9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from London traveling east to Canterbury, Cambridge, and Norwich
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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 London, Kensington, Brighton, Canterbury, Dover, Cambridge, Duxford, Great Yarmouth, Norwich, Colchester, and Maldon.
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 Canterbury, 1 night in Cambridge, and 1 night in Norwich. 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. Marvel at the remarkable Tower Bridge, learn more about the unique British Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hyde Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through London, Kensington, Brighton, Canterbury, Dover, Cambridge, Duxford, Great Yarmouth, Norwich, Colchester, and Maldon, 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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Day 1
- London - Arrival day
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- Buckingham Palace
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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 Buckingham Palace, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in London. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in England. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The American Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cahoots London, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hawksmoor Borough. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Américain is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Connaught Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Juno Rooms. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- London
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Drive 11 km, 59 min
- British Museum
- Big Ben
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Borough Market
- London Bridge
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Day 2 of your road trip across England promises a magnificent time exploring London. You have 3 nights left in London. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today’s itinerary in London covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a monument, an observation deck, a food market, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at British Museum. This world-famous museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Big Ben, a must-see monument 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 London Eye. This timeless observation deck offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Borough Market, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to London Bridge. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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 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.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in London by booking a table at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, celebrated for its delectable french menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 3-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Lyaness is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Polski, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Buckingham Arms. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- London
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 14 min
- Royal Albert Hall
- Science Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to London, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in London. Begin your sightseeing with Royal Albert Hall. This interesting concert hall is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Science Museum, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of London, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Victoria And Albert Museum. This famous museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Tower Bridge, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Tower Of London 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 London.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of London's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Palomar, a top-rated dining destination in London. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Clermont London, Victoria, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berners Tavern. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Merchant House London, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Artesian is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Jin Bo Law also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- London
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 1 min
- Trafalgar Square
- National Gallery
- Regent's Park
- Madame Tussauds London
- Hyde Park
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On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore London. You’ll stay in London for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in London, including a public square, an art gallery, a park, a wax museum and much more! Start your adventure at Trafalgar Square. This timeless public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to National Gallery located in London for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Regent's Park. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Madame Tussauds London. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this wax museum. Next up is Hyde Park, a highly recommended park.
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.
Bring home unique finds from London's bustling shopping hub, Daedalus 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, Daedalus Street offers plenty of options, including restaurants, cafes, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of London's best restaurants.
Dine in style at Goodman City, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Burger & Lobster Leicester Square boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Wiltons Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting American Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Old Shades, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Scarfes Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 5
- London
- Canterbury
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Drive 251 km, 3 hours 55 min
- Preston Park railway station
- Upside Down House Brighton
- Brighton i360
- Royal Pavilion & Garden
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Brighton, 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 Canterbury. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in London today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Preston Park Railway Station. This eye-catching park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Upside Down House - Brighton and learn what makes this instagrammable art installation unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Brighton I360. After exploring the observation deck, head to Royal Pavilion. This interesting palace is a highlight in London.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Canterbury. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Canterbury. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Experience a harmony of flavors at The Sportsman in Canterbury by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, The Sportsman offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern british menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Il Posticino offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Bell & Crown offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Pegasus Tap Room is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Houdini’s Magic 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 6
- Canterbury
- Cambridge
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Drive 240 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Canterbury Cathedral
- Westgate Gardens
- Dover Castle
- Leeds Castle
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Canterbury, Dover, and Broomfield. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cambridge, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Canterbury promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Canterbury Cathedral. This breathtaking church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Westgate Gardens, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Dover Castle, one of the city’s most interesting attractions, known for its awe-inspiring features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Leeds Castle. This stunning castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Cambridge, 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 Cambridge's best restaurants.
Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cambridge by booking a table at Midsummer House. This popular restaurant holds 2 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Restaurant Twenty-Two, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Cambridge Tap, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Free Press offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cambridge. Eagle is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 7
- Cambridge
- Norwich
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Drive 191 km, 3 hours 4 min
- Cambridge Market Square
- Fitzwilliam Museum
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden
- National War Museum
- Great Yarmouth Beach
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On day 7 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 Cambridge, Duxford, and Great Yarmouth. In the evening, you’ll end up in Norwich, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and budget-friendly activities. The first attraction of today is Cambridge. This intriguing market is an instagrammable place to see in Cambridge. Continue your discovery at Fitzwilliam Museum, an eye-catching museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Cambridge, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cambridge University Botanic Garden. This underrated botanical garden offers a romantic encounter with Cambridge. Next, make your way to Imperial War Museum Duxford to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Great Yarmouth, a notable beach that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cambridge.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Norwich. Norwich 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 Norwich. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Ivy Norwich Brasserie, a top-rated dining spot in Norwich. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bowling House, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Last Bar & Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Norwich.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Fat Cat, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Temple Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Be At One Norwich provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Say good night to Norwich and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 8
- Norwich
- London
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Drive 209 km, 3 hours 40 min
- Norwich Market
- Norwich Cathedral
- Colchester Zoo
- Promenade Park
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On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Norwich, Colchester, and Maldon. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in London, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Norwich. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a market, a church, a zoo, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Norwich Market. This is a frequently visited market you should not miss. Another must-see is Norwich Cathedral, an increasingly popular church in Norwich.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Colchester Zoo. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Promenade Park, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions.
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 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.
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.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Heliot Cocktail Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Speaker. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Old Bank Of England, another top-rated place in the area.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 9
- London - Departure day
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- St James's Park
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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 London 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, we recommend visiting St James's Park, a mesmerizing park before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in London.
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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