One-Week Relaxed England Road Trip from Southampton to London

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Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 8-day road trip in England with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

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 Southampton, Portsmouth, Leavesden, London, Westminster, Kensington, Camden Town, Eton, Cheapside, and Winchester. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Southampton and 4 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 Southampton, 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 car rental 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

Day 1 – Southampton - arrival day

  • Southampton - Arrival day
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  • Bargate
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Southampton, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Southampton and begin your adventure in England.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Bargate. This city gate is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Southampton, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 631 visitors.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Southampton. 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.

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 Southampton.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Lakaz Maman, a highly-rated dining destination in Southampton. If you're eager to try something different, consider Soleto Bistro, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ennio's. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Southampton this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Southampton.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Hobbit Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Firehouse offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Guide Dog, another top-rated bar in the area.

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 Southampton as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Southampton

  • Southampton
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Drive 1 km, 25 min

  • John Hansard Gallery
  • Guildhall Square
  • Southampton City Art Gallery
  • SeaCity Museum
  • More

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through England means 24 hours of making the best memories in Southampton. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Southampton!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to John Hansard Gallery. This art gallery is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Southampton, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 193 visitors.

Guildhall Square is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 441 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Southampton City Art Gallery. Visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 599 reviews.

SeaCity Museum is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a maritime museum rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,539 reviews.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across England by joining a traveler-approved tour in Southampton. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Southampton that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in England more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Southampton to find the best options for you!

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 Southampton, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Bedford, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Smugglers Bar & Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bill's Southampton Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Southampton.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Southampton and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Beards & Boards Craft Beer Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. London Hotel is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Heartbreakers provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Southampton, Portsmouth, Leavesden, and London

  • London
  • Portsmouth
  • Leavesden
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Drive 202 km, 3 hours 9 min

  • Mary Rose Museum
  • HMS Victory
  • Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
  • More

Day 3 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 city of Portsmouth. 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 4 nights.

Portsmouth’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Southampton behind. This drive usually takes around 36 min. Portsmouth welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Mary Rose Museum. Previous visitors have rated this maritime museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,672 reviews.

HMS Victory is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This first-rate is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,050 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. This military museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,679 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Portsmouth, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Leavesden. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. Previous visitors have rated this exhibition room an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 82,133 reviews.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of London in this laid-back road trip in England. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Cahoots London, a top-rated dining destination in London. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bill's Soho Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Estiatorio Milos. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

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.

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

Soak in the unique atmosphere of London as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through England with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in England!

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Day 4

Day 4 – London, Westminster, and Kensington

  • London
  • Westminster
  • Kensington
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 1 min

  • Hyde Park
  • Science Museum
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
  • Buckingham Palace
  • St James's Park
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On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Westminster, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Westminster will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kensington. This car ride takes around 7 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Hyde Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Westminster, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 126,766 visitors.

Buckingham Palace is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 164,776 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to St James's Park. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 55,261 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kensington, 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 Westminster to Kensington may take around 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kensington, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Science Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable science museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 65,368 reviews. Every year, Science Museum welcomes more than 2,989,000 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Victoria and Albert Museum is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 55,517 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 3,932,738 visitors per year.

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 delicious dinner at The Palomar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Berners Tavern offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Burger & Lobster Leicester Square. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in London. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Artesian is an excellent place to start. You could also check out American Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Old Shades. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!

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Day 5

Day 5 – London

  • London
  • More

Drive 9 km, 1 hour 8 min

  • Madame Tussauds London
  • The National Gallery
  • Trafalgar Square
  • Big Ben
  • lastminute.com London Eye
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Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in London, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Madame Tussauds London. This wax museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 71,843 reviews.

Continue your journey at National Gallery. This art museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 48,134 travelers from near and far. Approximately 6,011,007 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in London.

London is also the home of Trafalgar Square. This square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 121,847 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Big Ben. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 61,373 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Rules, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hawksmoor Seven Dials beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Simpson's in the Strand. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Scarfes Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to BFI IMAX, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Old Bank of England also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day 6

Day 6 – London and Camden Town

  • London
  • Camden Town
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Drive 12 km, 1 hour 8 min

  • Tower Bridge
  • Tower of London
  • London Bridge
  • Borough Market
  • The British Museum
  • More

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across England, you’ll go deep into London, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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!

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 6 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in England. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your London itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Smith & Wollensky, 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 Hawksmoor Air Street, 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 Premier Inn London County Hall hotel, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in London.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Ship & Shovell, a prime location for a drink.

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.

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Day 7

Day 7 – London, Eton, Cheapside, Winchester, and Southampton

  • Southampton
  • Eton
  • Cheapside
  • Winchester
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Drive 140 km, 2 hours 42 min

  • Windsor Castle
  • Windsor Great Park
  • Winchester Cathedral
  • More

Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in England is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Eton and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Cheapside and the city of Winchester. You’ll stay in Southampton for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Eton, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cheapside. Your travel time is around 18 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is St George's Chapel, Windsor. This castle chapel is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,434 reviews.

Continue your journey at Windsor Castle. This historic house museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 53,263 travelers from near and far.

Set your GPS to Cheapside and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cheapside beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Windsor Great Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,319 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Winchester. This car ride takes around 1 hour 2 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Winchester Cathedral. This anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,901 reviews.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Southampton. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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 Southampton.

Make sure to reserve a table at Anesti Limited T/A Sulas Greek Taverna, an iconic dining spot in Southampton. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Everest Cuisine, a popular restaurant in Southampton. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of CRIB Shuffleboard Cocktail & Pizza Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Southampton. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Southampton.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Southampton - departure day

  • Southampton - Departure day
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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 Southampton.

As your final day in England unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Southampton’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of England. Keep the spirit of your trip to England alive with these special souvenirs.

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 Southampton is the remarkable Red Funnel Ferries. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 8,788 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 Southampton or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Piecaramba!, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Southampton 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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