9-Day England Road Trip from London to Basingstoke, Chelmsford, and Norwich and surrounding area

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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 Westminster, London, Kensington, Greenwich, Eton, Salisbury, Basingstoke, Westdean, Birling Gap, Crockham Hill, Hever, Chelmsford, Colchester, Great Yarmouth, Norwich, St Albans, Leavesden, and Watford.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 5 nights in London, 1 night in Basingstoke, 1 night in Chelmsford, and 1 night in Norwich. 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 London, 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. London Eye and Buckingham Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Westminster, London, Kensington, Greenwich, Eton, Salisbury, Basingstoke, Westdean, Birling Gap, Crockham Hill, Hever, Chelmsford, Colchester, Great Yarmouth, Norwich, St Albans, Leavesden, and Watford, 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 – Westminster, and London - arrival day

  • London - Arrival day
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  • St James's Park
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach London and pick up your car. You’ll stay in London for 4 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.

London is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at The American Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cahoots London is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bill's Soho Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in London tonight.

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.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!

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Day 2

Day 2 – London

  • London
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Drive 17 km, 1 hour 5 min

  • Tower Bridge
  • Tower of London
  • British Museum
  • Madame Tussauds London
  • Regent's Park
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Journey into the unknown at British Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable national museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,665 reviews. Every year, British Museum welcomes more than 5,906,716 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Madame Tussauds London is a recommended place to visit. This wax museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 73,606 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in London is Regent's Park. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 44,964 travelers, this popular tourist destination in London offers an experience you will remember.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package 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.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Artesian, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, American Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Old Shades offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day 3

Day 3 – London, Westminster, and Kensington

  • London
  • Westminster
  • Kensington
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Drive 12 km, 46 min

  • Hyde Park
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
  • Buckingham Palace
  • Trafalgar Square
  • National Gallery
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Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 2 nights left in London, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Trafalgar Square. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 123,506 reviews.

Continue your journey at National Gallery. This art museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 49,550 travelers from near and far. Approximately 6,011,007 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in London.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. London, 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 Westminster to London may take around 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in London, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hyde Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 128,167 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Buckingham Palace. This royal palace has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 168,513 reviews.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kensington.

Make Victoria And Albert Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Kensington. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 56,963 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This museum attracts 3,932,738 visitors every year.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Wiltons Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Rules as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in London.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day 4

Day 4 – London, Kensington, and Greenwich

  • London
  • Kensington
  • Greenwich
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Drive 39 km, 2 hours 13 min

  • Science Museum
  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • London Bridge
  • Borough Market
  • Greenwich Park
  • More

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

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Science Museum. This science museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Kensington, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 66,659 visitors. Around 2,989,000 people visit this attraction every year.

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

Drop by the renowned London Eye. This popular ferris wheel has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 175,315 visitors.

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

Journey into the unknown at London Bridge, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable road bridge has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 51,315 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Borough Market is a recommended place to visit. This building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 99,307 reviews.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hawksmoor Seven Dials, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Simpson's in the Strand. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Old Bank Of England, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Ship & Shovell offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in London.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

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Day 5

Day 5 – London, Eton, Salisbury, and Basingstoke

  • Basingstoke
  • Eton
  • Salisbury
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Drive 224 km, 3 hours 32 min

  • Windsor Castle
  • Salisbury Cathedral
  • Stonehenge
  • More

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 2 vibrant destinations - Eton, and Salisbury. 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.

When you’ve had your share of Eton, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Salisbury. Your travel time is around 1 hour 31 min.

Journey into the unknown at St George's Chapel, Windsor, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle chapel has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,505 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Windsor Castle is a recommended place to visit. This historic house museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 54,973 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Eton, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Salisbury may take around 1 hour 31 min. Upon your arrival in Salisbury, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Salisbury Cathedral. This popular anglican or episcopal cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,849 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Stonehenge. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 53,470 visitors, this tourist attraction deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Basingstoke, Westdean, Birling Gap, Crockham Hill, Hever, and Chelmsford

  • Chelmsford
  • Westdean
  • Birling Gap
  • Crockham Hill
  • Hever
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Drive 324 km, 4 hours 47 min

  • Seven Sisters Country Park
  • National Trust - Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters
  • Hever Castle
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Westdean, Birling Gap, Crockham Hill, and Hever. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Chelmsford, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Basingstoke and set your GPS to Westdean. 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 1 hour 58 min. Upon reaching Westdean, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Seven Sisters Country Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,372 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Westdean, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Birling Gap. This drive usually takes around 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make National Trust - Birling Gap And The Seven Sisters your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,881 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Chelmsford, 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 Chelmsford. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Vita Bella, a top-rated dining destination in Chelmsford. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Dog & Gun, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The New London. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Chelmsford this evening.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Chelmsford, Colchester, Great Yarmouth, and Norwich

  • Norwich
  • Chelmsford
  • Colchester
  • Great Yarmouth
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Drive 209 km, 3 hours 25 min

  • Hylands Park
  • Colchester Zoo
  • Great Yarmouth Beach
  • Norwich Cathedral
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On day 7 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 Chelmsford, Colchester, Great Yarmouth, and Norwich. In the evening, you’ll end up in Norwich, where you will stay for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Hylands. Previous visitors have rated this building an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,939 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Chelmsford and set your GPS to Colchester. 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 37 min. Upon reaching Colchester, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Colchester Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,206 visitors.

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 Norwich. Norwich 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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Ivy Norwich Brasserie, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bowling House offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Woolf & Social is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Norwich.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Norwich, St Albans, Leavesden, Watford, and London

  • London
  • Norwich
  • St Albans
  • Leavesden
  • Watford
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Drive 224 km, 3 hours 37 min

  • Norwich Market
  • Eaton Park
  • St Albans Cathedral
  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
  • Cassiobury Park
  • More

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Norwich, St Albans, Leavesden, and Watford. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in London, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Take the opportunity to see Norwich Market. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,269 visitors.

Eaton Park is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,880 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, St Albans. This car ride takes around 2 hours 2 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like St Albans Cathedral. This extraordinary anglican or episcopal cathedral has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,429 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to London, 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 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 Kerridge's Bar & Grill, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Northall, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Great British Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

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

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Day 9

Day 9 – London - departure day

  • London - Departure day
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  • Big Ben
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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 London before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in England by visiting London’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in England.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Big Ben. This cultural icon is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 65,522 visitors.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Smith & Wollensky, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ikoyi Restaurant St. James's is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to London. 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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