7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling west to Plymouth and Exeter

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Photo of Clifton Suspension Bridge with Clifton reflection, Bristol UK.
Photo of aerial view of Bristol, U.K.
7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling west to Plymouth and Exeter
7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling west to Plymouth and Exeter
7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling west to Plymouth and Exeter
7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling west to Plymouth and Exeter
7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling west to Plymouth and Exeter
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Explore the best of England on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Bristol, Wells, Cheddar, Brixham, Paignton, Plymouth, Tintagel, Bodmin, Exeter, Salcombe Regis, Seaton, Northleigh, West Lulworth, and Bovington.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in England. You will spend 3 nights in Bristol, 2 nights in Plymouth, 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Bristol, 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. Clifton Suspension Bridge and Tintagel Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bristol, Wells, Cheddar, Brixham, Paignton, Plymouth, Tintagel, Bodmin, Exeter, Salcombe Regis, Seaton, Northleigh, West Lulworth, and Bovington, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Bristol - Arrival day
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  • Harbourside
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach Bristol and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 2 nights and explore what to see in Bristol, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Bristol is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bristol. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in England. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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 Bristol, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Radisson Blu Hotel, Bristol, a popular restaurant in Bristol. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bristol at Hotel du Vin Bristol, 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 Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bristol tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Boardroom after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Gin & Juice for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Watershed is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in England!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Bristol
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Drive 14 km, 50 min

  • Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery
  • Clifton Suspension Bridge
  • Brunel's SS Great Britain
  • Park Street
  • Clifton
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Bristol. You’ll stay in Bristol for 1 night.

Bristol is brimming with adventures. Park Street is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Bristol. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to Clifton, a neighborhood offering its own unique experiences.

Let Bristol City Museum And Art Gallery set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable museum before continuing your journey. Clifton Suspension Bridge is your next stop. This interesting monument is one of the best-rated sights in Bristol.

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 Brunel's Ss Great Britain. This eye-catching historic ship is a sight to behold.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in England. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Bring home unique finds from Bristol's bustling shopping hub, Cabot Circus. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Cabot Circus offers plenty of options, including a cinema, restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bristol. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Bristol by booking a table at COR. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern british cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Bulrush, celebrated for its delectable modern british menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Blaise Inn, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing traditional menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Hyde & Co, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Humbug is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Filthy Xiii is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Bristol
  • Wells
  • Cheddar
  • Brixham
  • Plymouth
  • More

Drive 231 km, 3 hours 37 min

  • Mendip Hills AONB
  • Cheddar Gorge and Caves
  • Brixham Harbour
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in England, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Wells, Cheddar, Brixham, and Paignton are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Plymouth, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Wells and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Wells beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Wells is Mendip Hills National Landscape, a locally appreciated nature reserve that draws attention for its romantic features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cheddar. This car ride takes around 11 min.

Cheddar Gorge is a curiosity-inducing cave system we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Cheddar, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Brixham. Your travel time is around 1 hour 45 min.

Savor the day by heading to Brixham Harbour, a well-known marina that draws visitors from near and far.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Plymouth, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Plymouth is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Plymouth.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Blues Bar & Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Plymouth. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Meze Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Barbican Kitchen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plymouth this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Jack Rabbit, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Gipsy Moth. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Queens Arms, another top-rated place in the area.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Plymouth
  • Tintagel
  • Bodmin
  • More

Drive 213 km, 4 hours 13 min

  • Tintagel Castle
  • Bodmin Jail Attraction
  • National Trust - Lanhydrock
  • More

Greet day 4 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Plymouth, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Tintagel, Bodmin, Trebyan, and Pengrugla.

When you’ve had your share of Plymouth, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Tintagel. Your travel time is around 1 hour 24 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Tintagel Castle, a well-known castle known for its romantic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tintagel and set your GPS to Bodmin. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 39 min. Upon reaching Bodmin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Bodmin Jail Attraction, a frequently visited museum in Bodmin. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Trebyan’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bodmin behind. This drive usually takes around 10 min. Trebyan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

National Trust - Lanhydrock is a curiosity-inducing castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Plymouth.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Plymouth. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Duke of Cornwall Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Plymouth. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Steak & Omelette, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Toot. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Plymouth this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Pit And Pendulum, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Hyde Park is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Dolphin Hotel is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Plymouth
  • Exeter
  • Salcombe Regis
  • More

Drive 158 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Dartmoor National Park
  • Exeter Cathedral
  • The Donkey Sanctuary
  • More

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in England includes 4 stops and features some of the highlights of Exeter, Salcombe Regis, Seaton, and Northleigh. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Exeter, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Dartmoor National Park, a well-known national park in Exeter. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Salcombe Regis. This drive usually takes around 36 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Exeter Cathedral, an increasingly popular church that everyone visiting Exeter should see.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Exeter, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Salcombe Regis. This drive usually takes around 36 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering The Donkey Sanctuary, an underrated petting zoo known for its peaceful features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Exeter, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Last Drop, a popular restaurant in Exeter. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Exeter at iFood Thai Taste, 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 Premier Inn Exeter (M5 J29) hotel. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Exeter tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Crocketts, known for its lively atmosphere. Pig & Pickle Micropub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Angel Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.

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Day6

Day 6

  • Exeter
  • West Lulworth
  • Bovington Camp
  • Bristol
  • More

Drive 236 km, 4 hours 12 min

  • Lulworth Cove
  • Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre
  • The Tank Museum
  • More

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including West Lulworth and Bovington. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Bristol, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to West Lulworth may take around 1 hour 47 min. Upon your arrival in West Lulworth, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Lulworth Cove. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the beach before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to Bovington and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bovington beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre, a popular zoo that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to The Tank Museum, where you can soak in the heritage-rich surroundings.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bristol. Check in and relax 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 Bristol. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Make sure to reserve a table at Rainbow Casino Bristol, an iconic dining spot in Bristol. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bravas, a popular restaurant in Bristol. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Future Inn Bristol Cabot Circus, a hidden gem nestled in Bristol. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting London Cocktail Club, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Brozen Bar - Bristol is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Clockwork Rose also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Head back to your accommodation in Bristol and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in England.

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Day7

Day 7

  • Bristol - Departure day
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  • Queen Square
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Day 7 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bristol 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 Queen Square. This often recommended public square is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in Bristol, we recommend the lively Cabot Circus. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.

Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bristol.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Catch22 Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Pieminister? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Bristol. 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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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
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Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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