9-Day England Road Trip from Southampton traveling east to Birmingham, Chelmsford, London, and Canterbury

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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 Southampton, Birmingham, Alton, Lichfield, Warwick, Stratford-on-Avon, Leavesden, Chelmsford, London, Camden Town, Westminster, Kensington, Canterbury, Eton, Cheapside, and Winchester. Set off on the ultimate European adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Southampton, 2 nights in Birmingham, 1 night in Chelmsford, 2 nights in London, 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 Southampton, 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 Southampton, Birmingham, Alton, Lichfield, Warwick, Stratford-on-Avon, Leavesden, Chelmsford, London, Camden Town, Westminster, Kensington, Canterbury, Eton, Cheapside, and Winchester, 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 – Southampton - arrival day

  • Southampton - Arrival day
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  • Houndwell Park
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach Southampton and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Southampton for 1 night 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.

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

Find your way to your hotel in Southampton. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in England. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Southampton. 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 delicious dinner at Lakaz Maman, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Soleto Bistro offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ennio's. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Southampton.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Hobbit Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. Firehouse is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Guide Dog offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Southampton and Birmingham

  • Birmingham
  • Southampton
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Drive 237 km, 3 hours 25 min

  • East Park
  • SeaCity Museum
  • Mayflower Park
  • Southampton Common
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Southampton. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Birmingham. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Journey into the unknown at East Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 804 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, SeaCity Museum is a recommended place to visit. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,539 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Southampton is Houdini's Escape Room Experience - Escape Room Southampton. Rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars by 717 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Southampton offers an experience you will remember.

Mayflower Park is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Southampton. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,453 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Southampton Common. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,033 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Birmingham. Birmingham offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Birmingham. 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 Purnell's in Birmingham by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Purnell's offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Opheem, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing indian cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Adam's, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Equator Bar Birmingham stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bacchus Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Birmingham, Alton, and Lichfield

  • Birmingham
  • Alton
  • Lichfield
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Drive 164 km, 2 hours 58 min

  • Alton Towers Resort
  • Beacon Park
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Birmingham, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Alton. This car ride takes around 1 hour 25 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Alton Towers Resort. This amusement park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 49,065 reviews.

Continue your journey at Oblivion. This point of interest is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,795 travelers from near and far.

Lichfield’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Alton behind. This drive usually takes around 48 min. Lichfield welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Beacon Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,774 reviews.

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

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

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Birmingham, Warwick, Stratford-on-Avon, Leavesden, and Chelmsford

  • Chelmsford
  • Warwick
  • Stratford-upon-Avon
  • Leavesden
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Drive 310 km, 4 hours

  • Warwick Castle
  • Stratford Butterfly Farm
  • Shakespeare's Birthplace
  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Warwick, Stratford-on-Avon, and Leavesden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Chelmsford, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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

Take the opportunity to see Warwick Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 21,167 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Warwick and set your GPS to Stratford-on-Avon. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Stratford-on-Avon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Stratford Butterfly Farm. This popular butterfly house has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,018 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Shakespeare's Birthplace. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 16,156 visitors, this birth house deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Chelmsford, 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 Chelmsford.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Vita Bella, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Dog & Gun? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The New London as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Chelmsford.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Chelmsford, London, and Camden Town

  • London
  • Camden Town
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Drive 75 km, 2 hours 8 min

  • Tower of London
  • Tower Bridge
  • British Museum
  • Madame Tussauds London
  • Big Ben
  • More

On day 5 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 London and Camden Town. In the evening, you’ll end up in London, where you will stay for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Camden Town, 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 9 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Tower of London. This extraordinary castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 101,481 visitors. Each year, around 2,741,126 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

London’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Camden Town behind. This drive usually takes around 9 min. London welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Tower Bridge. This bascule bridge is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 151,949 reviews.

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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cahoots London, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bill's Soho Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Estiatorio Milos. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

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.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – London, Westminster, and Kensington

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

  • Hyde Park
  • Science Museum
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
  • Buckingham Palace
  • St James's Park
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Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 1 night left in London, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Westminster, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kensington. This drive usually takes around 7 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Hyde Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Westminster, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 126,766 visitors.

Buckingham Palace is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 164,776 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to St James's Park. Visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 55,261 reviews.

Set your GPS to Kensington and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kensington beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Science Museum, a remarkable science museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 65,368 reviews. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes approximately 2,989,000 visitors.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Victoria and Albert Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 55,517 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 3,932,738 people visit it every 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Palomar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Berners Tavern offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Burger & Lobster Leicester Square. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Artesian offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, American Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Old Shades 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 7

Day 7 – London and Canterbury

  • Canterbury
  • London
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Drive 103 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • Trafalgar Square
  • National Gallery
  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • London Bridge
  • Borough Market
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore London, 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 Canterbury. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Trafalgar Square. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 121,847 visitors.

Next, make your way to National Gallery. This art museum welcomes around 6,011,007 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 48,134 reviews.

When you arrive in London, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at London Eye. This ferris wheel is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 171,401 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Canterbury. Canterbury offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Canterbury by booking a table at The Sportsman, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern british menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Il Posticino, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe du Soleil. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Canterbury this evening.

Continue your lively evening at The Bell & Crown, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Pegasus Tap Room is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Houdini’s Magic bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Canterbury, Eton, Cheapside, Winchester, and Southampton

  • Southampton
  • Eton
  • Cheapside
  • Winchester
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Drive 248 km, 3 hours 38 min

  • Windsor Castle
  • Windsor Great Park
  • Winchester Cathedral
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Eton, Cheapside, and Winchester. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Southampton, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

After soaking in Canterbury’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Eton. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 46 min. When you arrive in Eton, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Windsor Castle. This extraordinary historic house museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 53,263 visitors.

Next, make your way to St George's Chapel, Windsor. This top attraction is a castle chapel with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,434 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cheapside, 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 Eton to Cheapside may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cheapside, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Windsor Great Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,319 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.

As you explore more of Southampton, 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.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Beards & Boards Craft Beer Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. London Hotel is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Heartbreakers offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 9

Day 9 – Southampton - departure day

  • Southampton - Departure day
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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 Southampton 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 Southampton’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in England. Take home a piece of England with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

Journey into the unknown at Red Funnel Ferries, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 8,788 reviews.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Anesti Limited T/A Sulas Greek Taverna, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Everest Cuisine is another top choice with a popular menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Southampton. 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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