One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bournemouth traveling east to Oxford and London

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Photo of the sun rises over the sea at Bournemouth illuminating the clouds and the sea.
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Explore the best of England on a remarkable 8-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Bournemouth, Oxford, Leavesden, Garston, Watford, St Albans, London, Eton, and Salisbury.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in England. You will spend 2 nights in Bournemouth, 1 night in Oxford, 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 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, Oxford, Leavesden, Garston, Watford, St Albans, London, Eton, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Bournemouth - Arrival day
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  • Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach Bournemouth and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Bournemouth, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the town.

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 just taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Bournemouth. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in England. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Slug & Lettuce Old Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, a highly-rated dining destination in Bournemouth. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hermitage Hotel Bournemouth, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Bournemouth East (Boscombe) hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bournemouth this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Smokin' Aces - Cocktail Bar & Whiskey Lounge, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Felsons Bournemouth is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Brewdog Bournemouth also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Bournemouth
  • Oxford
  • More

Drive 155 km, 2 hours 5 min

  • Boscombe Chine Gardens
  • Boscombe Pier
  • Bournemouth Beach
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip in England, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bournemouth are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oxford, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whatever your travel style is, Boscombe Chine Gardens is an essential stop in Bournemouth. This underrated park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Boscombe Pier, a romantic pier, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Bournemouth Beach, a locally appreciated beach.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Oxford. Oxford offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Oxford's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Savor the flavors at Polish Kitchen, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Old Parsonage Hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Standard. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Oxford tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Mad Hatter, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Three Goats Heads Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The White Horse provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Oxford and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in England.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Oxford
  • London
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Drive 139 km, 2 hours 36 min

  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
  • Diagon Alley
  • Cheslyn House & Gardens
  • Cassiobury Park
  • St Albans Cathedral
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, including Leavesden, Garston, Watford, and St Albans. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in London, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Make time for Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, a spectacular museum that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Continue your exploration at Cheslyn House & Gardens. This botanical garden is one of the village’s most up-and-coming spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Oxford at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Cassiobury Park. After exploring the park, head to the worthwhile St Albans Cathedral.

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.

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

Dine in style at The American Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cahoots London boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hawksmoor Borough. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Américain stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Connaught Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Juno Rooms is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • London
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 13 min

  • Hyde Park
  • Buckingham Palace
  • St James's Park
  • Big Ben
  • Oxford Street
  • More

Day 4 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in London. You’ll stay in London for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Oxford Street. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Your adventure in London is only getting started when you visit Hyde Park, an iconic local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Buckingham Palace. This globally renowned palace is known for its standout appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander London's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to St James's Park. This romantic park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Big Ben is also worth visiting.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in England. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Dine in style at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bill's Soho Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Estiatorio Milos. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Lyaness. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Polski, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Buckingham Arms provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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
  • More

Drive 5 km, 56 min

  • British Museum
  • National Gallery
  • Trafalgar Square
  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • Covent Garden
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in London. You’ll stay in London for 2 nights.

A top thing to do today is to explore Covent Garden, a must-see neighborhood in London. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

British Museum is must-visit museum and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to National Gallery, a popular art gallery, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Trafalgar Square, an awe-inspiring public square, also available for your discovery today.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in England. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

London is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in London.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Palomar, 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 Clermont London, Victoria, 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.

Keep the evening going at Merchant House London, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Artesian, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Jin Bo Law, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • London
  • More

Drive 10 km, 1 hour 3 min

  • Tower of London
  • Tower Bridge
  • Borough Market
  • Tate Modern
  • South Bank
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions London has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in London.

London is brimming with adventures. South Bank is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in London. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the globally renowned Tower Of London and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Tower Bridge, an enchanting monument that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Borough Market, one of the city’s most extraordinary spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the impressive Tate Modern.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in England. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, American Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Old Shades offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Scarfes Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Head back to your accommodation in London and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in England.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • London
  • Bournemouth
  • More

Drive 226 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • St George's Chapel
  • Windsor Castle
  • Salisbury Cathedral
  • Stonehenge
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Eton and Salisbury. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bournemouth, where you'll spend 1 night.

St George's Chapel, Windsor is must-visit church and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Windsor Castle, a spectacular castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Salisbury Cathedral, a picture-perfect church, also available for your discovery today.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bournemouth. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

Bournemouth is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Bournemouth.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Aruba, a popular restaurant in Bournemouth. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bournemouth at Langtry Manor 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 Green House. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bournemouth tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Be At One - Bournemouth, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Eden provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Four Horsemen Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Bournemouth Upper Gardens. This curiosity-inducing park is a hotspot among locals.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Bournemouth’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. 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.

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 The Cumberland Hotel Bournemouth, 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
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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.
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.
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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