One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bournemouth to Southampton and surrounding area
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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 4 nights in Bournemouth and 3 nights 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 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. Paultons Park Home Of Peppa Pig World and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Throop, Mottisfont, Netley, Southampton, Highclere, Winchester, Beaulieu, Portsmouth, Ashley Heath, Corfe Castle, West Lulworth, and Bovington, 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 – Bournemouth - arrival day
- Bournemouth - Arrival day
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- Bournemouth Upper Gardens
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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 3 nights 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 in Bournemouth. 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Slug & Lettuce Old Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hermitage Hotel Bournemouth is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Premier Inn Bournemouth East (Boscombe) hotel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bournemouth tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Smokin' Aces - Cocktail Bar & Whiskey Lounge, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Felsons Bournemouth provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Brewdog Bournemouth offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in England!
Day 2 – Bournemouth and Poole
- Bournemouth
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Drive 31 km, 1 hour 13 min
- Hamworthy Park
- Poole Museum
- Constitution Hill Viewpoint
- Boscombe Pier
- Bournemouth Beach
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bournemouth, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Poole and Bournemouth. You still have 2 nights left in Bournemouth.
Today’s route brings a charming, a mesmerizing, a photogenic, and a beautiful. The first attraction of today is Boscombe Pier. This underrated pier is an awe-inspiring place to see in Bournemouth. Continue your discovery at Bournemouth Beach, a serene beach with stories to tell.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Poole, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bournemouth may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Bournemouth, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Hamworthy Park Junior School. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Poole Museum. This worthwhile museum is a traveler-favorite in the town. Not far away, you’ll also find Constitution Hill Viewpoint. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the observation deck.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bournemouth.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bournemouth's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor the flavors at Aruba, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Langtry Manor Hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Green House. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bournemouth tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Be At One - Bournemouth, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Eden is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Four Horsemen Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 3 – Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Throop
- Bournemouth
- Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
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Drive 38 km, 1 hour 21 min
- Adventure Wonderland
- Bournemouth Beach
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Bournemouth, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Christchurch allows for both.
After soaking in Christchurch’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Throop. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Throop, it's time to take a break from the road.
Mudeford Quay is an often recommended pier we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Christchurch Priory, a culturally significant church that’s well-regarded in the area.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Christchurch and set your GPS to Throop. 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 12 min. Upon reaching Throop, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Take your self-guided tour to Bournemouth Aviation Museum, a curiosity-inducing aviation museum that everyone visiting Throop should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Adventure Wonderland. This picture-perfect amusement park is one of the most frequently visited attractions in the region.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bournemouth and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bournemouth. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Harvester Neptune Bournemouth, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Cumberland Hotel Bournemouth offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Nici. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bournemouth.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Moon In The Square - Jd Wetherspoon, known for its inviting atmosphere.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4 – Bournemouth, Ower, Mottisfont, Netley, and Southampton
- Bournemouth
- Mottisfont
- Netley
- Southampton
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Drive 101 km, 1 hour 50 min
- Paultons Park Home of Peppa Pig World
- Royal Victoria Country Park
- Bournemouth Beach
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Ower, Mottisfont, and Netley. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Southampton. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
After soaking in Ower’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mottisfont. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 17 min. When you arrive in Mottisfont, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Paultons Park Home Of Peppa Pig World, a captivating amusement park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Mottisfont, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Netley may take around 40 min. Upon your arrival in Netley, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Royal Victoria Country Park is a locally appreciated park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picturesque features before continuing your self-guided tour.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Southampton. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Dhaba 59 Sports Bar & Grill, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Blue Island offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Shenanigans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Southampton.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Oasis Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Hobbit Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, 5 Rivers Sport Bar & Grill provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!
Day 5 – Southampton, Highclere, Winchester, Beaulieu, and Lepe
- Southampton
- Highclere
- Winchester
- Beaulieu
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Drive 166 km, 3 hours 1 min
- Highclere Castle
- Winchester Cathedral
- National Motor Museum, Beaulieu
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Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 2 nights left in Southampton, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Highclere. This drive usually takes around 50 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Take your self-guided tour to Highclere Castle, an underrated castle that everyone visiting Highclere should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Winchester, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Highclere to Winchester may take around 33 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Winchester, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Head to Winchester Cathedral, an intriguing church in Winchester. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Beaulieu. This drive usually takes around 38 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Begin your journey at National Motor Museum, Beaulieu and explore the breathtaking features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Southampton.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Southampton's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Lakaz Maman, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Porters Wine & Charcuterie? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Halladays Tea Rooms as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Southampton.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Firehouse, known for its lively atmosphere. The Guide Dog is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Beards & Boards Craft Beer Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.
Day 6 – Southampton and Portsmouth
- Southampton
- Portsmouth
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Drive 65 km, 1 hour 33 min
- Spinnaker Tower
- Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
- HMS Victory
- Mary Rose
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On day 6 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in Southampton, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Southampton for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Portsmouth to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Portsmouth today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Set your GPS to Portsmouth and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Portsmouth beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Spinnaker Tower, a locally appreciated observation deck known for its romantic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, a popular museum that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Hms Victory and uncover the details of this stunning historic ship. Make sure to also explore Mary Rose Museum, an intriguing museum that offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Southampton and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Southampton. 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Soleto Bistro, a top-rated dining spot in Southampton. If you're in the mood for something new, try POPSI’S, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sprinkles Gelato Portswood. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Southampton.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting London Hotel, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Heartbreakers is another popular option for a drink or two.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 7 – Southampton, Ashley Heath, Corfe Castle, West Lulworth, Bovington, and Bournemouth
- Southampton
- Ashley Heath
- Corfe Castle
- West Lulworth
- Bournemouth
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Drive 159 km, 3 hours 3 min
- Corfe Castle
- Lulworth Cove
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On day 7 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 Ashley Heath, Corfe Castle, West Lulworth, and Bovington. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bournemouth, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Southampton, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ashley Heath. This drive usually takes around 41 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Spend your afternoon discovering Moors Valley Country Park & Forest, a beloved park known for its visually striking features.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Corfe Castle. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Head to Corfe Castle, a popular castle in Corfe Castle. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Set your GPS to West Lulworth and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. West Lulworth beckons with new experiences!
Make your way to Durdle Door, a locally appreciated rock formation that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Lulworth Cove, a peaceful beach that stands out in the village.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bournemouth. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bournemouth. 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 book a table at Cafe Boscanova, a popular restaurant in Bournemouth. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bournemouth at Best Western Plus The Connaught Hotel and Spa, 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 Harvester Durley Inn Bournemouth. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bournemouth tonight.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 8 – Bournemouth - departure day
- Bournemouth - Departure day
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- Bournemouth Beach
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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.
As your final day in England unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bournemouth's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to England.
Today's adventure in Bournemouth promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens. This serene park is a highlight of any visit in the town.
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 The Mary Shelley - JD Wetherspoon, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Premier Inn Bournemouth Central hotel 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!
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