9-Day England Road Trip from Birmingham traveling south to London, Basingstoke, and Bristol

Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach Birmingham and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Birmingham for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Birmingham. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Birmingham. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Purecraft Bar & Kitchen, a top-rated dining spot in Birmingham. If you're in the mood for something new, try Grand Central Kitchen, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Folium. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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 to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Birmingham, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to National Sea Life Centre. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 13,174 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Birmingham and set your GPS to Sutton Coldfield. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Sutton Coldfield, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Sutton Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,983 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Dudley, 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 Sutton Coldfield to Dudley may take around 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dudley, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Black Country Living Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Dudley. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,702 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Birmingham.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Birmingham. 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Birmingham by securing a reservation at Purnell's. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Opheem, renowned for its delicious indian dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Adam's, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Leavesden, and London. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in London, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

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 Leavesden. Your travel time is around 2 hours 1 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter. This exhibition room is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 84,358 reviews.

Set your GPS to London and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 41 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. London beckons with new experiences!

Make Regent's Park one of your first sightseeing stops in London. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 44,964 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Madame Tussauds London is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This wax museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 73,606 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Big Ben. This cultural icon has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 65,522 visitors.

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

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Américain, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Connaught Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar Polski likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore London. You’ll stay in London for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Drop by the renowned British Museum. This popular national museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 151,665 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 5,906,716 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is National Gallery. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 49,550 visitors, this art museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Trafalgar Square. This square has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 123,506 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in London, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in London below.

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

Savor the flavors at Estiatorio Milos, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Palomar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Berners Tavern. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.

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.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in London, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to London for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience London, and Greenwich to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Greenwich, 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 London to Greenwich may take around 23 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Greenwich, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Borough Market is a great place to start. This building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 99,307 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is London Bridge. This road bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 51,315 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Tower Bridge. The bascule bridge has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 156,250 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of London, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Greenwich may take around 23 min. Upon your arrival in Greenwich, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Tower Of London is a great place to start. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 104,392 visitors. Tower Of London attracts more than 2,741,126 visitors every year.

Greenwich’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of London behind. This drive usually takes around 23 min. Greenwich welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Greenwich Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 45,003 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to London and your accommodation.

As you explore more of London, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, a top-rated dining destination in London. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Wiltons Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rules. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Scarfes Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Heliot Cocktail Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bfi Imax 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Westminster, Kensington, Richmond, and Eton. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Basingstoke. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

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!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Hyde Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 128,167 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Westminster, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kensington. This drive usually takes around 7 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Science Museum. This science museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 66,659 visitors. Attracting more than 2,989,000 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Science Museum, head to Victoria And Albert Museum. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 56,963 reviews. Every year, approximately 3,932,738 travelers come here to experience the museum for themselves.

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 Basingstoke. Basingstoke 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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Basingstoke's best restaurants.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Salisbury, and Bath. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bristol, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking in Basingstoke’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Salisbury. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 47 min. When you arrive in Salisbury, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Stonehenge. This much-appreciated tourist attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 53,470 reviews.

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Pulteney Bridge. This much-appreciated road bridge is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,190 reviews.

Next up is Bath Abbey. This parish church has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,694 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Roman Baths. This thermae has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 32,856 reviews.

Thermae Bath Spa is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This spa has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,979 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bristol, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bristol. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Bristol by securing a reservation at COR. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern british cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Bulrush, celebrated for its delectable modern british menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Root, a top local spot known for its tantalizing vegetarian, and modern menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Boardroom, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gin & Juice offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Watershed provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 8 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Birmingham, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Brandon Hill, Bristol. This much-appreciated hill is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,562 reviews.

Next up is Bristol City Museum And Art Gallery. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,772 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Bristol City Museum And Art Gallery welcomes 450,954 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Clifton Suspension Bridge. This suspension bridge has been rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 16,669 reviews.

Brunel's Ss Great Britain is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,023 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Birmingham, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Birmingham. 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.

Savor the flavors at Purnells, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Dishoom Birmingham beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Canal House Bar & Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Birmingham tonight.

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

Day 9 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Birmingham before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

Dine in style at Gas Street Social, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Birmingham boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Birmingham. 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!