Relaxed 10-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Birmingham to London and Basingstoke
Description
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Description
Discover England stress-free with this 10-day relaxed road trip, winding through Birmingham, Dudley, Tividale, Sutton Coldfield, Edensor, Crich, Alrewas, Tatenhill, Leavesden, London, Greenwich, Woolwich, Kensington, Brentford, Eton, Basingstoke, Salisbury, and Bath. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in England at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Birmingham, Dudley, Tividale, Sutton Coldfield, Edensor, Crich, Alrewas, Tatenhill, Leavesden, London, Greenwich, Woolwich, Kensington, Brentford, Eton, Basingstoke, Salisbury, and Bath. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Birmingham, 4 nights in London, and 1 night in Basingstoke. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in England.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in England. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Birmingham, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 10-day journey across England and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across England with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in England.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in England. This relaxed road trip features the stunning London Eye. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Buckingham Palace.
Traveling leisurely through England means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Tower Bridge. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through England's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in England.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in England. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through England's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the England.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through England. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 9 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 10 days of your self-drive road trip in England. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 10-day vacation in England and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in England today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Birmingham - Arrival day
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- Queen Victoria
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Birmingham, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Birmingham and begin your adventure in England.
Birmingham 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 Queen Victoria 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 Birmingham. 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 Birmingham.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Purecraft Bar & Kitchen, a top-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Grand Central Kitchen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (Waterloo Street) hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Birmingham this evening.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Equator Bar Birmingham after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bacchus Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
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 Birmingham as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Birmingham
- Metropolitan Borough of Dudley
- Tividale
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Drive 67 km, 2 hours 6 min
- Black Country Living Museum
- Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, Tividale
- National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 2, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of England and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Birmingham and beyond. With 2 nights left in Birmingham, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
Prepare for a day full of a photogenic and much more. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at National Sea Life Centre. This locally renowned aquarium is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Dudley, 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 Birmingham to Dudley may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dudley, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Black Country Living Museum. Spend some time admiring the heritage-rich features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.
Set your GPS to Tividale and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Tividale beckons with new experiences!
Shri Venkateswara (balaji) Temple, Tividale is an often recommended hindu temple we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Birmingham.
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 Birmingham.
Begin your culinary exploration in Birmingham by securing a reservation at Purnell's. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Opheem, celebrated for its delectable indian menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Adam's, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
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 Birmingham. The bars in Birmingham make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in England!
Day 3
- Birmingham
- Edensor
- Crich
- Alrewas
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Drive 274 km, 3 hours 59 min
- Chatsworth House
- National Tramway Museum
- National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
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On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Birmingham and visit amazing attractions in Edensor, Crich, Alrewas, and Tatenhill destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Birmingham. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Edensor’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Birmingham behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 39 min. Edensor welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Head to Chatsworth House, an interesting palace in Edensor. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Edensor and set your GPS to Crich. 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 30 min. Upon reaching Crich, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Your self-guided tour starts at National Tramway Museum, an underrated tramway museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’ve had your share of Crich, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Alrewas. Your travel time is around 44 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at National Memorial Arboretum, a well-known war memorial that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Birmingham and your accommodation.
Exploring the food culture in Birmingham 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 lovely meal at La Galleria, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Ivy Temple Row is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Malmaison Birmingham. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Birmingham tonight.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Birmingham. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Birmingham as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through England with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in England!
Day 4
- Birmingham
- Leavesden
- London
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Drive 229 km, 3 hours 10 min
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
- Regent's Park
- Madame Tussauds London
- National Gallery
- Trafalgar Square
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Day 4 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 4 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.
After soaking in Birmingham’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Leavesden. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 1 min. When you arrive in Leavesden, it's time to take a break from the road.
Head to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, an impressive museum in Leavesden. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Leavesden, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to London may take around 41 min. Upon your arrival in London, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Begin your journey at Regent's Park and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Madame Tussauds London, another highlight in the village. When you’re done exploring the wax museum, continue to National Gallery, a heritage-rich art gallery. Nearby, you will also find Trafalgar Square. This timeless public square is a top place to see in the area.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in England at London. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
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.
Savor the flavors at The American Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cahoots London beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hawksmoor Borough. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.
Experience the amazing nightlife in London and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Américain, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Connaught Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Juno Rooms is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!
Day 5
- London
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Drive 11 km, 1 hour 5 min
- London Bridge
- Borough Market
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
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Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in London, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in London, including a historical landmark, a food market, a monument, a castle and much more! Start your day at London Bridge. This instagrammable historical landmark is a spectacular place to see in London. Then, wander over to Borough Market. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this food market will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Tower Bridge. This enchanting monument is a favorite among visitors.
London offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Tower Of London is a timeless spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
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.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Dine in style at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bill's Soho Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Estiatorio Milos. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great 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 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.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!
Day 6
- London
- Greenwich
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Drive 34 km, 1 hour 45 min
- Westminster Abbey
- Big Ben
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Greenwich Park
- ExCeL London
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On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around London, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of London will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.
Set out on a day brimming with a visually striking, a standout, a monumental, a grand, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, an awe-inspiring, and a charming. Start at the interesting Westminster Abbey, a photogenic church in London. Next, go to Big Ben.
After visiting Westminster Abbey and Big Ben, take time to explore London's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to London Eye. This romantic observation deck offers a unique experience.
Greenwich’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of London behind. This drive usually takes around 32 min. Greenwich welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Make your way to Greenwich Park, a locally renowned park that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in London.
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 London, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Palomar, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Berners Tavern, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Goodman City. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.
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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Merchant House London, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Artesian offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in London. Jin Bo Law is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across England.
Day 7
- London
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Drive 12 km, 1 hour 9 min
- Hyde Park
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through England means 24 hours of making the best memories in London. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in London. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by London!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in London, featuring a romantic, a picturesque, a gorgeous, a photogenic, and a historic. Start at Hyde Park, a timeless park in the city.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in England more special is by joining unique tours and activities. London offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Wiltons Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Rules. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.
Experience the amazing nightlife in London and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, American Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Old Shades is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Scarfes Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across England.
Day 8
- London
- Eton
- Basingstoke
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Drive 97 km, 2 hours 24 min
- St James's Park
- Buckingham Palace
- British Museum
- Kew Gardens
- Windsor Castle
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across England promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of London and drive in the direction of the town of Brentford for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the town of Basingstoke, where you’ll stay for 1 night.
A blend of a romantic, a majestic, a breathtaking, a photogenic, and a historic await you in London on today’s itinerary. First up is the spectacular park, St James's Park. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Buckingham Palace. A visit to this palace is an enriching experience for all.
As you explore London’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to British Museum. This world-famous museum is an essential stop that should not be missed.
Set your GPS to Brentford and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 35 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Brentford beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a locally renowned botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Eton. This drive usually takes around 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Windsor Castle. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.
You’ll be staying at the incredible town of Basingstoke in this laid-back road trip in England. You'll stay here for 1 night.
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 Basingstoke, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Basingstoke as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through England with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in England!
Day 9
- Basingstoke
- Salisbury
- Bath
- Birmingham
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Drive 281 km, 4 hours 2 min
- Stonehenge
- Thermae Bath Spa
- Roman Baths
- Pulteney Bridge
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On day 9 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in England. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in England.
Salisbury’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Basingstoke behind. This drive usually takes around 47 min. Salisbury welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Stonehenge, a famous archeological site that everyone visiting Salisbury should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Salisbury and set your GPS to Bath. 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 2 min. Upon reaching Bath, 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 Thermae Bath Spa, a worthwhile spa that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Roman Baths, where you can soak in the eye-catching surroundings. Next, explore Pulteney Bridge, yet another curiosity-inducing place to see in the area.
In the city of Birmingham, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in 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 Birmingham.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Purnells, a top-rated dining spot in Birmingham. If you're in the mood for something new, try Gaucho, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Dishoom Birmingham. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Birmingham.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Salisbury can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in England!
Day 10
- Birmingham - Departure day
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- Handsworth Park
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Day 10 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 Birmingham.
Make the most of your final day in England by visiting Birmingham’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in England.
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.
One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Birmingham is the remarkable Handsworth Park. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,619 visitors.
Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Birmingham or just grab something light to keep you going.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Canal House Bar & Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Arco Lounge? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Birmingham and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in England is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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