One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from London to Southampton and Canterbury and surrounding area
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through England. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in London, 2 nights in Southampton, and 1 night in Canterbury. 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, Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Eton, Windsor, Southampton, Salisbury, Bath, Portsmouth, Canterbury, and Dover, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to London
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- London - Arrival day
- More
- Covent Garden
- More
Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach London and pick up your car. You’ll stay in London for 3 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 city.
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.
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 top-rated dining destination in London. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cahoots London, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hawksmoor Borough. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Américain, known for its lively atmosphere. The Connaught Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Juno Rooms offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- London
- More
Drive 13 km, 1 hour 25 min
- lastminute.com London Eye
- British Museum
- Buckingham Palace
- Hyde Park
- Oxford Street
- More
On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore London. You’ll stay in London for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
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.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in London, including an observation deck, a museum, a palace, a park and much more! Start your day at London Eye. This eye-catching observation deck is a wondrous place to see in London. Then, wander over to British Museum. If eye-catching sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Buckingham Palace. This instagrammable palace 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, Hyde Park is a timeless spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in London. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a popular restaurant in London. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of London at Bill's Soho Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Estiatorio Milos. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in London tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Lyaness offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Polski is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Buckingham Arms 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 3
- London
- More
Drive 10 km, 1 hour 2 min
- Tate Modern
- Borough Market
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
- South Bank
- More
Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
One of the most iconic places you can visit today in London is South Bank. 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 agenda in London includes an art gallery, a food market, a monument, a castle and much more! Tate Modern is must-visit art gallery and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Borough Market, a famous food market, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Tower Bridge, an enchanting monument, also available for your discovery today.
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.
Visit Oxford Street in London for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Oxford Street has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in London. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at The Palomar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Clermont London, Victoria offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Berners Tavern is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in London.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Merchant House London, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Artesian offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Jin Bo Law. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 4
- London
- Southampton
- More
Drive 158 km, 2 hours 44 min
- Ray Mill Island
- Windsor Castle
- LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
- More
Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Eton, and Windsor, 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 Southampton. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Today’s agenda in London includes a park, a castle, and an amusement park. Ray Mill Island is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Windsor Castle, an extraordinary castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Legoland Windsor Resort, an instagrammable amusement park, also available for your discovery today.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Southampton. 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 Southampton. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Dhaba 59 Sports Bar & Grill, a popular restaurant in Southampton. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Southampton at Blue Island, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Shenanigans. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Southampton tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Oasis Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. The Hobbit Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, 5 Rivers Sport Bar & Grill offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 5
- Southampton
- More
Drive 236 km, 3 hours 54 min
- Stonehenge
- Pulteney Bridge
- Roman Baths
- Thermae Bath Spa
- 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 Southampton for your remaining 1 night 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 Salisbury and Bath.
Today’s itinerary in Southampton covers several incredible sights, including an archeological site, a historical landmark, and a spa. Start your adventure at Stonehenge. This extraordinary archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the UNESCO world heritage-listed 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 Roman Baths. This locally renowned archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Thermae Bath Spa, where you can take in awe-inspiring features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Southampton and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Southampton's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Lakaz Maman, a highly-rated dining destination in Southampton. If you're eager to try something different, consider Porters Wine & Charcuterie, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Halladays Tea Rooms. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Southampton this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Firehouse, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Guide Dog is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Beards & Boards Craft Beer Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
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 6
- Southampton
- Canterbury
- More
Drive 237 km, 3 hours 21 min
- Spinnaker Tower
- Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
- Mary Rose
- HMS Victory
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Portsmouth. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Canterbury, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Southampton. Begin your sightseeing with Spinnaker Tower. This worthwhile observation deck is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Southampton, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Mary Rose Museum. This often recommended museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Hms Victory, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Canterbury. Canterbury offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Canterbury's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Canterbury by securing a table at The Sportsman. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern british menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Il Posticino, another premier location with a delectable menu.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Bell & Crown, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Pegasus Tap Room, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Houdini’s Magic Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
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 7
- Canterbury
- London
- More
Drive 169 km, 2 hours 53 min
- Canterbury Cathedral
- Westgate Gardens
- Dover Castle
- Leeds Castle
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Canterbury, Dover, and Broomfield. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in London. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Canterbury, including a church, a park, and a castle. Start your day at Canterbury Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is a popular place to see in Canterbury. Then, wander over to Westgate Gardens. If mesmerizing sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Dover Castle. This breathtaking castle is a favorite among visitors.
Canterbury offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Leeds Castle is a notable spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
At the end of the day, you will drive to London, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Goodman City, an iconic dining spot in London. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, a popular restaurant in London. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Wiltons Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, American Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Old Shades offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Scarfes Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Head back to your accommodation in London and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!
Day 8
- London - Departure day
- More
- Trafalgar Square
- More
Day 8 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, begin at Trafalgar Square. This globally renowned public square is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at London’s popular marketplace, Covent Garden. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in London.
If you're eager to try something different, consider The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.