9-Day England Road Trip from Exeter to Bristol and surrounding area

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Explore the best of England on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Exeter, Salcombe Regis, Seaton, Northleigh, Tintagel, Bodmin, Tresillian, Truro, Trenance, Gweek, Lizard, Helston, Dunster, Glastonbury, Wookey Hole, Cheddar, Wells, Bristol, Bath, Salisbury, and Stourton. This road trip itinerary in England seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 6 nights in Exeter, and 2 nights in Bristol. 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 Exeter, 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Exeter, Salcombe Regis, Seaton, Northleigh, Tintagel, Bodmin, Tresillian, Truro, Trenance, Gweek, Lizard, Helston, Dunster, Glastonbury, Wookey Hole, Cheddar, Wells, Bristol, Bath, Salisbury, and Stourton, 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!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Exeter - arrival day

  • Exeter - Arrival day
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  • Belmont Park
  • More

Welcome to Exeter, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 5 nights immersing yourself in Exeter's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at The Last Drop, an iconic dining spot in Exeter. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of iFood Thai Taste, a popular restaurant in Exeter. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Premier Inn Exeter (M5 J29) hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Exeter. 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, Crocketts stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Pig & Pickle Micropub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Henry's Bar 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!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Exeter, Salcombe Regis, Seaton, and Northleigh

  • Exeter
  • Salcombe Regis
  • Seaton
  • Northleigh
  • More

Drive 162 km, 3 hours 44 min

  • Dartmoor National Park
  • Exeter Cathedral
  • The Donkey Sanctuary
  • East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
  • More

Greet day 2 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Exeter for your remaining 4 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Exeter, Salcombe Regis, Seaton, and Northleigh.

Take the opportunity to see Exeter Cathedral. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,954 visitors.

After soaking in Exeter’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Salcombe Regis. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 36 min. When you arrive in Salcombe Regis, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dartmoor National Park. This national park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Exeter, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 14,890 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Salcombe Regis, 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 Exeter to Salcombe Regis may take around 36 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Salcombe Regis, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to The Donkey Sanctuary. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Salcombe Regis, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,887 visitors.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel, an iconic dining spot in Exeter. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Nando's Exeter - Princess Hay, a popular restaurant in Exeter. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cosy Club, a hidden gem nestled in Exeter. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Mill On The Exe. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Boom Battle Bar Exeter offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Lucombe Oak, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Exeter, Tintagel, Trebyan, Bodmin, and Redgate

  • Exeter
  • Tintagel
  • Bodmin
  • More

Drive 254 km, 3 hours 52 min

  • Tintagel Castle
  • National Trust - Lanhydrock
  • Cardinham Woods
  • Golitha Falls
  • Golitha Falls National Nature Reserve
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Exeter, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Tintagel. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Tintagel Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,543 reviews.

Set your GPS to Trebyan and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 45 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Trebyan beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to National Trust - Lanhydrock. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,042 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Trebyan, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bodmin. This drive usually takes around 8 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Cardinham Woods, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,560 reviews.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Jack in the Green Inn, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Toby Carvery Exeter offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Old Firehouse is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Exeter.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Exeter Phoenix stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Ship Inn offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night.

Say good night to Exeter and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Exeter, Pengrugla, Tresillian, Truro, and Trenance

  • Exeter
  • Tresillian
  • Truro
  • Trenance
  • More

Drive 339 km, 4 hours 44 min

  • Lost Gardens of Heligan
  • The Roseland Heritage Coast
  • National Trust - Trelissick Garden
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 2 nights left in Exeter, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Exeter, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Pengrugla. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 41 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Lost Gardens Of Heligan. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,676 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Tresillian, 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 Pengrugla to Tresillian may take around 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Tresillian, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make The Roseland Heritage Coast one of your first sightseeing stops in Tresillian. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,374 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Tresillian, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Truro may take around 16 min. Upon your arrival in Truro, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned National Trust - Trelissick Garden. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,661 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Exeter, 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Harry's Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Exeter. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Stand Off, a popular restaurant in Exeter. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Exeter, a hidden gem nestled in Exeter. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Exeter, Gweek, Lizard, and Helston

  • Exeter
  • Gweek
  • Lizard
  • Helston
  • More

Drive 384 km, 5 hours 16 min

  • Cornish Seal Sanctuary
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Exeter, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Gweek, 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 Exeter to Gweek may take around 2 hours 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Gweek, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Cornish Seal Sanctuary is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,929 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Gweek, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lizard. Your travel time is around 23 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to National Trust - Lizard Point. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 9,904 visitors.

After soaking in Lizard’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Helston. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Helston, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Porthleven Harbour. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,132 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Coolings Gandy Street, a popular restaurant in Exeter. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Exeter at Rendezvous Wine Bar, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Zizzi - Exeter. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Exeter tonight.

Head back to your accommodation in Exeter and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Exeter, Dunster, Glastonbury, Wookey Hole, Cheddar, and Wells

  • Bristol
  • Dunster
  • Glastonbury
  • Wookey Hole
  • Cheddar
  • Wells
  • More

Drive 188 km, 4 hours 4 min

  • National Trust - Dunster Castle and Watermill Car Park Entrance
  • Glastonbury Abbey
  • Wookey Hole Caves
  • Cheddar Gorge and Caves
  • Mendip Hills AONB
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Dunster, Glastonbury, Wookey Hole, Cheddar, and Wells, 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 Bristol. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Exeter, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dunster may take around 1 hour 16 min. Upon your arrival in Dunster, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is National Trust - Dunster Castle And Watermill. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,395 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Glastonbury, 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 Dunster to Glastonbury may take around 1 hour 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Glastonbury, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Glastonbury Abbey, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable abbey has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,539 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bristol, 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 Bristol. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Bristol by securing a reservation at COR. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern british cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Bulrush, renowned for its delicious modern british dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Root, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering vegetarian, and modern menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Boardroom stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Gin & Juice offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Watershed is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Bristol, and Bath

  • Bristol
  • Bath
  • More

Drive 57 km, 1 hour 56 min

  • Clifton Suspension Bridge
  • Brunel's SS Great Britain
  • Royal Victoria Park, Bath
  • Pulteney Bridge
  • Roman Baths
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bristol, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bristol, and Bath. You still have 1 night left in Bristol.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Clifton Suspension Bridge. This suspension bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 16,669 reviews.

Continue your journey at Brunel's Ss Great Britain. This museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 9,023 travelers from near and far.

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

Make Royal Victoria Park, Bath your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this botanical garden an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,737 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Pulteney Bridge. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,190 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this road bridge every year.

Roman Baths is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This thermae has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 32,856 visitors.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bristol's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bravas, a highly-rated dining destination in Bristol. If you're eager to try something different, consider Catch22 Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pieminister. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bristol this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Hyde & Co, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Humbug, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Filthy Xiii provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Bristol, Salisbury, Stourton, and Exeter

  • Exeter
  • Salisbury
  • Stourton
  • More

Drive 247 km, 4 hours 4 min

  • Salisbury Cathedral
  • Stonehenge
  • Stourhead
  • More

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 Salisbury, and Stourton. In the evening, you’ll end up in Exeter, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bristol, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Salisbury. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Salisbury Cathedral, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,849 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Stonehenge. Stonehenge is a tourist attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 53,470 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Salisbury and set your GPS to Stourton. 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 33 min. Upon reaching Stourton, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Stourhead, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This english garden is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,138 reviews.

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 Exeter. Exeter 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 Exeter's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Board – Game Bar & Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Exeter. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel du Vin Exeter, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Exeter Central St Davids hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Exeter this evening.

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

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Day 9

Day 9 – Exeter - departure day

  • Exeter - Departure day
  • More

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

As your final day in England unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Exeter's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to England.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Bury Meadow Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 274 reviews.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Exeter. 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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