9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from London traveling east to Canterbury, Cambridge, and Norwich
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through England. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 Canterbury, 1 night in Cambridge, 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 London, Kensington, Brighton, Canterbury, Dover, Maidstone, Cambridge, Duxford, Great Yarmouth, Norwich, Colchester, and Maldon, 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 – London - arrival day
- London - Arrival day
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- Buckingham Palace
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Welcome to London, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 4 nights immersing yourself in London's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
London 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 Buckingham Palace 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 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The American Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Cahoots London? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hawksmoor Borough as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in London.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Américain after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Connaught Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Juno Rooms is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!
Day 2 – London
- London
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Drive 11 km, 59 min
- British Museum
- Big Ben
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Borough Market
- London Bridge
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore London. You’ll stay in London for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Get ready for an exciting day in London. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a monument, an observation deck, a food market, a historical landmark and much more! Begin your adventure at British Museum. This is a world-famous museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Big Ben, a widely recognized monument in London.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to London Eye. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Borough Market, another of the city’s extraordinary attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a picture-perfect historical landmark. London Bridge is a truly remarkable place to visit in London.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of London's best restaurants.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in London by reserving a table at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern french cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, renowned for its delectable french dishes. This distinguished 3-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 3-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Lyaness, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Polski is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Buckingham Arms offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.
Day 3 – London and Kensington
- London
- Kensington
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 14 min
- Royal Albert Hall
- Science Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to London, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in London, including a monument and a castle. Start your day at Tower Bridge. This romantic monument is a world-famous place to see in London. Then, wander over to Tower Of London. If culturally significant sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, London. This car ride takes around 32 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Royal Albert Hall, a popular concert hall that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Science Museum, where you can soak in the heritage-rich surroundings. Next, explore Victoria And Albert Museum, yet another top-rated place to see in the area.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in London.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at The Palomar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Clermont London, Victoria 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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Merchant House London after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Artesian, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Jin Bo Law also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 4 – London
- London
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 1 min
- Trafalgar Square
- National Gallery
- Regent's Park
- Madame Tussauds London
- Hyde Park
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Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Start by visiting Trafalgar Square, a prime spot to begin your journey. This historic public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is National Gallery, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned art gallery renowned for its visually striking features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of London by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Regent's Park. This eye-catching park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Madame Tussauds London also adds charm to your journey, and Hyde Park wraps up your day with its eye-catching appeal.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of London's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Goodman City, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Wiltons Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at American Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Old Shades, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Scarfes Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 5 – London, Brighton, and Canterbury
- London
- Brighton and Hove
- Canterbury
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Drive 252 km, 4 hours 1 min
- Upside Down House Brighton
- Brighton i360
- Royal Pavilion & Garden
- Brighton Museum & Art Gallery
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Brighton. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Canterbury, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Brighton, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Canterbury may take around 1 hour 47 min. Upon your arrival in Canterbury, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Head to Upside Down House - Brighton, a beloved art installation in Brighton. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Brighton I360. This interesting observation deck is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Royal Pavilion is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most history-steeped palace in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the worthwhile Brighton Museum & Art Gallery and discover what makes this museum unique.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Canterbury, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Canterbury, 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.
Experience a harmony of flavors at The Sportsman in Canterbury by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, The Sportsman offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern british menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Il Posticino offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Bell & Crown, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Pegasus Tap Room is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Houdini’s Magic Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 6 – Canterbury, Dover, Broomfield, Maidstone, and Cambridge
- Canterbury
- Dover
- Cambridge
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Drive 236 km, 3 hours 22 min
- Canterbury Cathedral
- Dover Castle
- Leeds Castle
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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 - Canterbury, Dover, Broomfield, and Maidstone. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cambridge. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for a day filled with an awe-inspiring, an eye-catching, a history-steeped, a monumental, a culturally significant, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated in the charming city of Canterbury. Your adventure starts at Canterbury Cathedral, a notable local hot spot.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Canterbury, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dover may take around 27 min. Upon your arrival in Dover, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Dover Castle is a popular castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Broomfield. This car ride takes around 51 min.
Make your way to Leeds Castle, a locally renowned castle that draws attention for its visually striking features.
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 Cambridge. Cambridge 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cambridge. 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.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cambridge by booking a table at Midsummer House, a 2-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Restaurant Twenty-Two, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Cambridge Tap, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Free Press offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cambridge. Eagle is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Head back to your accommodation in Cambridge and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!
Day 7 – Cambridge, Duxford, Great Yarmouth, and Norwich
- Cambridge
- Duxford
- Great Yarmouth
- Norwich
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Drive 191 km, 3 hours 4 min
- Cambridge Market Square
- Fitzwilliam Museum
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden
- National War Museum
- Great Yarmouth Beach
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cambridge, Duxford, and Great Yarmouth. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Norwich, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
A blend of a photogenic, a respected, a romantic, a scenic, and a gorgeous await you in Cambridge on today’s itinerary. First up is the intriguing market, Cambridge. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Fitzwilliam Museum. A visit to this museum is an enriching experience for all.
As you explore Cambridge’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Cambridge University Botanic Garden. This underrated botanical garden is an essential stop that should not be missed.
Duxford’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cambridge behind. This drive usually takes around 21 min. Duxford welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Make your way to Imperial War Museum Duxford, a captivating aviation museum that draws attention for its stunning features.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Duxford, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Great Yarmouth. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 39 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Great Yarmouth, an interesting beach that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Norwich. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Norwich's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at The Ivy Norwich Brasserie, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bowling House boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Last Bar & Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Norwich.
Cap off your dinner by heading to The Fat Cat, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Temple Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Be At One Norwich is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Say good night to Norwich and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 8 – Norwich, Colchester, Maldon, and London
- Norwich
- Colchester
- Maldon
- London
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Drive 209 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Norwich Market
- Norwich Cathedral
- Colchester Zoo
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Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Norwich, Colchester, and Maldon, 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 London. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Norwich is home to plenty of attractions that offer a photogenic, a historic, an awe-inspiring, a culturally significant, and a majestic! Start at Norwich Market, an underrated market that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Norwich Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Norwich 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 1 hour 35 min. Upon reaching Colchester, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Colchester Zoo, a popular zoo that draws visitors from near and far.
Set your GPS to Maldon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Maldon beckons with new experiences!
Begin your journey at Promenade Park and explore the romantic features.
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.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Rules, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hawksmoor Seven Dials. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in London tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Heliot Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Speaker, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Old Bank Of England. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 9 – London - departure day
- London - Departure day
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- St James's Park
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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.
Maximize your last day in England and go on a shopping spree in London’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in England.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in London.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Simpson's in the Strand, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kerridge's Bar & Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Paladar.
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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