5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Penzance to Exeter and surrounding area
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Description
Explore the best of England on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Penzance, Tintagel, Tresillian, Porthcurno, Brixham, Paignton, Exeter, Salcombe Regis, and Tavistock. 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 3 nights in Penzance and 1 night in Exeter. 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 Penzance, 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. Tintagel Castle and Dartmoor National Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lost Gardens Of Heligan, learn more about the unique Paignton Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Minack Theatre.
As you hit the open road and drive through Penzance, Tintagel, Tresillian, Porthcurno, Brixham, Paignton, Exeter, Salcombe Regis, and Tavistock, 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
- Penzance - Arrival day
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- St Michael's Mount
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach Penzance and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Penzance for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the town.
Penzance is a beautiful town 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 St Michael's Mount, or just taking a stroll in the town center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Penzance. 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 Penzance, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Old Lifeboat House Bistro, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Smugglers Den boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Quirky Bird Cafe. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Penzance.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at One And All, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Crown. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Penzance
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Drive 231 km, 4 hours 26 min
- Tintagel Castle
- National Trust - Lanhydrock
- Lost Gardens of Heligan
- The Roseland Heritage Coast
- National Trust - Godrevy
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Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 1 night left in Penzance, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Penzance. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Tintagel Castle is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most interesting places to visit in Penzance. Next, head to National Trust - Lanhydrock, an often recommended castle, known for its historic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Lost Gardens Of Heligan. This standout botanical garden is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find The Roseland Heritage Coast and National Trust - Godrevy. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Penzance.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Penzance. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Navy Inn, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bakehouse offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hellys Deli Bar Cafe. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Penzance.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 3
- Penzance
- Exeter
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Drive 258 km, 4 hours 22 min
- Minack Theatre
- Berry Head National Nature Reserve
- Brixham Harbour
- Paignton Zoo
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Porthcurno, Brixham, and Paignton. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Exeter. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Penzance, including a performing arts theater, a nature reserve, a marina, a zoo and much more! Start your adventure at Minack Theatre. This popular performing arts theater is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Berry Head National Nature Reserve located in Penzance for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Brixham Harbour. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the marina, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Paignton Zoo. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this zoo.
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.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Last Drop, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, iFood Thai Taste is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Premier Inn Exeter (M5 J29) hotel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Exeter tonight.
Keep the evening going at Crocketts, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Pig & Pickle Micropub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Angel Bar, 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.
Day 4
- Exeter
- Penzance
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Drive 254 km, 4 hours 14 min
- Exeter Cathedral
- The Donkey Sanctuary
- Dartmoor National Park
- Tavistock Pannier Market
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Exeter, Salcombe Regis, and Tavistock. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Penzance, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Exeter Cathedral. This locally appreciated church is a breathtaking place to see in Exeter. Continue your discovery at The Donkey Sanctuary, a stunning petting zoo 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 Dartmoor National Park. This interesting national park offers a romantic encounter with Exeter. Next, make your way to Tavistock Pannier Market 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 drive to your hotel in Penzance. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Penzance's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Shore Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Penzance. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mermaid Alley, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Singing Rooster. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Penzance this evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.
Day 5
- Penzance - Departure day
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- Jubilee Pool Penzance Pool & Cafe
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Day 5 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Penzance 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 Jubilee Pool Penzance Pool & Cafe, a picture-perfect swimming pool before you head out.
As your final day in England unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Penzance's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to England.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Penzance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at The Globe, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Blacks of Chapel Street offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Penzance. 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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