One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling south to Exeter

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Photo of Clifton Suspension Bridge with Clifton reflection, Bristol UK.
Photo of aerial view of Bristol, U.K.
One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling south to Exeter
One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling south to Exeter
One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling south to Exeter
One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling south to Exeter
One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bristol traveling south to Exeter
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 8-day road trip in England! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bristol, Glastonbury, Wells, Wookey Hole, Cheddar, Brixham, Paignton, Exeter, Tintagel, Bodmin, 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 4 nights in Bristol and 3 nights 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, Glastonbury, Wells, Wookey Hole, Cheddar, Brixham, Paignton, Exeter, Tintagel, Bodmin, 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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  • Queen Square
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Welcome to Bristol, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights discovering what to see in Bristol before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Bristol 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 Queen Square. 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.

Find your way to your hotel in Bristol. 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 Bristol, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Radisson Blu Hotel, 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 Hotel du Vin Bristol, 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 Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin, a hidden gem nestled in Bristol. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Boardroom, known for its lively atmosphere. Gin & Juice is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Watershed 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!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Bristol
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Drive 28 km, 1 hour 45 min

  • Brunel's SS Great Britain
  • Bristol City Museum and Art Gallery
  • Clifton Suspension Bridge
  • Clifton Down
  • Blaise Castle Estate
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across England promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Bristol. You have 2 nights left in Bristol. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Catch Brunel's Ss Great Britain before the crowds roll in. This instagrammable historic ship is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Bristol City Museum And Art Gallery, a must-visit museum 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 Clifton Suspension Bridge, an interesting monument. For a change of scene, check out Clifton Down, known for its eye-catching features. We also recommend visiting Blaise Castle Estate. This castle is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Bristol by reserving a table at COR. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern british menu. For a different taste experience, head to Bulrush, recognized for its delicious modern british dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Blaise Inn, a local favorite known for its delightful traditional cuisine in Bristol. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for traditional foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Hyde & Co is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Humbug, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Filthy Xiii. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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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Day3

Day 3

  • Bristol
  • Glastonbury
  • Wells
  • Wookey Hole
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Drive 95 km, 2 hours 31 min

  • Chalice Well
  • Glastonbury Abbey
  • Wells Cathedral
  • The Bishop's Palace & Gardens
  • Wookey Hole Caves
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in Bristol, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Bristol, there’s no need to rush. Experience Glastonbury, Wells, and Wookey Hole to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Glastonbury is brimming with adventures.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Glastonbury. This car ride takes around 57 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Chalice Well and explore the serene features. Next, make your way to Glastonbury Abbey, another highlight in Glastonbury.

Set your GPS to Wells and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Wells beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to Wells Cathedral, an underrated church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to The Bishop's Palace & Gardens, where you can soak in the respected surroundings.

When you’ve had your share of Wells, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Wookey Hole. Your travel time is around 12 min.

Savor the day by heading to Wookey Hole Caves, an increasingly popular cave system that draws visitors from near and far.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bristol's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at Rainbow Casino Bristol, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bravas beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Future Inn Bristol Cabot Circus. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bristol tonight.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Bristol
  • Wells
  • Cheddar
  • Brixham
  • Exeter
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Drive 224 km, 3 hours 29 min

  • Mendip Hills AONB
  • Cheddar Gorge and Caves
  • Brixham Harbour
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On day 4 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 Exeter, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Wells’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bristol behind. This drive usually takes around 32 min. Wells welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cheddar may take around 11 min. Upon your arrival in Cheddar, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cheddar Gorge. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the cave system before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brixham. This car ride takes around 1 hour 45 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Brixham Harbour, an interesting marina that everyone visiting Brixham should see.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Last Drop, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, iFood Thai Taste offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Premier Inn Exeter (M5 J29) hotel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Exeter.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Crocketts, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Pig & Pickle Micropub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Angel Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Exeter
  • Tintagel
  • Bodmin
  • More

Drive 245 km, 3 hours 45 min

  • St Nectan's Waterfall
  • Tintagel Castle
  • Bodmin Jail Attraction
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Exeter, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Trethevy, Tintagel, Bodmin, and Trebyan.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Trethevy may take around 1 hour 25 min. Upon your arrival in Trethevy, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

St Nectan's Waterfall is a worthwhile waterfall we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Tintagel. This drive usually takes around 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Tintagel is Tintagel Castle, a notable castle that draws attention for its history-steeped features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bodmin. This drive usually takes around 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Bodmin Jail Attraction is an underrated museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its respected features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Exeter and your accommodation.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mercure Exeter Southgate Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Nando's Exeter - Princess Hay offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cosy Club. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Exeter.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Henry's Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Mill On The Exe offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Cuckoo Taproom And Bottleshop, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Exeter
  • Salcombe Regis
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Drive 162 km, 3 hours 44 min

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

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in England. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Exeter, Salcombe Regis, Seaton, and Northleigh. With 1 night to stay in Exeter, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Let Exeter Cathedral set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this historic church before continuing your journey.

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.

Set your GPS to Salcombe Regis and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Salcombe Regis beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering The Donkey Sanctuary, a worthwhile petting zoo known for its instagrammable features.

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

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

Dine in style at Toby Carvery Exeter, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Old Firehouse boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Harry's Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Exeter.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Boom Battle Bar Exeter, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Brewdog Exeter offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Lucombe Oak. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day7

Day 7

  • 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 7 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, West Lulworth. This car ride takes around 1 hour 47 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Lulworth Cove, a worthwhile beach in West Lulworth. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bovington, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from West Lulworth to Bovington may take around 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bovington, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bristol's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Savor the flavors at Catch22 Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Pieminister beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Milk Thistle. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bristol tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Crown, a prime location for a drink.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!

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Day8

Day 8

  • Bristol - Departure day
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  • Castle Park
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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 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, we recommend visiting Castle Park, Bristol, a romantic park before you head out.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Bristol’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. 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 Bristol.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Wellington, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Eatchu is another top choice with a popular 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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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.
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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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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