10-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Exeter to London and surrounding area

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Explore the best of England on a 10-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Exeter, Buckfastleigh, Buckfast, Northleigh, Seaton, Salcombe Regis, Tintagel, Newquay, Truro, Tresillian, Lizard, Gweek, Hayle, Helston, London, Salisbury, Stourton, Wells, and Cheddar. This road trip itinerary in England seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 8 nights in Exeter and 1 night in London. 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. London Eye and Buckingham Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Hyde Park, learn more about the unique Trafalgar Square, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Big Ben.

As you hit the open road and drive through Exeter, Buckfastleigh, Buckfast, Northleigh, Seaton, Salcombe Regis, Tintagel, Newquay, Truro, Tresillian, Lizard, Gweek, Hayle, Helston, London, Salisbury, Stourton, Wells, and Cheddar, 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
Dartmoor National ParkSouth Devon Railway - (Buckfastleigh, Station)Buckfast Butterfly Farm and Dartmoor Otter SanctuaryBuckfast Abbey
East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural BeautySeaton TramwayThe Donkey SanctuaryExeter Cathedral
Tintagel CastleNewquay ZooNational Trust - Lanhydrock
National Trust - Trelissick GardenTruro CathedralThe Roseland Heritage CoastLost Gardens of Heligan
National Trust - Lizard PointNational Trust - Mullion CoveCornish Seal Sanctuary

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Exeter - Arrival day
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  • Belmont Park
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Say hello to Exeter! Your exciting road trip through England is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Exeter for 7 nights before you continue your adventure!

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Last Drop, a top-rated dining destination in Exeter. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider iFood Thai Taste, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in England!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Exeter
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Drive 103 km, 2 hours 21 min

  • Dartmoor National Park
  • South Devon Railway - (Buckfastleigh, Station)
  • Buckfast Butterfly Farm and Dartmoor Otter Sanctuary
  • Buckfast Abbey
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Exeter, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Buckfastleigh and Buckfast. You still have 6 nights left in Exeter.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Exeter, including a national park, a heritage railway, a butterfly garden, a monastery and much more! Start your adventure at Dartmoor National Park. This captivating national park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to South Devon Railway located in Exeter for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Buckfast Butterfly Farm And Dartmoor Otter Sanctuary. Its picturesque features will captivate you. After the butterfly garden, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Buckfast Abbey. Visitors usually appreciate the stunning features of this monastery.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Premier Inn Exeter (M5 J29) hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel is another top choice with a popular menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Henry's Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Mill On The Exe is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cuckoo Taproom And Bottleshop provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Exeter
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Drive 85 km, 1 hour 50 min

  • East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
  • Seaton Tramway
  • The Donkey Sanctuary
  • Exeter Cathedral
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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 Exeter for your remaining 5 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 Northleigh, Seaton, Salcombe Regis, and Exeter.

Today’s itinerary in Exeter covers several incredible sights, including a nature reserve, a tramway, a petting zoo, a church and much more! Start your adventure at East Devon National Landscape. This curiosity-inducing nature reserve is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Seaton Tramway, a must-see tramway in the village.

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 The Donkey Sanctuary. This increasingly popular petting zoo offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Exeter Cathedral, where you can take in grand features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Nando's Exeter - Princess Hay, an iconic dining spot in Exeter. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cosy Club, a popular restaurant in Exeter. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Exeter
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Drive 297 km, 4 hours 28 min

  • Tintagel Castle
  • Newquay Zoo
  • National Trust - Lanhydrock
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Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 4 nights left in Exeter, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Exeter, including a castle and a zoo. Start your day with a visit to Tintagel Castle. This locally renowned castle is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Newquay Zoo, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Exeter on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to National Trust - Lanhydrock, an underrated castle in the village.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Toby Carvery Exeter, a top-rated dining destination in Exeter. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Old Firehouse, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Exeter Phoenix, known for its lively atmosphere. Ship Inn is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Arcade Exeter offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Exeter
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Drive 310 km, 4 hours 13 min

  • National Trust - Trelissick Garden
  • Truro Cathedral
  • The Roseland Heritage Coast
  • Lost Gardens of Heligan
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On day 5 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in Exeter, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Exeter for 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Truro, Tresillian, and Pengrugla to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is National Trust - Trelissick Garden. This curiosity-inducing botanical garden is a mesmerizing place to see in Exeter. Continue your discovery at Truro Cathedral, a stunning church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Exeter, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to The Roseland Heritage Coast. This curiosity-inducing nature reserve offers a mesmerizing encounter with Exeter. Next, make your way to Lost Gardens Of Heligan 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 Exeter.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Exeter. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Harry's Restaurant, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Stand Off offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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 6

Day 6

  • Exeter
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Drive 378 km, 5 hours 20 min

  • National Trust - Lizard Point
  • National Trust - Mullion Cove
  • Cornish Seal Sanctuary
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Exeter, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Exeter, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at National Trust - Lizard Point, a worthwhile cliff in the village. Then, head to National Trust - Mullion Cove and soak in the ambiance of this romantic pier.

There are many interesting places to see in Exeter, and when you are ready for more, go to Cornish Seal Sanctuary. This is one of the village’s most often recommended visually striking spots of interest.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Exeter, an iconic dining spot in Exeter. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Coolings Gandy Street, a popular restaurant in Exeter. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Exeter
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Drive 366 km, 4 hours 50 min

  • National Trust - Godrevy
  • Paradise Park and JungleBarn Cornwall
  • Porthleven Harbour
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On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Exeter, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Exeter, including a beach, a wildlife reserve, and a marina. Start your day at National Trust - Godrevy. This instagrammable beach is a worthwhile place to see in Exeter. Then, wander over to Paradise Park And Junglebarn Cornwall. If gorgeous sites excite you, this wildlife reserve will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Porthleven Harbour. This visually striking marina is a favorite among visitors.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Exeter. 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 wonderful meal at Rendezvous Wine Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Exeter. If you're in the mood for something new, try Zizzi - Exeter, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Exeter
  • London
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Drive 320 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Hyde Park
  • Buckingham Palace
  • Big Ben
  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • Trafalgar Square
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On day 8 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 London. In the evening, you’ll end up in London, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the timeless Hyde Park, a mesmerizing park in Exeter. Next, go to Buckingham Palace.

After visiting Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace, have a stroll along Exeter's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Big Ben. This culturally significant monument offers a unique experience. London Eye is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Trafalgar Square, one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Exeter.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in London. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in London by booking a table at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern french menu. For a different culinary experience in London, Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious french cuisine. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Hélène Darroze at The Connaught is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in London. This 3-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

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 9

Day 9

  • London
  • Exeter
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Drive 323 km, 4 hours 38 min

  • Stonehenge
  • Stourhead
  • Mendip Hills AONB
  • Cheddar Gorge and Caves
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Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Salisbury, Stourton, Wells, and Cheddar, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Exeter. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in London, including an archeological site, a park, a nature reserve, a cave system and much more! Start your day with a visit to Stonehenge. This impressive archeological site is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Stourhead, which may be one of the most serene places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring London on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Mendip Hills National Landscape, a worthwhile nature reserve in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cheddar Gorge.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Exeter. Exeter 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 Exeter. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Board – Game Bar & Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel du Vin Exeter beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

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Day 10

Day 10

  • Exeter - Departure day
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  • Bury Meadow Park
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Day 10 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 Bury Meadow Park. 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.

Dine in style at Premier Inn Exeter Central St Davids hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight.

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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