One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bournemouth to London and Oxford
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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 2 nights in Bournemouth, 4 nights in London, and 1 night in Oxford. 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. 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 Bournemouth, London, Kensington, Leavesden, Eton, Windsor, Oxford, Bath, Stourton, and Salisbury, 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
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Bournemouth - Arrival day
- More
- Bournemouth Upper Gardens
- More
Welcome to Bournemouth, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Bournemouth's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Bournemouth. 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 Bournemouth, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Slug & Lettuce Old Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, an iconic dining spot in Bournemouth. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hermitage Hotel Bournemouth, a popular restaurant in Bournemouth. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Premier Inn Bournemouth East (Boscombe) hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Bournemouth. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Smokin' Aces - Cocktail Bar & Whiskey Lounge, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Felsons Bournemouth is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Brewdog Bournemouth is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Bournemouth
- London
- More
Drive 176 km, 2 hours 26 min
- St Peter's Church, Bournemouth
- Boscombe Chine Gardens
- Boscombe Pier
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bournemouth. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in London, which will be your home away from home for 4 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bournemouth today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is St Peter's Church, Bournemouth. This historic church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Boscombe Chine Gardens and learn what makes this eye-catching park unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Boscombe Pier.
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.
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.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library in London by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern french cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 3-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern french cuisine in the city.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Américain is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Connaught Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Juno Rooms. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 3
- London
- More
Drive 12 km, 1 hour 14 min
- British Museum
- Tate Modern
- Borough Market
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
- More
Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions London has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in London by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
London is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at British Museum, an iconic museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Tate Modern, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Borough Market. This food market is one of the city’s most extraordinary 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.
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 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.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Lyaness, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Polski offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Buckingham Arms provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 4
- London
- More
Drive 9 km, 1 hour 10 min
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Big Ben
- Trafalgar Square
- National Gallery
- Madame Tussauds London
- More
Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today's adventure in London promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at London Eye. This romantic observation deck is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Big Ben, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Trafalgar Square, one of the city’s most timeless attractions, known for its historic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of National Gallery. This history-steeped art gallery is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Madame Tussauds London, a top-rated wax museum, and take a stroll around the area.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of London's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Palomar, 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 The Clermont London, Victoria, 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 Berners Tavern. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in London tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Merchant House London, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Artesian is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Jin Bo Law is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 5
- London
- Kensington
- More
Drive 11 km, 1 hour 1 min
- Hyde Park
- Science Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Buckingham Palace
- St James's Park
- More
Greet day 5 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to London for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in London and Kensington.
London is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Hyde Park, a globally renowned park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Buckingham Palace, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at St James's Park. This park is one of the city’s most spectacular spots.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of London, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kensington may take around 7 min. Upon your arrival in Kensington, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Take your self-guided tour to Science Museum, a top-rated 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 instagrammable museum is one of the most spectacular 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of London's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Goodman City, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Wiltons Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at American Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Old Shades, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Scarfes Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Say good night to London and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 6
- London
- Leavesden
- Eton
- Windsor
- Oxford
- More
Drive 152 km, 2 hours 47 min
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
- Windsor Castle
- LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
- More
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 Leavesden, Eton, and Windsor. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oxford, where you will stay for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of London, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Leavesden may take around 57 min. Upon your arrival in Leavesden, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Your self-guided tour starts at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, a widely recognized museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’ve had your share of Leavesden, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Eton. Your travel time is around 33 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Windsor Castle, a spectacular castle that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’ve had your share of Eton, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Windsor. Your travel time is around 11 min.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Legoland Windsor Resort. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the amusement park before you continue to your next stop.
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 Oxford. Oxford 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Oxford's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Polish Kitchen, a popular restaurant in Oxford. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Oxford at Old Parsonage Hotel, 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 The Standard. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Oxford tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Mad Hatter, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Three Goats Heads Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The White Horse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!
Day 7
- Oxford
- Bath
- Stourton
- Salisbury
- Bournemouth
- More
Drive 271 km, 4 hours 7 min
- Roman Baths
- Thermae Bath Spa
- Stourhead
- Stonehenge
- More
On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Bath, Stourton, and Salisbury. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bournemouth, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Bath. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.
Bath’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Oxford behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 42 min. Bath welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Head to Roman Baths, a popular archeological site in Bath. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Thermae Bath Spa. This increasingly popular spa is a top recommendation in the area.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bath, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Stourton. This drive usually takes around 42 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Head to Stourhead, a captivating park in Stourton. Explore its standout features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stourton and set your GPS to Salisbury. 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 32 min. Upon reaching Salisbury, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Take your self-guided tour to Stonehenge, a top-rated archeological site that everyone visiting Salisbury should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bournemouth, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bournemouth's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Aruba, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Langtry Manor Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Green House. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bournemouth.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Be At One - Bournemouth, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Eden. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Four Horsemen Pub, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 8
- Bournemouth - Departure day
- More
- Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens
- More
Day 8 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.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens. This intriguing park is a romantic place to see in Bournemouth.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bournemouth.
Dine in style at Harvester Neptune Bournemouth, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Cumberland Hotel Bournemouth boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.