9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bournemouth traveling east to Southampton, Birmingham, Milton Keynes, and London

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Photo of Bournemouth garden park in the summer. A lot of people are here for relax with giant balloon.
Photo of the sun rises over the sea at Bournemouth illuminating the clouds and the sea.
9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bournemouth traveling east to Southampton, Birmingham, Milton Keynes, and London
9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bournemouth traveling east to Southampton, Birmingham, Milton Keynes, and London
9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bournemouth traveling east to Southampton, Birmingham, Milton Keynes, and London
9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bournemouth traveling east to Southampton, Birmingham, Milton Keynes, and London
9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bournemouth traveling east to Southampton, Birmingham, Milton Keynes, and London
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Explore the best of England on a remarkable 9-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Bournemouth, Southampton, Salisbury, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Birmingham, Lichfield, Alrewas, Milton Keynes, Leavesden, London, Kensington, and Eton.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in England. You will spend 2 nights in Bournemouth, 1 night in Southampton, 1 night in Birmingham, 1 night in Milton Keynes, and 3 nights in London. 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 Bournemouth, 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Bournemouth, Southampton, Salisbury, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Birmingham, Lichfield, Alrewas, Milton Keynes, Leavesden, London, Kensington, and Eton, 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

  • Bournemouth - Arrival day
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  • Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens
  • More

Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach Bournemouth and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Bournemouth, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the town.

Bournemouth is a beautiful town 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 Bournemouth Parks - Lower Gardens. Taking a stroll in the town 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 Bournemouth. 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 town.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Slug & Lettuce Old Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, a popular restaurant in Bournemouth. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bournemouth at Hermitage Hotel Bournemouth, 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 Bournemouth East (Boscombe) hotel. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bournemouth tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Smokin' Aces - Cocktail Bar & Whiskey Lounge, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Felsons Bournemouth offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Brewdog Bournemouth. 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 9-day road trip in England!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Bournemouth
  • Southampton
  • More

Drive 59 km, 1 hour 13 min

  • St Peter's Church, Bournemouth
  • Bournemouth Oratory
  • Bournemouth Beach
  • Boscombe Pier
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Bournemouth. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Southampton, where you'll spend 1 night.

To truly experience Bournemouth, make sure to drop by St Peter's Church, Bournemouth. This intriguing church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Bournemouth Oratory, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Bournemouth Beach, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Bournemouth. This beach is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Boscombe Pier. Wander around and soak in the awe-inspiring atmosphere this pier offers.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Southampton. Southampton offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Dhaba 59 Sports Bar & Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Southampton. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Blue Island, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Shenanigans. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Southampton this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Oasis Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Hobbit Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook 5 Rivers Sport Bar & Grill, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in England.

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Day3

Day 3

  • Southampton
  • Salisbury
  • Stratford-upon-Avon
  • Warwick
  • Birmingham
  • More

Drive 307 km, 4 hours 20 min

  • Salisbury Cathedral
  • Stonehenge
  • Shakespeare's Birthplace
  • Warwick Castle
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in England, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Salisbury, Stratford-on-Avon, and Warwick are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Birmingham, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you explore Salisbury’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Southampton and set your GPS to Salisbury. 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 41 min. Upon reaching Salisbury, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the day by heading to Salisbury Cathedral, a well-known church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Stonehenge, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings.

After soaking in Salisbury’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stratford-on-Avon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 2 min. When you arrive in Stratford-on-Avon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Shakespeare's Birthplace, a captivating museum known for its instagrammable features.

Warwick’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Stratford-on-Avon behind. This drive usually takes around 19 min. Warwick welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Warwick Castle. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Birmingham. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Birmingham, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a memorable dining experience in Birmingham by booking a table at Purnell's, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Birmingham, Simpsons shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Opheem is known as a top local spot in Birmingham for its delicious indian cuisine. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Equator Bar Birmingham after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bacchus Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Birmingham
  • Lichfield
  • Alrewas
  • Milton Keynes
  • More

Drive 173 km, 2 hours 32 min

  • Beacon Park
  • Lichfield Cathedral
  • National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
  • More

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in England includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Lichfield and Alrewas. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Milton Keynes, where you'll spend 1 night.

After soaking in Birmingham’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lichfield. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 38 min. When you arrive in Lichfield, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Beacon Park. Spend some time admiring the idyllic features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Lichfield Cathedral. This worthwhile church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Alrewas, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Lichfield to Alrewas may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Alrewas, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to National Memorial Arboretum, a notable war memorial that everyone visiting Alrewas should see.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Milton Keynes, 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 Milton Keynes. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at Churros Mexicanos, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Brasserie Blanc boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bistro Live Milton Keynes. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Milton Keynes.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Midsummer Tap Milton Keynes, known for its inviting atmosphere.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Milton Keynes
  • Leavesden
  • London
  • More

Drive 97 km, 2 hours 30 min

  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
  • Hyde Park
  • Buckingham Palace
  • St James's Park
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Leavesden and London. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in London, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in London. This drive usually takes around 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Leavesden is Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, a famous museum that draws attention for its photogenic features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Leavesden and set your GPS to London. 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 47 min. Upon reaching London, 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 Hyde Park, a world-famous park in London. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Buckingham Palace. This globally renowned palace is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, St James's Park is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most serene park in the region.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in London. London 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 London's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day6

Day 6

  • London
  • Kensington
  • More

Drive 18 km, 1 hour 27 min

  • Science Museum
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
  • Borough Market
  • Tower Bridge
  • Tower of London
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Kensington and London. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to London, where you still have 2 nights left to stay.

Awaiting your discovery is the top-rated Borough Market, an eye-catching food market in London. Next, go to Tower Bridge.

After visiting Borough Market and Tower Bridge, have a stroll along London's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Tower Of London. This historic castle offers a unique experience.

Kensington’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of London behind. This drive usually takes around 14 min. Kensington welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Science Museum. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Victoria And Albert Museum. This astonishing museum is a traveler-favorite in the town.

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

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.

Dine in style at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bill's Soho Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Estiatorio Milos. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.

Keep the evening going at Lyaness, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Polski, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Buckingham Arms, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Say good night to London and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!

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Day7

Day 7

  • London
  • More

Drive 13 km, 1 hour 8 min

  • Madame Tussauds London
  • Big Ben
  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • Tate Modern
  • South Bank
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions London has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in London.

South Bank is a fantastic place you can explore today in London. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the London-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

No visit to London is complete without Madame Tussauds London. This impressive wax museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Big Ben, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of London, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to London Eye. This timeless observation deck is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Tate Modern, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Palomar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Clermont London, Victoria offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Berners Tavern. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Merchant House London offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Artesian is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Jin Bo Law is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day8

Day 8

  • London
  • Eton
  • Bournemouth
  • More

Drive 181 km, 2 hours 59 min

  • Trafalgar Square
  • National Gallery
  • British Museum
  • Windsor Castle
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are London and Eton. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bournemouth, where will spend 1 night.

Catch Trafalgar Square before the crowds roll in. This historic public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the heritage-rich features of National Gallery, a must-visit art gallery 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 British Museum, an iconic museum.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to London, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Eton. This drive usually takes around 56 min.

Savor the day by heading to Windsor Castle, a top-rated castle that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bournemouth. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bournemouth. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Aruba, a top-rated dining spot in Bournemouth. If you're in the mood for something new, try Langtry Manor Hotel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Green House. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bournemouth.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Be At One - Bournemouth, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Eden offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bournemouth. The Four Horsemen Pub 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!

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Day9

Day 9

  • Bournemouth - Departure day
  • More
  • Tropical Gardens
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bournemouth 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 Tropical Gardens. This underrated botanical garden is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Bournemouth, Westbourne is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Bournemouth. 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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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.
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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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