The best 8-day road trip in southern England

Do you want to discover cities full of history and bucolic landscapes? So, to get a good overview of the country, here is the best 8-day road trip in the south of England.

This itinerary takes you on the English roads between small so British villages, majestic castles, and pretty seaside resorts. Take a deep breath of fresh air and especially, don't forget to drive on the left!
 

Map of the best 8-day road trip in the south of England

Summary of the road trip in England

Day 1 : London

Welcome to London! It is in the British capital as cosmopolitan as eccentric that your trip to the United Kingdom begins. Although it is possible to spend entire weeks here without ever getting bored, I propose today a selection of must-see places. Indeed, you won't be able to do everything, but I guarantee you won't be left wanting.

To start the visit on a high note, head to the mythical Big Ben and the superb Palace of Westminster. Take the opportunity to admire the beautiful view of the Thames in front of you.

A few steps from here, you can witness the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. A unique moment not to be missed. Since you are nearby, discover Hyde Park, the largest park in central London.

Continue your London walk by Piccadilly Circus. This lively and colorful square is nicknamed London's Times Square. That gives you an idea of the ambiance here. Trafalgar Square is just next door, so don't miss this famous square. Then continue to another symbolic monument of London: the Tower Bridge.

If you are feeling peckish and want to taste a typical English dish, I recommend Soho Hobson’s Fish & Chips and The Mayfair Chippy. You will taste the best fish and chips in the United Kingdom!

Now that you have regained energy, come explore the Tower of London located on the north bank of the Thames. This fortress, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses the British Crown Jewels. At the end of the day, take height in the London Eye, the largest Ferris wheel in Europe. You will enjoy London from a new angle. However, if you are afraid of heights, this attraction may not be for you, because from the top, the view is very impressive…

A tip: England is particularly suitable for road trips. So think about booking a car rental in the United Kingdom to facilitate your movements.

Day 2 : Canterbury (106 km)

Your road trip in England really starts today! After the hustle and bustle of London, head east to reach the beautiful Canterbury in the county of Kent. Famous for its mythical cathedral, this city of undeniable charm is full of surprises. Generally, one day is enough to discover the must-do things here without rushing.

Start first by visiting the superb Canterbury Cathedral. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it will delight lovers of old stones and photography. You can book your tickets online to save time.

Then, do not hesitate to make a detour to the Westgate Gardens. These small, very flowery gardens are really magnificent. The park is also the starting point for punting cruises. These long flat-bottomed boats are ideal for discovering the city along the canals. Right next to it are the Westgate Towers. Climb to the top of the tower to enjoy a beautiful view of Canterbury.

If you do not have the time to visit it, at least make a stop in front of the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge. This very beautiful listed building houses an art museum, a library, and the tourist office. Continue your walk with The Crooked House. This leaning house is indeed worth a glance as it seems it might collapse as it tilts so much.

After doing some shopping in the King’s Mile district, have fun wandering through the alleys of Canterbury, each more photogenic than the last. Do as the locals do and finish the day at The Foundry Brew Pub. This typically English pub is perfect for a beer. It is also possible to visit the brewery and do a tasting.

Calculate the price of your car rental in England

 

Day 3 : Brighton (146 km)

The magic of a road trip is being able to stop wherever you want, whenever you want. So, before arriving in Brighton, don't hesitate to take a break at the Seven Sisters to stroll along the seaside. These impressive limestone cliffs are among the most iconic sites on the English coast with breathtaking views.

Continue on to Brighton to discover a quirky and colorful seaside resort! To appreciate all its shades, start with the Brighton Palace Pier. This large pier jutting into the English Channel is a bit like the Santa Monica Pier of Los Angeles, British version. Rides, slot machines, and cotton candy, both kids and adults will love it.

You can then have a picnic on Brighton Beach's pebble beach or rent a stand-up paddleboard. The hippie-chic neighborhood of North Laine will delight lovers of thrift shops and trendy cafes. To bring back some original souvenirs from your trip to England, you can also make a detour through Brighton's flea market.

As a leading city for street art in the UK, Brighton has numerous murals scattered all around. And if you like unusual attractions, you'll love the Upside Down House. This upside-down house promises a fun time and super original photos.

Don't miss the Royal Pavilion of Brighton either. The striking architecture with Indian accents of this former royal residence will certainly leave you speechless. From the marina, take the Undercliff Walk for a lovely stroll and to breathe in the sea air. Finally, don't leave Brighton without going up the British Airways i360. This 162 m tower offers a 360° panorama over Brighton and its surroundings.

Day 4 : Bath (248 km)

If Bath is on the agenda for today, I highly recommend making two stops before this key destination in your southern England road trip.

The medieval castle of Arundel is on your way, so it would be a shame not to discover it. It has incredible architecture and offers a magnificent bird's-eye view of the surrounding Sussex countryside. Its gardens are also very pretty. Then continue on your way to Stonehenge. This exceptional megalithic site composed of a complex of concentric circular structures will leave you speechless.

It's now time to continue your journey towards Bath. This charming city located in the southwest of England is famous for its historical Roman baths. You can bathe in natural thermal waters, visit museums that display Roman relics, and taste the local cuisine. Don't miss the stunning Bath Abbey either.

To see one of Bath's most famous views, go to Pulteney Bridge. It spans the River Avon that runs through the city. Then have fun wandering the alleyways of downtown Bath. The Corridor gallery is also one of the must-see places in Bath.

The city also has numerous Georgian buildings, notably The Circus and the Royal Crescent, which offer beautiful architecture to discover. Literature fans will not want to miss the Jane Austen Centre. This museum, dedicated to the famous English writer, will provide plenty of fascinating anecdotes about her work.

In the afternoon, treat yourself to a delicious break by honoring the tradition of afternoon tea. I highly recommend these two establishments:

• The Pump Room
• The Bath Bun

For a 100% relaxing moment, don't hesitate to bathe in the warm waters of the Thermae Bath Spa. To avoid crowds, come early in the morning or in the evening.

Day 5 : Bristol (20 km)

Bristol is considered by many as one of the most pleasant cities to live in England. It is famous for its creative vibe, maritime heritage, and incredible cultural scene.

You can discover fascinating museums such as the M Shed, the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, and Aerospace Bristol. Art and music enthusiasts will be spoiled by the numerous events held in the city throughout the year, such as the Bristol International Jazz and Blues Festival and the Bristol Harbour Festival.

You can also explore the Clifton Suspension Bridge, one of the emblems of the city and stroll along the colorful quays of Bristol's harbor then discover the street art of Banksy. If your schedule allows, do not hesitate to visit:

• Old city with its pretty alleyways and old stone houses
• Millennium Square, the main square of downtown
• Castle Park, the green lung of Bristol
• The Cathedral of the Holy and Indivisible Trinity, this Anglican monument of Gothic art
• Gloucester and Lacock, to follow in the footsteps of Harry Potter

Day 6 : Cotswolds (65 km)

Located in the southwest of England, the Cotswolds region is one of England's hidden jewels. With its charming stone villages, green hills, and pretty cottages, this region, which made a fortune in the sheep wool trade during the Middle Ages, is now a true haven of peace.

Highlights include a visit to the village of Bourton-on-the-Water, nicknamed the "Venice of the Cotswolds" for its picturesque stone bridges crossing the River Windrush, as well as a walk in the charming village of Bibury, famous for its quirky thatched stone houses.

You can continue with Cirencester, appreciated for its cozy tea rooms and small shops and the essential village of Castle Combe. If you have the desire and the time, you can also go to the villages of:

• Painswick
• Snowhill
• Broadway
• Chipping Campden
• Upper-Slaughter

The Cotswolds are also famous for their cuisine, especially their delicious cheese and traditional pubs. A visit to this region is the perfect opportunity to relax and discover the authentic charm of rural England.

Day 7 : Oxford (73 km)

Oxford is a historic and university city famous for its renowned universities, medieval buildings, and charming cobbled streets. A visit to Oxford would not be complete without a stroll along the Thames or a visit to the impressive Ashmolean Museum.

Literature fans can visit the famous pubs where J.R.R. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis met or wander through sites that inspired the stories of Harry Potter. Let yourself also be surprised by the magnificent Christ Church College and do not miss the panoramic view of the city from the top of St Mary's church.

Located on the shores of the River Cherwell, the Oxford Botanic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in the United Kingdom. You will find greenhouses cultivating many varieties of exotic plants and flowers. Continue with the Oxford Castle & Prison to admire the remains of this medieval castle.

For a quintessentially English experience, why not try pub crawling? If you're unfamiliar with the term, it actually involves drinking a pint in the best pubs in town. This bar tour will give you the opportunity to discover the iconic ambiance of English pubs.

If you are passionate about history, make a detour north of Oxford. The Blenheim Palace and its English Baroque architecture showcase sculptures and hand-painted ceilings, as well as objects that belonged to the Churchill family.

Day 8 : London (96 km)

The last day of your road trip in the south of England has arrived. Before returning to London, Potterheads will make a detour to the Harry Potter Studio Tour to visit the filming studios of the movies. Both adults and children will love walking in the footsteps of the famous wizard and diving into this magical and bewitching atmosphere. The experience is not cheap, but it is really worth the detour.

Once back in the English capital and if you have time before your flight or train back, stop by Covent Garden. The neighborhood of the former market halls is now known for its original shops, many cafes and restaurants, and its unique atmosphere.

London has not finished amazing you. If you're looking for more activity ideas, here are a few:

• The Soho district
• The Notting Hill district
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• A cruise on the Thames
• The British Museum
• The Tate Modern

It is in one of the most beautiful capitals of the world that this 8-day road trip in the south of England comes to an end. You return home with hundreds of photos and memories and a desire, to come back to visit the north of England or to take a road trip in Scotland !

If you have recommendations or questions about this trip, feel free to share them in the comment area.