Cheap 12-Day England Road Trip from London traveling south to Brighton, Chichester, Southampton, Oxford, and Canterbury

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

London is a popular cheap holiday destination in England with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in England, London is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Trafalgar Square. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 121,847 visitors.

A cheap, budget vacation in London should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in London, try some of our top recommendations.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Cahoots London, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Bill's Soho Restaurant, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Estiatorio Milos, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Bar Américain is an excellent example of a great bar in London offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at The Connaught Bar, another of locals’ go-to bars in London. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in London, Bar Polski is for you.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in England!

On day 2 of your affordable vacation in England, you’ll start and end your day in London, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 3 nights left in London, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

When you're ready to see some sights, Hyde Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 126,766 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Royal Albert Hall. This concert hall has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 37,841 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Richmond, 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 Kensington to Richmond may take around 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Richmond, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Science Museum. This much-appreciated science museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 65,368 reviews. Each year, 2,989,000 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Victoria and Albert Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 55,517 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Victoria and Albert Museum welcomes 3,932,738 visitors annually.

When you’ve had your share of Kensington, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Richmond. Your travel time is around 19 min.

Take the opportunity to see Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 45,021 visitors.

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

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in London. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at The Palomar, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Berners Tavern is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Artesian and try some of its cocktails and snacks. American Bar is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Old Shades, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of London!

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around London on day 3 of your affordable vacation in England. You’ll continue your stay in London for an additional 2 nights. Explore more top attractions in England, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

Make Madame Tussauds London your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this wax museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 71,843 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Regent's Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 44,079 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Camden Town, 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 9 min. Upon your arrival in London, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Tower Bridge your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this bascule bridge an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 151,949 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Camden Town, you’ll hit the road in the direction of London. This drive usually takes around 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Tower of London. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 101,481 visitors. Each year, around 2,741,126 people visit this site to learn more about it.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Camden Town, you’ll hit the road in the direction of London. This drive usually takes around 9 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is British Museum. This national museum typically receives around 5,906,716 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 148,750 reviews.

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

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in London offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in England.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Rules, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Hawksmoor Seven Dials - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Simpson's in the Strand, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in London, Scarfes Bar. Alternatively, visit BFI IMAX, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by The Old Bank of England, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in England!

Day 4’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in London, proving that cheap holidays in England can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 1 night, to stay in London. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Big Ben. This cultural icon is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 61,373 visitors.

Make your vacation in England more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in England and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

Savor the culinary delights of London, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Smith & Wollensky offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Hawksmoor Air Street. Or, try Premier Inn London County Hall hotel, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

The Ship & Shovell offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in England!

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in England, you’ll tour 2: Weybridge and Reigate. You'll stay in Brighton for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Weybridge, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Reigate may take around 43 min. Upon your arrival in Reigate, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Brooklands Museum. This extraordinary transport museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6,777 visitors.

Next, make your way to Mercedes-Benz World. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,116 reviews.

After soaking in Weybridge’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Reigate. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Reigate, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Priory Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,138 reviews.

While exploring England is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Brighton has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Brighton on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Brighton. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Food for Friends, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, The Walrus is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Tinto Taperia, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Evening Star. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Brighton Rocks offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Be At One - Brighton, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in England!

On day 6 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across England, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Brighton, Warningcamp, and Chichester. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Chichester, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Royal Pavilion, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This palace is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,457 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Brighton i360. Brighton i360 is an observation tower with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,119 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Brighton, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Warningcamp may take around 42 min. Upon your arrival in Warningcamp, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Arundel Castle. This house museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,535 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Warningcamp, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Chichester. Your travel time is around 21 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Chichester Cathedral. This anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,094 visitors.

Chichester offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in England. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Make the most of your budget vacation in England by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Chichester that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Start your flavor-filled journey at The Ivy Chichester Brasserie, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? The White Horse offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Brasserie Blanc - Chichester is the perfect spot for you!

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Rocking Horse after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Hornet Alehouse, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through England with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in England!

Day 7 of your road trip across England offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Portsmouth. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Southampton, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Portsmouth. This car ride takes around 29 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to HMS Victory. This extraordinary first-rate is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,050 visitors.

Next, make your way to Mary Rose Museum. This top attraction is a maritime museum with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,672 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. This military museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,679 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Spinnaker Tower. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,458 travelers.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Southampton. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Southampton, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Southampton offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in England.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Lakaz Maman, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Soleto Bistro - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Ennio's, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Hobbit Pub. Alternatively, go to Firehouse, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Guide Dog provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in England!

Day 8 of your road trip across England is another proof that cheap holidays in England can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 2 wonderful destinations — Salisbury and Bath. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Oxford, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Southampton, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Salisbury. This drive usually takes around 41 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Salisbury Cathedral. This much-appreciated anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,491 reviews.

Next up is Stonehenge. This tourist attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 51,913 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bath. This car ride takes around 1 hour 3 min.

Make Roman Baths one of your first sightseeing stops in Bath. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 31,875 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Pulteney Bridge is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This road bridge is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,931 reviews.

While exploring England is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Oxford has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Oxford on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Oxford, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at The Big Society, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Antep Kitchen, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss The Victoria, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Mad Hatter, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The White Horse offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Oxford. The House is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through England with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in England!

On day 9 of your affordable vacation in England, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Oxford. You’ll stay in Oxford for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in England, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Oxford University Museum of Natural History. This natural history museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 10,413 visitors.

Covered Market is another popular attraction you could visit today. This market hall has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 9,506 visitors.

Oxford Castle is also highly recommended by travelers. This castle has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,316 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Oxford and set your GPS to Woodstock. 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 22 min. Upon reaching Woodstock, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Blenheim Palace. This house museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,013 reviews.

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

Discovering the culinary wonders of Oxford is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Start your foodie adventure at La Cucina, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Bbuona, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Kazbar Restaurant, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into The Jolly Farmers, considered one of the best bars in Oxford. You can also enjoy drinks at Turf Tavern, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to Sandy's Piano Bar, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Oxford.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in England!

Day 10 of your self-drive vacation in England will take you to the city of Canterbury, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Canterbury, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in England, including Eton, Maidstone, and Broomfield.

After soaking in Oxford’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 4 min. When you arrive in Eton, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, St George's Chapel, Windsor is a great place to start. This castle chapel is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,434 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Windsor Castle. This historic house museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 53,263 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Maidstone. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Mote Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,480 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Maidstone, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Broomfield. This drive usually takes around 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Leeds Castle. This house museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,372 reviews.

Canterbury offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in England. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in England shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Canterbury is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Notorious BRG Canterbury, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Il Posticino - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Cafe du Soleil promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across England. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in England!

On day 11 of your cheap holiday travels in England, you’ll tour 2: Canterbury and Dover. You'll stay in London for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Make Canterbury Cathedral one of your first sightseeing stops in Canterbury. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,666 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’ve had your share of Canterbury, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Dover. Your travel time is around 29 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at National Trust - The White Cliffs of Dover, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,887 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Dover Castle. This castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,595 travelers.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of London. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in London, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. London has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Discover the heart of London through its culinary scene, starting with The Red Lion, Parliament Street. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Holiday Inn London - Bloomsbury, an IHG Hotel, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore The Wolseley, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in England!

Your budget road trip vacation in England is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of London.

As you approach the end of your journey in England, take a moment for some retail therapy in London’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.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to London, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Social Eating House, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, The Ivy features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion.

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!