One-Week Relaxed England Road Trip from London to Birmingham
Description
Summary
Description
Discover England stress-free with this 8-day relaxed road trip, winding through London, Westminster, Kensington, Eton, Windsor, Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Birmingham, Coventry, Balsall Heath, Walsall, Sutton Coldfield, West Bromwich, Tividale, Dudley, Whipsnade, Aldbury, Leavesden, and Watford. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.
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 London, Westminster, Kensington, Eton, Windsor, Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Birmingham, Coventry, Balsall Heath, Walsall, Sutton Coldfield, West Bromwich, Tividale, Dudley, Whipsnade, Aldbury, Leavesden, and Watford. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in London, and 3 nights in Birmingham. 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 London, 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. 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!
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Day 1 – London - arrival day
- London - Arrival day
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- Trafalgar Square
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of London, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in London and begin your adventure in England.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Trafalgar Square. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in London, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 123,506 visitors.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in London. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in London.
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 Bill's Soho Restaurant, 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 dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in London and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Américain, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Connaught Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar Polski provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
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 London as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – London
- London
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 23 min
- Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
- Borough Market
- The British Museum
- Madame Tussauds London
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Day 2 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 neighborhood. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by London!
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to British Museum. This national museum gets 5,906,716 visitors each year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 151,665 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Madame Tussauds London. This wax museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 73,606 reviews.
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.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in London.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Estiatorio Milos, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Palomar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Berners Tavern. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.
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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Artesian, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. American Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Old Shades is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in London can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in England!
Day 3 – London, Westminster, and Kensington
- London
- Westminster
- Kensington
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 3 min
- Hyde Park
- Science Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Buckingham Palace
- lastminute.com London Eye
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 3, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of England and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Westminster and beyond. With 1 night left in London, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
When you’ve had your share of Westminster, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of London. Your travel time is around 12 min.
Take the opportunity to see Hyde Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 128,167 visitors.
Buckingham Palace is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This royal palace has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,513 travelers.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kensington.
Make Science Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this science museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 66,659 reviews. More than 2,989,000 people visit this place of interest every year.
Next up, make a stop at Victoria and Albert Museum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 56,963 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 3,932,738 annual visitors.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Westminster, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to London may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in London, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to London Eye. This ferris wheel is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,315 visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to London and your accommodation.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in London.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Wiltons Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Rules as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in London.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in London and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Scarfes Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Heliot Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, BFI IMAX is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in England!
Day 4 – London, Eton, Windsor, Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, and Birmingham
- Birmingham
- Eton
- Windsor
- Maidenhead
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Drive 222 km, 3 hours 29 min
- Windsor Castle
- The Long Walk
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Day 4 of your self-drive tour in England is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the town of Eton and end it in the city of Birmingham. You’ll stay in Birmingham for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in England.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Eton.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Windsor Castle. This historic house museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,973 visitors.
When you’re finished at Windsor Castle, head to St George's Chapel, Windsor. This one-of-a-kind castle chapel is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,505 reviews.
When you’ve had your share of Windsor, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. Your travel time is around 19 min.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to The Long Walk. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,859 reviews.
When you’ve had your share of Windsor, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. Your travel time is around 19 min.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ray Mill Island. This river island is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,702 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Oaken Grove Park. This park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 651 reviews.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Birmingham. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
Exploring the food culture in Birmingham 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.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Purnell's in Birmingham by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Purnell's offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Opheem, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing indian cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Adam's, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Birmingham. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Equator Bar Birmingham. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bacchus Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham, another top-rated bar in the area.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across England.
Day 5 – Birmingham, Coventry, Balsall Heath, Walsall, and Sutton Coldfield
- Birmingham
- Coventry
- Balsall Heath
- Walsall
- Sutton Coldfield
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Drive 116 km, 2 hours 43 min
- War Memorial Park
- Cannon Hill Park
- National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
- Sutton Park
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On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Coventry, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Coventry will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like National Sea Life Centre. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 13,174 visitors.
Coventry’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Birmingham behind. This drive usually takes around 37 min. Coventry welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like War Memorial Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,596 visitors.
Balsall Heath’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Coventry behind. This drive usually takes around 42 min. Balsall Heath welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take the opportunity to see Cannon Hill Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,231 visitors.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Birmingham.
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 Birmingham, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Make sure to reserve a table at La Galleria, an iconic dining spot in Birmingham. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Ivy Temple Row, a popular restaurant in Birmingham. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Malmaison Birmingham, a hidden gem nestled in Birmingham. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Birmingham. The bars in Birmingham make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across England.
Day 6 – Birmingham, West Bromwich, Tividale, and Dudley
- Birmingham
- West Bromwich
- Tividale
- Metropolitan Borough of Dudley
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Drive 52 km, 1 hour 49 min
- Black Country Living Museum
- Dudley Zoo and Castle
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On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Birmingham and visit amazing attractions in West Bromwich, Tividale, and Dudley destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Birmingham. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Set your GPS to West Bromwich 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 Bromwich beckons with new experiences!
Drop by the renowned Sandwell Valley Country Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,543 visitors.
After soaking in West Bromwich’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Tividale. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Tividale, it's time to take a break from the road.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, Tividale. This hindu temple is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,388 visitors.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tividale and set your GPS to Dudley. 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 10 min. Upon reaching Dudley, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Black Country Living Museum. This extraordinary living museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,702 visitors.
Next, make your way to Dudley Zoo and Castle. This top attraction is a zoo with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,594 visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Birmingham and your accommodation.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Purnells, a top-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dishoom Birmingham, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Canal House Bar & Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Birmingham this evening.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Birmingham.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in England!
Day 7 – Birmingham, Whipsnade, Aldbury, Leavesden, Watford, and London
- London
- Whipsnade
- Aldbury
- Leavesden
- Watford
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Drive 219 km, 3 hours 34 min
- National Trust - Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate
- ZSL Whipsnade Zoo
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
- Cassiobury Park
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Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through England gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Whipsnade. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of London, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Birmingham, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Whipsnade. Your travel time is around 1 hour 42 min.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like National Trust - Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,361 visitors.
Next, make your way to Whipsnade Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,757 reviews.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Aldbury. This car ride takes around 12 min.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to National Trust - Ashridge Estate. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,212 reviews.
Leavesden’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Aldbury behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Leavesden welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
When you're ready to see some sights, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is a great place to start. This exhibition room is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 84,358 visitors.
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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hawksmoor Seven Dials? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Simpson's in the Strand as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in London.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in London. The bars in London make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Old Bank of England, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Ship & Shovell, a bar that offers unique local touches.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in England!
Day 8 – London, and Westminster - departure day
- London - Departure day
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- St James's Park
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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 London.
As your final day in England unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in London's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to England.
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.
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 London or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're eager to try something different, consider The Northall, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to London 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.
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