9-Day England Road Trip from London traveling south to Southampton, and Canterbury

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through England. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of London, Westminster, Kensington, Eton, Windsor, Southampton, Salisbury, Bath, Portsmouth, Canterbury, and Dover. 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, 2 nights in Southampton, and 1 night in Canterbury. 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, Westminster, Kensington, Eton, Windsor, Southampton, Salisbury, Bath, Portsmouth, Canterbury, and Dover, 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 – London - arrival day

  • London - Arrival day
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  • Big Ben
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Say hello to London! Your exciting road trip through England is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in London for 4 nights before you continue your adventure!

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 Big Ben 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.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Américain. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Connaught Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Polski provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring 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, Westminster, and Kensington

  • London
  • Westminster
  • Kensington
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 18 min

  • Regent's Park
  • Hyde Park
  • Royal Albert Hall
  • Science Museum
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in London, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Regent's Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 44,964 reviews.

Set your GPS to Westminster and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Westminster beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Hyde Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 128,167 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Royal Albert Hall is a recommended place to visit. This concert hall is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 39,115 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in London. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Science Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable science museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 66,659 reviews. Every year, Science Museum welcomes more than 2,989,000 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Victoria And Albert Museum is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 56,963 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 3,932,738 visitors per year.

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

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library in London by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern french menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern french menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Artesian, known for its inviting atmosphere. American Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Old Shades provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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 3

Day 3 – London

  • London
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 5 min

  • Tower Bridge
  • Tower of London
  • London Bridge
  • Borough Market
  • More

Day 3 of your road trip across England promises a magnificent time exploring London. You have 2 nights left in London. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in London on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Scarfes Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Heliot Cocktail Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bfi Imax is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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 4

Day 4 – London, and Westminster

  • London
  • Westminster
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Drive 8 km, 1 hour 11 min

  • Buckingham Palace
  • National Gallery
  • Trafalgar Square
  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • British Museum
  • More

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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is National Gallery. This art museum typically receives around 6,011,007 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 49,550 reviews.

Continue your journey at Trafalgar Square. This square is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 123,506 travelers from near and far.

London is also the home of British Museum. This national museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,665 visitors. Each year, around 5,906,716 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

You can learn more about Westminster today by going on a tour. Westminster offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London, a top-rated dining destination in London. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hawksmoor Seven Dials, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Simpson's in the Strand. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Old Bank Of England, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Ship & Shovell is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!

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Day 5

Day 5 – London, Eton, Windsor, and Southampton

  • Southampton
  • Eton
  • Windsor
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Drive 137 km, 2 hours 29 min

  • Windsor Castle
  • Queen Victoria Statue
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
  • 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 Windsor. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Southampton. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to London and set your GPS to Eton. 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 57 min. Upon reaching Eton, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Windsor Castle. This historic house museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Eton, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,973 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Southampton, 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 Windsor to Southampton may take around 1 hour 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Southampton, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Queen Victoria Statue. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 224 visitors.

Next, make your way to Legoland Windsor Resort. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 44,248 reviews.

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

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

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Hobbit Pub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Firehouse offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Guide Dog. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Southampton, Salisbury, and Bath

  • Southampton
  • Salisbury
  • Bath
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Drive 212 km, 3 hours 52 min

  • Salisbury Cathedral
  • Stonehenge
  • Pulteney Bridge
  • Roman Baths
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Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 1 night left in Southampton, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Salisbury, 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 Southampton to Salisbury may take around 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Salisbury, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Salisbury Cathedral. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,849 visitors.

Stonehenge is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This tourist attraction has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 53,470 travelers.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Pulteney Bridge. This road bridge is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bath, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,190 visitors.

Roman Baths is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 32,856 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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

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

Savor the flavors at The Bedford, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Smugglers Bar & Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bill's Southampton Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Southampton tonight.

Keep the evening going at Beards & Boards Craft Beer Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to London Hotel, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Heartbreakers, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Southampton, Portsmouth, and Canterbury

  • Canterbury
  • Portsmouth
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Drive 237 km, 3 hours 20 min

  • Spinnaker Tower
  • Mary Rose
  • Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
  • HMS Victory
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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 Portsmouth. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Canterbury, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Portsmouth’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Southampton behind. This drive usually takes around 37 min. Portsmouth welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Spinnaker Tower, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable observation tower has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,901 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Mary Rose Museum is a recommended place to visit. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,830 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Portsmouth is Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 15,002 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Portsmouth offers an experience you will remember.

Hms Victory is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Portsmouth. This first-rate promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,291 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 Canterbury. Canterbury 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 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at The Sportsman, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern british menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Canterbury at Il Posticino, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Bell & Crown, known for its lively atmosphere. Pegasus Tap Room is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Houdini’s Magic Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Canterbury, Dover, Broomfield, and London

  • London
  • Canterbury
  • Dover
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Drive 169 km, 2 hours 53 min

  • Canterbury Cathedral
  • Westgate Gardens
  • Dover Castle
  • Leeds Castle
  • More

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Canterbury, Dover, and Broomfield, 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Canterbury Cathedral. This anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,054 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Westgate Gardens. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,935 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dover. This drive usually takes around 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Dover Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in Dover. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,998 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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.

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

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.

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 9

Day 9 – London, and Westminster - 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.

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

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

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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