9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bournemouth to Salisbury, Bath, Northleach, Stratford-on-Avon, and Oxford
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in England as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bournemouth, Salisbury, Stratford sub Castle, Bath, Bibury, Holwell, Rendcomb, Northleach, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stratford-on-Avon, Oxford, and Winchester.
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 Bournemouth, 1 night in Salisbury, 2 nights in Bath, 1 night in Northleach, 1 night in Stratford-on-Avon, and 1 night in Oxford. 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 Bournemouth, 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. Stonehenge and Roman Baths are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Shakespeare's Birthplace, learn more about the unique Cotswolds Aonb, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Salisbury Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bournemouth, Salisbury, Stratford sub Castle, Bath, Bibury, Holwell, Rendcomb, Northleach, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stratford-on-Avon, Oxford, and Winchester, 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
- Bournemouth - Arrival day
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- Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens
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Welcome to Bournemouth, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Bournemouth's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens, or just taking a stroll in the town 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 Bournemouth. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bournemouth, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Slug & Lettuce Old Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, an iconic dining spot in Bournemouth. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hermitage Hotel Bournemouth, a popular restaurant in Bournemouth. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Premier Inn Bournemouth East (Boscombe) hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Bournemouth. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Smokin' Aces - Cocktail Bar & Whiskey Lounge stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Felsons Bournemouth offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Brewdog Bournemouth is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Bournemouth
- Salisbury
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Drive 51 km, 1 hour 18 min
- Bournemouth Beach
- Boscombe Pier
- Salisbury Cathedral
- Magna Carta Chapter House
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On day 2 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 Bournemouth and Salisbury. In the evening, you’ll end up in Salisbury, where you will stay for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bournemouth, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Bournemouth Beach, an intriguing beach in the town. Then, head to Boscombe Pier and soak in the ambiance of this romantic pier.
There are many interesting places to see in Bournemouth and when you are ready for more, go to Salisbury Cathedral. This is one of the town’s most locally renowned spots. After exploring the church, visit the intriguing Magna Carta Chapter House.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Salisbury. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Salisbury. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Alpino, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Côte Salisbury offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Pheasant Inn is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Salisbury.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Anchor & Hope offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Mauls Wine & Cheese Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Royal George is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 3
- Salisbury
- Bath
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Drive 76 km, 1 hour 32 min
- St Thomas’s Church
- Old Sarum
- Stonehenge
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Salisbury and Stratford sub Castle. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bath, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Get ready for an exciting day in Salisbury. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a church and an archeological site. Begin your adventure at St Thomas’s Church. This is an up-and-coming church you should not miss. Another must-see is Old Sarum, a beloved archeological site in Salisbury.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Stonehenge.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bath, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bath. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Ole Tapas, an iconic dining spot in Bath. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Scallop Shell, a popular restaurant in Bath. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Cornish Bakery, a hidden gem nestled in Bath. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Hideout, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Canary Gin Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Star Inn offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 4
- Bath
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Drive 3 km, 43 min
- Pulteney Bridge
- Bath Abbey
- Roman Baths
- Thermae Bath Spa
- Royal Crescent
- Royal Victoria Park, Bath
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Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Bath for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bath, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Pulteney Bridge, an up-and-coming historical landmark in the city. Then, head to Bath Abbey and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped church.
There are many interesting places to see in Bath and when you are ready for more, go to Roman Baths. This is one of the city’s most notable spots. After exploring the archeological site, visit the curiosity-inducing Thermae Bath Spa. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the intriguing Royal Crescent, an intriguing historical landmark in the city.
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 you explore more of Bath, 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Jars Meze, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Herd Steak Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Joya Italian Steakhouse is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bath.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Saint James Wine Vaults after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Grapes, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Opium Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 5
- Bath
- Northleach
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Drive 129 km, 2 hours 24 min
- National Trust - Bibury
- Cotswold Wildlife Park
- Cotswolds AONB
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Bibury, Holwell, and Rendcomb. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Northleach. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bath is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at National Trust - Bibury, an up-and-coming historical landmark that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Cotswold Wildlife Park, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at Cotswolds Aonb. This nature reserve is one of the village’s most well-known spots.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Northleach. Northleach offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Northleach's best restaurants.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!
Day 6
- Northleach
- Stratford-upon-Avon
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Drive 57 km, 1 hour 22 min
- Bourton-on-the-water
- Escape Live Stratford Upon Avon - Live Escape Rooms
- Anne Hathaway's Cottage
- Stratford Butterfly Farm
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Bourton-on-the-Water and Stratford-on-Avon, 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 Stratford-on-Avon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Northleach on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Bourton-on-the-water is the first of them. Escape Live Stratford Upon Avon is your next stop. This beloved escape room is one of the best-rated sights in Northleach.
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 Anne Hathaway's Cottage. This visually striking historical landmark is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Stratford Butterfly Farm and Shakespeare's Birthplace.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Stratford-on-Avon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Stratford-on-Avon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Garrick after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 7
- Stratford-upon-Avon
- Oxford
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Drive 86 km, 1 hour 38 min
- Oxford University Museum of Natural History
- University Church of St Mary the Virgin
- Radcliffe Camera
- Christ Church
- Carfax Tower
- Covered Market
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Oxford. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Oxford, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Stratford-on-Avon’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Oxford University Museum Of Natural History. This visually striking museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of University Church Of St Mary The Virgin, a must-visit church in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Radcliffe Camera, a worthwhile library. For a change of scene, check out Christ Church, known for its picture-perfect features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Oxford, 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 Oxford. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Polish Kitchen, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Old Parsonage Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Standard. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Oxford.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Mad Hatter after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Three Goats Heads Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The White Horse also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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.
Day 8
- Oxford
- Bournemouth
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Drive 149 km, 2 hours 8 min
- The Royal Green Jackets (Rifles) Museum
- The Great Hall
- Buttercross Monument
- Winchester Cathedral
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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 Winchester. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bournemouth, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Oxford covers several incredible sights, including a military museum, a historical landmark, a monument, a church and much more! Start your adventure at The Royal Green Jackets (rifles) Museum. This underrated military museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of The Great Hall, a must-see historical landmark in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Buttercross Monument. This curiosity-inducing monument offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Winchester Cathedral, where you can take in breathtaking features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bournemouth. Bournemouth offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Bournemouth, 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 lovely dining experience at Aruba, a popular restaurant in Bournemouth. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bournemouth at Langtry Manor Hotel, 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 The Green House. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bournemouth tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Be At One - Bournemouth. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Eden, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Four Horsemen Pub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.
Day 9
- Bournemouth - Departure day
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- Bournemouth Pier
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Day 9 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bournemouth before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Bournemouth Pier, an instagrammable pier before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in England by visiting Bournemouth’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Westbourne. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in England. Savor your final moments in England at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bournemouth.
Dine in style at Harvester Neptune Bournemouth, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Cumberland Hotel Bournemouth boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Bournemouth. 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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