Relaxed 7-Day England Road Trip Starting from Southampton to Chichester

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Uncover the beauty of England on this 7-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Southampton, Beaulieu, Mottisfont, Winchester, Netley, Portsmouth, and Chichester. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in England at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Southampton, Beaulieu, Mottisfont, Winchester, Netley, Portsmouth, and Chichester. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Southampton and 1 night in Chichester. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in England.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in England. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Southampton, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across England and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across England with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in England.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in England. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating National Motor Museum, Beaulieu.

Traveling leisurely through England means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Winchester Cathedral. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through England's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in England.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in England. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through England's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the England.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through England. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best car rental you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in England. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in England and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in England today!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Southampton - arrival day

  • Southampton - Arrival day
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  • Mayflower Park
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Southampton, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Southampton and begin your adventure in England.

Journey into the unknown at Mayflower Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,453 reviews.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Southampton. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Southampton.

Savor the flavors at Lakaz Maman, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Soleto Bistro beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ennio's. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Southampton tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Southampton.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Hobbit Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Firehouse, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Guide Dog likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in England. Enjoy your first taste of Southampton as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Southampton

  • Southampton
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Drive 10 km, 1 hour 23 min

  • Southampton Common
  • SeaCity Museum
  • Solent Sky
  • More

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across England, you’ll go deep into Southampton, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Southampton, and meet locals along the way!

Journey into the unknown at Southampton Common, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable common land has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,033 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Houdini's Escape Room Experience - Escape Room Southampton is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 717 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Southampton is SeaCity Museum. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,539 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Southampton offers an experience you will remember.

Red Funnel Ferries is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Southampton. This point of interest promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.4 out of 5 stars in 8,788 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Solent Sky. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,033 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in England more special is by joining unique tours and activities in England. Southampton offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Southampton has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Bedford, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Smugglers Bar & Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bill's Southampton Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Southampton.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Southampton.

Continue your lively evening at Beards & Boards Craft Beer Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. London Hotel is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Heartbreakers ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in England!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Southampton, Lepe, Beaulieu, Mottisfont, Winchester, and Netley

  • Southampton
  • Beaulieu
  • Mottisfont
  • Winchester
  • Netley
  • More

Drive 133 km, 2 hours 48 min

  • Lepe Country Park
  • National Motor Museum, Beaulieu
  • Winchester Cathedral
  • Royal Victoria Country Park
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 3, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of England and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Lepe and beyond. With 2 nights left in Southampton, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the hamlet.

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 Lepe may take around 34 min. Upon your arrival in Lepe, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lepe Country Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Lepe, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,690 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Lepe, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Beaulieu may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Beaulieu, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to National Motor Museum, Beaulieu. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,430 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Beaulieu, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Mottisfont. Your travel time is around 35 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at National Trust - Mottisfont, a remarkable sightseeing destination where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,636 reviews.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Southampton has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Dine in style at Anesti Limited T/A Sulas Greek Taverna, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Everest Cuisine boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out CRIB Shuffleboard Cocktail & Pizza Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Southampton.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Southampton and Portsmouth

  • Southampton
  • Portsmouth
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Drive 64 km, 1 hour 16 min

  • Mary Rose Museum
  • HMS Victory
  • Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
  • National Museum of the Royal Navy
  • More

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Portsmouth, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Portsmouth will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.

When you’ve had your share of Southampton, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Portsmouth. Your travel time is around 36 min.

Drop by the renowned Mary Rose Museum. This popular maritime museum has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,672 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is HMS Victory. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,050 visitors, this first-rate deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. This military museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,679 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is National Museum of the Royal Navy. This non-departmental public body and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 898 local and international travelers.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Southampton.

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

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Southampton.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across England.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Southampton, Portsmouth, and Chichester

  • West Sussex
  • Portsmouth
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Drive 70 km, 1 hour 36 min

  • Victoria Park
  • Round Tower
  • Spinnaker Tower
  • HMS Warrior
  • Baffins Pond
  • More

Day 5 of your self-drive tour in England is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Chichester for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in England.

Set your GPS to Portsmouth and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Portsmouth beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Victoria Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,783 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Round Tower, Broad Street. Round Tower, Broad Street is a fortified tower with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,014 reviews.

Spinnaker Tower is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This observation tower is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,458 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit HMS Warrior. This ironclad warship is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,632 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Baffins Pond, a famous park in Portsmouth. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,177 travelers.

In the city of Chichester, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in England.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Chichester has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Savor the flavors at The Ivy Chichester Brasserie, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The White Horse beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Brasserie Blanc - Chichester. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Chichester tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in England.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Rocking Horse, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Hornet Alehouse is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Chichester, Portsmouth, and Southampton

  • Southampton
  • Portsmouth
  • More

Drive 64 km, 1 hour 13 min

  • Cumberland House Natural History Museum
  • South Parade Pier
  • Southsea Rock Gardens
  • The D-Day Story
  • More

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in England is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Southampton for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Portsmouth. This drive usually takes around 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Milton Park. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,165 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cumberland House Natural History Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 670 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to South Parade Pier. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,669 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Southsea Rock Garden. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,195 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to The D-Day Story. This military museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,085 visitors.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Southampton. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of England. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Southampton, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to book a table at BrewDog Southampton, a popular restaurant in Southampton. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Southampton at The Red Lion, 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 Bacaro. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Southampton tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Southampton.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in England!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Southampton - departure day

  • Southampton - Departure day
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  • Houndwell Park
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in England is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Southampton.

As you approach the end of your journey in England, take a moment for some retail therapy in Southampton’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of England, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of England with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Southampton is the remarkable Houndwell Park. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,062 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Southampton or just grab something light to keep you going.

Savor the flavors at Max’s Brasserie, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Belgium And Blues beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Southampton and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in England is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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