One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from London to Chelmsford and Oxford and surrounding area
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in England as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like London, Kensington, Canterbury, Dover, Sissinghurst, Maidstone, Chelmsford, Colchester, Brickendon, Watford, Leavesden, Oxford, Avebury, Salisbury, and Eton.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 5 nights in London, 1 night in Chelmsford, and 1 night in Oxford. 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 London, 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 London, Kensington, Canterbury, Dover, Sissinghurst, Maidstone, Chelmsford, Colchester, Brickendon, Watford, Leavesden, Oxford, Avebury, Salisbury, and Eton, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – London - arrival day
- London - Arrival day
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- Trafalgar Square
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Welcome to London, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 4 nights immersing yourself in London's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
London 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 Trafalgar Square 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 London. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
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.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Américain, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Connaught Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Juno Rooms provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in England!
Day 2 – London
- London
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Drive 14 km, 59 min
- Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
- Borough Market
- lastminute.com London Eye
- British Museum
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in London, including a castle, a monument, a food market, an observation deck, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Tower Of London. This timeless castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Tower Bridge located in London for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Borough Market. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the food market, continue your tour of the city with a visit to London Eye. This observation deck has a visually striking appeal. For a change of pace, head to British Museum. As one of the most timeless attractions in London, this museum is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. England is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in London. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library in London by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern french menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing french cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Lyaness, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Polski is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Buckingham Arms provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 3 – London and Kensington
- London
- Kensington
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Drive 13 km, 56 min
- Madame Tussauds London
- Hyde Park
- Science Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Buckingham Palace
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Greet day 3 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to London for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in London and Kensington.
Get ready for a day filled with a picture-perfect, a noteworthy, a romantic, an idyllic, an enchanting, and a respected in the charming city of London. Your adventure starts at Madame Tussauds London, a widely recognized local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Hyde Park. This iconic park is known for its remarkable appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander London's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Buckingham Palace. This picture-perfect palace offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.
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 spectacular museum that draws attention for its instagrammable features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Victoria And Albert Museum, a photogenic museum that stands out in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to London and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in London. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Palomar, an iconic dining spot in London. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Clermont London, Victoria, a popular restaurant in London. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Berners Tavern, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Merchant House London, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Artesian provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Jin Bo Law offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 4 – London, Canterbury, and Dover
- London
- Canterbury
- Dover
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Drive 262 km, 4 hours 19 min
- Westgate Gardens
- Canterbury Cathedral
- Dover Castle
- National Trust - The White Cliffs of Dover
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in London, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Canterbury and Dover. You still have 1 night left in London.
After soaking in Canterbury’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Dover. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Dover, it's time to take a break from the road.
Spend your afternoon discovering Westgate Gardens, a beloved park known for its idyllic features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Canterbury Cathedral, a locally renowned church that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
Dover’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Canterbury behind. This drive usually takes around 27 min. Dover welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Dover Castle, a notable castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to National Trust - The White Cliffs Of Dover, where you can soak in the peaceful surroundings.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in London.
As you explore more of London, 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Goodman City, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Burger & Lobster Leicester Square offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Wiltons Restaurant. 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, 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.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 5 – London, Sissinghurst, Broomfield, Maidstone, and Chelmsford
- London
- Sissinghurst
- Chelmsford
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Drive 234 km, 4 hours 8 min
- Sissinghurst Castle Garden
- Leeds Castle
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Sissinghurst, Broomfield, and Maidstone. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Chelmsford. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
When you’ve had your share of Sevenoaks, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sissinghurst. Your travel time is around 50 min.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Sissinghurst Castle Garden, an often recommended botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Broomfield. This car ride takes around 31 min.
Begin your journey at Leeds Castle and explore the enchanting features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Chelmsford. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Chelmsford's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Vita Bella, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Dog & Gun is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The New London. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Chelmsford tonight.
Head back to your accommodation in Chelmsford and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!
Day 6 – Chelmsford, Colchester, Brickendon, Watford, Leavesden, and Oxford
- Chelmsford
- Colchester
- Brickendon
- Watford
- Oxford
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Drive 259 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Colchester Zoo
- Hertfordshire Zoo (Formerly Paradise Wildlife Park)
- Cassiobury Park
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On day 6 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 Colchester, Brickendon, Watford, and Leavesden. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oxford, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Colchester promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!
Set your GPS to Colchester and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Colchester beckons with new experiences!
Make your way to Colchester Zoo, a popular zoo that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.
Set your GPS to Brickendon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Brickendon beckons with new experiences!
Make your way to Paradise Wildlife Park, a locally appreciated zoo that draws attention for its breathtaking features.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brickendon and set your GPS to Watford. 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 44 min. Upon reaching Watford, 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 Cassiobury Park, an increasingly popular park that draws visitors from near and far.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Oxford. Oxford offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. 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 Oxford. 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 delightful dinner at Polish Kitchen, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Old Parsonage Hotel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Standard as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Oxford.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Mad Hatter, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Three Goats Heads Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The White Horse, another top-rated place in the area.
Say good night to Oxford and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 7 – Oxford, Avebury, Salisbury, Eton, and London
- Oxford
- Avebury
- Salisbury
- Eton
- London
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Drive 282 km, 4 hours 43 min
- Avebury
- Stonehenge
- Salisbury Cathedral
- Windsor Castle
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Avebury, Salisbury, and Eton. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in London, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Oxford, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Avebury. Your travel time is around 1 hour 6 min.
Head to Avebury, a beloved archeological site in Avebury. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Salisbury’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Avebury behind. This drive usually takes around 43 min. Salisbury welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Your self-guided tour starts at Stonehenge, an extraordinary archeological site that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Salisbury Cathedral and admire its awe-inspiring features.
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 1 hour 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Windsor Castle is a widely recognized castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of London's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Rules, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hawksmoor Seven Dials. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Heliot Cocktail Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Speaker for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Old Bank Of England is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 8 – London - departure day
- London - Departure day
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- St James's Park
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Day 8 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of London before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at London’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Set out on a day brimming with a romantic, a scenic, a mesmerizing, a picture-perfect, and a standout. Start at the astonishing St James's Park, an eye-catching park in London.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in London.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Simpson's in the Strand, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kerridge's Bar & Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
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!
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