tunbridge Wells offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Prince Of Wales, another top-rated bar in the area.
Say good night to Tunbridge Wells and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 5
- Royal Tunbridge Wells
- Portsmouth
- Southampton
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Drive 190 km, 2 hours 46 min
- HMS Victory
- Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
- Mary Rose
- Spinnaker Tower
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Portsmouth, 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.
After soaking in Tunbridge Wells’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Portsmouth. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 48 min. When you arrive in Portsmouth, it's time to take a break from the road.
Take your self-guided tour to Hms Victory, a beloved historic ship that everyone visiting Portsmouth should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. This stunning museum is one of the most captivating attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Mary Rose Museum, a photogenic museum, popular among locals as well as travelers. Spinnaker Tower is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this locally appreciated observation deck before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Southampton. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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 delicious meal at Dhaba 59 Sports Bar & Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Southampton. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Blue Island, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Shenanigans. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Southampton this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Oasis Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Hobbit Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, 5 Rivers Sport Bar & Grill offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 6
- Southampton
- Salisbury
- Eton
- London
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Drive 198 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Salisbury Cathedral
- Stonehenge
- 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 Salisbury and Eton. In the evening, you’ll end up in London, where you will stay for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Southampton, 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 41 min. Upon your arrival in Salisbury, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Make your way to Salisbury Cathedral, an interesting church that draws attention for its culturally significant features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Stonehenge, a historic archeological site that stands out in the city.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Eton. This car ride takes around 1 hour 21 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at St George's Chapel, Windsor, a worthwhile church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Windsor Castle and admire its historic features.
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 London. London 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.
As you explore more of London, 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.
Make sure to book a table at Goodman City, a popular restaurant in London. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of London at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Wiltons Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to London tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, American Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Old Shades is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Scarfes Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!
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.
Maximize your last day in England and go on a shopping spree in London’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in England.
Discover a day packed with a gorgeous, an eye-catching, a heritage-rich, and a culturally significant in London. Begin your sightseeing with Big Ben. This astonishing monument is one of the top attractions in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in London.
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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