One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Penzance to Glastonbury, London, and Bristol
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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 Penzance, Bodmin, Glastonbury, Stourton, Salisbury, Eton, London, Kensington, Bristol, and Exeter.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Penzance, 1 night in Glastonbury, 3 nights in London, and 1 night in Bristol. 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 Penzance, 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 Penzance, Bodmin, Glastonbury, Stourton, Salisbury, Eton, London, Kensington, Bristol, and Exeter, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Penzance - Arrival day
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- Eureka Escape Cornwall
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach Penzance and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Penzance for 1 night 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 town.
Penzance 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 Escape Rooms Cornwall - Penzance or 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 Penzance. 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 Penzance, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Old Lifeboat House Bistro, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Smugglers Den is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Quirky Bird Cafe. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Penzance tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at One And All, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Crown offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Penzance
- Bodmin
- Glastonbury
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Drive 286 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Jubilee Pool Penzance Pool & Cafe
- Bodmin Jail Attraction
- Cardinham Woods
- National Trust - Lanhydrock
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Penzance, Bodmin, and Trebyan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Glastonbury, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Begin your adventure at Jubilee Pool Penzance Pool & Cafe. This is a beloved swimming pool you should not miss.
Bodmin’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Penzance behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 3 min. Bodmin welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Bodmin Jail Attraction, a beloved museum that everyone visiting Bodmin should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Cardinham Woods. This majestic hiking area is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Trebyan. This drive usually takes around 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is National Trust - Lanhydrock. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Glastonbury. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Glastonbury. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 3
- Glastonbury
- Stourton
- Salisbury
- Eton
- London
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Drive 252 km, 4 hours 11 min
- Stourhead
- Stonehenge
- Salisbury Cathedral
- Windsor Castle
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Stourton, Salisbury, and Eton, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in London. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Stourton allows for both.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Stourton, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Salisbury may take around 32 min. Upon your arrival in Salisbury, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Stourhead, a popular park that draws visitors from near and far.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stourton 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 32 min. Upon reaching Salisbury, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Spend your afternoon discovering Stonehenge, a widely recognized archeological site known for its picture-perfect features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Salisbury Cathedral, a locally renowned church that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
After soaking in Salisbury’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Eton. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 31 min. When you arrive in Eton, it's time to take a break from the road.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Windsor Castle, an impressive castle that draws visitors from near and far.
At the end of the day, you will drive to London, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of London's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The American Bar, 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 Cahoots London, 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 Hawksmoor Borough. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in London tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Américain offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Connaught Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Juno Rooms is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Say good night to London and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 4
- London
- Kensington
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 28 min
- British Museum
- St James's Park
- Buckingham Palace
- Hyde Park
- Science Museum
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to London for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in London and Kensington.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in London today. One of the most wondrous attractions included on the itinerary is British Museum. This eye-catching museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to St James's Park and learn what makes this mesmerizing park unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the globally renowned Buckingham Palace. After exploring the palace, head to Hyde Park. This timeless park is a highlight in London.
After soaking in London’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kensington. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 7 min. When you arrive in Kensington, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Science Museum, an impressive 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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of London's best restaurants.
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.
Continue your lively evening at Lyaness, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Polski is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Buckingham Arms ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- London
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Drive 17 km, 1 hour 35 min
- Madame Tussauds London
- Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
- Borough Market
- Tate Modern
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Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around London. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Madame Tussauds London is the perfect place to start. This wax museum is one of the most widely recognized places to visit in London. Next, head to Tower Of London, a wondrous castle, known for its culturally significant 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 Tower Bridge. This awe-inspiring monument offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Borough Market adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Tate Modern, a visually striking art gallery in London.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Palomar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Clermont London, Victoria 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.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Merchant House London, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Artesian, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Jin Bo Law provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 6
- London
- Kensington
- Bristol
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Drive 191 km, 2 hours 46 min
- Trafalgar Square
- National Gallery
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Big Ben
- Victoria and Albert Museum
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, London and Kensington. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bristol, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of London. Your adventure starts at Trafalgar Square, a timeless local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is National Gallery. This notable art gallery is known for its respected 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 London Eye. This romantic observation deck offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Big Ben is also worth visiting.
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 Kensington. Your travel time is around 13 min.
Begin your journey at Victoria And Albert Museum and explore the standout features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Bristol. Bristol offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you explore more of Bristol, 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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bristol by booking a table at COR. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern british cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Bulrush, celebrated for its delectable modern british menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Blaise Inn, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Boardroom is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Gin & Juice, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Watershed. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 7
- Bristol
- Exeter
- Penzance
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Drive 313 km, 3 hours 58 min
- Clifton Suspension Bridge
- Brunel's SS Great Britain
- Exeter Cathedral
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On day 7 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 Bristol and Exeter. In the evening, you’ll end up in Penzance, where you will stay for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bristol, including a monument and a historic ship. Start your adventure at Clifton Suspension Bridge. This popular monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Brunel's Ss Great Britain located in Bristol for an enchanting atmosphere.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Exeter. This car ride takes around 1 hour 31 min.
Exeter Cathedral is an increasingly popular church we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Penzance. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Penzance. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Navy Inn, a highly-rated dining destination in Penzance. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bakehouse, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hellys Deli Bar Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Penzance this evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Penzance and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!
Day 8
- Penzance - Departure day
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- Morrab 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 Penzance before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at Penzance’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Start by visiting Morrab Gardens, a prime spot to begin your journey. This majestic botanical garden is sure to impress.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Penzance.
You’ll then say farewell to Penzance. 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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