9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from London traveling east to Canterbury, Cambridge, and Norwich
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-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 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at The American Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cahoots London offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hawksmoor Borough is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in London.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Américain. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Connaught Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Juno Rooms provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
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 adventure in London promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at British Museum. This instagrammable museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Big Ben, another breathtaking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to London Eye, one of the city’s most iconic attractions, known for its awe-inspiring features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Borough Market. This standout food market is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit London Bridge, a widely recognized historical landmark, and take a stroll around the area.
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.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library in London by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern french menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing french cuisine. This popular 3-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Lyaness, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar Polski is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Buckingham Arms 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!
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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Greet day 3 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to London for your remaining 2 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 Kensington and London.
Start by visiting Royal Albert Hall, a prime spot to begin your journey. This respected concert hall is sure to impress. Next on your list is Science Museum, another must-visit landmark and spectacular museum renowned for its standout features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of London by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Victoria And Albert Museum. This heritage-rich museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full London experience. We also recommend visiting Tower Bridge, a world-famous monument. Nearby, you'll also find Tower Of London, ready to add charm to your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in London.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of London's best restaurants.
Dine in style at The Palomar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Clermont London, Victoria boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Berners Tavern. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Merchant House London, known for its inviting atmosphere. Artesian is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Jin Bo Law provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!
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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Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions London has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in London by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
London is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Trafalgar Square, a globally renowned public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find National Gallery, enchanting visitors with its standout appeal. Continue your exploration at Regent's Park. This park is one of the city’s most interesting spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring London at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Madame Tussauds London. After exploring the wax museum, head to the timeless Hyde 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.
Experience shopping bliss at London as you explore Covent Garden. Take a leisurely stroll through unique boutiques and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, Covent Garden offers more options, including restaurants, unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.
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.
Savor the flavors at Goodman City, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Burger & Lobster Leicester Square beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Wiltons Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at American Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Old Shades offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in London. Scarfes Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Say good night to London and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Brighton. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Canterbury. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in London, including a park, an art installation, an observation deck, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Preston Park Railway Station. This often recommended park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Upside Down House - Brighton located in London for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Brighton I360. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the observation deck, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Royal Pavilion. Visitors usually appreciate the standout features of this palace.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Canterbury, 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 Canterbury's best restaurants.
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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Bell & Crown, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Pegasus Tap Room provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Houdini’s Magic Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Head back to your accommodation in Canterbury and get some rest in preparation for another magical day 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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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 Canterbury, Dover, and Broomfield. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cambridge, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Canterbury promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Canterbury Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Westgate Gardens, another standout attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Dover Castle, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its instagrammable features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Leeds Castle. This awe-inspiring castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cambridge. Cambridge 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 Cambridge's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a memorable dining experience in Cambridge by booking a table at Midsummer House, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Cambridge, Restaurant Twenty-Two shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Cambridge Tap, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Free Press offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Eagle. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip 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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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Cambridge, Duxford, and Great Yarmouth, 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 Norwich. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities in the charming city of Cambridge. Your adventure starts at Cambridge, a beloved local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Fitzwilliam Museum. This intriguing museum is known for its photogenic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cambridge's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Cambridge University Botanic Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Imperial War Museum Duxford is also worth visiting, along with Great Yarmouth. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Norwich. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Norwich, 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 The Ivy Norwich Brasserie, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bowling House is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Last Bar & Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Norwich tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Fat Cat, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Temple Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Norwich. Be At One Norwich is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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.
Immerse yourself in Norwich’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Norwich Market. This visually striking market is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the monumental features of Norwich Cathedral, a must-visit church in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Colchester Zoo, a notable zoo. For a change of scene, check out Promenade Park, known for its history-steeped features.
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 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Rules, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Hawksmoor Seven Dials as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in London.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Heliot Cocktail Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Speaker, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Old Bank Of England provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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.
Savor the flavors at Simpson's in the Strand, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kerridge's Bar & Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings.
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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