9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bournemouth to Salisbury, Bath, Northleach, Stratford-on-Avon, and Oxford

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in England includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Bournemouth and Salisbury. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Salisbury, where you'll spend 1 night.

Check out the worthwhile beach, Bournemouth Beach. Afterward, continue to Boscombe Pier, a pier every traveler should visit. As you explore Bournemouth’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Salisbury. This drive usually takes around 48 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Salisbury Cathedral, a locally renowned church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Magna Carta Chapter House and admire its heritage-rich features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Salisbury. Salisbury offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Salisbury is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Salisbury.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Anchor & Hope, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Mauls Wine & Cheese Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Royal George, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!

Day 4 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Bournemouth. You’ll stay in Bath for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Pulteney Bridge. This enchanting historical landmark will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Bath Abbey and learn what makes this majestic church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Roman Baths. After exploring the archeological site, head to Thermae Bath Spa. This intriguing spa is a highlight in Bath. As your day continues, stop by Royal Crescent, known for its romantic features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the locally appreciated Royal Victoria Park, Bath. Enjoy exploring this incredible park at your own pace.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in England. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Jars Meze, 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 Herd Steak Restaurant, 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 Joya Italian Steakhouse, a hidden gem nestled in Bath. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Saint James Wine Vaults, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Grapes offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Opium Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in England, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Bibury, Holwell, and Rendcomb are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Northleach, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bath, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bibury. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min.

National Trust - Bibury is an underrated historical landmark we recommend visiting today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bibury, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Holwell. This drive usually takes around 22 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Cotswold Wildlife Park, a well-known zoo that everyone visiting Holwell should see.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Holwell, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Rendcomb. This drive usually takes around 33 min.

Cotswolds Aonb is a notable nature reserve we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Northleach. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Northleach. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Bourton-on-the-Water and Stratford-on-Avon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Stratford-on-Avon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bourton-on-the-Water. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bourton-on-the-water.

When you’ve had your share of Bourton-on-the-Water, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Stratford-on-Avon. Your travel time is around 43 min.

Next, continue your sightseeing at Anne Hathaway's Cottage, a locally appreciated historical landmark.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Stratford Butterfly Farm and uncover the details of this eye-catching butterfly garden. Make sure to also explore Shakespeare's Birthplace, a popular museum.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Stratford-on-Avon. Stratford-on-Avon offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Stratford-on-Avon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Garrick. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Oxford. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Oxford, where will spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Oxford may take around 1 hour 5 min. Upon your arrival in Oxford, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Oxford is Oxford University Museum Of Natural History, a locally renowned museum that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to University Church Of St Mary The Virgin, a breathtaking church that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Radcliffe Camera, a frequently visited library that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Christ Church, a nearby church, highly recommended by other travelers. End your self-guided tour at Carfax Tower Tower Of The Church Of St Martin Carfax, a historic monument and the perfect final attraction in Oxford.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Polish Kitchen, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Old Parsonage Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Standard is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Oxford.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Mad Hatter, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Three Goats Heads Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The White Horse offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in England includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Winchester. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bournemouth, where you'll spend 1 night.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Winchester.

When you’ve had your share of Oxford, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Winchester. Your travel time is around 1 hour 2 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit The Royal Green Jackets (rifles) Museum, an increasingly popular military museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to The Great Hall and admire its culturally significant features.

When you’re ready, continue to Buttercross Monument, a curiosity-inducing monument beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Winchester Cathedral, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bournemouth. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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

Dine in style at Aruba, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Langtry Manor Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Green House. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bournemouth.

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.

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