One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Birmingham to Northleach, Oxford, Bath, and New Forest
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in England as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Birmingham, Stratford-on-Avon, Holwell, Bourton-on-the-Water, Northleach, Oxford, Bath, Salisbury, Stratford sub Castle, Winchester, Ashurst, New Forest, Portsmouth, and Wilmcote.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Birmingham, 1 night in Northleach, 1 night in Oxford, 2 nights in Bath, and 1 night in New Forest. 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 Birmingham, 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 Shakespeare's Birthplace, learn more about the unique Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Salisbury Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Birmingham, Stratford-on-Avon, Holwell, Bourton-on-the-Water, Northleach, Oxford, Bath, Salisbury, Stratford sub Castle, Winchester, Ashurst, New Forest, Portsmouth, and Wilmcote, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Birmingham - Arrival day
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- Jewellery Quarter
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Say hello to Birmingham! 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 Birmingham for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Birmingham 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 Jewellery Quarter, 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 Birmingham. 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 Birmingham, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Purecraft Bar & Kitchen, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Grand Central Kitchen offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (Waterloo Street) hotel. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Birmingham.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Equator Bar Birmingham, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bacchus Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Birmingham
- Northleach
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Drive 147 km, 2 hours 28 min
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Cotswold Wildlife Park
- Bourton-on-the-water
- Cotswold Motoring Museum
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Stratford-on-Avon, Holwell, and Bourton-on-the-Water. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Northleach. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Birmingham on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Shakespeare's Birthplace is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching museum before continuing your journey. Cotswold Wildlife Park is your next stop. This notable zoo is one of the best-rated sights in Birmingham.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Bourton-on-the-water. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Cotswold Motoring Museum.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Northleach, 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 Northleach, 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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Northleach
- Oxford
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Drive 49 km, 1 hour 45 min
- Oxford University Museum of Natural History
- Oxford Botanic Garden
- Carfax Tower
- Christ Church
- Covered Market
- Christ Church Meadow
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Oxford. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Oxford, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Start by visiting Oxford University Museum Of Natural History, a prime spot to begin your journey. This historic museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is University Of Oxford Botanic Garden, another must-visit landmark and intriguing botanical garden renowned for its eye-catching features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Northleach by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Carfax Tower Tower Of The Church Of St Martin Carfax. This culturally significant monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Northleach experience. We also recommend visiting Christ Church, an often recommended church. Nearby, you'll also find Covered Market, ready to add charm to your journey. End your self-guided sightseeing tour with a stop at Christ Church Meadow and wrap up your day with its romantic appeal.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Oxford. Oxford 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 Oxford. 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 Polish Kitchen, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Old Parsonage Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Standard is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Oxford.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Mad Hatter. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Three Goats Heads Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The White Horse provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 4
- Oxford
- Bath
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Drive 132 km, 2 hours 1 min
- Royal Victoria Park, Bath
- Royal Crescent
- Pulteney Bridge
- Bath Abbey
- Roman Baths
- Thermae Bath Spa
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Bath, 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 Bath. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Royal Victoria Park, Bath. This beloved park is an eye-catching place to see in Oxford. Continue your discovery at Royal Crescent, a culturally significant historical landmark with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Oxford, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Pulteney Bridge. This locally appreciated historical landmark offers a romantic encounter with Oxford. Next, make your way to Bath Abbey to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Roman Baths, a locally renowned archeological site that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Thermae Bath Spa, an often recommended spa in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Oxford.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bath. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bath's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ole Tapas, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Scallop Shell offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Cornish Bakery. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bath.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Hideout, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Canary Gin Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Star Inn. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 5
- Bath
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Drive 144 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Stonehenge
- Old Sarum
- Magna Carta Chapter House
- Salisbury Cathedral
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Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 1 night left in Bath, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots await you in Bath on today’s itinerary. First up is the extraordinary archeological site, Stonehenge. Afterward, continue to Old Sarum, an archeological site every traveler should visit.
As you explore Bath’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Magna Carta Chapter House. This locally appreciated historical landmark is an essential stop. Following that, head to Salisbury Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bath.
As you explore more of Bath, 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.
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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Saint James Wine Vaults, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Grapes offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bath. Opium Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Say good night to Bath and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 6
- Bath
- New Forest
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Drive 150 km, 2 hours 36 min
- The Great Hall
- Buttercross Monument
- Winchester Cathedral
- National Trust - Winchester City Mill
- New Forest Wildlife Park
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On day 6 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 Winchester and Ashurst. In the evening, you’ll end up in New Forest, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Bath. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a historical landmark, a monument, a church, a museum, a wildlife reserve and much more! Begin your adventure at The Great Hall. This is a worthwhile historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Buttercross Monument, an intriguing monument in Bath.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Winchester Cathedral. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Winchester City Mill, another of the city’s intriguing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at New Forest Wildlife Park, a picturesque place of interest in the city.
At the end of the day, you will drive to New Forest, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of New Forest's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Say good night to New Forest and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 7
- New Forest
- Birmingham
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Drive 327 km, 4 hours 12 min
- Spinnaker Tower
- Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
- Mary Arden's Farm
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Portsmouth and Wilmcote. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Birmingham, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in New Forest. Begin your sightseeing with Spinnaker Tower. This increasingly popular 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 New Forest, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Mary Arden's Farm. This often recommended farm is a traveler-favorite.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Birmingham. Birmingham 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 Birmingham. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre, an IHG Hotel, a popular restaurant in Birmingham. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Birmingham at Tiger Bites Pig, 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 Restaurant Folium. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Birmingham tonight.
Head back to your accommodation in Birmingham and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!
Day 8
- Birmingham - Departure day
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- National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
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Day 8 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Birmingham 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 National Sea Life Centre. This popular aquarium is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at Birmingham’s popular marketplace, The Mailbox. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Birmingham.
Savor the flavors at La Galleria, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Ivy Temple Row beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Birmingham. 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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