Relaxed 9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Birmingham to London
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 9-day road trip in England with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
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, Coventry, Balsall Heath, Tividale, Dudley, Eton, London, Kensington, Watford, Leavesden, Brickendon, and St Albans. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Birmingham and 4 nights in London. 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 9-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 8 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 9 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 9-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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Birmingham. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
Savor the flavors at Purecraft Bar & Kitchen, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Grand Central Kitchen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (Waterloo Street) hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Birmingham tonight.
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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Equator Bar Birmingham, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bacchus Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
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
- Coventry
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Drive 74 km, 1 hour 39 min
- Coventry Cathedral
- Coventry Transport Museum
- War Memorial Park
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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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Coventry today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
After soaking in Birmingham’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Coventry. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in Coventry, it's time to take a break from the road.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Coventry Cathedral, an often recommended church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Coventry Transport Museum, where you can soak in the standout surroundings. Next, explore War Memorial Park, yet another intriguing place to see in the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Birmingham and your accommodation.
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 Birmingham, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
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.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Birmingham.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in England!
Day 3
- Birmingham
- Balsall Heath
- Tividale
- Metropolitan Borough of Dudley
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Drive 58 km, 1 hour 39 min
- Cannon Hill Park
- Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, Tividale
- Dudley Zoo and Castle
- Black Country Living Museum
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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 Balsall Heath, Tividale, and Dudley 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.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Balsall Heath allows for both.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Birmingham and set your GPS to Balsall Heath. 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 15 min. Upon reaching Balsall Heath, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Your self-guided tour starts at Cannon Hill Park, a well-known park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Tividale, 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 Balsall Heath to Tividale may take around 29 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Tividale, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Head to Shri Venkateswara (balaji) Temple, Tividale, a locally appreciated hindu temple in Tividale. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Tividale, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Dudley. This drive usually takes around 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Dudley Zoo And Castle. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the zoo before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Black Country Living Museum. This captivating museum is a traveler-favorite in the village.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at La Galleria, a top-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Ivy Temple Row, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Malmaison Birmingham. 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.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Balsall Heath can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in England!
Day 4
- Birmingham
- Eton
- London
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Drive 203 km, 3 hours 15 min
- National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
- St George's Chapel
- Windsor Castle
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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.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Birmingham, featuring a visually striking and much more. Start at National Sea Life Centre, a popular aquarium in the city.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Eton, 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 Eton may take around 2 hours 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Eton, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Your self-guided tour starts at St George's Chapel, Windsor, an underrated church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Windsor Castle and admire its historic features.
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.
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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in London by booking a table at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in London.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Américain, known for its lively atmosphere. The Connaught Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Juno Rooms 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 5
- London
- Kensington
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Drive 13 km, 1 hour 3 min
- Hyde Park
- Science Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Big Ben
- lastminute.com London Eye
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On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around London, where you’ll be staying for another 3 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.
Prepare for a day full of a charming, an idyllic, a breathtaking, an eye-catching, a historically significant, and a grand. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Hyde Park. This timeless park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Big Ben, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out London Eye, one of the most world-famous places to see in London. This observation deck is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
When you’ve had your share of London, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kensington. Your travel time is around 7 min.
Make your way to Science Museum, a famous museum that draws attention for its photogenic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Victoria And Albert Museum, a historic museum that stands out in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to London and your accommodation.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, London has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Savor the flavors at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bill's Soho Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Estiatorio Milos. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in London.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Lyaness. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Polski offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Buckingham Arms, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in England!
Day 6
- London
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 12 min
- Madame Tussauds London
- National Gallery
- Trafalgar Square
- St James's Park
- Buckingham Palace
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On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across England, you’ll go deep into London, 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 London, and meet locals along the way!
Discover a day packed with an instagrammable, a remarkable, a history-steeped, a gorgeous, a culturally significant, a charming, and a majestic in London. Begin your sightseeing with Madame Tussauds London. This spectacular wax museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to National Gallery, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of London, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Trafalgar Square. This wondrous public square is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find St James's Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Buckingham Palace and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most globally renowned attractions.
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 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 The Palomar, a top-rated dining destination in London. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Clermont London, Victoria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berners Tavern. With a reputation for consistently satisfying 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.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Merchant House London, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Artesian. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Jin Bo Law, another top-rated place in the area.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across England.
Day 7
- London
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Drive 12 km, 1 hour 16 min
- Tate Modern
- Borough Market
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
- British Museum
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Day 7 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 an art gallery, a food market, a monument, a castle, a museum and much more! Start your day at Tate Modern. This breathtaking art gallery is a top-rated place to see in London. Then, wander over to Borough Market. If historic sites excite you, this food market will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Tower Bridge. This grand 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 world-famous spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the castle, don’t forget to check out the historic British Museum. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this timeless museum in London.
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.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Goodman City, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Wiltons Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in London.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into American Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Old Shades offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Scarfes Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across England.
Day 8
- London
- Watford
- Leavesden
- Brickendon
- Birmingham
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Drive 265 km, 4 hours 4 min
- Cassiobury Park
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
- Hertfordshire Zoo (Formerly Paradise Wildlife Park)
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Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through England gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Watford. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Birmingham, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of London, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Watford may take around 53 min. Upon your arrival in Watford, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Begin your journey at Cassiobury Park and explore the mesmerizing features.
After soaking in Watford’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 12 min. When you arrive in Leavesden, it's time to take a break from the road.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, an impressive museum that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Leavesden, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Brickendon. This drive usually takes around 37 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Paradise Wildlife Park and explore the stunning features.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Birmingham. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
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.
Make sure to book a table at Purnells, a popular restaurant in Birmingham. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Birmingham at Gaucho, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Dishoom Birmingham. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Birmingham tonight.
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.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!
Day 9
- Birmingham - Departure day
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- Handsworth Park
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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 Birmingham.
Maximize your last day in England and go on a shopping spree in Birmingham’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey 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 9 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.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Birmingham 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.
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