One-Week Relaxed England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol to London
Description
Included
Description
Experience England like never before on this 8-day relaxed road trip, traversing through Bristol, London, Windsor, Eton, Leavesden, Salisbury, and Bath. This self-drive vacation offers a tranquil journey through the heart-stopping beauty found in England.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in England at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Bristol, London, Windsor, Eton, Leavesden, Salisbury, and Bath. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 2 nights in Bristol and 5 nights in London. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in England.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in England. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Bristol, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across England and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across England with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in England.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in England. This relaxed road trip features the stunning London Eye. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Buckingham Palace.
Traveling leisurely through England means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Tower Bridge. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable British Museum. Get close to the spectacular Hyde Park and the wonderful Trafalgar Square. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through England's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in England.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in England. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through England's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the England.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through England. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in England. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in England and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed 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
- Bristol - Arrival day
- More
Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Bristol, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Bristol and begin your adventure in England.
Bristol is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bristol. 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 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 Bristol, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Radisson Blu Hotel, Bristol, a top-rated dining destination in Bristol. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel du Vin Bristol, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bristol this evening.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Bristol.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Boardroom, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Gin & Juice offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bristol. Watershed is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in England. Enjoy your first taste of Bristol as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Bristol
- London
- More
Drive 195 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Bristol Cathedral
- Brandon Hill
- Clifton Suspension Bridge
- More
On day 2 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in England. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in England.
Bristol is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Bristol Cathedral, an intriguing church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Brandon Hill, Bristol, enchanting visitors with its serene appeal. Continue your exploration at Clifton Suspension Bridge. This monument is one of the city’s most interesting spots.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in London. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in England by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at The American Bar, 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 Cahoots London, 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 Hawksmoor Borough, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Américain, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Connaught Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Juno Rooms, another top-rated place in the area.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in England. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in England tomorrow with new energy.
Day 3
- London
- Windsor
- Eton
- Leavesden
- More
Drive 118 km, 2 hours 37 min
- LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
- Windsor Castle
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
- More
On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in London and visit amazing attractions in Windsor, Eton, and Leavesden destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 4 nights left in London. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Windsor. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await.
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 Windsor. Your travel time is around 52 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Legoland Windsor Resort, a locally renowned amusement park that draws visitors from near and far.
Eton’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Windsor behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Eton welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Your self-guided tour starts at Windsor Castle, an impressive castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Leavesden, 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 Eton to Leavesden may take around 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Leavesden, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, a top-rated museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to London and your accommodation.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Hawksmoor Guildhall, 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 Bill's Soho Restaurant, 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 Estiatorio Milos. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in London tonight.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in London.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lyaness offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Polski is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Buckingham Arms is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across England.
Day 4
- London
- More
Drive 10 km, 1 hour 3 min
- Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
- Borough Market
- Tate Modern
- South Bank
- More
On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across England, you’ll go deep into London, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in London, and meet locals along the way!
One of the most iconic places you can visit today in London is South Bank. Allow yourself some time to leisurely explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around London. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Tower Of London is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most wondrous places to visit in London. Next, head to Tower Bridge, an iconic monument, known for its grand 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 Borough Market. This standout food market offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Tate Modern adds its own distinct charm to your journey.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in England more special is by joining unique tours and activities. London offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Palomar, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Clermont London, Victoria, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berners Tavern. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.
Experience the amazing nightlife in London and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Merchant House London. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Artesian offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Jin Bo Law, another top-rated bar in the area.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across England.
Day 5
- London
- More
Drive 9 km, 1 hour 13 min
- Hyde Park
- Buckingham Palace
- St James's Park
- Big Ben
- Oxford Street
- More
Day 5 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!
Oxford Street is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in London, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many other must-see landmarks.
London is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Hyde Park, a wondrous park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Buckingham Palace, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at St James's Park. This park is one of the city’s most widely recognized 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 Big Ben.
England makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, England also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
Exploring the food culture in London offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Goodman City, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Burger & Lobster Leicester Square? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Wiltons Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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 your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like American Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Old Shades is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Scarfes Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!
Day 6
- London
- More
Drive 5 km, 57 min
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Trafalgar Square
- National Gallery
- British Museum
- Covent Garden
- More
Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in London, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.
Set aside time today to explore Covent Garden, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.
Immerse yourself in London’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at London Eye. This gorgeous observation deck is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the noteworthy features of Trafalgar Square, a must-visit public square in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to National Gallery, a well-known art gallery. For a change of scene, check out British Museum, known for its standout 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.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Rules, a top-rated dining destination in London. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hawksmoor Seven Dials. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Heliot Cocktail Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Speaker, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Old Bank Of England provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in England!
Day 7
- London
- Salisbury
- Bath
- Bristol
- More
Drive 237 km, 4 hours 9 min
- Salisbury Cathedral
- Stonehenge
- Roman Baths
- Thermae Bath Spa
- More
Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across England promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Salisbury and drive in the direction of the city of Bath for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Bristol, where you’ll stay for 1 night.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to London 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 2 hours. Upon reaching Salisbury, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Salisbury Cathedral. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Stonehenge. This spectacular archeological site is a traveler-favorite in the city.
After soaking in Salisbury’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bath. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Bath, it's time to take a break from the road.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Roman Baths, a notable archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Thermae Bath Spa, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Bristol. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
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 Bristol, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at COR, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern british menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bulrush is one of the best restaurants for modern british cuisine in Bristol. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Blaise Inn. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for traditional cuisine in the city.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Hyde & Co after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Humbug, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Filthy Xiii also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bristol!
Day 8
- Bristol - Departure day
- More
- Queen Square
- More
Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in England is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Bristol.
On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at Bristol’s popular marketplace, Clifton Village. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Bristol is the remarkable Queen Square. This public square and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,638 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Bristol or just grab something light to keep you going.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Rainbow Casino Bristol, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bravas offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Bristol 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.
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.