One-Week Relaxed England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Birmingham to London

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Photo of sunset view of brick buildings alongside a water channel in the central Birmingham, England.
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Embark on this 8-day relaxed road trip in England, as Birmingham, Coventry, Balsall Heath, Dudley, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Leavesden, London, Kensington, Eton, Woodstock, and Oxford welcome you with stunning sights, fun activities, and the freedom of a laid-back self-drive holiday!

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in England, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 3 nights in Birmingham and 4 nights in London, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in England.

Your journey starts in Birmingham, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 8-day relaxed road trip in England to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in England already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning London Eye, wander through the remarkable Tower Bridge, and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent Buckingham Palace.

Continue your journey with a visit to the iconic British Museum, a highlight that captures the spirit of the destination. Visit the spectacular Hyde Park and Trafalgar Square. Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this England road trip itinerary for 8 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in England.

If you want to make your 8-day relaxed self-drive tour in England even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in England includes 7 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 8 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 8-day relaxed self-drive road trip in England today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Birmingham - Arrival day
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  • Queen Victoria
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Birmingham, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Birmingham and begin your adventure in England.

Birmingham 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 Queen Victoria, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Birmingham. 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 city.

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 Birmingham, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Purecraft Bar & Kitchen, a highly-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're eager to try something different, consider Grand Central Kitchen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (Waterloo Street) hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Birmingham this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Birmingham and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Equator Bar Birmingham, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bacchus Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in England. Enjoy your first taste of Birmingham as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Birmingham
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Drive 133 km, 2 hours 43 min

  • Coventry Transport Museum
  • Cannon Hill Park
  • Dudley Zoo and Castle
  • Black Country Living Museum
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On day 2 of your relaxed road trip in England, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Birmingham and visit amazing attractions in Coventry, Balsall Heath, and Dudley, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Birmingham, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Whatever your travel style is, Coventry Transport Museum is an essential stop in Birmingham. This underrated museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Cannon Hill Park, a romantic park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Dudley Zoo And Castle, a well-known zoo. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the well-known Black Country Living Museum.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Birmingham by reserving a table at Purnell's. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Simpsons, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Opheem, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite indian menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Birmingham.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Birmingham. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Birmingham!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Birmingham
  • London
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Drive 254 km, 3 hours 45 min

  • Stratford Butterfly Farm
  • Shakespeare's Birthplace
  • Warwick Castle
  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
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Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across England offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Stratford-on-Avon and drive in the direction of Warwick for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in London, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Catch Stratford Butterfly Farm before the crowds roll in. This mesmerizing butterfly garden is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the heritage-rich features of Shakespeare's Birthplace, a must-visit museum in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Warwick Castle, a well-known castle. For a change of scene, check out Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, known for its picture-perfect features.

You'll be staying in London on this laid-back road trip through England. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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 London, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The American Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cahoots London offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hawksmoor Borough. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Américain, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Connaught Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in London. Juno Rooms is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • London
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Drive 6 km, 1 hour 7 min

  • British Museum
  • National Gallery
  • Trafalgar Square
  • St James's Park
  • Buckingham Palace
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Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through England means 24 hours of making the best memories in London. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in London. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by London!

Whether you decide to explore London on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

One of the most wondrous attractions included on the itinerary is British Museum. This respected museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Gallery and learn what makes this historic art gallery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the world-famous Trafalgar Square. After exploring the public square, head to St James's Park. This famous park is a highlight in London. As your day continues, stop by Buckingham Palace, known for its historic features.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about England. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in England and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bill's Soho Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Estiatorio Milos. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in London. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Lyaness after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Polski, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Buckingham Arms also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • London
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 22 min

  • Hyde Park
  • Science Museum
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
  • Tower Bridge
  • Tower of London
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Your relaxed road trip in England continues on day 5 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know England better by exploring the top attractions of London and beyond. With 2 nights left in London, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Whether you decide to explore London on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Hyde Park leaves a lasting impression. This park is one of the most wondrous places to visit in London. Next, head to Science Museum, an extraordinary museum, known for its historic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Victoria And Albert Museum. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Tower Bridge and Tower Of London. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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 London, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Palomar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Clermont London, Victoria? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Berners Tavern as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in London.

Experience the amazing nightlife in London and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

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.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • London
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Drive 15 km, 1 hour 25 min

  • Borough Market
  • Tate Modern
  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • Big Ben
  • Madame Tussauds London
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Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in London, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.

Let Borough Market set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich food market before continuing your journey. Tate Modern is your next stop. This widely recognized art gallery is one of the best-rated sights in London.

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 London Eye. This romantic observation deck is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Big Ben and Madame Tussauds London.

England makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, England also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around London, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Goodman City, a popular restaurant in London. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of London at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, 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 Wiltons Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in London tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in London and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Keep the evening going at American Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Old Shades, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Scarfes Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across England.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • London
  • Birmingham
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Drive 250 km, 3 hours 55 min

  • St George's Chapel
  • Windsor Castle
  • Blenheim Palace
  • Oxford University Museum of Natural History
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Day 7 of your self-drive tour in England offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Eton and end it in Birmingham. You’ll stay in Birmingham for 1 night. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in England.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile St George's Chapel, Windsor and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Windsor Castle, a breathtaking castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Blenheim Palace, one of the town’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Oxford University Museum Of Natural History.

In Birmingham, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in England.

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 Birmingham.

Enjoy a lovely meal at La Galleria, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Ivy Temple Row is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Malmaison Birmingham. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Birmingham tonight.

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

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Birmingham - Departure day
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  • Handsworth Park
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in England is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in Birmingham.

For a shopping spree in Birmingham, we recommend the lively Bullring & Grand Central. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Handsworth Park. This locally appreciated park is a hotspot among locals.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in Birmingham, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Purnells, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Gaucho offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Dishoom Birmingham.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Birmingham and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in England is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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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.
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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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