9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Exeter to Bath

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Photo of the grand Gothic style Cathedral at Exeter Devon, England UK.
Photo of the grand Gothic style Cathedral at Exeter, Devon England UK.
Aerial view of Exeter in summer day, UK
Exeter, Devon, England, UK: Exeter Cathedral; the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter in Exeter; the medieval gothic Cathedral of Exeter
EXETER, UK
Photo of Exeter, United Kingdom
Photo of Exeter United Kingdom.
Photo of Exeter, United Kingdom.
Photo of Exeter United Kingdom.
Aerial view by drone over the Georgian city of Bath, Royal Victoria Park and Royal Cresent, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath, Somerset, England, United Kingdom, Europe
Photo of the Pulteney Bridge River Avon in Bath, England.
Photo of historic Bath Abbey and roman baths building in Bath Old town center, England.
Photo of Vintage house in Royal Victoria Park, Bath, UK.
Photo of the Pulteney Bridge River Avon in Bath, England.
City of Bath, Somerset, England, long exposure image.
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Experience the freedom of the open road in England as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Exeter, Bath, Castle Combe, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stratford-on-Avon, Oxford, Bristol, and Salisbury.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Exeter and 5 nights in Bath. 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 Exeter, 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. Stonehenge and Roman Baths are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Clifton Suspension Bridge, learn more about the unique Shakespeare's Birthplace, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dartmoor National Park.

As you hit the open road and drive through Exeter, Bath, Castle Combe, Bourton-on-the-Water, Stratford-on-Avon, Oxford, Bristol, and Salisbury, 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!

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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
Belmont Park
Exeter CathedralRed House Mysteries ExeterDartmoor National Park
Royal Victoria Park, BathPulteney BridgeBath AbbeySally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & MuseumThermae Bath SpaRoman Baths
Castle Combe - Water LaneCotswold Motoring MuseumThe Model VillageBirdland Park & GardensBourton-on-the-water
Stratford Butterfly FarmThe MAD MuseumShakespeare's BirthplaceAnne Hathaway's Cottage
Oxford University Museum of Natural HistoryCovered MarketCarfax TowerOxford Castle

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Exeter - Arrival day
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  • Belmont Park
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Welcome to Exeter, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Exeter's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Exeter 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 Belmont Park Exeter, or just 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 Exeter. 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 Exeter, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at The Last Drop, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, iFood Thai Taste boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Premier Inn Exeter (M5 J29) hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Exeter.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Crocketts, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Pig & Pickle Micropub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Angel Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Exeter
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Drive 89 km, 2 hours 12 min

  • Exeter Cathedral
  • Red House Mysteries Exeter
  • Dartmoor National Park
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Exeter has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Exeter by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Exeter, including a church, an escape room, and a national park. Start your day at Exeter Cathedral. This stunning church is an increasingly popular place to see in Exeter. Then, wander over to Red House Mysteries Escape Rooms. Nearby, you’ll also find Dartmoor National Park. This mesmerizing national park is a favorite among visitors.

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 explore more of Exeter, 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.

Dine in style at Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Nando's Exeter - Princess Hay boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Cosy Club. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Exeter.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Henry's Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Mill On The Exe, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cuckoo Taproom And Bottleshop also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Exeter
  • Bath
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Drive 163 km, 2 hours 28 min

  • Royal Victoria Park, Bath
  • Pulteney Bridge
  • Bath Abbey
  • Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum
  • Thermae Bath Spa
  • Roman Baths
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bath. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Bath, which will be your home away from home for 5 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Exeter covers several incredible sights, including a park, a historical landmark, a church, a restaurant, a spa, an archeological site and much more! Start your adventure at Royal Victoria Park, Bath. This increasingly popular park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Pulteney Bridge, a must-see historical landmark in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Bath Abbey. This curiosity-inducing church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum, where you can take in history-steeped features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Thermae Bath Spa and Roman Baths. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bath. Bath offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bath. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Ole Tapas, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Scallop Shell beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Cornish Bakery. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bath tonight.

Keep the evening going at The Hideout, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Canary Gin Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Star Inn, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bath
  • More

Drive 169 km, 3 hours 10 min

  • Castle Combe - Water Lane
  • Cotswold Motoring Museum
  • The Model Village
  • Birdland Park & Gardens
  • Bourton-on-the-water
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 4 nights left in Bath, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Bath. Begin your sightseeing with Castle Combe - Water Lane. This increasingly popular street is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Cotswold Motoring Museum, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Bath, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to The Model Village. This underrated point of interest is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Birdland Park And Gardens, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Bourton-on-the-water is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bath. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Jars Meze, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Herd Steak Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Joya Italian Steakhouse. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bath tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Saint James Wine Vaults after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Grapes for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Opium Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in England.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bath
  • More

Drive 277 km, 3 hours 59 min

  • Stratford Butterfly Farm
  • The MAD Museum
  • Shakespeare's Birthplace
  • Anne Hathaway's Cottage
  • More

Greet day 5 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Bath for your remaining 3 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 Stratford-on-Avon.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Stratford Butterfly Farm. This intriguing butterfly garden is a serene place to see in Bath. Continue your discovery at The Mad Museum, an instagrammable museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Bath, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Shakespeare's Birthplace. This popular museum offers a heritage-rich encounter with Bath. Next, make your way to Anne Hathaway's Cottage to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Bath.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bath's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Noya's Kitchen, a top-rated dining spot in Bath. If you're in the mood for something new, try Clayton's Kitchen, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Henry's Restaurant Bath. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bath.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Crystal Palace, Bath after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Be At One - Bath, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Circo Cellar Bar & Cocktail Lounge also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bath
  • More

Drive 267 km, 3 hours 45 min

  • Oxford University Museum of Natural History
  • Covered Market
  • Carfax Tower
  • Oxford Castle
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bath, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Oxford. You still have 2 nights left in Bath.

Get ready for an exciting day in Bath. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a market, a monument, a castle and much more! Begin your adventure at Oxford University Museum Of Natural History. This is a well-known museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Covered Market, an underrated market in Bath.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Carfax Tower Tower Of The Church Of St Martin Carfax. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Oxford Castle, another of the city’s worthwhile attractions.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bath. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Dough, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Miller & Carter Bath offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Ale House is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bath.

Keep the evening going at Coeur De Lion, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Dark Horse, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Old Green Tree, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Bath
  • More

Drive 51 km, 1 hour 52 min

  • Bristol Cathedral
  • Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery
  • Clifton Suspension Bridge
  • Park Street
  • Clifton
  • Harbourside
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in Bath, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Bath for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bristol to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Set aside time today to explore Park Street, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Clifton, a neighborhood offering another perspective on the city.

Start by visiting Bristol Cathedral, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Bristol City Museum And Art Gallery, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile museum renowned for its standout features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Bath by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Clifton Suspension Bridge. This romantic monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Bath experience.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bath's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Bill's Bath Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Elder Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Cappadocia Turkish Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bath tonight.

Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Bath
  • Exeter
  • More

Drive 223 km, 3 hours 37 min

  • Stonehenge
  • National Trust - Mompesson House
  • Salisbury Cathedral
  • Salisbury Museum
  • More

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Salisbury. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Exeter, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Bath, including an archeological site, a museum, and a church. Start your day at Stonehenge. This UNESCO world heritage-designated archeological site is a spectacular place to see in Bath. Then, wander over to National Trust - Mompesson House. If instagrammable sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Salisbury Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is a favorite among visitors.

Bath offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, The Salisbury Museum is a beloved spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Exeter, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Exeter's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Toby Carvery Exeter, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Old Firehouse offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Harry's Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Exeter.

Continue your lively evening at Boom Battle Bar Exeter, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Brewdog Exeter is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Lucombe Oak ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Exeter - Departure day
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  • Northernhay Gardens
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Day 9 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Exeter before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Northernhay Gardens. This often recommended park is a popular place to see in the city.

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

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Exeter, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Exeter. 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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