Fall in love with England in just 7 days? Absolutely! With so much to see and do, the possibilities are endless. We’ve crafted a balanced 7-day road trip itinerary that covers the best of England, from north to south. Whether you’re exploring historic cities, hiking through stunning landscapes, or soaking up the culture, this itinerary is designed to inspire your next adventure.
Bring on the fun: Day 1 of your 7-day England road trip
Start your journey by driving south from London. Visit the iconic Canterbury Cathedral or head straight to the breathtaking White Cliffs of Dover, the tallest white cliffs in England. For the best views, make your way towards Beachy Head.
Continue along the south coast to Brighton, a vibrant seaside city known for its alternative fashion, underground music scene, and legendary Gay Pride events. Brighton’s hip party vibes and diverse nightlife make it a must-visit for travellers of all ages.
Alternatively, take a scenic detour through the Kent countryside. Stop by Leeds Castle and Battle Abbey before arriving in Brighton for the night.
Day 2: Stonehenge and Bath
On day two, drive through the New Forest to Stonehenge, one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. Spend a couple of hours exploring before heading northwest to Bath. Here, you can visit the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, the elegant Royal Crescent, or the Jane Austen Centre if you’re a literature lover. Stay overnight at a nearby caravan park, such as Baltic Wharf or Brook Lodge Farm.
Day 3: Exploring Oxford
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll and breakfast in Bath. Then, drive through the picturesque Cotswolds, a region famous for its rolling hills, charming villages, and stunning lakes. Your next stop is Oxford, home to the prestigious Oxford University. Don’t miss the chance to tour the historic Bodleian Library or explore the Oxford Botanical Gardens and Pitt Rivers Museum. End your day in Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare.
Day 4: Liverpool, Manchester, or the Lake District?
Start your day in Stratford-upon-Avon, a medieval market town steeped in history. From there, head north to either Liverpool or Manchester. Liverpool is a haven for music lovers, with its Beatles heritage and lively club scene, while Manchester offers vibrant nightlife and shopping.
If you prefer the countryside, skip the cities and drive to the Lake District. Spend the night in Ambleside or the charming lakeside town of Bowness on Windermere, just a 10-minute drive apart. You can even travel between them by boat!
Day 5: Hiking in the Lake District
Today is all about the great outdoors. Wake up early to catch the sunrise and spend the day hiking in the Lake District. Popular trails include the Stockghyll Force Trail in Ambleside or a scenic drive over the Kirkstone Pass to Ullswater.
If you stay another night in the Lakes, enjoy sunset drinks at a local pub with views of Windermere. Alternatively, head north to Hadrian’s Wall for an overnight stop.
Day 6: Literature and History
Spend the morning exploring Hadrian’s Wall or drive through the Pennines to the Yorkshire Dales. Stop in Hawes before visiting Haworth, home of the Brontë Sisters. End your day in York, where you can visit the stunning York Minster and the fascinating National Rail Museum.
Day 7: Cambridge and the Return to London
On your final day, drive south to Cambridge. Hire a punt, grab a bottle of wine, and relax as you glide past the historic colleges. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your road trip before heading back to London.
This 7-day itinerary offers a taste of England’s diverse landscapes and rich history. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, there’s always more to discover. Start planning your next adventure today!
Leave a Reply