Relaxed 9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Birmingham to London

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The quiet canals of Birmingham
Photo of sunset view of brick buildings alongside a water channel in the central Birmingham, England.
Relaxed 9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Birmingham to London
Relaxed 9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Birmingham to London
Relaxed 9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Birmingham to London
Relaxed 9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Birmingham to London
Relaxed 9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Birmingham to London
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Enjoy this 9-day relaxed road trip in England, with Birmingham, Coventry, Balsall Heath, Tividale, Dudley, Eton, London, Kensington, Watford, Leavesden, Brickendon, and St Albans showing you the beauty, culture, and peaceful moments that make this journey special!

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in England, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 4 nights in Birmingham and 4 nights in London, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in England.

Your journey starts in Birmingham, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 9-day relaxed road trip in England to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in England already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning London Eye and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent Buckingham Palace.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this England road trip itinerary for 9 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in England.

If you want to make your 9-day relaxed self-drive tour in England even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in England includes 8 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 9 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 9-day relaxed self-drive road trip in England today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Birmingham - Arrival day
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  • Queen Victoria
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Birmingham, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Birmingham and begin your adventure in England.

Birmingham 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 Queen Victoria. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Birmingham. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

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 Birmingham, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Purecraft Bar & Kitchen, a top-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Grand Central Kitchen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (Waterloo Street) hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying 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.

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.

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in England. Enjoy your first taste of Birmingham as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day2

Day 2

  • Birmingham
  • Coventry
  • More

Drive 74 km, 1 hour 39 min

  • Coventry Cathedral
  • Coventry Transport Museum
  • War Memorial Park
  • More

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Birmingham, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Birmingham will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.

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 39 min. Coventry welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Coventry Cathedral. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the church before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Coventry Transport Museum. This worthwhile museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to War Memorial Park. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the park.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Birmingham by reserving a table at Purnell's. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Simpsons, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Opheem, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite indian menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

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.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Birmingham
  • Balsall Heath
  • Tividale
  • Metropolitan Borough of Dudley
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Drive 58 km, 1 hour 39 min

  • Cannon Hill Park
  • Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, Tividale
  • Dudley Zoo and Castle
  • Black Country Living Museum
  • More

Your relaxed road trip in England continues on day 3 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know England better by exploring the top attractions of Birmingham and beyond. With 1 night left in Birmingham, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Balsall Heath is brimming with adventures.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Birmingham, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Balsall Heath. This drive usually takes around 15 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Cannon Hill Park, a notable park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Tividale may take around 29 min. Upon your arrival in Tividale, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Shri Venkateswara (balaji) Temple, Tividale, a locally appreciated hindu temple that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 14 min. Upon reaching Dudley, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Dudley Zoo And Castle, a notable zoo in Dudley. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Black Country Living Museum. This well-known museum is a top recommendation in the area.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at La Galleria, a top-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Ivy Temple Row, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Malmaison Birmingham. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Birmingham this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Birmingham and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Birmingham
  • Eton
  • London
  • More

Drive 203 km, 3 hours 15 min

  • National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
  • St George's Chapel
  • Windsor Castle
  • More

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in England offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Birmingham and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Eton and London. You’ll stay in London for 4 nights.

National Sea Life Centre is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This photogenic aquarium is sure to impress.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Birmingham and set your GPS to Eton. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 6 min. Upon reaching Eton, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to St George's Chapel, Windsor, a worthwhile church that everyone visiting Eton should see. Next, head to Windsor Castle. This instagrammable castle is one of the most spectacular attractions in the region.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in London. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

Exploring the food culture in London offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Américain, known for its lively atmosphere. The Connaught Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Juno Rooms offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • London
  • Kensington
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 3 min

  • Hyde Park
  • Science Museum
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
  • Big Ben
  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip in England, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in London and visit amazing attractions in London and Kensington, just outside the city. You still have 3 nights left in London, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Awaiting your discovery is the iconic Hyde Park, a standout park in London. Next, go to Big Ben.

After visiting Hyde Park and Big Ben, have a stroll along London's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to London Eye. This instagrammable observation deck offers a unique experience.

Set your GPS to Kensington and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kensington beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Science Museum, a spectacular museum known for its instagrammable features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Victoria And Albert Museum, an extraordinary museum.

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 wonderful meal at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bill's Soho Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Estiatorio Milos. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

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 Lyaness, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Polski, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Buckingham Arms likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in England!

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Day6

Day 6

  • London
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 12 min

  • Madame Tussauds London
  • National Gallery
  • Trafalgar Square
  • St James's Park
  • Buckingham Palace
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Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through England means 24 hours of making the best memories in London. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in London. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by London!

London is brimming with adventures.

Enjoy all that Madame Tussauds London has to offer. This is an astonishing wax museum you should not miss. Another must-see is National Gallery, an interesting art gallery in London.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Trafalgar Square. From there, take a leisurely stroll to St James's Park, another of the city’s impressive attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Buckingham Palace, an instagrammable place of interest in the city.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across England by joining a traveler-approved tour in Birmingham. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Birmingham 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 London to find the best options for you!

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.

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. Known for great service, 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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Merchant House London, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Artesian. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Jin Bo Law, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day7

Day 7

  • London
  • More

Drive 12 km, 1 hour 16 min

  • Tate Modern
  • Borough Market
  • Tower Bridge
  • Tower of London
  • British Museum
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On day 7 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!

Let Tate Modern set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching art gallery before continuing your journey. Borough Market is your next stop. This famous food market is one of the best-rated sights in London.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Tower Bridge. This history-steeped monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Tower Of London and British Museum.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Goodman City, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Burger & Lobster Leicester Square is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Wiltons Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in London tonight.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to American Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Old Shades is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Scarfes Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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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Day8

Day 8

  • London
  • Watford
  • Leavesden
  • Brickendon
  • Birmingham
  • More

Drive 265 km, 4 hours 4 min

  • Cassiobury Park
  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
  • Hertfordshire Zoo (Formerly Paradise Wildlife Park)
  • More

Day 8 of your easy, relaxed road trip through England lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Watford. By evening, drive toward the Birmingham, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Watford’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of London behind. This drive usually takes around 53 min. Watford welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Cassiobury Park and explore the stunning features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Watford, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Leavesden. This drive usually takes around 12 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Brickendon, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Leavesden to Brickendon may take around 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Brickendon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Paradise Wildlife Park is a locally appreciated zoo we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

In Birmingham, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in England.

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 Birmingham.

Make sure to reserve a table at Purnells, 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 Gaucho, 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 Dishoom 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.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in England.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in England!

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Day9

Day 9

  • Birmingham - Departure day
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  • Handsworth Park
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Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in England is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in Birmingham.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Birmingham’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. For those seeking luxury items, check out the area’s high-end stores.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Handsworth Park. This frequently visited park is a hotspot among locals.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in Birmingham, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Canal House Bar & Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Arco Lounge offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Birmingham and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in England is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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