One-Week Relaxed England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from London to Birmingham

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Photo of Westminster palace (Houses of Parliament) and Big Ben, London, UK.
Photo of regent's canal, Little Venice in London, UK.
Photo of Cannons at the entrance of the Imperial War Museum in London, England.
Photo of Westminster Abbey viewed from Victoria tower gardens, London, UK.
Photo of London eye, County Hall, Westminster Bridge, Big Ben and Houses of Parliament.
Photo of beautiful landscape around Hyde Park, London, United Kingdom.
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Photo of Buckingham Palace in London, United Kingdom.
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Photo of Royal Albert Hall, London, England, UK, in late afternoon daylight
Photo of London, England - Panoramic skyline view of Bank and Canary Wharf, central London's leading financial districts with famous skyscrapers at golden hour sunset with blue sky and clouds.
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The quiet canals of Birmingham
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Photo of Birmingham water canal network ,famous Birmingham, England.
Photo of Hall of Memory, Library of Birmingham and Baskerville house, England.
Photo of Birmingham, Alabama, USA Downtown Skyline Panorama.
Photo of Birmingham, Alabama, USA downtown city skyline.
Photo of sunset view of brick buildings alongside a water channel in the central Birmingham, England.
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photo of view of Beautiful architecture of Birmingham city canal at dawn
photo of view of Methodist Central Hall and Victoria Law Courts, historic buildings in Birmingham, England.
photo of view of Aerial view of Birmingham, a major city in England’s West Midlands region, with multiple Industrial Revolution-era landmarks, UK
photo of view of Aerial view of Birmingham, a major city in England’s West Midlands region, with multiple Industrial Revolution-era landmarks, UK
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Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 8-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 London, Eton, Balsall Heath, Birmingham, Tividale, Dudley, Coventry, St Albans, Brickendon, Leavesden, and Watford. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in London and 3 nights in Birmingham. 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 London, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-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. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable British Museum. Get close to the spectacular Hyde Park and the wonderful Trafalgar Square. 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 7 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 8 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 8-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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Covent Garden
Hyde ParkBuckingham Palacelastminute.com London EyeBritish MuseumOxford Street
Tate ModernBorough MarketTower BridgeTower of LondonSouth Bank
St George's ChapelWindsor CastleBirmingham Wildlife Conservation ParkCannon Hill Park
Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, TividaleBlack Country Living MuseumNational SEA LIFE Centre BirminghamJewellery Quarter
War Memorial ParkHerbert Art Gallery and MuseumCoventry CathedralCoventry Transport Museum
St Albans CathedralHertfordshire Zoo (Formerly Paradise Wildlife Park)Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry PotterCassiobury Park
Trafalgar Square

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Day 1

Day 1

  • London - Arrival day
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  • Covent Garden
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of London, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in London and begin your adventure in England.

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 Covent Garden, a must-see neighborhood, and 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 London. 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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in London, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The American Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cahoots London offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hawksmoor Borough. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Américain, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Connaught Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Juno Rooms. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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 London as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • London
  • More

Drive 14 km, 1 hour 13 min

  • Hyde Park
  • Buckingham Palace
  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • British Museum
  • Oxford Street
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On day 2 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!

Make sure to visit Oxford Street, a popular street in London. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Hyde Park. This globally renowned park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Buckingham Palace, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out London Eye, one of the most iconic places to see in London. This observation deck is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, British Museum. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this museum offers.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across England by joining a traveler-approved tour in London. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in London that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in England more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of London to find the best options for you!

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 Hawksmoor Guildhall, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bill's Soho Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Estiatorio Milos. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in London. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Lyaness, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Polski. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Buckingham Arms, another top-rated place in the area.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in London can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in England!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • London
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Drive 10 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Tate Modern
  • Borough Market
  • Tower Bridge
  • Tower of London
  • South Bank
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Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in London, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.

A visit to South Bank in London is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in London, including an art gallery, a food market, a monument, a castle and much more! Start your day at Tate Modern. This gorgeous art gallery is an astonishing place to see in London. Then, wander over to Borough Market. If instagrammable sites excite you, this food market will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Tower Bridge. This awe-inspiring 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 wondrous spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

Bring home unique finds from London's bustling shopping hub, Oxford Street. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Oxford Street offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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 wonderful meal at The Palomar, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Clermont London, Victoria, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Berners Tavern. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

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 London. The bars in London make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Merchant House London, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Artesian, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Jin Bo Law likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical London!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • London
  • Birmingham
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Drive 208 km, 3 hours 9 min

  • St George's Chapel
  • Windsor Castle
  • Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park
  • Cannon Hill Park
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On day 4 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.

London is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a castle, a zoo, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the up-and-coming St George's Chapel, Windsor and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Windsor Castle, a picture-perfect castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park, one of the town’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the captivating Cannon Hill Park.

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.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Birmingham has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Birmingham by reserving a table at Purnell's. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Simpsons, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Opheem, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite indian menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Birmingham.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Birmingham and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across England.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Birmingham
  • More

Drive 30 km, 1 hour 12 min

  • Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, Tividale
  • Black Country Living Museum
  • National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
  • Jewellery Quarter
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Birmingham, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Birmingham will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Tividale is Jewellery Quarter. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Today's adventure in Birmingham promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Shri Venkateswara (balaji) Temple, Tividale. This profound hindu temple is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Black Country Living Museum, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to National Sea Life Centre, one of the village’s most interesting attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

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

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 delicious dinner at Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre, an IHG Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Tiger Bites Pig offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Folium. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Birmingham.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Birmingham.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Birmingham
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Drive 73 km, 1 hour 40 min

  • War Memorial Park
  • Herbert Art Gallery and Museum
  • Coventry Cathedral
  • Coventry Transport Museum
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 6, 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 1 night left in Birmingham, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Birmingham is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, an art gallery, a church, a museum and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated War Memorial Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Herbert Art Gallery And Museum, a respected art gallery that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Coventry Cathedral, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Coventry Transport Museum.

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

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 La Galleria, a highly-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Ivy Temple Row, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Malmaison Birmingham. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent 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.

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!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Birmingham
  • London
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Drive 261 km, 4 hours 4 min

  • St Albans Cathedral
  • Hertfordshire Zoo (Formerly Paradise Wildlife Park)
  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
  • Cassiobury Park
  • More

Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in England is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from St Albans and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Brickendon and the village of Leavesden. You’ll stay in London for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Birmingham includes a church, a zoo, a museum, a park and much more! St Albans Cathedral is must-visit church and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Paradise Wildlife Park, an increasingly popular zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, an eye-catching museum, also available for your discovery today.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in London. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in England by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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 Goodman City, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Wiltons Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

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 London. The bars in London make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at American Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Old Shades provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Scarfes Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in England!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • London - Departure day
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  • Trafalgar Square
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Day 8 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 London.

On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at London’s popular marketplace, Oxford Street. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Trafalgar Square, a breathtaking public square before you head out.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in London or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to London and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in England is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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