One-Week England Road Trip from Bournemouth traveling east to Southampton, and London

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Explore the best of England on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Bournemouth, Southampton, Windsor, Eton, Leavesden, London, Westminster, Kensington, Basingstoke, Winchester, and Beaulieu. 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 2 nights in Bournemouth, 1 night in Southampton, and 4 nights in London. 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bournemouth, Southampton, Windsor, Eton, Leavesden, London, Westminster, Kensington, Basingstoke, Winchester, and Beaulieu, 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!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Bournemouth - arrival day

  • Bournemouth - Arrival day
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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 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 Parks - Lower Gardens or taking a stroll in the town 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 Bournemouth. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in England. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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 city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Slug & Lettuce Old Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Premier Inn Bournemouth East (Boscombe) hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Aruba. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bournemouth tonight.

Keep the evening going at Smokin' Aces - Cocktail Bar & Whiskey Lounge, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Felsons Bournemouth, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Brewdog Bournemouth, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in England!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Bournemouth, and Southampton

  • Southampton
  • Bournemouth
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Drive 58 km, 1 hour 9 min

  • St Peter's Church, Bournemouth
  • Bournemouth Beach
  • Boscombe Pier
  • More

On day 2 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 Bournemouth. In the evening, you’ll end up in Southampton, where you will stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at St Peter's Church, Bournemouth, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church building is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 240 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Bournemouth Beach. Bournemouth Beach is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,920 reviews.

Boscombe Pier is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,238 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Southampton, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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 Soleto Bistro? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Ennio's as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Southampton.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Hobbit Pub, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Firehouse offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Southampton. The Guide Dog is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Southampton, Windsor, Eton, Leavesden, and London

  • London
  • Windsor
  • Eton
  • Leavesden
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Drive 171 km, 2 hours 58 min

  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
  • Windsor Castle
  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Windsor, Eton, and Leavesden, 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 London. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.

Set your GPS to Windsor and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Windsor beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Legoland Windsor Resort. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 44,248 reviews.

Set your GPS to Eton and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Eton beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Windsor Castle. This popular historic house museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,973 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to London, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in London by booking a table at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern french menu. For a different culinary experience in London, Hélène Darroze at The Connaught shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern french cuisine in London. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.

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Day 4

Day 4 – London, Westminster, and Kensington

  • London
  • Westminster
  • Kensington
  • More

Drive 13 km, 1 hour 3 min

  • Hyde Park
  • Science Museum
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
  • Big Ben
  • lastminute.com London Eye
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in London, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Westminster, Kensington, and London. You still have 3 nights left in London.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Big Ben. This extraordinary cultural icon is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 65,522 visitors.

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 Westminster. Your travel time is around 15 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Hyde Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 128,167 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kensington. This car ride takes around 7 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Science Museum, a remarkable science museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 66,659 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 2,989,000 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Victoria And Albert Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 56,963 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 3,932,738 people visit it every year.

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

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 reserve a table at Estiatorio Milos, 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 The Palomar, 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 Berners Tavern, 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 your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Artesian, known for its lively atmosphere. American Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Old Shades offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!

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Day 5

Day 5 – London

  • London
  • More

Drive 12 km, 1 hour 16 min

  • Borough Market
  • Tower Bridge
  • Tower of London
  • The British Museum
  • More

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make British Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this national museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 151,665 reviews. More than 5,906,716 people visit this place of interest every year.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider Wiltons Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rules. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Scarfes Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Heliot Cocktail Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bfi Imax offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day 6

Day 6 – London, and Westminster

  • London
  • Westminster
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 12 min

  • Madame Tussauds London
  • The National Gallery
  • Trafalgar Square
  • St James's Park
  • Buckingham Palace
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore London. You’ll stay in London for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Madame Tussauds London. This wax museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in London, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 73,606 visitors.

National Gallery is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 49,550 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 6,011,007 people visit this art museum every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Trafalgar Square. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 123,506 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in London, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in London below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in London. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hawksmoor Seven Dials is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Simpson's in the Strand. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in London tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Old Bank Of England is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Ship & Shovell, offering a different kind of charm.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

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Day 7

Day 7 – London, Basingstoke, Winchester, Beaulieu, and Bournemouth

  • Bournemouth
  • Basingstoke
  • Winchester
  • Beaulieu
  • More

Drive 205 km, 3 hours 27 min

  • Eastrop Park
  • Winchester Cathedral
  • The Great Hall
  • National Motor Museum, Beaulieu
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Basingstoke, Winchester, and Beaulieu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bournemouth. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Basingstoke’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of London behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min. Basingstoke welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Eastrop Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,024 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Basingstoke, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Winchester. Your travel time is around 31 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Winchester Cathedral. This anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,098 reviews.

Continue your journey at The Great Hall. This point of interest is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,865 travelers from near and far.

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 Bournemouth. Bournemouth 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 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 The Green House, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Harvester Neptune Bournemouth offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Cumberland Hotel Bournemouth. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bournemouth.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Be At One - Bournemouth after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Eden, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Four Horsemen Pub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Bournemouth - departure day

  • Bournemouth - Departure day
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  • Bournemouth Upper Gardens
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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.

On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at Bournemouth’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

When you're ready to see some sights, Bournemouth Upper Gardens is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,104 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bournemouth.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Best Western Plus The Connaught Hotel and Spa, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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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