Relaxed 9-Day England Road Trip Starting from Southampton to London

Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Southampton, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Southampton and begin your adventure in England.

Journey into the unknown at Bargate, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable city gate has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 631 reviews.

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

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Southampton.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. 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.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in England.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Hobbit Pub, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Firehouse, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Guide Dog likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in England. Enjoy your first taste of Southampton as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through England means 24 hours of making the best memories in Southampton. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Southampton!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Red Funnel Red Jet. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 858 visitors.

When you’re finished at Red Funnel Red Jet, head to Red Funnel Ferries. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 8,788 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Solent Sky. This aviation museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,033 visitors.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in England. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Southampton itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of England. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Southampton, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Bedford, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Smugglers Bar & Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bill's Southampton Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Southampton.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Southampton. The bars in Southampton make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Beards & Boards Craft Beer Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, London Hotel provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Heartbreakers offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across England, you’ll go deep into Southampton, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Southampton, and meet locals along the way!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Tudor House & Garden. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,012 visitors.

Next, make your way to St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Southampton. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 115 reviews.

While in Southampton, we also recommend a visit to Westgate Hall. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 191 reviews.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about England. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in England and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Southampton has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Anesti Limited T/A Sulas Greek Taverna, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Everest Cuisine offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, CRIB Shuffleboard Cocktail & Pizza Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Southampton.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in England.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in England!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Southampton, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to SeaCity Museum. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,539 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Southampton City Art Gallery. This art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 599 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Houdini's Escape Room Experience - Escape Room Southampton. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 717 visitors.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Southampton, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across England.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Southampton.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at The Rockstone, 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 Piecaramba!, 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 Piccolo Mondo, a hidden gem nestled in Southampton. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Southampton.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in England. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in England tomorrow with new energy.

Day 5 of your self-drive tour in England is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in London for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in England.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Eton and set your GPS to Leavesden. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Leavesden, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. This exhibition room is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 82,133 reviews.

Continue your journey at Diagon Alley. This point of interest is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 600 travelers from near and far.

Eton’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Southampton behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 20 min. Eton welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Windsor Castle, a remarkable historic house museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 53,263 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at St George's Chapel, Windsor. This castle chapel has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,434 travelers.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in London. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in England by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around London, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cahoots London, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bill's Soho Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Estiatorio Milos. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in London and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in England. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in England tomorrow with new energy.

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through England means 24 hours of making the best memories in London. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the neighborhood of London!

Get a more in-depth understanding of London by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the neighborhood’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around London, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in London and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Artesian, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, American Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Old Shades also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in England!

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across England, you’ll go deep into London, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in London, and meet locals along the way!

Journey into the unknown at Madame Tussauds London, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable wax museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 71,843 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, National Gallery is a recommended place to visit. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 48,134 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 6,011,007 visitors per year.

Another must-see attraction in London is Trafalgar Square. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 121,847 travelers, this popular tourist destination in London offers an experience you will remember.

England makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, England also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in London offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of London’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in England.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Scarfes Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of BFI IMAX, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Old Bank of England likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in England!

Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in England is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from London and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of London and the city of Westminster. You’ll stay in Southampton for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Westminster and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Westminster beckons with new experiences!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Big Ben. Previous visitors have rated this cultural icon an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 61,373 reviews.

After soaking in London’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Westminster. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 18 min. When you arrive in Westminster, it's time to take a break from the road.

Kick off the day at London Eye, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This ferris wheel is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 171,401 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to London and set your GPS to Westminster. 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 18 min. Upon reaching Westminster, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Hyde Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 126,766 reviews.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Southampton in this laid-back road trip in England. You'll stay here for 1 night.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Southampton has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Dine in style at BrewDog Southampton, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Red Lion boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bacaro. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Southampton.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Southampton and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Southampton!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in England is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Southampton.

As you approach the end of your journey in England, take a moment for some retail therapy in Southampton’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of England, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of England with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Southampton or just grab something light to keep you going.

Savor the flavors at Max’s Brasserie, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Belgium And Blues beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Southampton and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in England is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.