One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from London to Southampton and Canterbury and surrounding area

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Description

Experience the freedom of the open road in England as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like London, Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Eton, Windsor, Southampton, Salisbury, Bath, Portsmouth, Canterbury, and Dover.

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 London, 2 nights in Southampton, and 1 night in Canterbury. 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 London, 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 London, Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Eton, Windsor, Southampton, Salisbury, Bath, Portsmouth, Canterbury, and Dover, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
lastminute.com London EyeBritish MuseumBuckingham PalaceHyde ParkOxford Street
Tate ModernBorough MarketTower BridgeTower of LondonSouth Bank
Ray Mill IslandWindsor CastleLEGOLAND Windsor Resort
StonehengePulteney BridgeRoman BathsThermae Bath Spa
Spinnaker TowerPortsmouth Historic DockyardMary RoseHMS Victory
Canterbury CathedralWestgate GardensDover CastleLeeds Castle
Trafalgar Square

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Day 1

Day 1

  • London - Arrival day
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach London and pick up your car. You’ll stay in London for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

London is a beautiful city 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 taking a stroll in the city 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 London. 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 London, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at The American Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cahoots London beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hawksmoor Borough. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.

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.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • London
  • More

Drive 13 km, 1 hour 25 min

  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • British Museum
  • Buckingham Palace
  • Hyde Park
  • Oxford Street
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions London has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in London by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

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

Today’s itinerary in London covers several incredible sights, including an observation deck, a museum, a palace, a park and much more! Start your adventure at London Eye. This globally renowned observation deck is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the heritage-rich wonders of British Museum, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Buckingham Palace. This iconic palace offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Hyde Park, where you can take in romantic features.

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.

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 lovely meal at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bill's Soho Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Estiatorio Milos. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in London tonight.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in England.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • London
  • More

Drive 10 km, 1 hour 2 min

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

On day 3 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.

A visit to South Bank in London is a must on your agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Tate Modern. This impressive art gallery is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Borough Market, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Tower Bridge, one of the most globally renowned places to see in London. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Tower Of London. Wander around and soak in the UNESCO world heritage-designated atmosphere this castle offers.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Palomar, a top-rated dining destination in London. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Clermont London, Victoria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berners Tavern. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

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.

Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • London
  • Southampton
  • More

Drive 158 km, 2 hours 44 min

  • Ray Mill Island
  • Windsor Castle
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
  • More

On day 4 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 Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Eton, and Windsor. In the evening, you’ll end up in Southampton, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Ray Mill Island. This curiosity-inducing park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Windsor Castle, one of the town’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Legoland Windsor Resort, one of the most interesting places to see in London. This amusement park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Oasis Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Hobbit Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at 5 Rivers Sport Bar & Grill, another top-rated place in the area.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in England.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Southampton
  • More

Drive 236 km, 3 hours 54 min

  • Stonehenge
  • Pulteney Bridge
  • Roman Baths
  • Thermae Bath Spa
  • More

On day 5 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 Salisbury and Bath to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Southampton is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Stonehenge, an impressive archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Pulteney Bridge, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Roman Baths. This archeological site is one of the city’s most well-known spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Southampton at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Thermae Bath Spa.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Lakaz Maman, a popular restaurant in Southampton. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Southampton at Porters Wine & Charcuterie, 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 Halladays Tea Rooms. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Southampton tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Firehouse after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Guide Dog, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Beards & Boards Craft Beer Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Southampton
  • Canterbury
  • More

Drive 237 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Spinnaker Tower
  • Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
  • Mary Rose
  • HMS Victory
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Portsmouth. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Canterbury, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Southampton. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an observation deck, a museum, and a historic ship. Begin your adventure at Spinnaker Tower. This is a curiosity-inducing observation deck you should not miss. Another must-see is Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, a popular museum in Southampton.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Mary Rose Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Hms Victory, another of the city’s worthwhile attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Canterbury. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Canterbury. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Canterbury by securing a reservation at The Sportsman. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern british cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Il Posticino, a popular restaurant in Canterbury. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Bell & Crown, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Pegasus Tap Room offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Houdini’s Magic Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Canterbury
  • London
  • More

Drive 169 km, 2 hours 53 min

  • Canterbury Cathedral
  • Westgate Gardens
  • Dover Castle
  • Leeds Castle
  • More

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Canterbury, Dover, and Broomfield. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in London, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Canterbury today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Canterbury Cathedral. This historic church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Westgate 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 well-known Dover Castle. After exploring the castle, head to Leeds Castle. This popular castle is a highlight in Canterbury.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Goodman City, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Wiltons Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting American Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Old Shades is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Scarfes Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • London - Departure day
  • More
  • Trafalgar Square
  • More

Day 8 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of London 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, we recommend visiting Trafalgar Square, a breathtaking public square before you head out.

As your final day in England unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in London's best shopping area, Oxford Street. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to England.

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

You’ll then say farewell to London. 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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