day trip ideas south west england

Go South West England

30+ Awesome Places to Visit in South West England

If you’re looking for places to visit in South West England, here are over 30 suggestions!

This day trips in South West England guide will show you some of the best days out in the region.

Mainly focusing on Bristol, Somerset, Devon and Cornwall, there should be a range of places that are accessible from wherever you are based.

Whether you’re looking for cheap day trips, things to do with the family or days out in the South West for couples, we hope you’ll find some inspiration in this blog post!

Table of Contents

Cheap days out in South West England

You don’t have to spend much money to enjoy cheap days out in South West England!

Here are some of the best places to visit in this area of the country, many of them are free!

To the beach!

Going to the beach is one of the best South West England day trip ideas.

What’s more, it’s usually free!

South West England has some of the best beaches in the country.

From the dramatic cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, ending in Exmouth , to the crashing waves of North Devon and Cornwall, to idyllic beaches in South Cornwall, to the family-orientated beaches of Somerset – there’s an expanse of sand for everyone in the West Country .

These beaches do get busy in the summer – especially during school holidays – so try to start your beach day early if you are in peak season. My favourite beaches are Widemouth Bay near Bude in North Cornwall, Woolacombe in North Devon, Lulworth Cove in Dorset and Exmouth in South Devon.

If you’re living in Bristol , you could visit Portishead or Weston-Super-Mare , which are a short drive away. And there are hundreds more!

If you’re into hiking, why not try tackling some – or all – of the South West Coast path?

This is a 630 mile journey travelling from Minehead in Somerset, around Cornwall’s peninsula, to Poole in Dorset.

Trails leave every beach along the way, and you’ll get some epic views even with just a day hike.

Bristol’s free museums

Bristol has a variety of fun and educational free museums, so if you’re visiting the city in the rain and are looking for cheap things to do, here are some ideas!

The M Shed is a museum focusing on Bristol’s distinct culture, its many neighbourhoods, and interesting characters who have made the city what it is.

Arnolfini is an art gallery focusing on contemporary art.

Then you’ve got the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery , and the Georgian House Museum , which is a depiction of a typical Bristol house in the Georgian period, as well as the awful involvement that Bristol had in the slave trade (difficult to learn about, but important to be aware of).

John Wesley’s Chapel is the oldest Methodist building in the world, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge has a small museum detailing the history of the bridge.

The Palestinian Museum and Cultural Centre seeks to educate visitors about Palestinian history and the deep issues that the country still faces today.

Let’s not forget Bristol’s outdoor art gallery too – you can do a self-guided Banksy tour to explore his artwork, or simply walk around Stokes Croft or Southville and enjoy the street art!

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bath

Just down the road from Bristol is the famous city of Bath.

There are plenty of things to do in Bath , a lot of them expensive – but you can see a lot of the city for free as well.

Explore Bath by merely walking around and gazing at the buildings .

Check out the Circus , a perfect circle of houses, and the Crescent – these were designed by the same person and are very symbolic of Bath.

You should also check out Pulteney Bridge and Bath Weir .

Bath Abbey was the site of coronation for the first King of all of England, Edgar , and has some interesting historical features going back to its construction in 1499.

On a clear day, walk up to the Bath Skyline and enjoy a beautiful view of Bath’s many iconic crescents and historic houses below.

Also, enjoy the many parks, like Sydney Gardens and the Royal Victoria Park .

Most museums in Bath are quite expensive, but the Victoria Art Gallery is free to peruse.

Hike on Exmoor, Bodmin, or Dartmoor

South West England has some of the best moorlands in the country.

Exmoor is a coastal national park with some epic cliff views, including the famous Valley of Rocks .

You can also enjoy picturesque villages in the national park, like Porlock and Lynton and Lynmouth .

Dartmoor is close to Plymouth and is one of the most spectacular national parks in the UK.

Look out for Dartmoor ponies, do many of the epic hikes, and visit the charming villages of the area.

If you’re looking for things to do in Cornwall , check out Bodmin Moor .

This wild moor has been the subject of mystical stories for centuries, and now offers a range of waterfalls, expansive moorland and the two highest peaks in Cornwall.

Bodmin town has some interesting attractions as well.

Explore the Mendip or Quantock Hills

As well as moors, the South West has hills! The Mendip Hills are one of the easiest day trips from Bristol , sitting at just 7 miles from the southern edge of the city.

You can do a range of hikes in the Mendips, including a hike to Blackdown (the highest spot in the area) and the charming Three Priddy Droves walk.

The Quantock Hills are located in Somerset, next to Exmoor National Park .

There is a range of short and long walks that you can do in the Quantocks, as well as enjoy this portion of Somerset’s own Jurassic Coast.

Check out my video of the Quantocks below!

Road Tripping Cornwall

If you have your own vehicle, taking a road trip in Cornwall is one of the best cheap days out in South West England.

There are different spots to visit all over Cornwall, so where you drive to will depend on where you are based!

If you’re driving from South Devon, check out Fowey , Looe , and St Austell . From North Devon, you could visit Bude , Boscastle , Tintagel and Port Isaac .

If you’re already in Cornwall, you could visit some of the destinations in the far west of the county.

Try Newquay , St Ives , Penzance , Lands End , Falmouth , and Truro .

Free Attractions in Exeter

If you’re looking for more urban places to visit in South West England, Exeter is a great spot.

It has plenty of free and cheap attractions, so it’s perfect for budget travellers!

Things to do in Exeter include the free Red Coat walking tours which explore different aspects of Exeter’s history, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Art Gallery (also free!), hanging out at the Quayside .

You can also look out for little quirky attractions, including Parliament Street (the narrowest street in Europe) and the House that Moved – a Tudor building that literally moved on train tracks.

Explore Wells and Glastonbury

Wells and Glastonbury are easy to reach from Bristol, Bath, and destinations in Devon and Dorset.

Glastonbury has the famous Glastonbury Tor and the ruins of Glastonbury Abbey , and the quirky shops of Glastonbury High Street .

Wells is the smallest city in the country, and has a majestic Abbey , Vicars Close which is the oldest residential street in the country, as well as local farmer’s markets .

Birdwatching at the Exe Estuary

If you’re living in West Dorset or East Devon, or anywhere on the M5, it’s relatively easy to reach the Exe Estuary .

This part of the river traverses down from Exeter to Exmouth on one side and Dawlish Warren on the other side.

It’s an easy walk along the estuary – it has a great boardwalk as well as lovely beach views.

There are ample birdwatching opportunities , as well as the option to visit Powderham Castle and the Exminster Marshes .

Castles (with English heritage membership)

If you have an English Heritage membership, the castles are some of the best places to go in the Southwest.

Pendennis Castle is near Falmouth in Cornwall and was constructed by Henry VIII. Tintagel Castle , also in Cornwall, has Arthurian legend links.

Totnes Castle is the ruins of a historic motte and bailey fortress, and Dartmouth Castle sits in beautiful settings.

Closer to Bristol is Nunney Castle which dates back from 1370 and St Briavels Castle was built by Edward I and is located in Gloucestershire.

In Dorset, enjoy Portland Castle which was also built by Henry VIII.

Days out in South West for couples

If you’re looking for places to visit in South West England with your other half, you’ll love these romantic days out in Somerset, Devon, Dorset and Cornwall.

Hiking Cheddar Gorge

If you’re a couple who love the outdoors, try visiting Cheddar .

There are loads of activities in Cheddar .

As well as enjoying the charming town and sampling local Cheddar cheese, you can climb up to the top of the gorge on one of the ladders and hike the paths around the gorge.

It’s an easy day out from Bath or Bristol.

Exploring Cotswold villages

There’s nowhere quite as romantic as the Cotswolds. If you’re looking for date ideas near Bristol , take a drive around the charming villages, stopping off at any that take your fancy.

Bourton on the Water is possibly the most popular, with the River Windrush running through. It’s known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ due to its picturesque location.

Stow on the Wold is a small but beautiful market town with historic buildings and dotted with antique shops. It’s largely thought of as one of the most beautiful villages in the Cotswolds.

Bibury is a must-visit; with weaver’s cottages lining the streets and the River Coln meandering through, it’s a photographer’s dream.

Castle Combe is also relatively easy to reach on a day trip from Bristol, especially if you have a car (it’s close to the M4, but feels world’s away!). This storybook village will blow you away.

I also love the tiny but stunning Upper Slaughter and nearby Lower Slaughter .

Bradford on Avon , close to Bath, also deserves a special mention.

This village is in Wiltshire, close to the Somerset border – so it’s one of the best places to go in South West England if you’re coming from further west.

Bradford on Avon has the Bridge Tea Rooms, located in a ‘building that looks like it’s falling down’ (the words of the owner, not mine!) serving up very traditional tea and cake.

The River Avon also runs through, and there are various historical points of interest around the town, which you can learn about more in the Bradford on Avon Museum.

Bath thermae spa and pump house afternoon tea

We’ve covered some free things to do in Bath above, but if you’re looking for Bath date ideas, there’s nothing quite like the wonderful Bath thermae spa.

This spa is the only natural thermal spa in the country, it uses the same hot springs that the Romans discovered.

As well as two pools, there are a range of different steam rooms, and the option for many treatments (some which you can have as a couple).

The rooftop heated pool is probably the best part of the Bath thermae spa – it is kept at a warm temperature throughout the year, meaning that although it is outdoors, it is perfectly comfortable during winter.

After enjoying Bath Spa, you could venture to the nearby Pump House, where you can see the old Roman pump for the baths, try some spring water, and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea (vegetarian and gluten-free options available).

If you’re putting together a Bath itinerary , or just fancy a day out for a spa experience, visiting the Bath Thermae Spa is a must!

Plymouth Gin Tour and Tamar Cruise

Are you a couple who like a drink?

Plymouth Gin is one of the most interesting gin brands in the country, and you can learn all about it at the gin distillery!

A tour includes the history of Plymouth Gin – it is the oldest continuously running gin brand in the country – an explanation of the distilling process, samples of different gins and a complimentary drink in their gin bar.

You could also opt for a special gin experience, which includes making gin yourself!

Exploring the Tamar is another one of the best things to do in Plymouth .

This river separates Cornwall and Devon and has been historically significant throughout the centuries.

You can take a Tamar cruise to see the sites of the river and learn about its history.

Stand Up Paddleboarding date in Bristol, Plymouth, Exmouth – and lots of other places!

There are plenty of places where you can go stand up paddleboarding in South West England – and you don’t even need to be close to the sea!

If you’re putting together a Bristol itinerary for a day, you could take a lesson paddleboarding on the River Avon.

There are also stand up paddleboarding opportunities at the end of the River Exe in Exmouth, various places in Plymouth, and some of the calmer waters in North Devon and on the Jurassic Coast.

Paddleboarding is a really fun activity that you can do as a couple, especially if you’re adventurous types!

Lundy Island

Lundy Island is a rugged island off the shore of North Devon.

It is one of the most unique day trips in South West England; you can do a boat day trip to Lundy Island from Ilfracombe or Bideford.

There’s a range of unique wildlife on Lundy Island. You can go snorkelling with seals, spot puffins and other birdlife, and take a look for wild ponies while you’re hiking!

It’s also got a distinct history and a rather tumultuous past. You can take a ranger tour to learn about this.

Foraging Tour

Are you an outdoorsy couple? Why not learn how to forage? Foreadventure does various foraging tours in Dorset.

You can choose a variety of other activities too, including kayaking, bushcraft, and snorkelling.

Foraging includes hiking along the coast and learning about edible seaweeds and other sea products, as well as exploring the forest and learning about edible leaves and fungi.

Hike or Cycle from Bath to Bristol or Bradford on Avon

If you live near Bath, Bristol, or Bradford on Avon, you can explore the cycle path between them.

This stretch is 26 miles (13 miles between Bristol and Bath, and 13 miles between Bath and Bradford on Avon), and as you hike or cycle along, you’ll enjoy the jolly canal boats, pubs dotting the trail, and beautiful flora and fauna.

It’s one of the cheapest days out in South West for couples, and is a wonderful way to spend a spring or summer’s day!

Lands End Attractions

One of the best places to visit in South West England is without a doubt west Cornwall.

You’ll only be able to enjoy this as a day trip if you’re already in Cornwall (Lands End is still around 2 hours drive from Plymouth), but it’s an epic spot.

Lands End is the southernmost point of the UK, and nearby you can enjoy the coastal Minack Theatre , the epic island St Micheal’s Mount , Geevor Tin Mine , the picturesque visit of Mousehole and the popular tourist town of St Ives .

If you have a car, you can travel to all of these destinations in a day and enjoy one of the most unique parts of the country.

Hot Air Balloon Ride in Bristol

Riding in a hot air balloon is one of the most unique things to do in Bristol .

The Bristol balloon fiesta occurs in August each year when the sky is dotted with various hot air balloons.

You can also take to the skies in them yourself, and this is one of the most romantic things to do in the South West.

Bristol Balloons have several group flights a week from Ashton Court, with shared balloons costing £135 and exclusive baskets costing from £325.

It’s obviously not cheap, but it’s definitely one of the best things to do in South West England!

Family days out in South West England

If you’re visiting with little ones, there are plenty of options for family days out in South West England.

From theme parks to sports to educational museums, there are lots of activities that families will enjoy in this part of the country.

Here are some of the best places to visit in South West England with kids!

Fossil Hunting on the Jurassic Coast

As the name suggests, the Jurassic Coast dates back from the Jurassic era, due to the ancient rocks that have been found along the coast.

However, there are also fossils from. the Triassic and Cretaceous periods.

Fossil hunting along this coastline is a wonderful family-friendly activity.

Charmouth and Lyme Regis are some of the easiest places to go fossil hunting in Dorset.

However, if you don’t know what you’re doing, it’s best to go with a guide first.

Visit the Lyme Regis Museum or the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre, which offer regular guided walks along the coast.

Wookey Hole

The Wookey Hole Show Caves are one of the best days out in South West England for families.

With one ticket, you can explore the caves and 20 other attractions, including the Dinosaur Valley, Pirates of the River Axe and the Wizard’s Play Castle.

There is something at Wookey Hole for all ages, but it is particularly suitable for younger children.

Weston Super Mare Attractions

Weston Super Mare reigns supreme when it comes to family-friendly activities.

Its famous pier has everything from fairground rides to candyfloss stalls, all with the backdrop of the Somerset coastline.

There’s often live music from local and nationally famous musicians too.

Weston Super Mare is one of the longest naturally occurring beaches in the UK, so there’s plenty of sand for other beachy activities!

We the curious and SS Great Britain in Bristol

Bristol has some excellent museums that are great for people of all ages, including kids.

We The Curious is Bristol’s science museum, with some fantastic interactive exhibits.

The SS Great Britain is great for older kids – as well as a museum about the boat itself and its engineer Brunel, the ship has been renovated to replicate it as a migrant clipper.

It’s one of the best things to do in Bristol in winter too!

If you’re looking for more family-orientated museums, Bath is just a 13-minute train ride from Bristol (see my post on how to get to Bath for more information!) and has the world-class Roman Baths , which is one of the best ways to learn about Roman history in the country.

Surfing on the northern coast of Devon or Cornwall

There are plenty of beautiful places to visit in North Devon and Cornwall, including dozens of striking beaches.

The waters on these beaches are excellent for surfing – which is one of the best things to do in South West England if you have older, sporty kids!

From Woolacombe in North Devon to Newquay in Cornwall, there are plenty of surf schools with lesson suitable for children and adults.

Visit the English Riviera and its range of attractions

The English Riviera, which is also called Torbay and consists of the towns of Torquay, Paignton, Babbacombe and Brixham, has some of the best family attractions in the South West.

If your kids are adventurous, they might want to try some of the rides on the historic Paignton Pier .

There’s also Kents Cavern, which is a network of Prehistoric caves.

In Babbacombe, there is the Babbacombe Cliff Railway and Babbacombe Model Village .

In Torquay, there are some beautiful gardens, and of course, there are plenty of beaches throughout the whole area, with lots of watersports opportunities. Check out all of the best things to do in Torquay here.

The Eden Project

The Eden Project is one of the best day trips South West England has to offer.

It consists of two large biomes, one which replicates a tropical rainforest inside and one which replicates a Mediterranean climate.

At the Eden Project, you’ll be able to walk through the jungle, enjoy Mediterranean flora and explore a Cornish garden.

There’s lots of information about all of the climates at the Eden Project, so it’s great for walking around slowly to absorb all of the information.

If you’re looking for places to visit in South West England with kids (although it’s great for adults too!), it’s a great option that is day trip-able from Cornwall destinations, Plymouth, and Exeter.

Cornish Seal Sanctuary

In the small village of Gweek is the Cornish Seal Sanctuary .

Gweek is quite far west in Cornwall, but if you are on a holiday in Cornwall it is an excellent option.

The seal sanctuary rescues injured seals and nurses them back to health, before releasing them into the wild.

Occasionally, the seals are too sick or injured to be released, but they are offered a permanent home at the sanctuary.

Sometimes, you can see rescued seals at the hospital and you can also go to the pools to see the seals who live there.

There are also penguins and sea lions, who have been offered a home here after being injured elsewhere.

It’s one of the best day trips in South West England if you have kids, but it’s great for adults too!

Devon and Cornwall Adventure Parks

Because Devon and Cornwall are popular with tourists, there are a variety of small theme parks in the counties.

The Milky Way Adventure Park is the largest theme park in North Devon, located near Clovelly, all with a galactic theme. On the Cosmic Typhoon Rollercoaster, there are spectacular views of both Exmoor and Dartmoor.

In South Devon, there’s Crealy . This theme park has the most rides in Devon, and it’s especially good for younger children.

Helston in Cornwall has Flambards Adventure Park , which has plenty of rides and rollercoasters suitable for all ages! There are plenty of other Helston attractions too.

Visiting Stonehenge is a unique experience in the UK for both children and adults.

Close to Bath and Bristol, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a great place to learn about Britain’s ancient history.

There’s a small exhibition close to the stone circle, which is great to help children get an education in the topic.

During school holidays, they have special activities and events for children.

Best things to do in South West England

Whether you’re looking for cheap places to visit in South West England, attractions with kids, or things to do in South West England as a couple, this comprehensive list should have given you some inspiration!

I have plenty of posts about all of these places on the blog, so do stay and browse for more information, and feel free to follow my Facebook page for daily South West England travel updates!

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The Ultimate 2 Week South West England Road Trip Itinerary

01 apr 2024 29 mar 2024 | dan.

Explore quaint villages, medieval castles, ancient places and spectacular coastlines with our epic 2 week, self-drive south west England road trip itinerary. Starting and finishing in London, this is a looping drive to Cornwall and back via the beautiful counties of Surrey, Hampshire, Dorset, Devon, Somerset and Wiltshire.

England, with its beautiful rolling landscapes and winding country lanes, is made for road tripping. But where to even start?   

We’ve been pulling out the old AA road map and exploring English laneways for years now, and we still find the sheer diversity of towns and villages, landscapes, historical sites (and old pubs!) makes putting together any kind of England road trip itinerary a special kind of torture. We just want to see and do everything. 

The south west of England is a case in point. It is quite literally packed with the kinds of destinations and experiences that make for an unforgettable road trip.  

Quaint medieval villages? Too many to count. Ancient sites? The highest concentration in western Europe. World Heritage? All kinds, from ancient mines, neolithic standing stones and two-thousand-year-old Roman baths, to a stunning coastline with a unique geological and fossil story. 

You’ll also find sweeping coastal landscapes and moors scattered with granite tors and traces of structures built by ancient people in a distant past. Moody castles and abbey ruins that whisper of bygone heydays. And of course, a virtually endless choice of cosy old pubs where you can nurse a pint of ale under the low rafters and imagine what the walls would say if they could talk.  

What it all adds up to is a looping road trip from London to Cornwall and back that’s something of a tour de force.

This itinerary packs a lot in, but it’s designed as an introduction to this wonderful corner of the country. It takes on board our own learnings and experiences, and has evolved as we’ve visited and revisited these areas. Ultimately, this itinerary showcases what we reckon are some of the very best places to visit in south west England.  

Our itinerary takes two weeks, but you could certainly make it longer and slower by giving more days to any of the places it includes.  

If you have only one week, we would suggest leaving the Cornwall road trip component of this itinerary for next time. Or do the opposite and focus all your time there instead – it’s a magical place. 

Read on for our day-by-day, self-drive south west England itinerary, and our top take-outs and tips for a road trip you won’t soon forget. 

South West England Road Trip Itinerary Snapshot Start & Finish: London Heathrow, United Kingdom  Distance: At minimum, around 1,350km (840 miles) How long do I need ? This is a jam-packed 2 week looping road trip from London Heathrow, travelling to Cornwall and back via the English counties of Hampshire, Dorset, Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Wiltshire.  Overnight stops: 1 night in Winchester, 1 night in Lyme Regis, 1 night in Dartmouth, 2 nights in Porthleven, 2 nights on the Penwith peninsula (eg. Penzance or St Ives), 1 night in Padstow, 1 night in Tintagel, 1 night in Exeter, 1 night in Wells and 2 nights in Bath.  

What’s in this post?

What’s the route? Day 1 – London to Winchester Day 2 – Winchester to Lyme Regis along the Jurassic Coast Day 3 – Lyme Regis to Dartmouth via Exeter Day 4 – Dartmouth to Porthleven via Polperro Day 5 – Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall Day 6 – Penwith Peninsula, Cornwall Day 7 – Penwith Peninsula, Cornwall Day 8 – St Ives to Padstow, Cornwall Day 9 – Port Isaac & Tintagel, Cornwall Day 10 – St Nectan’s Glen, Boscastle & Bodmin Moor, Cornwall Day 11 – Wells & Glastonbury Day 12 – Bath Day 13 – Castle Combe, Lacock Abbey & Bath Day 14 – Bath to London via Stonehenge Planning a South West of England Road Trip Getting to London Best time to visit south west England Where to stay in the south west Driving and renting a car in England

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What’s the route?

Our starting point for this south west England road trip itinerary is London Heathrow Airport, which is to the west of central London.  

This is a convenient launchpad as there are extensive car hire options at Heathrow and it’s close to the M25 motorway, which is the first major road we’ll be taking as we head into the south west of England.  

You could also start this road trip at Gatwick Airport to the south of London. There are plenty of car hire options here too. 

You’ll need a car for this itinerary, so unless you plan to drive your own car, you’ll need to rent one. We use Rentalcars.com and Discover Cars to search for and hire cars and we suggest checking prices on both to find the best deal you can.

Over two weeks, you’ll make a looping road trip from London through the counties of Hampshire, Dorset, Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Wiltshire.  

You’ll drive through picturesque country lanes visiting castles, abbeys and cathedrals, medieval villages, neolithic and Bronze Age sites, ancient places, World Heritage sites, all while immersing in spectacular coastal and countryside scenery.  

There’s a huge amount to see throughout this journey. We’ve cherrypicked what we feel are among the best sites and scenery in each region, to give you a feel for these places and the wonderful diversity of landscapes, history and culture of south west England.  

This road trip through the south west of England is one of the entries on our  Bucket List of 100 Ultimate Road Trips Around the World . Check out what else is on the list  here .

Our 2 Week South West England Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – london heathrow to winchester.

Highlights: Farnham Castle | Waverley Abbey | Winchester historic centre   Total driving distance :  appx . 100km (62 miles) assuming a Heathrow starting point   Total driving time:   appx. 1.5 hours   Overnight:  Winchester  

Let’s hit the road! There are two historic stops on this first morning of our south west England road trip, as you travel from London to the ancient city of Winchester. 

Once you’ve collected your hire car, set your GPS for today’s first stop, Farnham Castle.  

If you’re coming from London Heathrow, you’ll head south on the M25 (the London orbital road) to the M3, where you’ll head west. If you’re coming from London Gatwick, take the M25 north west to the A3 and then head west. 

If you’re travelling from somewhere else, make Farnham Castle your starting point. 

Farnham Castle

Our first stop is  Farnham Castle , an impressive motte and ‘shell keep’ ruin attached to a beautifully preserved medieval house in Surrey.

It usually opens from 9am on weekdays and 10am on weekends, but check ahead before you visit as this can vary. Time your arrival for opening, or head into the charming little village for a coffee first.

Farnham Castle was home to Winchester’s bishops in the 12th and 13th centuries, and it’s been occupied almost ever since.  

If you’re lucky, you’ll have the ruins and their wonderful views all to yourself as we did. Even the ghostly presence rumoured to hang around the old stones had better things to do on the day we visited. 

Waverley Abbey

Just 10 minutes down the road, and well worth the detour, are the wonderfully evocative ruins of Waverley Abbey .  

The site is free and open during daylight hours. Park at the abbey carpark and head through the nearby field for around 5 minutes to the ruins. 

Spread out over the field next to the pretty River Wey, this ambient site was home to the first Cistercian monastery in Britain, founded in the early 12th century. Today you’ll see the fine stone remains of a vaulted refectory and surrounding buildings. 

Keep an eye out also for the famous Waverley Yew , a vast tree that’s been standing sentinel here for around 500 years.  

Travel tip : We recommend bringing decent and durable outdoor shoes for this road trip. They’ll come in handy almost immediately for this walk across the field to the abbey ruins, especially if it’s been raining. While we were delighted by this site, we were less so with the state of our shoes afterwards . It was a sentiment that carried through our entire trip, but muddy shoes is usually par for course when exploring the great outdoors in England.

From the abbey, it’s an easy 45-minute drive to Winchester . This important cathedral city was established as King Alfred the Great’s ancient capital of Wessex in the 9th century, and it remained England’s premier town until the Normans arrived in 1066.  

The history here goes back thousands of years, and the city is imbued with a sense of this long and varied past.

If you’re craving lunch by this stage, park up in one of the city’s paid public carparks (we generally use Google maps to search for car parks) and either pick up something to go on the high street, or head to our favourite spot, The Bishop on the Bridge pub, for lunch on the terrace by the river. You’ll find the city’s large statue of Alfred the Great just nearby.    

After lunch, set off on an afternoon meander around the main sites and highlights of the old town. You can go self-guided as we did with this downloadable City Walk .

If you’d like to discover the city with a real guide, this 2-hour guided tour departs daily at 10am. You’d just need to head straight to Winchester this morning to be there in time.

Or tonight, for something quirky and different, why not get out with a guide for a tour of the city’s darker side on this ghost walk .

Highlights of Winchester include the awe-inspiring Winchester Cathedral (it has a charming little Christmas market that we recommend visiting if you’re around in December), the impressive ruins of Wolvesey Castle , and the medieval Great Hall with its Arthurian-inspired round table hanging on the wall. 

Travel tip: There’s plenty to do and see in Winchester, and while our itinerary spends just an afternoon and evening here, you might consider staying longer and exploring more. Or return another time – Winchester is a great short road trip from London.

Where to stay in Winchester

You have plenty of options across the board in and around Winchester, from budget chain hotels on the city outskirts to charming pub stays right in the historic centre.

We stayed at the lovely Bugle Inn at Twyford, 10 minutes’ drive from Winchester. The breakfast was great and there was parking on site.

The following centrally located stays also get great reviews, though check the parking situation with the accommodation provider.

• Good value: The Westgate – modern rooms in historic pub | clean and quiet | close to historic centre
• Mid-range: The Old Vine – characterful rooms | great breakfast | central location
• Spend a bit more: Hotel du Vin Winchester – brightly decorated | comfortable rooms | Well located

Day 2 – Winchester to Lyme Regis along the Jurassic Coast

Highlights: Old Harry Rocks | Corfe Castle | Durdle Door | West Bay | Lyme Regis  Total driving distance : appx. 200km (125 miles)       Total driving time: appx. 3.5 to 4 hours   Overnight: Lyme Regis

On Day 2 of our south west UK road trip itinerary, you’ll be exploring some of the highlights of England’s spectacular  Jurassic Coast . 

Named for the extraordinary geological record packed into its landscape, rock layers and fossils, the natural history captured within this 150km (95 mile) stretch of coast spans 185 million years.

The Jurassic Coast is so geologically important, it’s been listed as World Heritage. It sweeps westward from Old Harry Rocks near Swanage in Dorset, to Orcombe Point in Exmouth, Devon. 

Aim to start early as our itinerary packs a lot in today. If you want to slow the pace or spend more time in some places, consider skipping some of the stops below.  

If you’re into fossils, check the tide times and aim to get to Lyme Regis earlier today so you can max your time exploring the beach (which is tide dependent) and the museums there. 

Old Harry Rocks

The striking, chalky stacks of  Old Harry Rocks are our first stop today, and your first opportunity to stretch your legs on a very small section of England’s famous South West Coast Path. 

You’ll need to make an early start as it’s around 90 minutes’ drive from Winchester along the A31 to this easternmost point of the   Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site .  

Once you’ve parked up at the National Trust South Beach car park in Studland, you have a couple of options, depending on your energy levels.  

You can head straight out along the signposted trail (head past the Bankes Arms Inn and turn left at the public toilets) directly to Old Harry Rocks. It’s a walk of around 20 minutes out to the lookout. This is what we did.  

If you’d like a longer wander to take in this impressive time-worn coastline, continue on once you’ve reached the lookout and follow the Old Harry Rocks Walk in a 5.6km loop back to the car park. Set aside a couple of hours if you intend to do this (and look to skip some of today’s subsequent stops).  

If you’d prefer to take in the scenery without breaking a sweat, head to Knoll Beach Café at Studland and enjoy views of Old Harry Rocks with a cuppa. It’s open from 9.30am. 

Another option, and one we’d like to go back and do sometime, is to get out on the water and see the coastline on this boat tour . If you’re keen to do this, make your way from Winchester directly to The Quay in Poole this morning as that’s where the boat trip departs from.

Corfe Castle

To get to our next destination, you’ll take the same route out that you came in on to Old Harry Rocks. Keep an eye out on the way for signs to Corfe Castle.  

Perched dramatically on a hill, Corfe has been watching over the countryside in one form or another for over a thousand years. It looks every bit as old as it is. 

The castle’s dark history of murder, siege and treachery lends the collapsed hunks of stone and brick a strong sense of melancholy, especially on a day as grey and gloomy as when we visited. If ghosts hang out anywhere, they hang out here. 

In our opinion, this is one of the most hauntingly evocative ruins in England and among our favourite castle ruins on this trip. It’s a must for a south west England itinerary. 

Corfe Castle is managed by the National Trust and there’s an entry fee. It’s open daily between 10am and 4.30-5pm.

Durdle Door

Half-an-hour to the west of Corfe Castle is another spectacular geological showcase of the Jurassic Coast, the quirkily named Durdle Door.  

It sounds like the gateway to somewhere magical, and being on the Jurassic Coast, it really is. Durdle Door is an impressive limestone arch at the head of crystal clear waters and a lovely crescent of beach. Striking white chalk cliffs rise and fall away to the west. 

It’s a steep 15 minute walk from the carpark down to the beach, but worth it if the weather is nice. Otherwise, you could enjoy the view from above the beach and walk along the cliff path. If you hike east for 30 minutes, you’ll reach the lookout over pretty Lulworth Cove . 

Durdle Door is near the village of West Lulworth. There’s a paid carpark which you can reach via the holiday park, and coastal walking tracks weaving off in both directions. Just be aware that this is a highly popular spot in summer and holiday periods and it may be difficult to find parking at those times.  

The weather wasn’t awesome when we stopped by Durdle Door, so we were content to make this a short stop, take some pics and go for a brief wander along the clifftop trail. If you’d like to spend longer here, skip the next stop at West Bay.  

A further 50 minutes’ drive around the Jurassic Coast will bring you to West Bay , a seaside village that doubled as the town of Broadchurch in the binge-worthy crime drama (the UK version).  

A popular seaside holiday spot in summer, West Bay (which is also known as Bridport Harbour) was very quiet when we visited in the late wintertime. The sea was choppy and chocolate-milky but it certainly didn’t diminish the Jurassic Coast view we came here to see.  

West Bay’s striking east cliff is a sheer, mustard-coloured sandstone rise, and could not be more different from the white chalk cliffs of this morning. 

If you’re lunching here, pop by one of the fish and chip kiosks if they’re open, or settle in for a traditional ploughman’s lunch in one of the town’s seaside pubs as we did. 

Travel tip: English pubs generally finish their lunch service at 3pm, although hours can vary on weekends, especially Sundays. Lunching in a quaint village pub is a quintessential feature of an England road trip, so this is a critical piece of information when you’re planning your day, especially on packed days like this one. Despite having lived in the UK on and off for years, we still turn up at pubs looking for a late-arvo bite to eat, only to find we’re too late. If it looks like you’re going to be pushed for time, aim for a high street bite instead.

Monmouth Beach, Lyme Regis

Our next stop is 25-minutes down the road from West Bay. Monmouth Beach  is in Lyme Regis , which is world-renowned for its Jurassic Coast fossil treasure-trove and the pioneering work of palaeontologist Mary Anning.  

If you’re into fossils and dinosaurs, you’ll want to give yourself more time here today so you can join a fossil tour and visit the museums. 

First up, head to Lyme Regis Museum for a full immersion in the local fossil world. Guided fossil walks on the beach can also be organised through the museum, lasting around 2.5 hours.  

A couple of minutes away, there’s also the Dinosaurland Fossi l Museum , which has thousands of fossils on display.  

Both museums have entry fees and varying opening hours, particularly during winter, so be sure to check their websites before visiting. 

We missed the fossil walking tour sadly, but spent a happy hour on the beach anyway, trailing through the pebbles searching for fossils, which emerge and trickle down from the eroding cliffs above.  

There’s also a very cool ‘ammonite graveyard’ here, which you can see at low tide around 15 minutes’ walk west of the carpark along the beach. Just be sure to check tide times before you visit and don’t attempt the walk while the tide is up.

If you’re interested in learning a little more about Lyme Regis, check out this self-guided smartphone heritage walk .

Where to stay in Lyme Regis

Lyme Regis is only small but there are a number of accommodations both in the town and in the surrounding countryside. The following stays get great reviews:

• Good value: Shepherds Hut – tiny home in rural setting | good facilities | free parking
• Mid range: High Tides – on the beach | renovated apartment in historic building | parking nearby
• Spend a bit more: Dower House Hotel – elegant and spacious rooms |excellent breakfast | onsite parking

Alternatively, if you’d prefer a larger range of choice for stays and dinner, you could continue on to the city of Exeter, about an hour’s drive to the west. This is what we did, staying at the Leonardo Hotel Exeter close to the city centre. With hindsight though, we would have preferred to stay in Lyme Regis on this night rather than make another hour long drive after dark, hence we’ve adjusted this itinerary.

Day 3 – Lyme Regis to Dartmouth via Exeter

Highlights: Exeter Cathedral | Exeter historic centre | Totnes Castle | Dartmouth village | Dartmouth Castle   Total driving distance: appx. 120km (75 miles)   Total driving time: appx. 2 hours 15 minutes   Overnight: Dartmouth

This morning, you’ll be exploring the cathedral city of Exeter, so make your way there after breakfast. It’s around an hour from Lyme Regis. 

Park up in one of the city’s central car parks. These are generally pay and display parking spaces. If you’re visiting during peak periods, there’s also a park and ride option for Exeter. 

Exeter’s history goes back to Ancient Roman Britain, when this was a legionary military base on the edge of the Roman Empire.  

The 12th century Exeter Cathedral was built during the city’s religious heyday and is one of the oldest in south west England. It’s an absolute must while you’re here. Be sure to head inside to see the cathedral’s magnificent ceiling, it’s the longest stretch of unbroken Gothic vaulting in the world. 

Spend this morning exploring Exeter’s historic streets and sites. There are several self-guided walks you can do, which bring the city’s story to life through its ancient walls, its medieval period and the wool trade that brought it great wealth in the 17th century.  

There’s also this fun, self-guided smartphone heritage walk you can do at your own pace.

Alternatively, a range of free 90 minute guided tours run each day from the Cathedral green.  

Totnes Castle

Our ultimate destination today is Dartmouth, but en route, you’ll be making a brief stop in the quirky market town of Totnes. It’s a 45 minute drive south west of Exeter. 

Totnes dates back to Saxon times. Today, it’s known for its large artistic community, and thousand-year-old Totnes Castle , which is the focus of our visit. 

This tiny hilltop fortress is renowned as one of the best preserved examples of a Norman motte (hill) and bailey (lower yard) earthworks still in existence. 

Climb up to the stone keep and you’ll be rewarded with captivating views over the valley to the River Dart, and a garderobe (a medieval loo) still in situ. Wander the bailey below and keep an eye out for the tree graffiti left by prisoners held on site during WWII.  

Totnes Castle is managed by English Heritage and there’s a fee to enter. There is pay and display parking nearby.  

The Castle is open daily from 10am to 5pm, but it’s only open on weekends during the winter months. If you’re travelling in winter and today is a weekday on your itinerary, skip this stop and make straight for Dartmouth. It’s a 30 minute drive south. 

Sitting pretty at the head of the River Dart, the town of Dartmouth is a lovely little spot to while away this afternoon and evening.  

Dartmouth was once an important fishing and trading port, and two medieval forts stand vigil at the entrance to the Dart Estuary to this day: Kingswear Castle and Dartmouth Castle . The latter is lauded as one of England’s most picturesque fortifications and it’s one of the showpiece castles of our south west England road trip.   

There’s a paid car park close to the river and town centre. There’s also a cheaper park and ride option just outside of town, however the shuttle between the car park and town doesn’t run between November and late March (it’s around 30 minutes to walk to town).  

Dartmouth’s cute little central streets are worth a wander, and there are a couple of self-guided town trails you can follow for an intro to the local history. The Castle Trail will take you along a section of the South West Coast Path from town to  Dartmouth Castle .  

The Castle’s passages and walkways offer stunning views and fascinating insights into its defensive history right up till WWII, including the set-up for the huge chain that could once be pulled up to block off the estuary mouth.  

The site is managed by English Heritage, has a fee for entry and is open daily, except for the winter months, when it’s only open on weekends – check ahead if you’re keen to go inside.  

If you’re visiting outside of winter, you can jump on the Castle Ferry for a 10 minute river cruise back to town. If you’d like to get out on the water for longer, there are a couple of other river boating options departing from town, like the one-hour Greenway Ferry river cruise. 

The Great Sc one Debate   It’s a requirement of this itinerary that as you pass through Devon, you search out that most quintessential of English afternoon traditions: the cream tea. There are various places in Dartmouth you can stop for tea and scones, including the Dartmouth Castle Tearooms.   As you pay homage to the humble scone, consider this: there’s a very real divide in the UK about the etiquette of the cream tea, and whether jam or cream goes on the scone first.    In Devon, where cream tea is believed to have originated, the Devonshire tea tradition has cream on first followed by jam. Over the border in Cornwall, however, you put the jam on first then the cream.    We personally follow the Cornish tea tradition. Not that we’d quibble if it came out the other way. Try it both ways and you decide!  

Where to stay in Dartmouth

Dartmouth is a small but popular town, especially in peak periods, and accommodation prices can reflect it.  

We actually drove on for another couple of hours when we did this trip, but it was too much for one day. Hence we suggest staying in or around Dartmouth tonight. We’ve included a couple of local stays with great reviews below: 

• Good value: St Elmo House – comfy rooms and beds | short walk to centre | street parking
• Mid-range: The Ship in Dock Inn – colourful rooms in historic building | central location | parking permits provided
• Spend a bit more: Harbourside 3 – modern rooms | overlooks river | free parking

Day 4 – Lizard Peninsula via Polperro, Cornwall

Highlights: Polperro | Truro Cathedral | Royal Cornwall Museum | Gweek Seal Sanctuary   Total driving distance: appx. 190km / 118 miles   Total driving time: appx. 3.5 hours   Overnight: Porthleven   

Today you’ll cross into Cornwall, starting with the charming fishing village of Polperro and then spending the afternoon and all day tomorrow on the Lizard peninsula, known simply as The Lizard .  

This wedge of land is one of the highlights of Cornwall, and a must-visit on our south west England road trip itinerary. Plus, the best way to experience this ruggedly beautiful stretch of Cornwall coastline is on foot. So having a couple of days in this area gives you more time out of the car, so you can get a proper feel for this wild corner of the country.

Travel tip: Take note today as you drive the bridge over the River Tamar on the western edge of Plymouth. This is the ancient eastern boundary of Cornwall, set by King Athelstan in the mid-10th century to separate the feisty Celtic people in that part of the island from the newly united state of Wessex.   Speak to a Cornish person today and you may find sentiment isn’t much changed. As one local character told us over a beer in the historic Blue Anchor Inn at Helston, ‘This is Cornwall. Not England’.

Polperro is a good 1.5-hour drive from Dartmouth so aim to set out early. This is a designated conservation area and, for us, it really does feel like wandering into another, older time. Winding lanes and charming stone cottages snuggle around a wee harbour where swans nap between the boats at low-tide. 

You’ll need to leave your car at the paid public car park at the top of the village and make the 10-minute stroll down to the harbour along the canal and cute houses.  

Once there, wander the pretty streets , look out for the Roman Bridge , and learn more about the history of this fishing village and former smuggler’s haunt at the tiny Harbour Museum , located in what was once the town’s busy pilchard factory (it’s closed over winter).  

If you’re up for some lunch before moving on, then this is a great spot to sample another classic England tradition: fish and chips. There are some quaint old pubs in Polperro and we enjoyed a delicious pile of fish, chips and peas at the oldest of them, The Three Pilchards .

Our next stop is an hour’s drive from Polperro along the A30. Believe it or not, there’s only one actual city in Cornwall, and Truro is it. This is effectively the region’s capital and while it’s far from the madding crowds of London, it’s still busier than most places you’ll visit on this road trip.  

Still, Truro makes a good spot to stretch your legs en route to The Lizard, particularly if you like a good cathedral and a museum showcasing the history of the area you’re exploring. Truro has both.  

We were able to find a space at the paid Old Bridge Street Car Park, which is right around the corner from Truro Cathedral . This soaring gothic revival church was built in the late 1800s and has three spires, just one of three in the UK to do so.   

Up the road you’ll find the Royal Cornwall Museum , which has a small but interesting collection of finds documenting Cornwall’s journey from prehistory to the industrial era. There are some other exhibitions in here too, including a random but quirky little Egyptian space with a mummy. There’s a fee to get in but it lasts a year. 

Our final destination today is Porthleven and you’ll spend the next two nights here as you explore the Lizard peninsula.

Apparently ‘The Lizard’ comes from a Cornish phrase, ‘Lys Ardh’, referring to the area’s high cliffs, rather than any resident fauna or land shape. En route though, you will be making a stop to meet some local wildlife of a different kind.  

Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Gweek

When we were planning to road trip south west England, we spotted a town on the map called ‘Gweek’. Of course we had to go there. What we found was the Cornish Seal Sanctuary and we’re forever grateful. 

The sanctuary is a rescue centre for rehabilitating sick and injured seal pups. It’s a delightful place to linger, set on 40 acres by the picturesque River Helford .  

In addition to plenty of opportunities to see and learn about the recovering and resident seals, including underwater viewing areas, it offers peaceful woodland walks by the tidal estuary. As of early 2024, the centre also has baby beavers!  

The sanctuary is open every day from 11am to 4pm (last admissions at 3pm) and it’s advisable to book in advance . You’ll save on the ticket price if you book at least 2 days ahead. 

Blue Anchor Inn, Helston

By now, it’s definitely beer o’clock and while you’re in this area, we highly recommend a visit to the Blue Anchor Inn in Helston.  

The Blue Anchor is Cornwall’s oldest pub and it’s a little warren of low-ceilinged rooms with a properly ancient feel. We’ve spent a couple of memorable evenings here yarning with locals. 

The onsite brewery has been in operation since the 15th century and is renowned for its medieval ‘Spingo Ales’. Our favourite is the rich and smooth ‘Middle’ ale but if you like beer then by all means, try them all (unless you’re driving, in which case, get a takeaway so you can try it later). 

Afterwards, move on to your overnight stay in the lovely little fishing village of Porthleven , a 7 minute drive down the road. 

Where to stay in Porthleven

Wee little Porthleven has a clutch of accommodations tucked into the streets around the harbour. More options can be found in nearby Helston and in the surrounding area. We suggest the following stays, they all have great reviews.  

• Good value: No 52 bed and breakfast (Helston) – on the high street | nicely decorated rooms | great breakfast (we’ve stayed here and it was a convenient overnighter, with parking a 5 minute walk away or free overnight street parking right outside if you can swing luck and timings. It’s also virtually next door to the Blue Anchor Inn – no excuse not to try those Spingo ales!) 
• Mid-range: Harbour Inn (Porthleven) – historic pub stay | right on the quay | really friendly staff (we’ve also stayed here and love the location; we parked in the Kitto’s Field Long Stay Car Park, a 2 minute walk away) 
• Mid-range: The Artist Loft (Porthleven) – comfy beds | very short walk to harbour | free parking 
• Spend a bit more: Housel Bay Hotel (The Lizard) – If you’re after something special, have a look at this grand hotel. We hiked past it on the Lizard loop walk (see tomorrow’s itinerary) and we’ll be back one day to stay. It’s perched high above the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic and offers direct access to the South West Coast Path. It has a minimum 2 night stay and parking onsite. 

Day 5 – Lizard Peninsula

Highlights: Porthleven Harbour | Kynance Cove | Lizard Point | Lizard loop walk | Halliggye Fogou   Total driving distance: appx. 45km (28 miles)     Total driving time : appx. 1 hour 15 minutes   Overnight: Lizard Peninsula (Porthleven or Helston)

Day 5 of our south west England road trip has you exploring more of the spectacular coastal landscapes of Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall. 

Start your morning with an early stroll around Porthleven harbour . This is the UK’s most westerly port and, with its 19th century inner walls, is an important safe harbour on a coastline notorious for shipwrecks over the centuries. 

The creation of the harbour also unintentionally turned Porthleven into one of the UK’s best surf spots. We stopped for a bit to watch some hardy souls braving the freezing swells crashing onto the harbour wall. 

The Harbour Markets run on various days throughout the week and year. If you’d like to slow the pace today, hang around and check out the markets from 10am and then pick and choose from the rest of today’s suggested destinations around The Lizard.  

Kynance Cove

From Porthleven, set out to explore the rest of the peninsula by car, starting with the legendary Kynance Cove , a dramatic landscape of rocky outcrops, white sand and crystal clear water. It’s around 40 minutes south. 

Kynance Cove often makes lists of the world’s best beaches, with pearly white sand and turquoise water, which is why it made it on to our itinerary. We were also keen to get up close with the famous red and green serpentine rock stacks to be found here. 

We found Kynance to be ruggedly dramatic but our visit was on a day of wild weather so we didn’t get to see it in all its list-making glory. Hopefully you do!   

Park up at the National Trust car park and make your way down the steep and rocky path to the beach. Be sure to check tide times before you do though as the beach can disappear completely under a high tide. 

Lizard Point

Twenty minutes from Kynance Cove is our next destination,  Lizard Point. This is the southernmost tip of Lizard peninsula (and the UK in fact).  

This is a prime opportunity to stretch your legs on another section of the South West Coast Path . This segment is a 6.5km loop walk of Lizard Point .  

The Lizard loop walk starts and finishes in the village of Lizard, so make your way there and park on the village green. There are a number of cutbacks along the way if you’d prefer a shorter walk.  

Alternatively, you can park further towards the point at the National Trust car park and enjoy a short walk to the southernmost point lookout, or along the coast in either direction.  

This coastline around Lizard Point is rugged, beautiful…and lethal. The ocean off the headland has been a graveyard for ships for about as long as people have braved the seas here.  

While our first attempt at the Lizard loop was thwarted by wild weather, we’ve since returned to complete the hike and can confirm it is 100% worth doing if you have the time and inclination (and the weather is cooperating). It ranks very high on our list of awesome things to do in south west England. Set aside around 3 hours to do the full walk, with stops along the way. 

Travel tip: Keep an eye on the weather if you’re planning to walk The Lizard coastline. And do stop by Polpeor Café at Lizard Point. We retreated here to wait out the storm on our first visit and drip dried over the biggest scones we’d ever seen. Cornish tea on the cafe’s terrace overlooking the ocean would be superb on a sunny day. The café closes at 4pm (or as weather dictates).

Halliggye Fogou

Sounds like something a Viking might say, but Halliggye Fogou is the name of an Iron Age site on The Lizard.  

Halliggye Fogou is around 20 minutes north of Lizard village. En route, make a quick pit stop at the Old Cider Barn Arts & Crafts Centre to check out the bric-à-brac and perhaps pick up some traditional Cornish cider. 

A ‘fogou’ is a Cornish word for ‘cave’ and at these sites, it refers to networks of underground passages built in stone around 2,500 years ago as part of Iron Age farming settlements. Their purpose is unknown.  

Halligye Fogou is managed by English Heritage, is free to visit and open during the day, although you can’t go inside the fogou over the winter months.   

Day 6 – Penwith Peninsula, Cornwall

Highlights: St Michael’s Mount | Penzance | Merry Maidens Stone Circle | Minack Theatre   Total driving distance: appx. 40km (25 miles) plus the drive to your chosen accommodation   Total driving time: appx. 1 hour plus above   Overnight: Penwith Peninsula

We’re up early today for a time travel through the  Penwith peninsula , home to western Europe’s largest concentration of ancient sites and arguably the gem in Cornwall’s crown.  

Whether you do it as part of a longer driving adventure like this one or on its own, we reckon the Penwith peninsula is one of the best UK road trips you can do. 

There’s a huge amount to see over the next two days. Penwith peninsula is small enough though that you could reorder any of the sites and experiences to suit your interests and timings (it takes around 30 to 40 minutes to drive the length of the peninsula between St Ives in the north and Land’s End in the south). There is a fair bit of driving to see all the things, but you’ll be getting out of the car often.  

You’ll also be spending two nights in this region so you can choose to base yourself in one spot for both nights as you explore the peninsula, or stay in two places and max your time around each area.  

Travel Tip: Before you leave Porthleven this morning, don’t pass up the opportunity to pick up another local-gone-global speciality that you absolutely must indulge in while travelling around Cornwall: the Cornish pasty.   If you’ve never encountered one before, pasties are baked flaky pastries folded over a savoury filling. The traditional filling is beef and veg, but you can get all sorts of fillings, as well as gluten-free and vegan options.   There are a couple of excellent pasty bakeries in Porthleven (and right across Cornwall). We picked up a giant pasty to-go from Philps Pasty Shop . Whatever else you do, do this. In fact, get two. It was one of our great regrets that we only bought one the first time we visited and had to share it.

St Michael’s Mount

Today’s sightseeing is dictated by the tides, so we encourage you to check the local tide times and plan today’s itinerary to suit.

The reason for this is that you’ll be visiting St Michael’s Mount offshore from Marazion , and if you visit at low tide, you can walk across the causeway. 

You can also take a boat to St Michael’s when the tide is in. But there’s something special about walking the ancient cobbled causeway across to this offshore rock before climbing the steep path to explore the castle. 

It’s no coincidence that St Michael’s Mount bears the hallmarks of Mont Saint Michel, the impressive monastery-capped tidal island across the English Channel off Normandy in France. It was a monk from Mont St Michel who commissioned the monastery on St Michael’s Mount in the 12th century.   

For the last four hundred years or so though, this has been the seat of the St Aubyn family and they still live there today. 

It’s 20 minutes from Porthleven to Marazion and there are a couple of paid car parks in the area opposite St Michael’s Mount. You’ll need to book your tickets in advance. Check out this website .  

From Marazion, make your way to the historic market and port town of Penzance , backdrop to the famed play, The Pirates of Penzance .

While the comic opera is a fiction, piracy and smuggling did give this coastline a notorious reputation for hundreds of years. By the 19th century though, Penzance was a fashionable seaside resort. 

Head to the Harbour Long Stay Car Park and spend a couple of hours wandering Penzance’s streets and gardens. This self-guided walk will introduce you to the town’s history and key spots.   

Merry Maidens & Tregiffian Burial Chamber

Our next stop is the  Merry Maidens Stone Circle . You’ll find it in a field by the side of the B3315 road around 6km south of Penzance. 

The 19 standing stones here were erected in the mists of time, somewhere between 3500 and 4500 years ago. It’s not known why the circle was built, but it’s thought to have been a sort of astronomical tracker and ceremonial site. When we visited, we had the ambient stone circle all to ourselves.  

Walk a little further along the road on the same side and you’ll come to the Tregiffian Burial Chamber . This large neolithic chambered tomb was damaged in the creation of the road, but it’s still an interesting example of what’s known as an ‘entrance grave’.

If you’re particularly keen, there’s also a tall menhir stone called Gun Rith in the field opposite this site. Like the tomb, it’s believed to be linked to the Merry Maidens. 

All of these sites are free and can be accessed from a small layover parking area on the left side of the B3315 as you head south west – look out for the bus stop sign. For the stone circle, climb the steps over the gate and head into the field. 

Minack Theatre

From the Merry Maidens, it’s a 15 minute drive to stunning Minack Theatre , the single-minded creation of the extraordinary Rowena Cade, and possibly one of the most spectacularly-sited open air theatres since the ancient Greeks and Romans were in the business. 

It’s recommended you book your visit to Minack in advance as there is timed entry. Opening days and hours also vary so check ahead.  

The 750-seat theatre built into the rocky cliffs is impressive enough on its own, but if you can, try and time your visit for a performance. The theatre season for 2024 runs from late March until late September, with mainly evening but some afternoon shows. We’ll definitely be back to do this. 

Where to stay on the Penwith Peninsula

You have tonight and tomorrow on the Penwith peninsula so you could opt for two nights in one place and use that as a base, or stay in two different parts of the peninsula.  

Your choices in this area are extensive, and range from boutique B&Bs and guest houses to self-catering seaside cottages, remote pub stays and luxe hotels. There are also campgrounds and holiday parks right across the peninsula. 

If you’d like to stay in a slightly larger town with more amenities and eating options, look to quirky Penzance or chic St Ives , or another village on the peninsula like Zennor or Mousehole . Aim to book well ahead if you’re planning a visit during summer or holiday periods.  

• Check out your accommodation options in Penzance here .
• See what’s available in St Ives here .

We personally stayed near the village of Zennor at The Gurnard’s Head , a beautiful historic inn surrounded by coast and countryside. It’s a short short drive from St Ives and they have a fantastic restaurant serving up local seasonal deliciousness. 

Day 7 – Penwith Peninsula, Cornwall

Highlights: Land’s End | Boscawen-ûn Stone Circle | Carn Euny Ancient Village | The Tin Coast – Botallack Tin Mine   Total driving distance: appx. 25km (15.5 miles) plus travel to and from your accommodation and any additional activities today   Total driving time: appx. 45 minutes plus the above   Overnight: Penwith Peninsula  

Our view when we awoke in Zennor was of rolling moors and cows gathering on the road outside. This is another truly stunning stretch of Cornwall coastline. With an array of walks winding through moorland and along cliffs scattered with tin mine ruins, you could easily spend the day in this area alone. 

For your second day in the Penwith area, however, you’ll be exploring the west coast and heartland of the peninsula, and more of the historic sites that set this ancient corner apart. 

Depending on where you’ve stayed overnight, you might reorder the following sites to suit. Otherwise, make your way first to Land’s End. 

Land’s End

There’s something strangely compelling about standing at the most extreme ends of a place, and that’s the draw of England’s most westerly point, Land’s End . 

The Atlantic views here are spectacular, but be prepared for the crowded theme park it is. If the ‘attractions’ and gift shops don’t appeal, do as we did and make for the coastal paths. 

There’s an easy 4. 9km loop walk starting and finishing at the Land’s End car park, which you might consider if you want to make time for it today. Otherwise, take a short stroll along the cliffs and soak up the views instead. 

Boscawen-ûn Stone Circle

We haven’t been ourselves, but if you’re keen to go searching, there’s another impressive prehistoric ring of monoliths en route from Land’s End to our next stop, Carn Euny.  

Boscawen-ûn Stone Circle is believed to have been a significant ceremonial centre in its day. Like the Merry Maidens, there are 19 standing stones here, one of which is notably made of white quartz. 

There’s access to the stone circle via a signposted path from Boscawen-ûn Farm, though apparently parking is tricky along the farm lane. Instead, on your way from Land’s End, keep an eye out for a layover on the right hand side, about 800 metres before the farm lane. You can park here and there’s a sign and path to the stone circle.  

Carn Euny Ancient Village

There are two fascinating ancient settlement sites on the Penwith peninsula, Chysauster and Carn Euny. 

Chysauster Ancient Village , around 15 minutes north of Penzance, is a 2000-year-old Romano-British settlement with stone-walled houses. It’s managed by English Heritage and there’s an entry fee. It’s closed over winter. 

The other site, around 20 minutes inland along the A30 from Land’s End – and the one we visited – is Carn Euny Ancient Village . It’s also managed by English Heritage but it’s free and open during the day year-round. It does, however, require going off-piste around 600 metres from the small car park through farmland that can get seriously squelchy when it rains.  

Carn Euny was inhabited from Iron Age to Roman times, and features stone house foundations and another of those mysterious underground passages called a fogou. The site serves up impressive views for miles around. 

The Tin Coast

People have been digging metals out of the earth in Cornwall for four thousand years. Today, the remnants of historic mining sites and engine houses pockmark the region.  

In fact, mining is such an important part of the Cornish story that the ‘Tin Coast’ has been declared World Heritage, and there are a number of sites where you can get your Poldark on. 

At Botallack , a National Trust site 20 minutes from Carn Euny Ancient Village, you can follow the paths on this map to see the impressive 19th century engine houses clinging to the cliffs, and the shafts, chimney stacks and other remnants of the busy mining site this once was. There’s parking just past Botallack Count House.  

Less than 10 minutes north is the Levant Mine and Beam Engine , another National Trust site. Among the mine buildings and industrial remains here, there’s a working 19th century steam-powered beam engine. The site can only be visited on a 1.5 hour pre-booked tour , but it’s a great way to learn more about the history of tin mining in the region and the perils of the industry.

More exploring on the Penwith Peninsula

If you’ve still got energy (and daylight hours), there are plenty more ancient sites dotting the Penwith peninsula.  

Two other great sites in the northern area include the 5000 year-old  Lanyon Quoit,  a classic stone dolmen thought to have been a burial chamber covered in earth once upon a time. Near the quoit, you’ll find  Chûn Castle , a 2500 year-old circular Iron Age hillfort. 

There are also a ton of opportunities to get outdoors and explore on foot. The epic South West Coast Path traverses the entire coastline, while hundreds and hundreds more kilometres trail across the countryside.

The Epic South West Coast Path   One of the most impressive discoveries when you road trip England’s south west is that there’s also a walking trail winding its way along most of the coastline!  The South West Coast Path is the longest national trail in the UK, stretching around 1,015 kilometres (630 miles) between Poole Harbour at the eastern end of the Jurassic Coast, right around to Minehead in the north of Devon.  This is definitely on our list of long (loooong) walks we want to conquer in our lifetime. But the great thing about the South West Coast Path is that you can get out of the car and stretch your legs on short lengths of the trail virtually everywhere you stop along the coast.   There are hundreds of short loop walks you can do, which you can find here . Or just park up and set off for a stroll in either direction. Being able to do this is one of the absolute highlights of this south west England road trip itinerary. 

Day 8 – St Ives to Padstow

Highlights: St Ives | Fistral Beach, Newquay | Wine & cider tasting | Padstow     Total driving distance: appx. 80 km (50 miles) plus travel to St Ives from accommodation   Total driving time: appx. 1.5 hours plus above   Overnight: Padstow  

Today, we’re heading further north into western Cornwall to visit a couple of the region’s most famous seaside villages: St Ives and Padstow. 

Between the two towns, there are a couple of activity options today. Just note that if you do the boat trip out of Hayle, you’ll spend most of the day in St Ives.

Start today with a coffee in boho St Ives . We’d seen so much written about this place over the years, we just had to come and see for ourselves what all the fuss was about.  

Summer in this fishing-village-turned-art-hub can be chaotic but we’d heard it could be a ghost town in winter. Not so on the day we visited. The sun was out and by mid-morning, the harbour-front was humming with people and the small beach was filling up. 

We popped into a tiny, side-street café and then wandered the streets. There’s no shortage of pubs, bakeries, bric-à-brac shops, museums and galleries. You’ll also find the highly regarded Tate St Ives Gallery, for which you can book a visit ahead of time here .  

Parking can be a challenge in St Ives, especially in the peak. Perhaps the nicest way to get in and out without losing time searching for a car space is to park up at St Erth Station over in the nearby village of Hayle, and take the 10 minute ‘park and ride’ train to St Ives. You’ll have gorgeous sea views as you travel into the village along the coast. The train runs twice an hour, every day.  

St Ives Station is also the starting point for this 3km self-guided walk around the town.  

If you are parking at Hayle, you might also consider spending more time in this area today and doing a boat trip like this one to experience the dramatic Cornwall coastline from the water. Boat trip itineraries usually depend on the weather, but some do head out to nearby Seal Island  to visit the local seal colony.

Surf’s Up or Bottom’s Up?

From St Ives, it’s a 1 hour 15 minute drive north to the wee fishing village of Padstow. On the way though, you have a couple of diversions to choose from.

En route to Padstow, you’ll pass the town of Newquay, home to the UK’s most famous surfing beaches.  

This is a very popular seaside getaway for Brits, especially in summer. It’s also renowned as a bucks and hens party destination and has the nightlife to go with it.  

We’ve opted not to include Newquay in this itinerary as it’s a bigger town and we feel there are other, prettier places to visit in this area. However, if you’d like to see why the beaches here are considered surfing meccas, you could break up today’s journey to Padstow with a stop at the most popular surf spot, Fistral Beach.

There’s a paid car park at the beach and various shops and places to eat (including a well-priced Rick Stein restaurant) at the International Surfing Centre.  

It’s also worth noting that there are more budget accommodation options here if you’re looking for an alternative to the higher prices in St Ives and Padstow for tonight’s accommodation. 

Wine tasting and vineyard tour

If wine trumps beach for you (it most definitely does for us), then a lovely alternative as you head towards Padstow today is a wine tasting or tour at Trevibban Mill Vineyard .  

English wine’s star is definitely rising and we absolutely recommend taking the chance to sample locally grown and produced vino and cider at this beautiful, high-ceilinged establishment overlooking the countryside. They also serve delicious grazing boards. Check their website for availability. 

Charming Padstow has its share of highlights, but it’s also garnered something of a reputation for its food scene. In fact, this was the catalyst for our original London to Cornwall road trip. 

As far away as Australia, Rick Stein’s way with seafood is legendary and Padstow is where his business empire first flourished. These days there are four Rick Stein restaurants in the village. We decided to go to the source, The Seafood Restaurant. We packaged it up with a stay in one of Stein’s nearby hotels. 

This is just one of many awesome eating opportunities in Padstow however, from the upmarket to the understated. If you don’t feel like a flashy meal this evening, go for a bag of takeaway fish and chips (there’s a Rick Stein joint for this too) and head to the harbourside.   

Food aside, this medieval fishing village is a nice little place to spend the late afternoon, particularly down by the working harbour. Across the water, you’ll see the village of Rock , a posh escape for the rich and famous. Ferries cross back and forth during the day (there’s a timetable down on the pier).  

A wander through the backstreets of Padstow will bring you to the 15th century St Petroc’s Church . This has been a site of worship since the year 518AD and has all the feels of a very ancient place. Outside of the winter months, you can also visit the 16th century manor house, Prideaux Place .

There are a couple of car parks down by the harbour in Padstow but they can fill quickly. We lucked out with a space in the South Quay Car Park. Otherwise, there are a couple of parking lots up the hill, including Padstow Main Road Car Park, a 10 minute walk into town. All of the car parks are paid parking. If you’re staying in town overnight, check with your accommodation provider for your best parking options.

Where to stay in Padstow

For a small village, Padstow has lots of accommodation, reflecting its popularity. But it can book out well ahead of time. Cast the net wider if needed as there are also lovely stays in the area surrounding Padstow.  

• Good value: Drang House – excellent location | clean & comfy | historic building 
• Mid-range: The Old Custom House – cosy pub stay | overlooking the harbour | great brekkie  
• Spend a bit more: Harbour Hotel Padstow – harbour front | lovely views | great staff 

Rick Stein also has a range of accommodations in Padstow, complementing his restaurants around town. We stayed in a very cosy room at Rick Stein’s Café , part of a birthday splurge including dinner at his famous Seafood Restaurant.   

Day 9 – Port Isaac & Tintagel

Highlights: Fishing village of Port Isaac | Tintagel Castle & Village   Total driving distance: appx. 40km (25 miles) plus any additional exploring in this area   Total driving time: appx. 1 hour   plus the above Overnight: Tintagel area

Today you’ll set out into northern Cornwall to visit a charming historic village and the legendary birthplace of King Arthur, Tintagel Castle.  

Leaving Padstow by 9am, make your way north 30 minutes to the tiny fishing village of Port Isaac.  

If you’ve yet to have breakfast (or you’re ready for second breakfast), consider stopping en route at the St Kew Farmshop and Café along the A39 for a bite. We stopped here briefly to browse the pantry and the smells coming from the café were divine! It opens at 9am six days a week (it’s closed Sundays).  

Pretty Port Isaac, with its white cottages decorating the coastal clifftops and the narrow harbour, is the famous ‘Port Wenn’ of the TV series Doc Martin .  

Park at the paid New Road (St Endellion) Long Stay Car Park at the top of the hill and wander along the sea path down into the village.  

Take an hour or two to enjoy a stroll along the tight paths between the village’s cottages, shops and pubs, keeping an eye out for the narrowest of them all, ‘Squeezy Belly Alley’. 

If you’re a fan of the Doc Martin series, you might want to stay a little longer here and make time for this 1.5 hour guided Doc Martin tour of the town. 

Tintagel Castle & Village

It’s a drive of around 25 minutes from Port Isaac to the dramatic bluff where Arthurian myths have swirled for centuries.  

We weren’t sure what to expect on our first visit, but Tintagel and surrounds has turned out to be one of our favourite places to visit in south west England.  

There are five paid car parks in the village of Tintagel. We usually get a space at the good-sized King Arthur’s Car Park in the centre of the village.  

Aim to spend the afternoon in and around Tintagel Castle and village. 

Tintagel Castle

Crowning two dramatic clifftop sites joined by a long bridge, the evocative crumbling ruins of Tintagel hint at the serious fortress it once was. 

The rocky outcrop on which part of the castle clings is also scattered with the stone remains of a Dark Age settlement. 

Tintagel Castle is open daily from 10am to 5pm but check the website before visiting as it can be closed during high winds and poor weather, and isn’t open every day during the winter period.  

It also has timed entry and can get busy, so while you can buy a ticket on the day, it’s useful to book ahead if you can. You’ll save money by booking in advance online too, up till 8.45am on the day you visit. The castle is managed by English Heritage. 

There’s a steep hill down and some stairs up to reach the castle bridge. There’s also a land rover that runs visitors up and down for an additional fee.    

Spend a couple of hours wandering all over and re-imagining this mythical site. Don’t miss the ethereal sculpture, Gallos , on the far side of the island – it’s a fitting tribute to Tintagel’s mystique. 

Travel Tip: For sensational views of the coastline here and of Tintagel island itself, we highly recommend heading out for a walk along the South West Coast Path to the right and/or left of Tintagel Castle. We’ve walked both sides and both serve up fantastic scenery and different perspectives of the castle, bridge and island. The weather was wild when we last hiked but it was exhilarating all the same.   On the south side, you can also walk along the coast path to the spectacularly-sited 12th century St Materiana’s Church . For a shorter walk, you can park at the church and head along the path towards Tintagel instead. 

Tintagel Village

Once you’ve finished exploring Tintagel Castle, take a stroll through the village high street.  

When you see a higgledy-piggledy, ancient-looking stone and slate-roof building, you’ve reached the Tintagel Old Post Off ice , a cottage from the 1300s.  

This is a National Trust site set up as it would have been several hundred years ago when the cottage was a Victorian post office and home, with lots of insights about life in earlier times. We weren’t here long but found it a quaint and fascinating little spot. 

Unless you’ve had lunch on the go, you have plenty of options for a late lunch or early dinner in Tintagel village.  

Alternatively, take a 10 minute drive into the nearby countryside for a stop at beautiful Tintagel Brewery Bar & Bistro for a paddle of beers and something delicious from their menu (we’re still talking about the pork belly Scotch egg with Thai spiced sauce we had here). Check their website for opening hours and serving times.

Where to stay in Tintagel and surrounds

Tomorrow, you’ll be spending a good part of the morning in the area between Tintagel and Boscastle and there’s a range of accommodation in and between both villages. So you can either stay in Tintagel tonight, or in Boscastle, or anywhere between. Boscastle is just 10 minutes up the road.  

The following stays get great reviews: 

• Good value: Bosayne Guest House – friendly and welcoming | near to beach and Tintagel village | free parking 
• Mid-range: King Arthur’s Arms – historic pub stay | centre of Tintagel | free parking 
• Spend a bit more: The Wellington Hotel – elegant, historic building | centre of Boscastle | free parking   

Day 10 – Boscastle to Exeter via Bodmin Moor

Highlights: St Nectan’s Glen Walk & Waterfall | Boscastle fishing village | Bodmin Moor      Total driving distance: appx. 145km (90 miles)   Total driving time: appx. 2.5 hours   Overnight: Exeter  

Today you’ll explore some of the natural and historic man-made highlights of this area before leaving Cornwall as you start your journey back east. 

Depending on where you’ve spent the night, you can do either Boscastle or St Nectan’s Glen first this morning. St Nectan’s Glen is between Tintagel and Boscastle.

St Nectan’s Glen & Waterfall

After a couple of days of poor weather and muddy trails, we very nearly passed up this little nature trail. We’re really glad we didn’t. St Nectan’s Glen and Waterfall is a real delight and wholly unexpected when you park up in the gravel car park off the B3263 road.  

Have £3 in coins with you for the pay and display car park as it’s cash only. Also, wear your decent walking shoes as it can get muddy and there are a bunch of slippery steps at the visitor centre and waterfall. 

From the carpark, follow the signs to cross the road, head up the short path and then off to the right. Soon enough, the trail will start to follow alongside a lovely bubbling river through a mossy, green forest.  

You’ll climb quite a few stairs out of the glen to the visitor centre, where you pay an £8 entry fee and then head back down a heap more steps on the other side of the river. If you go this route, you’ll need to wade into the river to see the falls. We took our shoes off and embraced the freezing, ankle-deep water to go and stand in the spray of the cascade. It’s magic.  

Once you climb the steps out again, you can stop by the café before making your way back through the glen, or looping out and back to the car park along a very rough and ready single-lane dirt road. We went this way and can confirm it’s an easier downhill walk but far less picturesque.    

The trail is open anytime, but access to the waterfall and visitor centre is daily from 9am to 5pm. We suggest being on the trail around 8.30am and getting to the centre for opening. Give yourself around 1.5 hours to do the walk there and back, with some time at the falls. 

Ten minutes north of the St Nectan’s Glen car park and 15 minutes north of Tintagel, tucked into a small inlet between narrow and winding sea cliffs, you’ll find the tiny harbour village of Boscastle . This was another marvellous little stop for us, and definitely worth a visit.  

Park up at the paid Cobweb Car Park. A river runs through the village along a shale-stacked canal and meets the sea at a quay built in Elizabethan times. Pretty stone cottages and some ancient looking buildings line the way. 

Enjoy a wander through the hamlet and stop for a break in one of the tea rooms or at The Wellington , a 16th century coaching inn. Look out for the red telephone box out the front that’s been converted into a donation-based second-hand bookshop.  

If the spirit of Tintagel has fired up your interest in legends and myths, there’s a Museum of Witchcraft and Magic in Boscastle (it’s closed during winter). The Wellington is also said to be haunted!    

In our opinion, the real magic happens here with a walk out along the right side of the bay, up to the high shale rock pile that forms a natural protective barrier for the village. From up there, you’ll have views only nature can conjure, right out over the Atlantic and the coastline and back towards the village. 

Bodmin Moor

From Boscastle, make your way inland and take the A30 road into the granite wilds of Bodmin Moor. There’s only time to visit a couple of the many sites – natural and manmade – that make this landscape so special, but don’t leave Cornwall without at least a drive through part of this ruggedly beautiful place.  

Hurlers Stone Circles

Our first stop is the  Hurlers Stone Circles , a 50 minute drive from Boscastle.  

Hurlers is a series of three stone circles in a line, and a unique formation in England. Legend has it the stones are local men who were punished for playing the Cornish game of hurling on a Sunday. 

The site was particularly ambient on the day we visited: brooding sarsens on the misty, sodden moor with a couple of wild black ponies watching nearby.

You can park for free at The Hurlers car park. If time is on your side, this is also the starting point for our next stop, which involves a walk on the moor.

The Cheesewring

Apart from Bodmin Moor’s highest point, Brown Willy, The Cheesewring is perhaps the next most well-known natural feature on the moor.

Named for cheese presses of old, The Cheesewring is a stack of large individual stones, smoothed over millennia and balanced precariously on top of each other to tower over the surrounding landscape.   

It’s a 20 minute walk from the car park to The Cheesewring. Just beware that weather can change very suddenly on the moor, so dress appropriately and wear decent shoes. If the weather looks to be closing in, or your hours of daylight are limited, consider giving this a miss. 

Trevethy Quoit

Ten minutes south, just outside Bodmin Moor in Liskeard, you’ll find  Trevethy Quoit .  

Known hereabouts as ‘the giant’s house’, this is the tallest neolithic portal dolmen burial chamber we’ve ever seen, standing at 2.7 metres high and in good condition.  

It’s an impressive megalithic structure, if not a little juxtaposed by the modern-day houses right next door.  

Overnight in Exeter

From Trevethy Quoit, set the GPS for the city of Exeter. It’s a drive of around 1 hour 15 minutes. Tonight is spent back in the cathedral city in order to get a headstart on tomorrow’s itinerary, which kicks off in Glastonbury. 

If you’d prefer to head straight to Glastonbury tonight, and don’t mind a long drive, it’s a further 1 hour 15 minutes up the road.

Where to stay in Exeter

As a much larger town, you have plenty of options for a stay in Exeter. As we’ve already spent some time in Exeter on this trip, you could stay on the outskirts tonight. But if you do want to stay closer in, we recommend taking a walk around Cathedral Yard to see the cathedral lit up at night.

The following stays get great reviews:

• Good value: Leonardo Hotel Exeter – modern and clean | close to historic centre | paid parking nearby (we stayed here and it was comfortable and convenient).
• Mid-range: Townhouse Exeter – quiet and comfortable | short walk to centre | paid parking nearby
• Spend a bit more: Mill on the Exe – historic mill house | riverside location | free parking

Day 11 – Glastonbury & Wells

Highlights: Glastonbury Abbey | Glastonbury Tor | Wells Cathedral  | Wells historic centre Total driving distance: appx. 100km (62 miles)   Total driving time: appx. 1.5 hours   Overnight: Wells  

You may have left Cornwall behind now but you’re still firmly within the borders of the ‘West Country’ for these final days of our south west England road trip itinerary.  

It’s a drive of around 1 hour 15 minutes from Exeter to Glastonbury.

Glastonbury

From King Arthur’s mythical birthplace at Tintagel to his fabled burial place in Glastonbury, the mythical ‘Isle of Avalon’, we’re hot on the trail of English legend and folklore as we roll into this world-renowned Somerset town.  

Apart from being home to the famous Glastonbury Festival, this is also considered the birthplace of Christianity in England, and it’s been a spiritual centre for millennia. 

It can get very busy here. We learnt this the hard way the first time we visited and kept going as we hadn’t planned our parking. The next time, we had our options ready in advance.  

The most central carpark is the pay and display St Dunstan’s Car Park at Glastonbury Abbey, and you can take a bus from here to Glastonbury Tor between April and September (that’s if you don’t feel like making the 30 minute walk; there’s no parking at the Tor). This isn’t a large carpark though and it’s closed for a market on Tuesdays, so have a back-up.  

Head into Glastonbury Abbey for a wander around the ruins and look out for the spot where King Arthur and Queen Guinevere are said to have been buried. There’s a fee for the abbey, but you can save by booking online in advance.  

From the abbey, make your way along the High Street and check out Glastonbury Market Cross , the Glastonbury Goddess Temple , the 15th century Glastonbury Tribunal and St John the Baptist Church . 

It’s then a 15 to 20 minute walk to Glastonbury Tor . Coming from town along the A361, turn left onto Wellhouse Lane and then make an almost immediate right onto the narrow lane which takes you up to a gate and on to the Tor. A little further up Wellhouse Lane is the White Spring in a Victorian well house.  

You can also head up the Tor from the opposite side, off Stone Down Lane.  

Glastonbury Tor is free to visit but you earn it: it’s a steady uphill slog from both sides. The reward, however, is absolutely worth it. At the top you’ll find St Michael’s Tower , all that remains of the 14th century church that once crowned the hill. And the views over the ‘Isle of Avalon’ are something else.  

Travel tip: On this itinerary, you’ll visit Glastonbury in the morning and spend the afternoon and evening in Wells. We’ve also had the chance to appreciate Glastonbury at sunset though and it’s pretty special (though unsurprisingly it does attract crowds).  As Wells and Glastonbury are only 20 minutes apart, you could easily flip today’s itinerary if you’re keen for sunset atop the Tor. Or head back from Wells just for sunset or sunrise.

Wells, our next stop, is just 20 minutes up the road, so after coming down off the Tor, you can either lunch in Glastonbury or in Wells.  

Aim to arrive in Wells in the early afternoon, which will give you plenty of time to wander and appreciate this lovely little city, England’s smallest. Wells is actually more village than town and is only designated a city thanks to its cathedral. 

If you haven’t eaten yet, head to one of the pubs in the pretty Market Place.  Then enjoy a leisurely afternoon meander around the 800 year-old Bishop’s Palace . There’s a fee to go in, or you can do as we did and wander the outskirts of the palace and along the   path through the Palace Fields . There are lovely views over the countryside from here back towards Glastonbury Tor. 

Afterwards, tour the magnificent Wells Cathedral . It’s open till 6pm. We came back out just as the sun was turning the façade a golden honey colour. Entry to the cathedral is by donation until late April; after that, there’s an entry fee (reduced on Sundays). 

From the cathedral, pop over to marvel at the adjoining 14th century Vicars’ Close . It’s said to be the oldest original and continually inhabited residential ‘street’ in Europe (the image up near the beginning of this article is of Vicar’s Close). 

For some fun and offbeat self-guided walking tours through Wells, check out this audio guide .

Head back to the vibrant Market Place for dinner before turning in for the night.

Where to stay in Wells

Lovely little Wells has a range of options both in the historic centre and the surrounding area. We stayed in a charming, 600-year-old building overlooking the cathedral green, The Ancient Gatehouse, which we’ve included below. The following hotels all have solid reviews.

• Good value: Premier Inn Wells – budget friendly | clean and comfortable | 20 minute walk to centre
• Mid-range: The Ancient Gatehouse – heritage listed building | central location | nearby paid parking
• Spend a bit more: The Sheep and Penguin – beautifully refurbed pub stay | nearby paid parking

Day 12 – Bath

Highlights: Ancient Roman Baths | Royal Crescent & Circus | Pulteney Bridge & Weir | Bath’s Georgian architecture   Total driving distance: appx. 35km (22 miles)   Total driving time: appx. 40 minutes   Overnight: Bath  

Today, you’re headed to the World Heritage city of Bath, a drive of around 40 minutes northeast of Wells.  

Bath has been drawing people to its therapeutic waters for nearly 2000 years. The Ancient Romans, no doubt desperate for some home comforts in the strange, grey world of Britannia, tapped the hot springs here around 70AD and built the Roman baths that gave the town its name and which you can still see today.  

In the 18th century, Bath’s reputation as a spa town flourished once more, along with the population. Much of the elegant Georgian architecture is from that period.  

As UK cities go, Bath is one of our favourites. It’s strikingly beautiful and, as a university town, there’s always plenty going on and lots of great eating options.  

Day 12 of our itinerary is wholly dedicated to exploring Bath, and you’ll be staying here for the next two nights.  

There are a number of parking lots around Bath. Unless your accommodation has parking, ask them for their advice on the most convenient place to park. We parked at the Charlotte Street Long Stay Car Park, which is huge but not cheap; it was around £18 for 24 hours (cost is dependent on your vehicle’s level of emissions). 

Tours of Bath

There’s a bucket load to see in Bath and we highly recommend exploring it with a guide of some sort to get the most of out of your visit.

You can join a guided walking tour like this . Or go at your own pace and download a self-guided walking tour app like this one . This is what we did and while the commentary is hilariously flowery at times, it does provide a really good insight into the history and the buildings of this beautiful town. We were also able to do it over the course of the day and take our time.

Check out wide range of other themed walking tours you can do in Bath here .

Just make a note of any sites or museums you might want to visit before you rock up, and book ahead where necessary so you don’t miss out during busy periods.

Things to do in Bath

With or without a guide, you can take your pick of the many, many things to do in Bath. Exploring the A ncient Roman Baths is, of course, a must. Do this first thing if you can. We were there at opening and it was already getting crowded.  

While you can’t swim in the ancient baths these days, you can channel the Romans and experience for yourself Bath’s soothing thermal waters with a spa session at Thermae Bath Spa . Or literally take the waters as the Georgians did with a glass of the magic liquid during a high tea at The Pump Room , which is right above the ancient baths.    

Wander up to the Royal Crescent and the Circus to see the city’s most famous Georgian buildings. Cross the impressive the 18th century Pulteney Bridge , one of just four in the world with shops spanning both sides.  

Join a tour of Bath Abbey and go up the tower for views over the city (plan ahead if you want to do this, we missed out).  

If you’re here on a Saturday, head to Green Park Station for the weekly Bath Farmer’s Market and browse the yummy local produce. Or head to the historic Guildhall Market any day but Sunday and browse the stalls. 

Jane Austen lived in Bath and you can learn more about her life and the times at the Jane Austen Centre . Or head to the free Victoria Art Gallery or the Ho lburne Museum for a dose of art and sculpture.  

We also found Bath to have a really extensive and varied eating scene, from Michelin star restaurants and gastropubs to hole-in-the-wall street food. Keeping it low key on our first night, we had a tasty beef stew and a pint of delicious IPA in the cobbled backstreets at The Raven pub. 

Travel Tip: Don’t leave town without delving into the curious world of Bath’s historic ‘buns’. The city gave rise (pun intended) to two unique types of bun that are famous here today – the Sally Lunn Bun and the Bath Bun. Both have interesting backstories and they couldn’t taste any more different. We recommend a parallel taste test. We picked up a Sally bun from Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House & Museum, and stuffed it with ham and cheese from the Guildhall Market, which is also where we bought a much sweeter Bath Bun.   Which will win your vote? 

Where to stay in Bath

You’ll be spending the next two nights in Bath. As a World Heritage city, a university city and a popular tourist destination, Bath offers accommodation right across the spectrum, from backpacker stays to serious luxe. The stays below are all in the city centre and have great reviews. If you’re after onsite parking, you’ll find more options outside of the historic centre.

• Good value: The Z Hotel – great location | tiny but comfy rooms | friendly staff (we stayed here and while the room was teeny and the bathroom walls are frosted glass, which may not suit everyone, it was perfect for our stay and we loved the location)
• Mid-range: The Henry Guesthouse – centrally located | cosy & comfy | lovely staff
• Spend a bit more: Eight – restored historic house | big, beautiful rooms | close to abbey

Day 13 – Castle Combe, Lacock Abbey & Bath

Highlights: Cotswolds village of Castle Combe | Lacock Abbey | Final evening in Bath   Total driving distance: appx. 60km (37 miles)   Total driving time: appx. 1.5 hours   Overnight: Bath

You have another night Bath tonight, so you’ll have a second bite of the Bath dining scene. Today, though, we’re back in the car to explore some of the countryside highlights in this area. 

Castle Combe

Stretching north of Bath is the beautiful Cotswolds National Landscape. This is quintessential English country-and-village touring, and we recently spent a wonderful few days travelling through the area. There’s so much to see across this landscape though that it really deserves a couple of days at bare minimum.  

For this reason, we haven’t included the Cotswolds more broadly in this itinerary. What we have included is a taster, with a visit to a hamlet on the southern edge of the Cotswolds, Castle Combe. The bonus is that Castle Combe is one of the most photogenic of all the Cotswolds villages. It’s around 35 minutes’ drive north of Bath. 

Castle Combe village, as you see it today, dates largely back to the 14th and 15th centuries, when the cloth industry took off. The village flourished until water levels in the Bybrook River, critical for powering mills, dropped to the point the industry had to move. There have been virtually no new buildings in the village since. So what you see is an authentic snapshot of a village from a time long passed. 

Have a wander, taking in the pretty Cotswold stone cottages , the market square with its 14th century market cross , and historic St Andrew’s Church . The village’s two pubs, the Castle Inn and The White Hart , date back to the 12th and 14th centuries. 

The Manor House , a country house-turned-hotel, sits on the site of the former Norman castle that gave the village its name.    

There’s very limited street parking in and on the approach to the village. Your best bet for Castle Combe parking is in the paid Dunns Lane public car park, a 5 to 10 minute walk up the hill. 

Lacock Abbey

Our next stop today is the 800 year-old Lacock Abbey . It’s a 20 minute drive from Castle Combe. 

Built in the 13th century as a nunnery, Lacock Abbey became a grand country home following Henry VIIIs Dissolution of the Monasteries. It went on to be redecorated and remodelled throughout the ensuing centuries to suit ever-changing architectural and artistic tastes. 

Today’s, Lacock Abbey is a National Trust site. It’s open daily till around 5pm but check the National trust website before you go. There’s an entry fee plus a car park charge.

Late afternoon and evening in Bath

Back in Bath this afternoon and evening, check out whatever you didn’t get to see and do yesterday and pick somewhere awesome for dinner. It is, after all, the last night of our road trip! 

Day 14 – Return to London via Stonehenge

Highlights: Standing stones and museum of Stonehenge     Total driving distance : appx. 160km (100 miles)   Total driving time : appx. 2 hours 15 minutes, but keep an eye on traffic and factor in extra time as Greater London traffic is often seriously congested (especially the M25) and can add quite a bit of time to your journey.  

It’s the final day of our epic two week south west England road trip itinerary! 

Today you’re headed back to London, a 160km (100 miles) drive east of Bath. But we’ve included one more stop to break up the journey. It’s a tourist magnet, sure, but there’s a good reason for that: this is, after all, the pinnacle of ancient places to visit in south west England, if not the whole of the UK. We’re talking, of course, about Stonehenge. 

Stonehenge is around an hour’s drive south east of Bath. It’s open from 9.30am to 5pm daily and we recommend getting there for opening as it gets busy.   

Improvement programs in recent years have changed Stonehenge dramatically since our first visit some 20 years ago and we love coming here now.  

Tour the excellent visitor centre and museum and then take a walk (or the shuttle bus) out to the henge itself, where a redesign of the walkways means you can actually see and photograph the stones without a million people in the scene. 

Wander back to the visitor centre through the fields and past prehistoric mounds and monuments. Today’s experience is an entirely new and enlightening perspective on this incredibly ancient place and not to be missed. 

We also recommend downloading the English Heritage Stonehenge Audio Guide before you visit.

There’s a large car park at the site and you can book tickets on arrival, but you’ll save money if you buy them online ahead of time. English Heritage and National Trust (England) members can visit for free.

Time for one last classic pub lunch, if you can spare the extra hour. There are some excellent old pubs in the region around Wiltshire, like cosy 17th century pubs, The Swan at Enford and The Crown Inn at Cholderton, both around 15 minutes’ drive from Stonehenge. 

Back in the car, set the GPS for Heathrow Airport, Gatwick Airport or your London base, and enjoy the remainder of the journey recapping the many, many highlights of this magical taster of England’s incredible south-west. 

Planning a South West England Road Trip

Getting to london.

The start and finish point for this itinerary is London Heathrow, the UK’s largest airport, and a convenient location to collect and drop off a hire car. It’s also in the west of London, so it makes a good launchpad for our journey through the south west. 

You could also start this itinerary from London Gatwick, which has a huge range of car hire options as well and is south of London.  

Both airports are serviced by flights from around the world. Both can also be reached by direct and regular trains from central London, which in turn can be reached by trains from all over the UK mainland and from several cities in Europe.

Best time to visit south west England

People joke about it always being grey in England. And they wouldn’t be entirely wrong. It certainly feels like it’s overcast and drizzly a lot of the time, especially in winter. But there can also be lovely dry, sunny spells. 

Come expecting it to be overcast, always carry a rain jacket, and don’t let it get in the way of your day. In our experience, all the grey days just make the sunny days that much more welcome and enjoyable.  

But is there a best time to visit England’s south west?

Summer – Some would say summer is best, when the chance of sun is greater and the days warmer. It’s a good time to get outdoors, go walking and visit the beaches of the south and south west coasts.  

July and August are the busiest months in these areas, for both tourists and locals. Prices go up and accommodation can book out well in advance, especially in some of the coastal towns we visit on this itinerary. We don’t enjoy crowds or the hassle of trying to find parking in peak periods. So we’d personally avoid road tripping the south west in summer.  

Winter – Over December to February, London and the bigger cities are still busy with tourists but it gets much quieter in the countryside and smaller villages. At this time of year, the days are shorter and it can get really chilly if you’re spending time outdoors. On the plus side, the low sunlight (when it makes an appearance) at this time of year casts everything in a beautiful golden glow.  

Most importantly though, many cafes, restaurants, accommodations and historic sites close over the winter season, generally reopening around late March. We’ve travelled the south west in the wintertime and it’s beautiful, but all the closures can take a bit of the fun out of the itinerary. It’s definitely something to consider when planning your trip.   

Spring and Autumn – In our opinion, the shoulder periods of Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) are the best times to road trip south west England. Outside of holiday periods, it’s not quite as busy and the countryside colours are at their best: bright and vivid in spring, and warm and muted in Autumn. 

Where to stay in south west England

You’ll find just about every kind of accommodation in the south west, to suit every price point. There are campgrounds, vacation rentals, apartments, B&Bs, boutique and budget chain hotels – everything.  

A uniquely British accommodation experience, and one of our favourite types of stay when we travel here, is a room in an historic coaching inn or pub. It’s a wonderfully ambient experience, and often includes an epic Full English breakfast – required eating at least once on road trips in the UK (but maybe not every day like we tend to).  

When we road trip, we usually stay in comfortable mid-range hotels and apartments, preferably with parking onsite or nearby. Throughout this post, we’ve included suggested budget, mid-range and higher price point accommodation options that have excellent reviews and which we’ve either stayed at ourselves, or which we would choose to stay in.   

Book accommodation well ahead, particularly if you’re wanting to stay somewhere particular or you’re travelling during the summer peak period.

We mainly use Booking.com to find and book accommodation when we travel.

Driving and renting a car in England

Some key points to note if you’re coming from overseas and plan on driving in England, or anywhere in the UK: 

• You need to carry a valid driving licence from your home country to drive a car in the UK. However, if your home licence is not in English, you’ll need an International Driving Permit. 
• In the UK, you drive on the left side of the road and your steering wheel is on the right side of the car. 
• Familiarise yourself with the road rules and signage .  
• Always make sure you have appropriate travel insurance. 
• If you’re renting a car, aim to do so well in advance to get the best deal and the right car for you. We use RentalCars.com and Discover Cars to find our hire cars.  

If you have any questions, thoughts or updates to share about our south west England road trip itinerary, let us know in the comments below!   

If you’re looking for more great road tripping itineraries and adventures,  check out our Road Trips page , and our bucket list of 100 ultimate road trips around the world .

6 thoughts on “The Ultimate 2 Week South West England Road Trip Itinerary”

Thanks for sharing amazing information and ideas about road trips and travel in the UK. Regards: Lux Transfers UK

Thanks Maroof, glad you found it useful.

Would like mor information on your tour. Is sounds terrific. Please send information

Thanks for your message! You might be able to find organised tours for this kind of trip by searching on TripAdvisor and similar sites. However, if you’re driving your own car or hiring a car, we hope you might find our post useful as a suggested itinerary for travelling this route independently.

All the best! Danielle and John

The Wells Cathedral looks beautiful. I would love to explore its architecture from inside out. Another landmark that I dream of exploring is the Stonehenge. I would love to do this road trip.

Hey Rezmin, both amazing destinations and well worth a visit! Thanks for your message!

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Days out in the South West

Use our South West days out guide to find a family day out, indoor activities , fun things to do with the kids , day trips for couples or a place to visit this weekend.

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• Hot Air Balloon Flights - 14 launch locations available
• Go Ape - Forest Segway, Tree Top Adventure and Tree Top Junior

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Bristol attractions :-

• Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park - Keynsham, Bristol
• Blaise Castle House Museum - Bristol
• Bristol Aquarium - Bristol
• Bristol Museum and Art Gallery - Bristol
• Brunel's ss Great Britain - Bristol
• Glenside Hospital Museum - Bristol
• Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf Bristol - Bristol
• M Shed - Bristol
• Noah's Ark Zoo Farm - Wraxall
• Oakham Treasures - Portbury
• Old Down Country Park - Tockington, Bristol
• Pirate Bay Adventure Golf - Hambrook, Bristol
• The Red Lodge Museum - Bristol
• Uglybugs Softplay - Warmley, Bristol
• Wot Pots - Bristol

View all in Bristol

Cornwall places to visit :-

• Antony - Torpoint
• Cotehele - near Saltash
• Chysauster Ancient Village - Newmill, Penzance
• Glendurgan Garden - Mawnan Smith, near Falmouth
• Godolphin - Godolphin Cross, Helston
• Greens Cafe, Crazy Golf and Grass Putting - Padstow
• Lanhydrock - Bodmin
• Lappa Valley Steam Railway - Newquay
• Restormel Castle - Lostwithiel
• St Mawes Castle - St Mawes, Nr Truro
• The Lost Gardens of Heligan - Pentewan, St Austell
• Tintagel Castle - Tintagel
• Tintagel Old Post Office - Tintagel
• Trelissick Garden - Feock, near Truro
• Trengwainton Garden - Madron, near Penzance

View all in Cornwall

Devon things to do :-

• A la Ronde - Exmouth
• Allhallows Museum of Lace and Local Antiquities - Honiton
• Arlington Court and the National Trust Carriage Museum - Arlington, near Barnstaple
• Berry Pomeroy Castle - Berry Pomery, Totnes
• Bradley - Newton Abbot
• Branscombe - Seaton
• Brixham Heritage Museum - Brixham
• Castle Drogo - Drewsteignton, near Exeter
• Dartmouth Castle - Dartmouth
• Exeter's Underground Passages - Exeter
• Go Ape Haldon Forest - Kennford, Exeter
• Knightshayes Court - Bolham, Tiverton
• Okehampton Castle - Okehampton
• The Milky Way Adventure Park - Clovelly, Bideford
• Totnes Castle - Totnes

View all in Devon

Dorset attractions :-

• Abbotsbury Swannery - Abbotsbury, Nr Weymouth
• Compton Acres - Poole
• Corfe Castle - Corfe Castle, Wareham
• Crazy Monsters - Blandford Forum
• Farmer Palmer's Farm Park - Organford, Poole
• Gold Hill Museum and Garden - Shaftesbury
• Kingston Lacy - Wimborne Minster
• Lemur Landings Soft Play - Poole
• Portland Castle - Castletown
• Sherborne Old Castle - Castleton, Sherborne
• Splashdown Poole - Poole
• The Dinosaur Museum - Dorchester
• The Dorset Teddy Bear Museum - Dorchester
• The Keep Military Museum - Dorchester
• Wimborne Minster Model Town - Wimborne Minster

View all in Dorset

Gloucestershire places to visit :-

• Birdland Park and Gardens - Bourton-on-the-Water
• Chedworth Roman Villa - Yanworth, near Cheltenham
• Cotswold Farm Park - Guiting Power, nr. Cheltenham
• Dr Jenner's House - Berkeley
• Dyrham Park - Dyrham, near Bath
• Go Bananas Soft Play - Ebley, Stroud
• Hidcote - Hidcote Bartrim, near Chipping Campden
• Holst Birthplace Museum - Cheltenham
• Jungle Chums Soft Play - Milbury Heath
• Lodge Park and Sherborne Estate - Aldsworth, near Cheltenham
• Newark Park - Ozleworth, Wotton-under-Edge
• Snowshill Manor and Garden - Snowshill, near Broadway
• The Old Mill Museum - Lower Slaughter
• Westbury Court Garden - Westbury-on-Severn
• Woodchester Park - Nympsfield, near Stonehouse

View all in Gloucestershire

Somerset things to do :-

• Barrington Court - Barrington, near Ilminster
• Bath Postal Museum - Bath
• Butlins Minehead - Minehead
• Cheddar Gorge - Cheddar
• Cleeve Abbey - Washford, Watchet
• Dunster Castle - Dunster, near Minehead
• Exmoor Pony Centre - Ashwick, Dulverton
• Farleigh Hungerford Castle - Bath
• Ham Wall RSPB Reserve - Meare, Nr Glastonbury
• Lytes Cary Manor - near Somerton
• Prior Park Landscape Garden - Bath
• SeaQuarium Weston-Super-Mare - Weston-Super-Mare
• The Walled Gardens of Cannington - Cannington, Nr Bridgwater
• Westonzoyland Pumping Station Museum - Westonzoyland, Bridgwater
• Wookey Hole - Wells

View all in Somerset

Wiltshire attractions :-

• Bowood House and Gardens - Calne
• Cholderton Charlie's Farm - Cholderton, Salisbury
• Great Chalfield Manor and Garden - near Melksham
• Jolly Roger Adventure - Swindon
• Kidz About - Swindon
• Larmer Tree Gardens - Tollard Royal, Salisbury
• Little Urchins Softplay - Warminster
• Longleat Safari and Adventure Park - Warminster
• Lydiard House and Park - Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon
• Mompesson House - Salisbury
• Museum of Computing - Swindon
• Old Sarum - Salisbury
• Old Wardour Castle - Salisbury
• Salisbury Cathedral - Salisbury
• Stonehenge - Amesbury

View all in Wiltshire

• Places to Visit

South West England

South West England is a beautiful coastal region that has some unique attractions, stunning places to visit and family days out. Immerse yourself in the mystery of Stonehenge, explore two National Parks and have a culinary experience with exceptional seafood, cream teas and ciders. The attraction of South West England for many is the beaches of Cornwall, Dorset and Devon. VisitEngland have collected some of the best experiences in South West England below. With so many events happening all year round, suitable for everyone in the family, the South West has more to offer than just coastline.

In this section

Explore South West England

The South West is one of the most popular holiday destinations in England for visitors from the UK and abroad. Follow the links below to get more information on different counties and be inspired by what you can discover in the South West.

There's plenty bubbling below the surface of this elegant Somerset city, and not just the ancient thermal springs, with Victorian parks to roam and medieval abbeys to scale.

Visit Bristol, Banksy’s town and experience a wide range of attractions for all the family. From stunning bridges to modern museums, this South West city has something for everyone.

Cornwall is one of the primary reasons couples and families visit South West England. Beautiful coastlines and stunning food make a trip to Cornwall a brilliant choice.

Bournemouth

Bournemouth is home to all things nautical, a seven-mile swathe of Blue Flag beaches dotted with quintessentially English beach huts, a traditional pier and plenty of ice-cream kiosks.

Museums that transport you back to the Domesday Book, yellow-stone Cotswold hamlets straight from a chocolate box and manors perched on rolling, emerald hills.

Explore the county of Devon, with a moorland National Park, experiences for everyone in the family, miles of coastline and the attraction of a Devonshire tea!

Best things to do in Bath

Explore famous museums and unwind in the fanciest of spas in this UNESCO World Heritage city.

Visit Dorset to see natural attractions carved by Mother Nature herself. Have a day out with the family walking from Dorset’s famous ridgeways to a local farmers market.

9 unmissable experiences in Exmoor

Plan your perfect autumn break in his hidden pocket of the south west.

24 hours in St Ives

Travel to this sun-kissed Cornish town, in the far South West, for chilled-out beach cafes, sweet surf spots and a thriving art scene.

Whilst it is an active city, Exeter is the perfect place to relax and get away from it all. Indulge yourself by relaxing in one of Exeter's many decadent spas or sit back and enjoy a scrumptious cream tea.

Somerset has so many attractions. Experience an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on foot, by bike or by car. Family fun can be had at a number of charming Victorian seaside towns.

There are some fantastic places to explore with your family in Wiltshire. Perhaps the most snapped attraction is the druid ring of standing stones at Stonehenge.

Gloucestershire

Visit Gloucestershire to explore the Cotswolds, hire bikes for a family day trip, experience sporting heritage and visit a wide range of local attractions.

10 places to visit in Dorset

Take a Dorset adventure this summer for top-notch seafood, squirrel spotting, cool hotels and Instagrammable villages.

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7-day Itinerary in Southwest England

There are numerous reasons to spend a week exploring southwest England. You’ll be mesmerized by luxury castle hotels, fed well by talented chefs serving stunning food, and enthralled by adorable towns all along the way. It’s an incredible region to discover, especially for first-timers.

We think spending a full week in the area is necessary to see all the highlights, keeping in mind that there are long distances to drive in order to get out to the farther reaches. Our 7-day southwest England itinerary will cover all the parts we think you must see, and includes some of the best hotels we’ve ever stayed in.

In case you aren’t familiar with the southwest of England, it is one of nine official regions of England . The largest in area, it covers 9,200 square miles and encompasses the counties of Gloucestershire, Bristol, Wiltshire, Somerset, Dorset, Devon and Cornwall, as well as the Isles of Scilly.

• 2-Day Bristol Itinerary
• 2 -Day Bath Itinerary
• How to Visit Stonehenge & What to Expect
• 6 Remarkable Hotels in Southwest England

Table of Contents

How to Get to the Southwest of England

If you’re traveling internationally, it’s more likely that you’ll need to  fly in to Heathrow and rent a car from there (I always use Discovercars.com for rental cars to get the best deals); the drive to Bath is only about 1.5 hours. You can also take the train from London , if you don’t want to drive, but I don’t recommend it because to get around the area easily, you’ll need a car.

The most efficient way to arrive in the heart of the southwest is to fly into Bristol , England. It’s a smaller airport than Heathrow, and will put you right where you need to be.

Southwest England: 7-Day Itinerary

You’re going to quickly realize that there are more places to go and things to see in the southwest of England than you could possibly cover in a year, much less one week. As with any great destination, you have to pick and choose the activities that fit your vacation style.

For us, that often includes eating at top restaurants, checking out the beer and wine scene, staying at remarkable hotels and exploring cities and towns along the way.

This 7-day itinerary covers most of the counties in the region, with stops in:

• South Brent
• Castle Combe

The daily layout of the trip looks like this, but you can arrange it however suits you. It does involve a bit of driving, so we set out the itinerary to keep the driving to a minimum each day.

Day 1:  Arrive in London, drive to Stonehenge

Day 2: Explore the city of Bath

Day 3:  Explore the city of Bristol

Day 4: Drive to Cornwall and explore Newquay

Day 5: Drive through Cornwall on the way to Devon

Day 6: Drive to Dorset and explore

Day 7: Drive back to London or Bristol to depart

The hotels we suggest are all unique and remarkable places to stay in the affordable-luxury to luxury price range. We found that each place has a range of room prices to fit your budget, and are more affordable than you might think.

You can substitute other hotels (and we’ll provide alternative suggestions), but I highly encourage you to book at the recommended hotel, because they are a big part of what makes this itinerary so special.

Day 1: Arrive in London (rent a car)

I’m happy to report that Stonehenge really is as impressive as it looks in pictures. Dating back at least 4,500 years, Stonehenge was not something that was built over a short span of time. In fact, it was likely built up and added to continually over thousands of years, as the rituals of the people and ceremony it was used for evolved. 

Perhaps we’ll never really know the real history behind the construction of the monument, but you will definitely get a glimpse into the theories and evolution of the area at the Visitor Center .

→ Check out our tips for visiting Stonehenge .

It’s just over an hour’s drive from both Bristol and Heathrow airports. Plan to spend about 2 hours exploring the area and looking through the exhibits. There is a downloadable audio guide that you can use to explore the area. If you don’t have a data plan or local SIM card, you’ll need to download it in advance when you have wifi. Bring headphones!

Stay at Lucknam Park Hotel

Set in an 18th-century Palladian mansion on 500 acres, Lucknam Park Hotel is only 10 miles from the city of Bath. A true 5-star country estate, Lucknam Park not only delivers on luxury, it also hits that elusive mark that typical 5-star hotels don’t often reach, which can only be explained as the “it” factor.

You can tell from the moment you drive up to the house that your expectations will be exceeded. Lucknam Park also has a Michelin-star restaurant that is an absolutely must. Check in by 5pm to be prepared for the cocktail hour in the lounge before indulging in a multi-course chef’s menu.

Alternative hotel: Brooks Guesthouse in Bath is located within walking distance of the main attractions in town. If you prefer to be closer to the action, it’s a comfortable choice that feels more like home.

Day 2: Explore the City of Bath

Bath, England, has the ability to charm you from the very second you arrive and engulf you with its vast history. The Georgian architecture prevalent throughout the city is one of its most-significant features, along with the historic Roman Baths and towering Bath Abbey.

You can easily spend 2 days in Bath exploring and enjoying the many restaurants. Top activities include walking through The Roman Baths, stopping for afternoon tea at The Pump Room, soaking in the thermal waters of the Thermae Bath Spa and enjoying a delicious dinner at The Circus Restaurant or The Raven pub.

Be sure to see these attractions in Bath:

• The Roman Baths
• Thermae Bath Spa
• Pulteney Bridge
• Fashion Museum

→ Check out our extensive 2-day itinerary in Bath for full details. Here’s a video of Bath to entice you.

Stay at the Manor House Hotel in Castle Combe

You could spend a second night at Lucknam Park, but a move to the stunning Manor House Hotel in Castle Combe is well worth the effort. The grounds are breathtaking and the hotel exudes luxury through and through.  Our suite was beautiful. There are no other words.

Each suite is individually designed and unique. You will really feel like you’re staying in a castle. Even the walk down the hallway to the suite is enchanting. The only thing we wished was that we’d spent more than one night here. Whatever you do, be sure you book into the restaurant for dinner (see below).

The evening begins with cocktails in the elegant lounge, where you’ll place your dinner order before moving into the dining room. 

The Bybrook Restaurant , located in the hotel, has a Michelin star and will surely wow you. The dining room is beautifully decorated. The chef, Robert Potter, and his crew artfully create seasonal dishes using local ingredients and each dish can be paired with the perfect wine.

It’s a meal you won’t forget. Open for dinner from Sunday to Thursday from 6:30pm – 9:00pm and until 9:30pm on Friday and Saturday.

Day 3: Explore the City of Bristol

Bristol is located along the River Avon and the old industrial port is now home to lively restaurants and museums. There are a lot of great museums and cultural areas of the city to walk around. If you arrive there with a rough plan, you’ll be able to get around to everything you want to see in just two days in Bristol.

Here are a few of our favorite activities in Bristol to get you started: Go on a Bristol Street Art Tour , walk around the harbourside, see the SS Great Britain, learn about Bristol’s history at M Shed, eat lunch in the harbourside area.

Be sure to see these attractions when visiting Bristol:

• Brunel’s SS Great Briton
• Cabot Tower
• Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
• Cabot Circus
• Harbourside Area

→ Check out our post on how to spend your time in Bristol for more information.

Stay at Thornbury Castle Hotel

Thornbury is the only Tudor Castle hotel in England. It was once owned by King Henry VIII, after he took it from his cousin whom he’d declared a traitor and ordered beheaded. Thornbury Castle Hotel has a long and storied past and it’s one you’ll want to discover for yourself.

» Book your stay at Thornbury Castle.

Located just 25 minutes from Bristol, on the edge of the Cotswolds, sharing meticulously landscaped grounds with the extraordinary St. Mary’s Church just a few steps away, Thornbury Castle Hotel will be one hotel you will never forget. Each room is uniquely designed with modern conveniences, while retaining the historical details and allure. 

You can choose to stay in the Duke’s bedchamber, where King Henry and Anne Boleyn slept in, or the grand Tower Suite, that can only be reached by a 77-step spiral staircase. You’ll also want to save plenty of time for pre-dinner cocktails and dinner at the restaurant.

Day 4: Drive to Cornwall and Explore Newquay

Cornwall is great for its relaxed atmosphere and, of course, its beaches.  It’s a great place to go and spend time with the family, switch off those devices, and just enjoy time together.

This particular shot is taken from close to the open air Minack Theatre, close to Land’s End, although my favourite stretch of the Cornish coastline is at Bedruthan Steps further north.”

Cornwall stretches down along the north, west and south leg of England. It covers a lot of territory, many gorgeous beaches and cliffsides, and dozens of little towns that are worth exploring. With only a week, you obviously can’t see it all, so we recommend getting on the freeway and heading straight down to Newquay on the north coast.

There are some truly fantastic views in this area of Cornwall, including the Bedruthan Steps, which you’ll find just north of Newquay. While you’re there, here are a few more things to do in Cornwall .

When you stop at the Bedruthan Steps, make sure you save time for cream tea at the Carnewas Tea Rooms.  It has been family-owned and operated for more than 40 years. The scones are made fresh multiple times per day. The clotted cream, which is amazing, is locally made, along with the jam.

We were served four enormous scones, fresh from the oven, along with a cup full of strawberry jam and clotted cream. The instructions in the menu kept us from making the terrible mistake of spreading the cream on first and the jam on second. In Cornwall, the only appropriate order in which to dress a scone is jam first, cream second.

Being a beach destination, Newquay has many water-related activities to enjoy, like fishing, surfing, and paddleboarding.

You can take the surf rider train around town to see the attractions like the Newquay Zoo or Blue Leaf Aquarium. Or visit one of the many adventure parks nearby, like the Zorbing Park or Holywell Bay Fun Park. It’s easy to spend a day – you’ll likely want to spend a week!

Stay at the Fistral Beach Hotel

Perched up on the hillside in Fistral Bay, the Fistral Beach Hotel & Spa has a commanding view of the ocean, and even better it’s an adults-only hotel. It’s very close to the beach for a morning or afternoon walk and only 2 miles from the town of Newquay.

Get a room with a view and hang out on the balcony to enjoy the stunning view. The room includes a large tub, and the hotel has a fantastic spa, as well as a nice modern bar to enjoy. The restaurant also has a fantastic view and serves great food. We had fish and chips and a plate of chicken wings that were really tasty.

Day 5 – Leisurely Drive Through Cornwall

There are some other fun things to do in Cornwall, so we recommend stopping off at a couple of places on the drive from Cornwall to Devon. One of these activities is The Lost Gardens of Heligan – the most popular botanical gardens in the UK.

For the small entrance fee, you can wander around 200 acres of gardens in many different styles, and even visit the iconic sculptures: The Giant’s Head, Mud Maid and Grey Lady.

It’s easy to spend a full day at the gardens, but if you keep your visit to a couple of hours, you’ll have time to visit the seaside town of Fowey. It’s not a big place, but during the tourist season, this little town is a great stop along the way to Devon.

Park the car and have a look around at the shops, hop on a boat ride around the port, and have a cream tea at one of the restaurants. You’ll be able to see it all in a couple of hours.

If you’d like to stay a night in Fowey, The Old Quay House is the perfect place to park yourself for the night. They even have a lovely restaurant and views to match. After leaving Fowey, head to Devon, where you’ll find the most charming hotel you’ve ever seen – the Glazebrook House.

Stay at Glazebrook House Hotel

I have never felt as welcomed or as dazzled as at the Glazebrook House Hotel in Devon in the UK. The extremely well-curated design of the two-year-old hotel, combined with the inspired Alice in Wonderland-themed rooms, and the hospitality of the owners makes this not only a truly remarkable hotel, but a memorable one as well. 

» Book your stay at Glazebrook House Hotel .

Exquisite and impeccably designed surprises reveal themselves around every corner of the house. Hospitality is second nature for all of the employees at Glazebrook House. You’ll never feel more at home than here.

The staff of talented chefs have designed a menu that is nearly impossible to choose from, given the many great options. We ordered as much as we thought we could eat, and I still wanted to order more.

Day 6: Drive to Dorset and Explore

From the Glazebrook House, it’s just about a 1-hour drive to the first stop in Dorset. I asked my fellow travel bloggers to share their thoughts on the best places to visit in Dorset and two popular destinations were mentioned – Charmouth and The Durdle Door.

Stop 1: Charmouth

The sleepy village of Charmouth on the Dorset coast is often overlooked due to its neighbouring big brother Lyme Regis. Lyme Regis with its unique sea front, slopping hills filled with Georgian shop fronts is a popular place for filmmakers and holiday goers alike.

I, however, prefer Charmouth – otherwise known as the Jurassic capital of England. Its beach is famed for towering sandstone cliffs and fossil discoveries many of which are now housed in the British Museum. The beach is so prolific in fossils that if you take a spade and bucket down you are more than likely to find something.

On the beachfront there is a centre dedicated to helping tourists and enthusiasts find a fossil, which if you have never hunted for fossils is a great resource.

During the summer months there is a weekly trash and treasure market in a field at the end of the village – it is more an excuse for everyone to get together and eat ice cream and buy 5 t-shirts for a Pound, but it is a lot of fun and a great chance to meet the locals.

The rest of the time you can usually meet the locals rambling along one of the many beautiful walks that circle in and around the village… usually stopping at a blackberry patch.

Stop 2: Crab House Café in Weymouth

Situated in a breathtaking part of Dorset looking out over Chesil beach and the Isle of Portland is   The Crab House Café . They have their own Portland Oyster beds just a stone’s throw from the restaurant. It’s a fantastic place to stop for lunch.

Stop 3: The Durdle Door – the Jewel of the Jurassic Coast

Durdle Door is probably the most famous place to see in Dorset. It’s an arch carved by the sea in the cliffs, creating the illusion of a door towards the infinite of blue behind it. 

What makes it more special is the fact that it’s not easy to get to it. From Lulworth Cove, where the parking is, you have to climb a hill of stairs and then follow the path up and down the cliffs for about 20 minutes until you will finally reach it.

You can reward yourself with an ice cream from the mobile parlor on top, and then go down to the beach.Durdle Door is best experienced at sunset. I like to go there and just relax on the beach, see the sun going down and the sky changing from blue to orange and then red, letting the night take over.

It’s a beautiful place to meditate. You can also take a stroll on the beach but remember to research the tide times, as the end gets all covered by the sea at high tide. If you feel fit, you can hike the cliffs from Durdle Door all the way to Weymouth. It’s a wonderful experience in a sunny summer day.

Stay at the Summer Lodge Country House Hotel

The award-winning Summer Lodge Country House Hotel is a truly luxurious five-star country house hotel. The property sits within glorious countryside in the picturesque village of Evershot. It was voted ‘No.1 Hotel in The UK’ and ’No.2 in Europe’ in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards.

» Book a stay at the Summer Lodge Country House

Alternate Hotel: If you’re enjoying the Jurassic Coast too much to leave, you’ll want to stay at Mortons House Hotel , a 16th-century Elizabethan Manor House Hotel in the village of Corfe Castle in the Isle of Purbeck.

Unfortunately, that’s the end of our 7-day southwest England itinerary. It’s time to return home. If you have a later flight, I recommend sticking around the Jurassic Coast in Dorset for as long as you can, soaking up the beautiful views. Heathrow airport is about 2.5 hours drive and Bristol is 1.5 hours.

Don’t forget to leave plenty of time to return your rental car and get through security! Like this post? Please add it to your Pinterest board and share it with your friends!

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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A big thank you to VisitBritain  for hosting our stay at these incredible hotels. See all the coverage of our trip to the south west of England . (As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are my own honest reflection on our travel experiences.)

Like this post? Why not save it to Pinterest? FOLLOW US  on  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook  for more great travel inspiration and tips.

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

26 thoughts on “ 7-day Itinerary in Southwest England ”

Hey, loved reading this as I’m from the south west, just one thing I’d like to point out is the picture you use for Charmouth is actually called the fleet. Charmouth is actually about 20 miles back down the coast.

Thanks for the note. I have updated the caption! 🙂

LOVE this ! This would be an incredible trip for anyone wanting to get a real taste of the UK. I personally loved Stonehenge and Bath. I would love to stay at Thornbury Manor – how amazing is that place! I also thought the photos of the face in the garden was awesome.

Thorbury Manor is a real gem in the southwest of England. It’s such an awesome place, and the grounds are stunning too. I want to stay in every room in the castle.

Dare I say it, we did not really enjoy London that much (Gasp, I know!) If I were to go back to England, I’d rent a car and do something just like this where we could see so much more of the country, as I’m sure it is great!

LeAnna, I’ve heard people say that before, so it’s not just you, but I do think it’s all about your itinerary and where you’re going/when. Some places in London can be really touristy, but if you find the right itinerary for you, you might change your mind. Certainly, southwest is a fantastic option if you want to get out of the city. Give it a try. You’ll probably love it!

A Bed and Breakfast road trip through England would be such a cool trip. The Glazebrook House looks like such a cool place to stay and enjoy all things British.

The Glazebrook House was one of my favorites of the hotels we stayed in, and that’s saying a lot, because the competition was stiff. It’s such a fun place.

You’ve planned out a really fantastic itinerary. Last time in the U.K, we headed further north to explore the Cotswolds. I’d love to visit Bath and Stonehenge, but also Cornwall, Bristol, and the surrounding areas. It gives a true sense of typical U.K. life. Your hotels each look better than the last, too!

Oh Jackie, the hotels there are incredible. I mean, really remarkable. I would love to just go on a week-long trip to hotels and explore their grounds. We didn’t get to do much of that and I wish we had.

This looks so colorful and delicious. The hotels seem drawn from BBC dramas and cream tea too?! I’d love to spend weeks exploring the Southwest of England.

I really think you could spend weeks on end exploring that area, Elaine. There are so many fantastic hotels. I’d love to stay in them all.

This is what I love about living in Europe, exploring the country in a car! Sometimes I wish I had all the time in the world to explore, but since I don’t your itinerary did a great job picking great spots to focus on. Would never say no to some scones!

That’s a very good point. We’ll be moving to Europe in a few months and I’m really looking forward to all the exploring we’ll be able to do.

These are some of my favourite areas in England, although there’s still so much that I haven’t seen. I would love to visit The Lost Gardens of Heligan in particular. I visited Stone Henge when I was a kid (and there were no ropes around it!) and remember bring completely baffled by these enormous stones! I think it’s time I took my kids there.

It would be cool to walk around the stones and get up close, but I do understand the need for the ropes. It’s still very imporessive.

I really enjoyed my time at Stonehenge. I know some people aren’t as impressed with the “pile of rocks,” but the history of it all was well worth it to me. I would have loved to spend more time in that area, but I only had a day there. Just an excuse to go back! 😉

Thanks Vicky, I agree about Stonehenge. It’s a very interesting historical site. Definitely worth a visit.

Lovely post and super informative. I do have a question though. We live in the US and i was wondering how hard is it to drive around the UK(on the other side) especially if you are doing a road trip.

Thanks Citra. We were living in the U.S. when we did this tour as well. So we were a little worried about driving on the left, but it only took a little time to start feeling confident. I do recommend getting an automatic car, however, if you can, because shifting on the left is actually the harder part. The roads are really small in some places. Just take it easy and drive carefully and you’ll be fine.

Should have seen this itinerary before. Looks like I’ve missed some really good places during my trip.

That’s a bummer, Smith! More reason to go back!

Hi, Lovely trip. I plan to have a road trip next May. Your itinerrary and hotel information are very helpful. Thank you.

Hi. This seems like a great blog. Except when I get about a third of the way through each post I am confronted with ads that take up half of the page and cover the words. I’m very sad to say that I’m giving up!

Hi. Is it just as worthwhile going to Lands End and Port Isaac?

Yes, absolutely. The scenery is stunning in Lands End. Port Isaac is incredibly small, but the little crescent bay is beautiful. Both are great for photographs, especially if you’re already traveling through those spots. But I wouldn’t necessarily plan to stay near there.

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• Travel Resources

27 Day Trips from Bristol: The Best of the South West

Looking for a list of quick day trips from Bristol? Luckily, there are plenty of destinations within a two-hour drive from the city that are perfect for day trips . Whether you’re looking for a peaceful countryside retreat, a day at the beach, or a dose of history and culture, there’s something for everyone.

With 27 day-trip options to choose from, you’ll never run out of ideas for your next adventure. Explore the stunning landscapes of the Cotswolds, visit the mysterious Stonehenge, or take a trip to the charming seaside town of Weston-Super-Mare.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, head over to Wales to discover its beautiful countryside and coastline. No matter what your interests are, there’s a day trip from Bristol that’s perfect for you.

Why Bristol?

Bristol is a vibrant city located in the southwest of England, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural scenery. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a range of attractions and activities to suit all interests.

One of the main draws of Bristol is its proximity to some of the most beautiful and historic locations in the UK. From the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the rugged coastline of Wales, there are countless day trips that can be taken from Bristol area.

Another reason to visit Bristol is its thriving arts and music scene. The city is home to a number of galleries, museums, and music venues, showcasing both local and international talent. Whether you’re interested in contemporary art, classical music, or underground dance parties, Bristol has something to offer.

• Beaches near Winchester: Your Ultimate Guide to the Perfect Beach Getaway

In addition to its cultural offerings, Bristol is also a great place to explore the outdoors. The city is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the Mendip Hills, the Quantock Hills, and the Brecon Beacons. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, or simply take a leisurely stroll, there are plenty of options for outdoor activities in and around Bristol.

Overall, Bristol is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or the great outdoors, there are plenty of reasons to visit and explore this vibrant and exciting destination.

Day Trips From Bristol: An Overview

If you’re living in Bristol or just visiting, there are plenty of day trips that you can take to explore the surrounding areas. From historic castles and picturesque villages to stunning natural scenery and adventure parks, there is something for everyone.

Here are some of the top day trips from Bristol that you can consider:

• Bath: A beautiful city famous for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture.
• Cheddar Gorge: A limestone gorge in the Mendip Hills with rugged terrain and beautiful scenery.
• North Cotswolds: A picturesque region with rolling hills, quaint villages, and historic market towns.
• South Cotswolds: Another stunning region of the Cotswolds with charming villages, scenic walks, and historic landmarks.
• Mendip Hills: A range of limestone hills with plenty of walking trails and stunning views.
• Quantock Hills: A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with plenty of walking and cycling trails.
• Exmoor: A national park with stunning scenery, wildlife, and plenty of outdoor activities.
• Glastonbury and Wells: Two historic towns with plenty of cultural and historic attractions.
• Stonehenge: A prehistoric monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Tyntesfield: A beautiful Victorian Gothic house with stunning gardens and parkland.
• Weston-super-Mare: A seaside town with a long sandy beach and plenty of attractions.
• Exeter: A historic city with a beautiful cathedral and plenty of cultural attractions.
• Exmouth: A seaside town with a long sandy beach and plenty of water sports.
• Chepstow and the Wye Valley: A historic town with a beautiful castle and stunning natural scenery.
• Hay on Wye: A charming town famous for its bookshops and literary festival.
• Port Enyon: A beautiful coastal village with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities.
• Brecon Beacons: A national park with stunning scenery, wildlife, and plenty of outdoor activities.
• Gloucester: A historic city with a beautiful cathedral and plenty of cultural attractions.
• Berkeley Castle: A historic castle with plenty of cultural and historic attractions.
• Wookey Hole Caves: A network of limestone caves with underground rivers and stunning rock formations.
• Clearwell Caves: Another network of limestone caves with a rich mining history.
• Crealy Resort: A family-friendly adventure park with plenty of rides and attractions.
• Techniquest, Cardiff: A science discovery centre with plenty of interactive exhibits.
• Avon Valley Railway: A heritage railway with steam trains and plenty of historic stations.
• American Museum and Gardens: A museum dedicated to American history and culture with stunning gardens.
• Westonbirt Arboretum: A beautiful arboretum with plenty of trees and walking trails.
• Dyrham Park: A beautiful historic house with stunning gardens and parkland.

These are just some of the top day trips from Bristol that you can take. There are plenty of other options depending on your interests and preferences.

Historical Destinations

If you’re a history buff, Bristol and the surrounding areas have plenty of historical destinations to explore. Here are a few day trips you won’t want to miss:

Just a short 15-minute train ride from Bristol, Bath is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history and one of the best day trips. The city is famous for its Roman Baths, which were built nearly 2,000 years ago. You can explore the ancient baths, see the original Roman plumbing, and even taste the mineral-rich water that made Bath a popular spa destination in the 18th century. In addition to the Roman Baths, Bath is also home to stunning Georgian architecture, including the Royal Crescent and the Circus.

A bit further afield, but still within easy driving distance of Bristol, is the mysterious Stonehenge. This prehistoric monument is thought to have been built around 5,000 years ago, and its purpose is still a matter of debate among archaeologists and historians. Nevertheless, the iconic stone circle is an impressive sight to behold, and a day trip to Stonehenge is a must-do for anyone interested in ancient history.

Tintern Abbey

Tintern Abbey is a ruined Cistercian monastery located in the Wye Valley, just across the border in Wales. The abbey was founded in the 12th century and was once a thriving center of monastic life. Today, the ruins are a popular destination for visitors who come to admire the Gothic architecture and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. The abbey is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a great place to go for a walk or a picnic.

Whether you’re interested in Roman history, prehistoric monuments, or Gothic architecture, these historical day trips from Bristol are sure to satisfy your curiosity.

Nature Escapes

If you’re looking for a break from city life, Bristol has plenty of nature escapes to offer. Here are some great day trips from Bristol for nature lovers:

The Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. With rolling hills, picturesque villages, and plenty of walking trails, the Cotswold villages is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and a great day trip. Some of the best places to visit in the Cotswolds include Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold.

Forest of Dean

The Forest of Dean is a beautiful ancient woodland that covers over 42 square miles. It’s a great place to go for a walk, cycle, or horse ride, and there are plenty of trails to choose from. You can also go kayaking or canoeing on the River Wye, which runs through the forest. Other activities include visiting the Clearwell Caves, Puzzlewood, and the Dean Heritage Centre.

Cheddar Gorge

Cheddar Gorge is a spectacular natural landmark that’s perfect for a day trip. The gorge is over 400 feet deep and is home to some of the UK’s most impressive limestone cliffs. You can take a guided tour of Gough’s Cave, which is filled with stalactites and stalagmites, or go rock climbing on the cliffs. Other attractions in the area include the Cheddar Reservoir and the Mendip Hills.

Avon Valley Railway

Avon Valley Railway is a must-visit for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This heritage railway offers visitors the chance to ride on a steam train and experience the golden age of railways. The Avon Valley Railway also boasts a number of historic stations along the route, each with its own unique charm and character. Visitors can step back in time and experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a bygone era.

American Museum and Gardens

The American Museum and Gardens is a fascinating attraction that celebrates American history and culture. The museum’s collections include a wide range of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history, art, and culture of America. The stunning gardens that surround the museum are also a highlight, with beautifully landscaped grounds that offer visitors a tranquil oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Westonbirt Arboretum

Westonbirt Arboretum is a beautiful arboretum that is home to a wide variety of trees and walking trails. Visitors can explore the arboretum’s many paths and trails, which wind through a stunning landscape of trees, flowers, and other plants. The arboretum is also home to a number of rare and unique species of trees, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

National Trust Tyntesfield

The National Trust Tyntesfield is a stunning Victorian Gothic house that is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. The house itself is a masterpiece of Victorian architecture, with ornate detailing and beautiful interiors that are sure to impress visitors. The gardens and parkland that surround the house are also a highlight, with beautifully landscaped grounds that offer visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Dyrham Park

Dyrham Park is another beautiful historic house that is surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland. The house itself is a fine example of 17th-century architecture, with beautiful interiors and period furnishings that transport visitors back in time. The gardens and parkland that surround the house are also a highlight, with beautifully landscaped grounds that offer visitors a peaceful retreat from the stresses of modern life.

Seaside Getaways

Looking for a day trip to the beach or want to explore charming seaside towns? Lucky for you, Bristol is surrounded by some fantastic seaside destinations that are perfect for a day out. Here are three of the best:

Weston-Super-Mare

Weston-Super-Mare is a classic British seaside town that’s perfect for a day trip from Bristol. The town has a long sandy beach, a pier with plenty of amusements, and a promenade lined with shops and cafes. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at some water sports like windsurfing or paddleboarding.

If you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed seaside getaway, Clevedon is the perfect choice. This charming town is home to a pebble beach, a historic pier, and some lovely coastal walks. Make sure to check out the Victorian seafront buildings, including the striking Clevedon Hall.

Barry Island

Located just across the border in Wales, Barry Island is a popular seaside destination that’s well worth the trip from Bristol. The town has a long sandy beach, a funfair with plenty of rides and attractions, and some great fish and chip shops. Make sure to take a walk along the promenade for some stunning views of the Bristol Channel.

City Breaks: Day Trips from Bristol

If you’re looking for a quick getaway, Bristol is a great starting point for a city break. Here are three nearby destinations that are worth considering:

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is just a short train ride away from Bristol. This vibrant city has plenty to offer, from historic castles to modern shopping centers. You can visit Cardiff Castle, stroll through Bute Park, or explore the National Museum Cardiff. For sports fans, Cardiff is home to the Principality Stadium, where you can catch a rugby or football match.

Exeter is a charming city in Devon, known for its historic cathedral and picturesque quayside. You can take a guided tour of the cathedral, walk along the River Exe, or visit the Royal Albert Memorial Museum. Exeter is also a great base for exploring the nearby Dartmoor National Park, where you can go hiking, cycling, or horse riding.

Gloucester is a historic city in the Cotswolds, famous for its stunning cathedral and picturesque docks. You can take a guided tour of the cathedral, visit the Gloucester Waterways Museum, or explore the Gloucester Quays shopping center. Gloucester is also home to the Gloucester Rugby Club, where you can catch a match at Kingsholm Stadium.

No matter which city you choose, you’re sure to have a great time on your city break from Bristol.

Family Friendly Trips

If you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, Bristol and its surrounding areas have plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. Here are three family-friendly day trips you won’t want to miss:

Longleat Safari Park

Longleat Safari Park is a great day out for animal lovers of all ages. Located about an hour’s drive from Bristol, this safari park is home to over 500 animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and monkeys. You can drive through the park in your own car and get up close and personal with the animals, or take a guided tour on a bus. There are also plenty of other attractions at Longleat, including a maze, a boat ride, and a jungle cruise.

Bristol Zoo

Bristol Zoo is a must-visit for families with young children. Located in the heart of Bristol, this zoo is home to over 400 species of animals, including gorillas, penguins, and lemurs. There are plenty of interactive exhibits and activities for kids, including a play area and a bug exhibit. The zoo also hosts regular events and activities, so be sure to check their website before you go.

SS Great Britain

The SS Great Britain is a fascinating piece of maritime history that the whole family can enjoy. This steamship was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and launched in 1843. Today, it’s been fully restored and is open to the public as a museum. Visitors can explore the ship’s decks, cabins, and engine room, and learn about life on board during the Victorian era. There are also plenty of interactive exhibits and activities for kids, including a chance to dress up in Victorian clothing.

Cultural Experiences: Day Trips from Bristol

If you’re looking for a day trip that’s rich in culture and history, Bristol has plenty of options. Here are three destinations that are worth checking out:

Stratford-Upon-Avon

The birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-Upon-Avon is a charming town that’s steeped in history. You can visit the house where the famous playwright was born and raised, as well as other sites that are associated with his life and work. The Royal Shakespeare Company also performs here, so you might be able to catch a play while you’re in town.

Home to one of the world’s most prestigious universities, Oxford is a city that’s packed with cultural treasures. You can take a tour of the university and its many colleges, which have produced countless famous scholars and thinkers over the centuries. The city is also full of museums, galleries, and historic buildings, so there’s plenty to see and do.

Located in the heart of Somerset, Wells is a small city that’s packed with character. Its most famous landmark is the stunning Wells Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century and boasts some of the finest Gothic architecture in the country. The city also has a number of other historic buildings, including the Bishop’s Palace and the Vicars’ Close, which is said to be the oldest continuously inhabited street in Europe.

No matter which of these destinations you choose, you’re sure to come away with a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Adventure Day Trips From Bristol

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of adventure day trips from Bristol that will get your heart racing. Here are three destinations to consider:

Brecon Beacons

The Brecon Beacons offer some of the best hiking and climbing in the UK. With its rugged terrain and stunning views, this national park is a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast. You can take a guided hike to the summit of Pen Y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, or go caving in the underground caverns. If you’re feeling brave, try your hand at white water rafting on the River Usk.

Mendip Hills

The Mendip Hills are a great destination for rock climbing and caving. With its limestone cliffs and underground caves, this area is a popular spot for adventure seekers. You can also go mountain biking on the trails or take a hot air balloon ride for a unique perspective of the landscape.

Quantock Hills

The Quantock Hills offer a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to horse riding and fishing. This area is known for its stunning views and diverse wildlife, including red deer and buzzards. You can take a guided hike to the summit of Wills Neck or explore the ancient oak woodlands.

No matter which adventure trip you choose, make sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen. Always follow safety guidelines and respect the natural environment.

Tips for Day Tripping

When planning Bristol day trip, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your time and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you plan your day trip:

1. Plan ahead

Research your destination and plan your itinerary in advance. Make sure to check opening times, admission fees, and any other important details. This will help you make the most of your time and avoid disappointment.

2. Consider transportation

Think about how you will get to your destination. Will you drive, take public transportation, or book a tour? Consider the distance, travel time, and cost when making your decision.

3. Pack essentials

Make sure to pack everything you will need for the day, including snacks, water, sunscreen, and any necessary equipment or clothing. Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.

4. Be flexible

Allow for some flexibility in your itinerary in case of unexpected delays or changes. Don’t try to pack too much into one day, and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.

5. Respect the environment

When visiting natural or historic sites, be respectful of the environment and follow any rules or guidelines. Leave no trace and take only memories and photographs.

By following these tips, you can have a fun and stress-free day trip from Bristol and make the most of your time exploring the beautiful surrounding areas.

Getting Around

Getting around South West England and its surrounding areas is easy and convenient. You can choose from a variety of transportation options, including:

• We recommend RentalCars if you need one.
• Train:  Bristol has two main train stations: Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway. Both stations offer regular services and direct trains to destinations around the UK, including London, Bath, Cardiff, and Birmingham and surrounding countryside. Train travel is a great option for day trips from Bristol, as it allows you to sit back and relax while enjoying the scenery.
• Bus:  Bristol has an extensive bus network, with services running to destinations across the city and beyond. Local bus companies, such as First Bus and Stagecoach, offer day tickets and group tickets that can save you money if you’re traveling with others.
• Bike:  Bristol is a bike-friendly city, with many dedicated cycle paths and bike rental options. You can easily rent a bike from one of the city’s many bike rental companies and explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
• Walking:  Bristol is a compact city, and many of its attractions can be easily reached on foot. Walking is a great way to explore the city’s historic streets, parks, and waterfront areas.

No matter what mode of transportation you choose, be sure to plan your journey in advance and check for any disruptions or delays. With so many day trips to choose from, you’ll want to make the most of your time and ensure a smooth journey.

Planning Your Trip

When planning your day trip from Bristol, there are a few things to consider to make the most out of your experience. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip:

1. Decide on your destination

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose where to go. Consider your interests and preferences. Do you want to explore a small village, historic sites, natural wonders, national parks, or quaint towns? Do you prefer outdoor activities or cultural experiences? Once you have a clear idea of what you want to do, it will be easier to narrow down your options.

2. Check the weather

The weather can greatly impact your day trip experience. Make sure to check the forecast before you head out and pack accordingly. Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for sunny days, and raincoats or umbrellas for rainy days.

3. Plan your transportation

Depending on your destination, you may need to take a car, train, or bus. Check the schedules and routes ahead of time and plan accordingly. If you’re driving, make sure to check for any road closures or construction that may impact your journey.

4. Pack snacks and water

You don’t want to be caught hungry or thirsty during your day trip. Bring along some snacks and water to keep you fueled throughout the day. Consider packing a picnic lunch if you’re heading to a scenic spot.

5. Consider guided tours

If you’re interested in learning more about your destination, consider booking a guided tour. Many day trip destinations offer guided tours that can provide you with a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the area.

By following these tips, you can ensure a fun and memorable day trip from Bristol.

Bristol is a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding areas, with plenty of day trip options available to suit all interests. From the natural beauty of the Cotswolds and Mendip Hills to the historic cities of Bath and Wells, there are endless possibilities for adventure and discovery. Whether you’re a local looking to explore more of your own backyard or a visitor looking to make the most of your time in the area, these day trips from Bristol are sure to leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for this beautiful corner of England.

Marissa is a scientist, sports lover, traveler, tech executive, and baked goods enthusiast. Currently based between Toronto, NYC, and LA, she calls all three places home throughout the year. She has lived in seven countries and explored countless more as a long-term visitor. You can find her work on Darling Escapes and around the web.

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England Road Trip: 50 Unmissable ideas (for every UK itinerary)

Planning an England road trip? Here are some of the best itinerary ideas for all schedules, including London to Cornwall, the Cotswolds and Kent in southern England, National Parks like the Lake District or Peak District, Northern England and all the way up to the Scottish border.

Whatever your cup of tea, there’s a UK road trip idea here for you. We’ve also provided a helpful map so you can visualise your route.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

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UK Road Trips- How to Plan

Planning a UK road trip to England or elsewhere can be tough. 

There are SO MANY places, ideas, options and reviews- how on earth are you supposed to choose the best way or most scenic drives?

Then, you have to factor in how long you have for your UK road trip (remembering that much of rural UK has smaller, slower roads, so it takes a lot longer to get there than you might expect. 

So, if you’re planning a road trip around England (and the UK) and feeling overwhelmed, here are some of our favourite road trips and itinerary ideas to help you. We’ll discuss the best bits of each area, why and when you should visit, how far it is from London and where you should allow extra time to explore.

England Road Trip Ideas- Where to Start

The first thing to decide is where you want to visit on your road trip. Also, remember that England is only one section of the UK- there are several other countries to explore (England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland make up the United Kingdom).

So, if you want to do a full UK road trip, you’ll need more time than if you were just doing an England road trip.

Our biggest tip is not to overface yourself. Whether you only have a long weekend for a quick trip from London or a week to get out on the open road and tour, make sure you leave time to actually get out of your vehicle and explore the places you’re visiting- you’ll find plenty of historic sites, sandy beaches and incredible routes to enjoy. 

Roughly speaking, you can split England in half- the South of England and the North  (the line roughly goes through Birmingham) or even further into quarters if you only have time for a one-week road trip. 

Again, how far you can travel will depend on how much time you have, as well as how you are travelling (rental car, motorhome or public transport), but to do each half ‘properly’ we would recommend at least 2-3 weeks- especially if it’s your first time in England.

Having said that, you can see some of the best sights in less time than that- here’s our one week in England road trip itinerary .

Make planning your next road trip EASY (& fun!)

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Where to stay during your England road trip

If you’re planning a motorhome or campervan trip , you’ll be able to travel and stop along the way, often without booking in advance, using schemes like Brit Stops or wild camping in your motorhome .

If you’re in a car or motorbike, there are PLENTY of hotels and BnBs to use en route. If you’re travelling in summer we recommend booking at least the first stop in advance- if you use Booking.com for all your accommodation you’ll find you can get a great deal and save a lot of money.

England Road Trip Map

I know how hard it can be to visualise places if you don’t know the country well, so here’s a map of England with several of the road trip destinations shown on it.

Out of interest, if you did this route, it’s about 1056 miles (1700km) long. You could technically do it in a week, but you’d barely have time to get out of the car!

Common England Road Trip Questions

How long does it take to drive the whole of england .

Many people wonder “ How long does it take to drive the whole of England ?” That’s a tough question, as there are so many places to go and depends a lot on your starting point.

Most people allow 2-3 weeks to drive through as much of England as they can, but that will involve a LOT of driving. Of course, you can take a look at the road trip itinerary ideas below and see which scenic route or quaint villages most appeal to you- and then plan your trip around that.

One common UK road trip idea is to drive from Land’s End in Cornwall all the way up to John o’Groats in Scotland, which is about 838miles (1350km). Obviously, this is a road trip which involves England AND Scotland, and that brings me to another important point.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

These might help:

• Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
• Find the best deals for car rental

READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

Can we go to England by road?

This is a common question for anyone who doesn’t live in the UK- and the short answer is yes, you can drive to England from mainland Europe.

Whether you’re enjoying a European road trip (here are some ideas for you ), or want to combine a trip to England with another country, you can drive to England from Europe via either the Eurotunnel or taking one of several car ferries (they also take motorhomes/ campervans on most of the ferry routes.)

If you’re planning a road trip from France to England, which route you take will depend on which part of France and England you want to visit- find out more in our Eurotunnel vs Ferry post.

And if you’re going the other way and will be driving in Europe, make sure you are aware of the new rules for driving in Europe after BREXIT .

If you’re like more help planning your trip, this post about how to plan an epic UK road trip will help.

Is England the UK or Great Britain?

Neither. And part of both 🙂

It’s common for people to confuse an England road trip with a UK road trip. England is just one country within the UK, along with Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you want to extend your trip and see more of those countries, you might enjoy our post on the best UK road trips and scenic drive ideas.

The UK is short for ‘The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland’.

Great Britain is the LANDMASS of the largest island in the British Isles (the one which makes up England, Wales and Scotland). Northern Ireland, Isle of Man and the Channel Islands are not included in this.

And, to make things even more odd, the British Isles includes ALL the islands, including the whole of Ireland, which isn’t part of the UK at all.

Thoroughly confused? Ok, let’s just stick to England road trip ideas! 🙂

South England Road Trip Ideas

If you’re visiting London and want to explore part of the country for a few days, southern England is a good place to start. Of course, there are a HUGE number of places to explore in ‘South England’ (which is roughly classed as anywhere below Birmingham), so I’m just going to pick a few highlights to inspire you.

Cornwall- South West England

Cornwall is one of my favourite places to road trip in England. I spent 2 years living there whilst I was in the Navy, and have been back many times since. There are plenty of things to do in Cornwall , but there are some important tips you need to know before you arrive!

Why is Cornwall one of the best England road trips?

If you want cute villages, incredible beaches and more history than you can shake a stick at, Cornwall is perfect. Also, they have some of the best ice cream IN THE WORLD (no kidding) and it’s perfectly acceptable to eat a scone with jam and clotted cream EVERY day and no one will judge you.

IMPORTANT NOTE : There is intense rivalry between Devon and Cornwall over whether jam or cream should go first on a scone. In Cornwall, they do jam and THEN cream, which is apparently the way the Queen preferred her scones .

(Don’t worry, they’re used to tourists and won’t stone you if you get it wrong. But be warned if you want to live there…!) 

In Devon, they do it the other way. I’ve tried both, and I’m a jam first girl (because you can then put more cream on!)

When should you visit Cornwall?

Cornwall is best anytime between Easter and mid-October.

TOP TIP : Avoid July and August if you possibly can. The schools are on holiday and it feels like EVERYONE in England has travelled to the same small Cornish village as you.

Beaches are overcrowded, parking becomes a struggle and there’s a very real chance of shops running out of ice cream. Don’t do that to yourself. You deserve that ice cream.

Also, many businesses and attractions close after mid-October for the winter, so you might find you can’t do everything you want to outside the season.

Having said that, we find Cornwall one of the best places to enjoy Autumn in Europe – the weather is still warm, but everywhere is quieter and easier to get to.

How long should you spend roadtripping Cornwall?

How long is a piece of string!! But, as you can see on our Cornish road trip itinerary , we recommend 7-10 days minimum to see all the best places.

Where are the best places to visit in Cornwall on a road trip?

Did I mention that I used to live here? I have SO many recommendations for places to visit we could be here all week!!! Some of my absolute favourites (and this is like choosing my favourite child… or chocolate bar) include:

• Tintagel Castle (the home of Arthur and the round table)
• Minack Theatre (built onto the side of a cliff)
• St Michael’s Mount
• Boscastle (where one of the best witchcraft museums in the world is!)
• Newquay beach (and bars!)

READ MORE: Discover our complete Cornwall road trip itinerary (45 places you HAVE to see!)

Recommended by Ben at Driftwood Journals

Famed for its endless rolling hills, craggy coastlines and clotted cream delights, Devon is unsurprisingly one of the most popular destinations in the UK – and a dream for rural road-trippers! With wild moors galore, cutesy towns and villages, and bountiful beaches, you don’t have to drive far in Devon to stumble upon scenes of unparalleled beauty.

Highlights and best places to visit in Devon

• Dartmouth- one of the best towns in the county (and home of the Royal Naval Officer training. I spent a year here…running up those bl***y hills!) Hire a boat and explore the river.
• Paignton- the beach with the red sand and is also known as the English Riviera.
• Dartmoor National Park
• Exmoor National Park
• Exmouth with its beautiful painted houses
• Salcombe Harbour – a holiday hotspot for all generations.
• Dulverton- head to the Copper Kettle tearoom; you won’t regret it!

Devon road trip ideas

Pack up your motorhome/ camper (or car with tent) and find a site with views across the Devonshire cow-grazed hillsides of the Lyn Valley, or out over Dartmoor. You can wild camp in Devon, but not on the moors. Find out more about motorhome wild camping in the UK.

For a coastal trip, explore sea towns like Salcombe and Dartmouth (where you can take a boat up to Greenway, Agatha Christie’s summer home) and round to Exmouth, before heading north to Woolacombe, Dawlish and the fishing boat bobbing harbour of Ilfracombe. Enjoy the bustle and culture in the capital of Exeter or discover the notorious prison of Dartmoor.

Alternatively, head to North Devon and enjoy the wilder seas and views of the north coast. This is a great area for surfing and watersports.

If you have more time (and fuel) to burn, take to the A386 between Appledore and Plymouth, traversing through forested valleys to picture-perfect towns like Great Torrington and Tavistock, where you can tour the tearooms and plan the rest of your trip in the park while dangling your toes in the River Tavy.

But the true beauty of road tripping in Devon is that you don’t really need to plan too extensively. You’ll never be far from a cream tea pitstop, and the verdant country roads will offer up some of the most perfect picnic spots you’ll ever see. All you need is is a full tank, and a little patience when stuck behind tractor after tractor!

When is the best time to visit Devon on a road trip?

As with Cornwall, the best time to visit Devon is Spring to Autumn, but avoid the high summer months if you can, especially if you’re on a UK motorhome holiday .

Can you visit Devon on a day trip from London?

You can, but it’s quite a long drive. I’d say you’d need at least 2 or 3 days to really be able to explore anything.

Dorset- One of England’s Best Road Trips

Recommended by Paul | Anywhere We Roam

The Jurassic Coast stretches 95 miles across Dorset in southern England. With an iconic coastline of towering white cliffs, it’s an excellent destination for a classic road trip. Stunning scenery, historical sites and local breweries make the Jurassic Coast one of the best places to experience the beautiful English countryside.

Dorset road trip- best places to visit?

The main highlight of a road trip to Dorset in the area has to be Old Harry Rocks – a collection of white stone monoliths that have been carved out along the coast. It’s one of the most impressive stretches of scenery in the UK with dazzling chalk stacks assembled like a jigsaw puzzle waiting to be completed. If you get time, be sure to enjoy one of the many fabulous Dorset walks- you won’t regret it.

A thirty-minute drive away, Corfe Castle stands as a reminder of England’s 11th-Century past. It was one of the earliest Norman castles built and today it glows in its dilapidated glory overlooking the Dorset hills. It’s a stunning, photogenic inclusion on a UK road trip.

For another natural phenomenon, Durdle Door is possibly one of the most recognisable symbols of the Jurassic Coast. Over time, crashing waves have eroded limestone stacks in the sea leaving a glorious natural arch.

It’s a beautiful stretch of beach, ideal for a long summer stroll. It’s also next to the famous Lulworth Cove, which is a wonderful place to enjoy an ice cream!

Editors note: (I (Kat) actually jumped off the top of Durdle Door on my hen party!)

After soaking up the stunning scenery, head west to Lyme Regis, a quaint town with a vibrant independent retail scene. The historic Cobb Harbour set against moody cliffs is well-preserved and houses some of the best coffee in the area.

When is the best time to visit Dorset on an England road trip?

The best time to visit the Jurassic Coast on a road trip is from May to early July when the surrounding countryside will be verdant green and covered in wildflowers, but there’s not too much traffic!

Hampshire road trip

Hampshire is another county in England we know well, having lived here for 14+ years. There’s plenty to enjoy on a road trip to Hampshire, from beautiful cities to picturesque country houses.

Highlights of a Hampshire road trip

Some of our favourite places to visit in Hampshire include:

• Winchester- be sure to visit the Cathedral where Jane Austen is buried and you can see one of the oldest Bibles in the world. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting in December, don’t miss the famous Winchester Christmas Market , held in the Cathedral grounds each December.
• Highclere Castle (or Downton Abbey, as you might know it!)
• Lymington – for the oldest open sea water baths in the UK – and the New Forest (check out the Wildlife park there and make sure to take some memorable photos).
• Hinton Ampner- 18th century famous manor house known for its gardens.
• Portsmouth (you MUST go to the Mary Rose museum and HMS Victory)
• Isle of Wight (see below)

Isle of Wight road trip

Recommended by Darek | DarekandGosia

The  Isle of Wight , famous for its beautiful views, is an island on the south coast of England, just below Southampton. Technically, it’s part of Hampshire, but feels like a different world.

With a motorhome or car, you can reach the island by ferry from either Southampton or Portsmouth – book in advance during summer. There are also a couple of foot passenger ferries and a hovercraft from Southsea.

Why is it one of England’s best road trips?

The Isle of Wight is like going back in time. It’s worth a road trip here for even a weekend, to escape the hustle and bustle of normal life, ride bikes and take a walk on the cliffs.

Also, there are some wonderful places to stay. If you’re on a road trip, check out these amazing Isle of Wight campsites – some with stunning sea views!

What is there to do?

You can start exploring the island in Shanklin – one of the coastal villages famous for its beautiful beaches. On the promenade along the sea you will find many restaurants and hotels – most of the Island is typically tourist-oriented.

From Shanklin drive to the western part of the island. The most characteristic point is The Needles – three chalk rocks emerging from the sea with a small lighthouse built at the end of one of the columns. You can get to Needles by car and then follow the path on foot to the cliff slope. It’s a fabulous place for a picnic.

Next to Needles is Old Battery, a military fortification dating from the nineteenth century. There you can find World War II memorabilia or visit one of the various exhibitions are also taking place.

While driving around the island make sure you get to Carisbrooke Castle near Newport. Its construction began in the 12th century. It is worth taking a moment to walk around the castle, relax in the Edwardian-style garden.

One of my favourite places on the Island is Osborne House- Queen Victoria’s summer home. You can walk around the gardens and the house and even enjoy an ice cream on her private beach. Osborne House is run by English Heritage.

When is the best time to visit the Isle of Wight?

The Isle of Wight is a must-see for anyone who wants to admire the British climate and above all fantastic views. It is worth going here all year round – it’s actually one of the best places to visit in Europe in October , when there are fewer tourists and you can enjoy the views & roads!

Norfolk Broads

Recommended by Mandi | Big Family, Little Adventures

Sometimes you want nothing more than to escape the hustle and the bustle of everyday life, the noise, the bright lights, the never-ending pace of life. If you want to get away, the Norfolk Broads is pure escapism; big skies, plenty of peace and quiet and an abundance of wildlife.

Best places to visit in Norfolk on a road trip

• The Old Roman Fort at Burgh Castle with an elevated position and commanding views over the marshes – perfect for a walk in both winter morning frost or a hot and hazy mid-summer evening
• If you prefer a bit of activity, Wroxham is a bustling Broads village- home to Roy’s of Wroxham, possibly the largest village shop you have ever seen
• Plenty of riverside pubs and restaurants in Wroxham and all around the Broads- the perfect places to stop for a bite to eat
• St Benet’s Abbey – an 11th century monastery defying time, standing in a stunning green valley.
• If you are an animal lover, you will enjoy a visit to Wroxham Barns to feed the lambs or spot the grey seals on the Norfolk beaches

Norfolk Road Trip- when is the best time to visit?

You can explore Norfolk all year. In summer, if you would like to explore the best Norfolk beaches or Broads up close, why not hire a dayboat; these can be hired at various boatyards throughout the Broads. Waveney River Centre is another stunning place to stop and admire the view, either by boat or car.

The challenge is (as always in England!) the weather. In dry conditions, most paths are excellent, but it can get a bit more challenging in wet weather.

However, over the years, an increasing number of boardwalks have been developed, increasing safe access to the Broads whatever the weather. Also, seeing the windmills and rivers on a crisp winter morning is unforgettable.

Time does not stop in Norfolk, but it really does feel like it slows down.  To be able to watch the sunset across the broads any time of year is a magical experience and the perfect place to enjoy a chilled road trip.

Sussex, Kent and Surrey

Ahhh, the picturesque south-east corner of England, which includes the Garden of England (that’s the other name for Kent). This area is lush, green and has some many historic buildings and castles you’ll find it impossible to avoid them.

It’s also home to plenty of gorgeous sandy beaches, white cliffs (such as Dover and Beachy Head) and some truly wonderful parks to walk in.

Even better, it’s all easily reached from London by car and train, so it’s easy to get away from the city for a few days if you’d like a countryside break or a trip to the beach.

Best Places to visit in Sussex include:

Sussex is actually split into East and West Sussex, but to make things easy on your road trip I’ve made one list for you. They’re not that far apart from each other!

• Brighton : A vibrant seaside city famous for its pebble beach, iconic pier, and the Royal Pavilion with its distinctive architecture. Explore the Lanes for unique shops and enjoy the city’s lively arts and music scene. See below for more ideas
• Arundel : Home to Arundel Castle, a medieval and Victorian castle that overlooks the River Arun. The town itself is picturesque with cobbled streets and antique shops.
• Chichester : A historic cathedral city with Roman origins, Chichester offers a mix of history, culture, and shopping. The Chichester Cathedral and Pallant House Gallery are notable attractions.
• Lewes : Known for its medieval architecture, Lewes Castle, and historic streets. The Lewes Bonfire Night is a famous annual event.
• Eastbourne : A traditional seaside town with a Victorian pier, beautiful seafront, and the iconic Beachy Head cliffs nearby.
• Rye : A charming medieval town with cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and views of the surrounding marshland.
• Battle : Famous for the Battle of Hastings in 1066, this town is home to Battle Abbey and the Battlefield. Explore the historic sites and learn about this pivotal event in English history.
• Petworth House and Park : A stately mansion with an impressive art collection set in a vast deer park. The gardens are also worth exploring.
• Seven Sisters Country Park : A stunning coastal area with dramatic chalk cliffs and rolling hills, perfect for hiking and enjoying breathtaking views.
• Bodiam Castle : A 14th-century moated castle surrounded by water and picturesque landscapes.
• Sheffield Park and Garden : A National Trust property known for its stunning gardens, lakes, and vibrant displays of plants.
• Birling Gap and Beachy Head : More stunning chalk cliffs and coastal views, with the added beauty of the natural arch at Birling Gap.
• Glyndebourne Opera House : Known for its world-class opera productions, the opera house is set in beautiful countryside and offers a unique cultural experience.

Best places to visit in Kent include:

• Canterbury – home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Canterbury Cathedral
• Dover : Known for the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, this coastal town is home to Dover Castle, which boasts a complex history and offers panoramic views of the English Channel.
• Rochester : A charming town with a medieval castle and cathedral. It’s also the birthplace of Charles Dickens, and you can visit the Dickens World theme park.
• Whitstable : This coastal town is famous for its oysters and seafood. Enjoy the quaint streets, beach huts, and seafood restaurants along the coast.
• Margate : A seaside town with a revived artistic scene, featuring the Turner Contemporary art gallery and the scenic Margate Sands.
• Leeds Castle : Often referred to as the “loveliest castle in the world,” Leeds Castle is set on an island in a lake and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
• Hever Castle : The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, with historic architecture, gardens, and a maze.
• Chatham Historic Dockyard : A maritime museum where you can explore historic warships, submarines, and learn about Britain’s naval history.
• Biddenden Vineyards : If you’re a wine enthusiast, Kent has several vineyards. Biddenden is one of the oldest and most well-known.
• Canterbury Tales Visitor Attraction : An interactive museum where you can step back in time to experience Chaucer’s famous tales.
• St. Augustine’s Abbey : A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this abbey in Canterbury dates back to the 6th century and is a significant historical site.
• Chartwell House : The former home of Winston Churchill, now a museum showcasing his life and legacy.

These are just a few highlights of what Kent has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, you’re likely to find something appealing in this diverse and beautiful county.

Best Places to Visit in Surrey

• Box Hill : A National Trust site known for its stunning views and walking trails. It’s a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.
• Polesden Lacey : A grand Edwardian estate with beautiful gardens, Polesden Lacey is a National Trust property that offers a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy in the early 20th century.
• Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village : Located in Compton, this unique attraction is dedicated to the works of Victorian artist George Frederic Watts and his wife Mary Watts. The village includes a gallery, chapel, and artist studios.
• Hampton Court Palace : While part of the palace is in Greater London, the stunning Hampton Court Palace is right on the border of Surrey. It’s famous for its Tudor history, grand architecture, and beautiful gardens.
• RHS Garden Wisley : A flagship garden of the Royal Horticultural Society, Wisley offers a wide variety of plants, landscapes, and garden designs to explore.
• Brooklands Museum : A museum dedicated to motorsport and aviation history, located on the site of the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit.
• Loseley Park : A grand Elizabethan manor house surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, open to the public during certain times of the year.
• Denbies Wine Estate : England’s largest vineyard, Denbies offers tours, wine tasting, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
• Newlands Corner : Another viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the Surrey Hills, perfect for picnics and outdoor activities.
• Epsom Downs : Known for Epsom Downs Racecourse and the famous Epsom Derby, this area offers open spaces and walking trails.
• Virginia Water : Part of Windsor Great Park, Virginia Water features a lake, ornamental cascades, and woodland walks.

Surrey’s mix of historic sites, natural beauty, and cultural attractions make it a delightful destination for a variety of interests. Whether you’re into history, outdoor activities, or simply enjoying scenic landscapes, Surrey has something to offer.

Brighton – East Sussex

I’ve given Brighton it’s own section because it’s one of my favourite cities in England and you should try to add it to your England road trip itinerary, especially if you’re heading toward East Sussex.

Brighton is a city renowned for its diverse communities and innovation, the quirky shopping areas, its music and art scene, and its large LGBT population. Read more about Brighton in Autum .

Why is Brighton one of the best England road trips?

Brighton is less than an hour away from London (76 km) and on a direct train line. It offers plenty of fun and exciting activities to enjoy (more than just fish and chips at a pier!)

Brighton has been famous as a cultural centre for over a century. It’s home to the world’s oldest operating aquarium (which opened in 1872- now called ‘’Brighton Sea Life’’), and you can even ride the world’s oldest operating electric railway, the Volks Railway, built in 1883.

Other Brighton Highlights include:

• See the Palace Pier
• Catch the latest release in the Duke of York Picturehouse, Britain’s oldest cinema.
• Have a stroll down the North Lane- home to over 400 independent shops
• Discover the Victorian innovations still in operation in the city.

How long should you spend in Brighton?

You will want to spend at least two days in Brighton to truly take in the city, but you can easily make a week of your itinerary if you want to explore more places in Sussex, Kent and Surrey.  

What is the best month to visit Brighton?

The sunniest (and therefore warmest!) time of the year in Brighton is from May to September. July and August are peak tourist season, with hotel prices skyrocketing, so be aware of that and plan your stay accordingly.

Cambridgeshire & Cambridge

Cambridgeshire is a county in the East of England with plenty to do. The jewel of the county is Cambridge, with a historical, 800-year-old centre you should definitely not skip.

Why should you include Cambridge on your England road trip?

Only 1 hour and 30 minutes away from London via M11, Cambridge offers so much: a rich history of English heritage, a buzzing local community, and a picturesque setting. You’ll even find a gift Henry VIII gave to Anne Boleyn!

Cambridge Highlights

• See the King’s College Chapel 
• Enjoy breakfast at Fitzbillies
• Go punting in the River Cam
• Have a picnic by the river.
• Enjoy walking the historic streets

Cambridge Trip Itinerary idea

Leaving London, head up to Cambridge via the M11.

Start the day with drinks and a meal in one of the many deli and brunch places in Market Square before setting off to explore the city. I highly recommend the famous Fitzbillies- the food is delicious.

From there, you can choose from a variety of activities: visiting King’s Chapel, punting in the River Cam (pass under the Bridge of Sighs), hiking on the Cam Towpath (lots of hidden gems if you know how to look for trails!), or taking in the city views from St. Mary’s Tower.

If you’re staying overnight, end the day by attending the Evensong at the King’s College Chapel (select days only)

When is the best (and worst) time to visit Cambridge ?

Cambridge is beautiful all year round. However, the worst time to visit would be spring – the university students sit their finals between April and June, which means many of the college sites are closed to visitors. 

What are some of the best places to visit in Cambridge?

The King’s College Chapel in the University of Cambridge is the third-oldest university in operation and the most iconic and instantly-recognisable building in the county.

Don’t miss out on an opportunity to drink at the Eagle, a historic pub in the heart of Cambridge’s city centre famously linked to Watson and Crick’s discovery of DNA.

If you are feeling adventurous and are ready to brave the British winter, visit Cambridge in December. It’s off-peak season and features one of the best UK Christmas markets you should visit. Read all about the Cambridge Christmas market here.

How long should you spend in Cambridge?

One day in Cambridge is usually enough time to visit the majority of the main sights, especially if you are visiting during the summer. You’ll need tickets for most of the chapels and university buildings, so go first to buy those.

Wiltshire & Cotswolds Road Trip – 3 day trip from London

Recommended by Ann | The road is life

The Cotswolds is the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in England and Wales. If you look at a map of England, find Bristol (west coast, just below the indent of southern Wales) and the Cotswolds is the area north-east of Bristol.

There is so much beauty and fascinating history to discover around the Cotswolds region and luckily you don’t have to travel far from London to get there! You can reach Bath or Bristol easily in a day from London, but we recommend at least 3 days to really explore the area by car/ motorhome, plus explore Stonehenge and Salisbury on the way back to London. If you’re travelling with children, don’t worry- there’s plenty of things to do in the Cotswolds with kids.

Highlights & Best Places to Visit in the Cotswolds and Surrounding Area

• Explore the charming stone villages of the Cotswolds
• visit the historic city of Bath
• marvel at the mysterious ancient stones of Stonehenge
• Indulge in some shopping at Daylesford farm
• stop at the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral.

When is the best time for a Cotswolds road trip?

Although the Cotswolds can be visited all year, this road trip is best completed in the spring or summer months to ensure warmer and sunnier sightseeing weather.

The days are also longer- allowing you to see more each day. However, unlike Cornwall and Devon, most places to NOT shut during winter, so feel free to explore whenever suits you!

Wiltshire & Cotswolds road trip itinerary from London

• Departing London, drive out to the Cotswolds. This is where you should spend 3-4 days exploring as many lovely little towns and villages as you wish to.
• A few of the prettiest Cotswolds villages include Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter, Bourton-on-the-Water, Castle Combe and so many more! The beauty of the Cotswolds region is that the villages are all located in close proximity with minimal driving time in between them.
• Once you have seen your share of lovely English villages , carry on to Bath which is only a 30-minute drive from the village of Castle Combe- well worth a visit.
• Spend a full day and night in Bath visiting the Roman baths.
• From there continue to Stonehenge. A visit to this incredible ancient site can easily take half a day. We camped overnight at Stonehenge and saw the most INCREDIBLE sunrise we’ve EVER seen. (Seriously, watch the video. It’s breathtaking)
• From Stonehenge, it’s only a short 20-minute drive to the medieval town of Salisbury which brings you to the final stop of this road trip.
• The highlight of Salisbury is the stunning Salisbury Cathedral which has the tallest spire in all of Britain! Spend one night in Salisbury before making the final 2-hour road trip back to London.
• Another option is to return to London via the historic city of Oxford. Don’t miss a meal in Sticks and Sushi- one of the best restaurants in Oxford and with incredible views over the city.

North England Road Trips- Why You Should Visit

It’s easy when planning an England road trip to get sucked into famous places like Cornwall, Devon or the Cotswolds- and those are all AMAZING places to visit.

However, I strongly encourage you to visit the north of England as well if you have time. You’ll find villages just as pretty, delicious food (chips, pie and gravy is the best thing in the world) and incredible history.

Again, we were lucky to live up here for 4 years- here are some of our absolute favourite places to road trip, although there are of course many more we have yet to discover! I hope they give you some ideas and inspiration for your next trip.

Don’t forget to Grab your ULTIMATE road trip planner here – it has everything you need to help you pack for your road trip.

Peak District National Park

The Peak District is a huge and stunning area in Derbyshire, just to the east of Manchester. It’s a perfect place for a road trip because there are so many things to see!

A car or motorhome makes it easy to travel between the sites and there are plenty of campsites or hotels to use as you explore.

There are a multitude of hikes, walks and tors to climb and the area is famous for its caves, which people still lived in as recently as 1910!

The Peak District was the UK’s first National Park and is also considered the real ale capital of the world! If you’re exploring the Peak District with kids , there are steam trains, tramways, cycle paths and even a cable car taking you up to see some stunning views! There’s also Alton Towers theme park – one of the best in the UK.

Best places to explore in the Peak District

Some of the highlights include:

• Chatsworth House
• Ladybower reservoir
• Alton Towers theme park
• Heights of Abraham cable car

Lake District road trip

Recommended by Fiona/ Passport & Piano

The Lake District National Park is a UNESCO heritage site that makes for the perfect road trip.  Walking around the lakes and fells to see the magnificent scenery is one of the many pleasures of the area.

Quintessential villages are plentiful as are traditional English pubs with real ale and hearty food. Don’t just rush by on your way from England to Scotland; take a few days and enjoy all that the lakes have to offer.

Best places to visit on a Lake District Road Trip

Most people arrive from the south via Windermere, but to explore the areas hidden gems its worth spending at least three days here. The Lake District has some of the worlds best scenic drives and a trip along the Honister Pass and Kirkstone Pass are a must.

In the South Lakes, I’d highly recommend a  visit to Grasmere . Here you can visit several homes of the famous poet William Wordsworth and enjoy Sarah Nelson’s delightful gingerbread.

If you love Beatrix Potter, you can follow in her footsteps at Beatrix Potter World in Bowness- on- Windermere.  Her home near Hawkshead is open to visitors, and Wray Castle is a beautiful spot where she enjoyed her family holidays.

In the North Lakes, the towns of Keswick and Cockermouth have plenty to explore. The Castlerigg stone circle, with its stunning views across the fells, is worth stopping at, and the “Surprise View” across Derwent Water is spectacular.

If you’re not exploring in a motorhome or campervan, accommodation throughout the area is plentiful. There are boat rides and water-based activities to enjoy on most of the lakes and a plethora of outdoor pursuit centres for the more adventurous.

When is the best time for a Lake District road trip?

In the summer months, the National Park can be rather busy particularly on the main A66 road which runs through the centre. Hence if you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the spring or autumn.

While you’re not guaranteed sunshine at any time of the year, the weather is probably at its best between April and September.

England Road Trip- Yorkshire & The Dales

Recommended by Sinead | Map Made Memories

England’s largest county, Yorkshire, is a perfect destination for a road trip. There are so many diverse attractions to see within a relatively short drive of each other.

Highlights and some best places in Yorkshire to visit

• Hardraw Force–England’s highest single-drop waterfall
• White Scar–The longest show cave in England
• Visit the ‘Best Street in Britain’
• Visit the cobbled Shambles, named ‘the Best Street in Britain’.
• Marvel at the Ribblehead Viaduct, the 24 arches that span the Yorkshire Dales, a true masterpiece of Victorian engineering.
• Castles and ruins all over the place
• Stand on Hogsmeade station (or at least the station which played it in Harry Potter!)

Yorkshire Road Trip Itinerary

Start your road trip in the rolling hills and river valleys of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Visit the 11th century Skipton Castle or descend underground to marvel at the formations in White Scar Caves, the longest show cave in England.

Clamber over Brimham Rocks or hike the stunning landscape around Malham Cove. Browse the independent shops in the Victorian spa town of Harrogate.

Places to visit on the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales are packed with attractive waterfalls. Choose between the plunging falls around Ingleton, popular Aysgarth Falls or, my favourite waterfall, Hardraw Force which is England’s highest single drop waterfall. Before leaving the Dales, visit the impressive monastic ruins and landscaped gardens of Fountains Abbey.

Continue your road trip by exploring the historic city of York . This compact city is easily navigated on foot and is an ideal location for history buffs. You can visit Viking, Roman, Georgian and Victorian sites all in one day!

See the iconic York Minster, walk the city’s medieval city walls and stroll along the cobbled Shambles, which has been voted the ‘ Best Street in Britain’ and was the inspiration behind Diagon Alley from the movie adaptation of the Harry Potter series!

Road trip over the Yorkshire Moors

End your Yorkshire road trip with a drive across the wild Yorkshire Moors. Take a scenic trip on a steam train across the Moors to visit charming Goathland train station which doubled as Hogsmeade station in the Harry Potter movies. Alternatively, your legs with a hike at the Hole of Horcum, a huge ancient natural amphitheatre.

How long should you spend exploring Yorkshire on a road trip?

You could ‘cover’ Yorkshire in a couple of days but to truly appreciate all it has to offer I would recommend at least one full week.

When is the best time to road trip to Yorkshire?

Yorkshire can be explored all year around- and expect rain at any time! But Spring is incredible on the moors- with the wildflowers blooming and the days getting longer, it’s a perfect time to visit. Autumn also offers spectacular views with the leaves turning colour, providing an incredible backdrop.

England Road Trip Idea – North East Coast

Northern England’s east coast is full of charming towns and villages, and is the perfect destination for a road trip.

Best places to visit on a North East coast England road trip

• Saltburn-by-the-Sea (to search for fossils)
• Lemon top ice-cream – Its legacy goes back over 100 years!)
• Staithes- picturesque fishing village
• Whitby Abbey – the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula
• Robin Hood’s Bay (where smuggling was commonplace
• Scarborough Castle

North East England road trip itinerary

Start in Saltburn-by-the-sea. Be sure to search for fossils throughout your visit. I actually found one in Saltburn-by-the-Sea, but you can get lucky in any of the places on this list! Saltburn-by-the-Sea is home to the historic Saltburn Cliff Tramway and affords beautiful views from the bluffs above town.

You can walk along The Cleveland Way, a historic trail that runs through each of the 5 locations mentioned. I’d also recommend trying Lemon Top Ice Cream, or vanilla ice cream with a dollop of lemon sorbet on top.

Staithes is a quaint fishing village laden with narrow pathways and quirky cottages.

The Whitby Abbey towers above the town, giving it an eerie feeling – it’s even credited as the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula!

Robin Hood’s Bay has a long history with smugglers, and its red rooftops and crowded buildings conceal hidden routes. In Scarborough, you can enjoy rides at the Luna Park amusement park or visit the historic Scarborough Castle!

When is the best time to road trip England’s north-east coast?

Although you can visit this area all year round, I’d suggest visiting in the summer or fall. It rains much of the year in this region of England, but there’s a higher likelihood of sunshine from July through October.

How long to spend on this England Road trip?

You can complete this road trip in less than 2 hours, but I’d suggest spending at least a few days exploring the region. Each Yorkshire coastal town has its own charm and activities to offer, so you certainly don’t want to rush!

How far is it from the North east coast to London?

Scarborough to London takes about 5 hours by car. Avoid travelling Friday afternoons or Monday morning- those are the peak road traffic times.

Don’t miss Durham

We spent a lovely couple of days exploring the city of Durham. There are so many wonderful places to explore, but one of the highlights for us was Durham Cathedral. This incredible building was built in the 11th Century and is the largest surviving stone vaulted ceiling of its size.

However, if I’m honest, I was more excited by the fact that several scenes in Harry Potter were filmed here, including in the cloisters and many of the covered walkways.

It was also in Durham Cathedral that Harry, Ron and Hermione encounter ‘Fluffy’- the forbidden corridor was also part of the cathedral.

Other fantastic things to see in or near Durham include:

• Durham Castle
• High Force Waterfall (one of the best waterfalls in Europe )
• Finchale Priory

Northumberland Coast

Recommended by Tracy | Travels in Time

The Northumberland Coastal route stretches for over 35 miles from Alnmouth in the south to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne in the north.

The drive takes you through an area of outstanding natural beauty with many beautiful villages and places of interest to visit along the way.

How long to spend on a Northumberland coast road trip

This itinerary covers a day trip but you could spend a few days exploring the area or even walk the Northumberland Coastal Path along the same route if you are feeling up to it!

Northumberland road trip itinerary

The first village to visit is Craster – famous for its kippers and overlooked by Dunstanburgh Castle. If you’re looking for impressive castles in England , Northumberland is the place to go- there are more castles here than any other county in England!

After exploring Craster and the castle, head to Seahouses. A popular seaside town for families with lots of arcades and fish and chip shops this is the place to stop for a bite to eat.

If the weather is good why not hop on a boat over to the Farme Islands? With large colonies of seals and puffins the islands are popular with nature lovers.

Bamburgh Castle dominates the horizon and is worth exploring. It was once the home to the Royal Seat of the Kings of Northumbria and also has a ghost or two!

After Bamburgh head to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Make sure you check the tides before you go- the island is tidal and is only accessible during certain times.

Once on the island take a stroll up to the castle. Don’t miss exploring the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory. This is the place famous as the home of Christianity in England until Viking raids eventually led to the abandonment of the priory.

When is the best time for a Northumberland road trip?

The best time to visit Northumberland and places in North East England is in the summer – the days are long and the sun will hopefully be shining! Be aware that on occasions during the summer a sea fret (mist) can hang over the coast and cool temperatures and decrease visibility. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you travel.

Wow- anyone else want to jump in their motorhome/ camper/ car/ bike and head off to start exploring? What a fantastic list of England road trip destinations!

As you can see, it really doesn’t matter where you go or how long you have to explore England- you’ll have plenty of places to enjoy. And who knows- next time we set off for Norfolk, we might even make it there without swinging by Cornwall first!! 🙂

Planning an England road trip? You might find these posts useful:

• How to plan an epic UK road trip
• How to create a road trip itinerary with Google Maps
• 100 best road trip driving songs
• How to plan a motorhome trip to UK or Europe

See all our UK travel ideas and tips

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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REVIEWED: The Best NC500 Campsites for Motorhomes & Campers

Cornwall is such a beautiful part of the UK to visit in a motorhome, although it can be a little tight around those country roads.

So true- some of those roads are tiny, but worth it for the incredible views and places to visit.

Have you been on the welsh coast much

Our very first motorhome trip EVER was to the Welsh coast. We’ve put together some of our favourite Welsh road trips here if you want some ideas: https://wandering-bird.com/wales-road-trip/

Although all road trips are lovely, I particularly enjoy traveling in a campervan through Devon in the UK. I appreciate you sharing this list of road trip suggestions.

Fantastic article for anyone travelling England on a road trip

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South England road trip - The best of the UK from London

Looking to experience the best of the UK on a road trip? We've planned the ultimate south England road trip just for you. It's an epic 12 day round trip from London, taking in some of the major cities like Oxford, Bath, Bristol and Exeter, before cruising along the Jurassic Coast, hitting up Stonehenge, and heading along the south coast to Brighton. Read on for all the best restaurants to eat at, museums to visit, hotels to stay in and activities to do.

Day 1: London to Oxford - Brunch, the University of Oxford, & punting

Pick up your hire car and drive to oxford in time for lunch.

Welcome to the first day of your road trip! Arrive in London as early as possible, pick up your hire car if you're renting one, and set off for Oxford. The drive is only 60 miles direct along the A40 and M40 and takes about an hour and 45 minutes.

Parking in Oxford is pretty easy if you can't leave your car at your hotel, with a good number of car parks available that allow you to stay overnight. If you want to leave your car in the city centre, then opt for Oxpens car park, or for a park-and-ride service Redbridge is your best bet.

Once you've made it into town, make your way to the Vaults & Garden Cafe for some food. Housed in a 14th-century building with a beautiful vaulted ceiling connected to the University Church of St Mary the Virgin, this cafe will give you an introduction to the historic city you're about to explore, with the addition of some great breakfast.

Lunch is served between 11am and 2pm, and includes dishes from all over the world such as curries, tagines, and of course British delicacies. Enjoy your food either inside beneath the vaults or outside in the garden.

The cafe sources all local, organic and ethically sourced ingredients, and operates a 'no waste catering' policy, so it's a great business to support.

Visit the sights in Radcliffe Square

Conveniently, the cafe is located right next to your first Oxford stop, Radcliffe Square, so once you've finished your brunch step outside and begin your sightseeing.

Cobbled Radcliffe Square forms the heart of the University, and is home to three main sights: Bodleian Library, Radcliffe Camera (also a library), and University Church of St Mary the Virgin.

The Bodleian Library will be the main place you visit, and includes the ornate Divinity School (the oldest teaching hall of the University), Convocation House (two grand chambers which have hosted the English Parliament), the Chancellor's Court (where writers Oscar Wilde and Percy Bysshe Shelley went on trial), and Gladstone Link which connects the library with Radcliffe Camera.

Fun fact: parts of the Bodleian Library were used as filming locations for the Harry Potter movies, including the Divinity School which served as the Hogwarts hospital wing, and Duke Humfrey's Library which you might recognise from Harry's late-night library trip under the invisibility cloak in the first movie.

Access to the two libraries is limited without a tour, so we recommend you opt for one of the following four options (tickets can either be purchased online or at the Great Gate ticket office):

• A 30-minute tour which takes you round the most beautiful parts of the Bodleian Library, including the Divinity School and Duke Humfrey's medieval library. The tour costs £6 and runs regularly every afternoon.
• A 60-minute tour that covers the same as the 30-minute option with the addition of Convocation House and Chancellor's Court. This tour costs £9 and runs regularly every morning.
• A 90-minute tour which includes all of the above plus the Radcliffe Camera (only available to view through this tour) and Gladstone Link. This tour costs £15 and only runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 9.15am, and Sundays at 11.15am and 1.15pm.
• There is also a short option that lasts ten minutes and takes you around the Divinity School only. This costs £1 and runs between 9am and 5pm Monday to Saturday, and from 11am to 5pm on Sundays.

Note: the majority of what you'll visit in Oxford is connected to Oxford University, so we advise downloading the 'Explore the University of Oxford' brochure from their website to guide you.

Leave the library and admire the Bridge of Sighs

Another iconic Oxford landmark, the Bridge of Sighs, is just around the corner from the main entrance to the Library, so head there next.

Located on New College Lane, the bridge is a skyway connecting the old and new quadrangles of Hereford College, and bears an uncanny resemblance to the bridge of the same name in Venice. Legend has it that the bridge borrowed this name from its Venetian cousin to symbolise the sighs of worrying students on their way to exams, but that's just one of many myths to do with this landmark.

Walk under the bridge, snap some photos, and let out some symbolic signs of your own before you move on.

Walk through the pretty Oxford streets to Christ Church College

A trip to Oxford wouldn't be complete without a nosey round one of the University colleges, so take a picturesque stroll from the Bridge past Exeter, Jesus, and Lincoln Colleges to get to one of the largest and most famous - Christ Church.

This college is made up of a group of stunning buildings, including the Tom Tower designed by Sir Christopher Wren (of St Paul's Cathedral fame), the Tom Quad, the largest quad in Oxford, and the Great Dining Hall which also featured in Harry Potter.

This college's list of alumni is also super impressive, including 13 British prime ministers and the author of Alice in Wonderland. Today, the college welcomes around 450 undergraduates and 150 graduate students from all over the world to study at this historic, prestigious institution, mingling modern student life with rich history.

Standard admission to tour the college costs £8 to £10 (depending on the time of year) and grants access to the Quads, Cloister, Hall Staircase, and Dining Hall, with tickets available online (released each Thursday for the following week), or from the Meadow Gate ticket kiosk.

You can opt for an hour-long tour if you prefer which cost between £13 and £17, but be aware that this isn't possible in July and August.

Note: if areas of the college are in use by the students or staff during your visit they may be closed; for example, you won't be able to visit the Dining Hall during meal times.

Spend the rest of the afternoon punting on the River Cherwell

You should have a little time left before it gets dark, so walk east from Christ Church to the Magdalen Bridge Boat House to hire a traditional punt.

These long wooden boats are propelled by a pole pushed against the river bed, and lounging on one along a British waterway is an iconic and relaxing activity, as long as you don't fall in the water, that is…

Punts take up to five people, and you can either hire one and brave steering it yourself, or pay a professional chauffeur to take you along the river; we'd recommend going without the driver, as steering is great fun and not very difficult once you get the hang of it! Punts cost £22 per hour to hire.

Drive to Gee's Restaurant & Bar for dinner

Collapse at your hotel for a while after your busy day, then hop in the car and drive to Gee's Restaurant & Bar for dinner.

Although the restaurant isn't that far away (it's around a ten-minute drive), we're guessing you'll be all walked-out by this point, so take the car and park on Canterbury Road where you can stay for free for two hours.

This Mediterranean restaurant is housed in a beautiful Victorian Glasshouse filled with plants and olive trees, and has a menu that changes daily to reflect the best of the season. Expect great vegetarian options as well as delicious meat and fish dishes, plus a tempting cocktail list to go alongside your food (with non-alcoholic concoctions available for whomever's driving).

Day 2: Oxford to Bath to Bristol - Bath sights & coffee on your way to Bristol

Drive to Bath via the Cotswolds

Have breakfast and set off early on day four to drive to Bath.

Rather than connecting with the M4 when you reach Swindon, take a scenic detour by following the A419 up to Cirencester, then wriggling south through the country lanes of the Cotswolds. This route beats taking a boring motorway any day, and will take you past sprawling green fields and quaint British villages for a taste of rural England.

The drive should take around two hours, but take your time on the small country roads - passing other vehicles can be a tricky manoeuvre!

Travel tip: if you're a less confident driver and don't fancy squeezing past other cars on tight lanes, then follow the A433 - it's still really scenic, just a little wider!

Park the car and walk into the centre of Bath to visit the Roman Baths

Park the car in Manvers Street car park which is a short walk from the centre of town. You have to pay upfront for the number of hours you're going to stay, so have a rough idea of what time you want to leave to arrive in Bristol later on.

Staying for four hours costs £6.40, and for six hours costs £9.60.

The Roman Baths are just a five-minute walk from the car park, so head there first. Probably the most iconic landmark in the city, this complex of thermal baths is a well-preserved Roman site that was once used for public bathing.

Geothermal energy and pressure cause the warm water to rise from thousands of metres under the ground to the surface, supplying both these ancient baths and the modern Thermae Bath Spa with steaming hot water.

You can't bathe in the Roman Baths anymore, but nearby Thermae Bath Spa is a beautiful modern complex where you can safely enjoy water from the same source, if you want to.

It's thought that the baths could have also been a centre of worship for the Celts, with the springs dedicated to the goddess Sulis, so this is a spiritual as well as recreational landmark to visit.

Admission costs £16.50 and grants you access to all areas of the Baths, including the Great Bath, the Temple Precinct where the Romans once worshipped, the changing areas of the East Baths, and the icy plunge pool of the West Baths.

Your ticket includes a free multimedia guide available in 12 languages, and also allows you to join informative public tours that start at the Great Bath on the hour every hour from 10am.

Grab lunch and admire Bath Abbey

By the time you've finished at the Baths it'll be time for lunch, so grab a quick bite nearby. There are loads of great cafes in the area, but we recommend Mokoko Coffee which serves up generous plates of colourful salads and slices of quiche that'll be sure to fill you up for the rest of your Bath exploring.

Mokoko and the Baths are right next to Bath Abbey, so have a quick look at this historic church before moving on to explore the rest of town.

Built with iconic golden Bath stone, it's definitely worth popping inside this towering Gothic abbey, even just for a quick gaze at the vaulted ceiling, impressive stained glass windows, and huge organ.

It's free to go inside, but it's recommended that adults give a donation of £4 which goes towards maintaining this beautiful building.

Wander round Bath and visit the Royal Crescent

From here stroll up Union Street and through the main pedestrianised shopping area, taking in the historic buildings and enjoying Bath's friendly atmosphere - travel tip: if you're visiting around Christmas, you'll find many of it's Christmas market stalls here.

Connect up with Milsom Street, then cross over the A4 and walk up tiny Bartlett Street, passing its cosy cafes and boutique shops which lead to the elegant 18th century Bath Assembly Rooms.

Admire the outside of this beautiful building, before heading west on Bennett Street to The Circus - a historic ring of Georgian townhouses that will make you envy anyone lucky enough to live there.

Continue walking west from here and you'll get to an even bigger curve of impressive houses at the Royal Crescent. Synonymous with Bath, this half-moon of houses is a must-see attraction, and one of the greatest examples of Georgian architecture in the whole of the UK.

The crescent overlooks a pristine green lawn, so just enjoy this space and snap some photos of the houses, or if your curiosity gets the better of you, number one is a museum that has been furnished as it might have been in the 18th century, so you can get a feel for how it's residents would have lived. Admission costs £10.30 for adults.

Go for coffee at Colonna and Small's

Walk back to The Circus then south down Gay Street to Queen Square where you'll find Colonna and Small's in the southwestern corner.

This speciality coffee shop is all about the vibrant, varied, and exciting flavours that come from coffee beans, serving up the ultimate brew. The modern interiors are chic and minimalist whilst remaining cosy, and the staff are really friendly and on hand to talk you through the options and suggest which bean and style of coffee would be ideal for you.

If you love coffee or you're in the market for learning more about it, then this is the place to go. Relax with your ideal coffee, buy a bag of beans to take home, and head back to the car to drive to Bristol.

Drive to Bristol and go for dinner at Bosco Pizzeria

Driving to Bristol from Bath is super easy and takes less than an hour - simply follow the A36 and A4 to join up with Victoria Street in Bristol.

Find your hotel, park your car, freshen up and head to Clifton Village for dinner. This is one of the nicest areas of the city, made up of stunning Georgian houses, leafy green spaces, elegant boutiques, amazing cafes and restaurants, and the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge.

You'll be back in Clifton on day five to really make the most of this picturesque area of town, but for now head to Bosco Pizzeria for a well-earned dinner.

This classy pizza joint is actually the offshoot of its hugely successful original restaurant on Whiteladies Road, and is a celebration of the freshness and simplicity of Italian cooking.

There are loads of different dishes on the menu, including mouthwatering pasta, tasty small plates, and hearty meat and fish options, however the real star of the show is their wood-fired pizza which is made fresh to order in the open pizza kitchen in the centre of the restaurant.

For the meat-eaters among you, we'd recommend the Emilia Romagna topped with Italian sausage, creamy fior di latte mozzarella, sweet roasted peppers, basil, and crunchy breadcrumbs, and for the veggies the funghi - a pizza bianco (with a creamy instead of tomatoey base) topped with mushrooms, mozzarella, mascarpone, and truffle oil (yes, it's as good as it sounds).

Book ahead online to ensure you get a table, and order a Negroni or Aperol Spritz to sip as you wait for your food to arrive.

Visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge by night

Seeing as you're in Clifton after sundown, walk around the corner to the Clifton Suspension Bridge; you'll see it again on day five, however it's quite a different sight admiring it all lit up and floating above the Avon Gorge at night.

Designed by world-renowned engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, this bridge has become one of Bristol's most recognisable landmarks, so it's the ideal way to kick off your sightseeing.

Gaze at the lights for a while, then head back to your hotel to get some rest ready for a busy day five.

Day 3: Bristol - Explore the city, dinner, & an evening activity

Start day 5 at bristol harbourside and visit the arnolfini gallery.

Kick off day five at Bristol Harbourside. This central area of the city was once a busy dock, buzzing with merchants trading goods and ships setting sail for epic voyages. Today it's a little more modern, and filled with restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels, as well as some of the city's top attractions including Brunel's SS Great Britain ship, the We The Curious science museum, Bristol Aquarium, and the Watershed independent cinema.

Have a walk around the area, then head to the Arnolfini arts centre as your first stop.

Founded in 1961, this modern gallery space exhibits everything from quirky art to visual performances, and is a must-see Bristol attraction to get a feel for this city's creative flare.

The centre is predominantly an art gallery and is partnered with the famous Tate, so expect some great visual art during your visit. The centre is free to enter, however it's a good idea to drop a few pounds into the donations pot as it's a charity that relies on the generosity of its visitors to run.

Spot Banksy's graffiti on Park Street and climb Cabot Tower

When you leave the gallery, head north towards the Bristol Hippodrome theatre, then east past College Green and Bristol Cathedral to walk up famous Park Street.

This hill is lined with boutique, music, and book shops as well as quaint cafes, cosy restaurants, and lively bars, and offers a super scenic walk with the University of Bristol's towering Wills Memorial building at the top.

Before you head up the hill make sure you spot one of Bristol's most famous pieces of street art by the elusive graffiti artist Banksy, one of the city's most famous natives.

The piece, provocatively named 'Well Hung Lover', is painted on the side of a building on the right hand side at the bottom of the street.

Once you've admired the graffiti continue walking most of the way up the hill, dipping into the shops to give your legs a rest (it's pretty steep). Just before you reach the top, turn left onto Charlotte Street to get to Brandon Hill park.

The park is, you guessed it, on top of a hill, so you get amazing views of Bristol's rows of colourful houses and the sprawling countryside just outside its limits.

For even better views and a proper look at the Wills Memorial building, climb to the top of Cabot Tower located in the centre of the park.

The tower is a free public fixture, so climb its narrow staircase and make sure you walk the full way around the viewing area at the top for 360 degree views of the city.

Go for lunch at The Epiphany Cafe

Leave via the north end of the park and make your way through Berkeley Square to Queen's Road. Walk past the Wills Memorial to see it up close, then follow the road east towards the Royal West of England Academy, an art school and gallery which is home to The Epiphany Cafe .

This stylish, fuss-free cafe is super friendly and welcoming, and all about award-winning coffee, the freshest locally sourced ingredients, and mouth-watering cakes, making it an amazing lunch spot.

Their offering is simple yet delicious, with a selection of toasties, soups, quiches, and salads that can all be served up in either the cosy plant-filled cafe or on the academy's roof terrace overlooking another of the University's beautiful historic buildings - the Victoria Rooms.

Make sure you leave room for coffee and cake (try the raspberry chocolate brownies or polenta cake if they have them on the counter that day), before you set off for your next stop, Clifton Village.

Wander round Clifton Village and visit the Camera Obscura or the Giant's Cave

From the cafe walk west into Clifton Village, following Queen's Road past the University Student Union and across grassy Victoria Square.

The western corner of the square will lead you through a picturesque archway into a lovely pedestrianised area of cafes and shops that marks the start of the village.

Spend some time exploring the area of your own accord - it's easy to walk around Clifton for hours admiring the beautiful houses on Royal York Crescent and the local businesses on Princess Victoria Street.

When you're ready to visit your next attraction, walk to the Clifton Suspension Bridge (notice how different it looks in daylight) and choose one of the following:

• Enjoy 360 degree views of the Bridge and Clifton through the Bristol Camera Obscura - This clever type of camera projects a live image of the outside through a pinprick hole, and Bristol's room-sized version allows you to see people milling around and cars cruising over the bridge in real time - it's pretty magical. Entrance to the Camera Obscura costs £2.50.
• Climb down to the Giant's Cave - Bristolian folklore states that two giants, Goram and Ghyston, once lived in this cave in the Avon Gorge, and today you can climb through the 61-metre long tunnel to the cave which opens out onto a viewing platform right on the cliff face. It's something a little bit different and you'll get a completely unique view of the area you can't get from anywhere else. Entry to the Giant's Cave costs £2.50.

Note: if you fancy doing both things, you can get a combined ticket for £4.

Have an early evening drink at the iconic Coronation Tap pub

As the afternoon comes to a close it's about time for a drink, and there's nowhere more iconic in Bristol than the Coronation Tap.

Known by locals as The Cori Tap, this centuries-old pub is the oldest cider house in the city and brews its own Exhibition cider which is exclusively sold on-site. You can only get it by the half pint because of its notoriously high alcohol content, so just have one or two whilst you soak up the pub's character. You'll find The Cori Tap in the heart of Clifton Village at the end of Portland Street.

Alternatively, if strong cider isn't your thing or the evening is too nice to be sat inside a pub, head to the White Lion Bar in the Avon Gorge Hotel which has one of the biggest terraces in the South West.

This outdoor area overlooks the Suspension Bridge (we've mentioned it a lot but views of the bridge don't get old, promise!) and surrounding countryside, and is heated for when things start to get a bit chilly, so you can comfortably sit back, sip your favourite drink, and enjoy your surroundings.

Book a table at Souk Kitchen for dinner and enjoy an evening activity

Book ahead to make sure you get a table at Souk Kitchen for dinner on day five, then head there either straight from the bar or via your hotel.

This Mediterranean restaurant has a rustic Middle Eastern feel inspired by markets and street food stalls of Arab and Berber cities, and gives diners the choice between mezze small plates and bigger main dishes.

We think the mezze is the best option, and the menu regularly changes depending on the season so there's always something fresh and delicious to get stuck in to. T

he dishes and dining style are relaxed, with warm flickering candles and colourful furnishings making it a welcoming, elegant spot for your final Bristol dinner. There are two branches of the restaurant, but opt for the one on Apsley Road as it's on the edge of Clifton.

Make time for one last activity to tie up your stay in Bristol and get a feel for this buzzing city after dark. We've selected three different options to suit every mood:

• Something lively - Check ahead what's going on aboard Thekla during your stay and go to a gig. This alternative music venue is actually a boat that's permanently docked on the harbour that hosts bands and DJs, and is a really fun place to head for an evening of music. You can access most of the boat, so make sure you explore both floors and the outside deck, and it turns into a club every Thursday and Saturday (and occasionally other nights too) so you can stay and dance the night away if you want to.
• Something easy-going - Head to the Watershed and catch a film. This cultural arts centre focuses on digital media and is home to three cinemas screening everything from new releases, to foreign films, to old classics, and is a great place if you're in the market for a relaxed evening of entertainment.
• Something social - If you fancy going somewhere for a chinwag with your road trip companion then we recommend heading for a cocktail at Milk Thistle . This off-the-beaten-path prohibition bar mixes up some of the best cocktails in the city, including twists on the classics, their own unique concoctions, and tailor-made creations for their customers. Don't drink alcohol? Not a problem - just tell the skilled bartenders your favourite flavours and they'll mix you up something delicious.

Day 4: Bristol to Exeter via Glastonbury - Cheddar Gorge drive & lunch in Glastonbury

Take a scenic drive through cheddar gorge.

Leave Bristol on the morning of day six, driving south out of the city towards the Mendip Hills. This stunning area of rolling hills and green fields offers one of the most scenic routes from Bristol to Exeter and is a really pleasant drive.

As with your route through the Cotswolds you can follow the smaller country lanes if you want to, however we'd say following the bigger B3134 and B3371 is a just as scenic and hassle-free way to drive through the hills.

Once you've reached the end of the B3371, head west onto Cliff Road which will take you down through Cheddar Gorge.

This limestone gorge is home to a number of caves, one of which is where Britain's oldest complete human skeleton, thought to be over 9,000 years old, was discovered in 1903, and has become one of Somerset's most popular tourist attractions.

Either just drive through the gorge and enjoy the scenery, or stop and explore; there are loads of things to do including visiting Gough's Cave where the skeleton was discovered, climbing the 274-step Jacob's Ladder for amazing views, looking around the Museum of Prehistory, and going for a cliff-top walk.

There are three car parks, however the one at Gough's Cave is the biggest with 300 spaces so that might be your best bet to find a spot.

Have lunch at Rainbows End Cafe in Glastonbury

After you've spent enough time at Cheddar Gorge follow the A371 southeast to join up with Glastonbury Road which will take you south into Glastonbury town.

As well as giving the famous music festival its name, Glastonbury is a really pretty, quintessentially British town to visit and is ideal for a lunch stop-off to break up your drive to Exeter.

Have a walk through the town and enjoy its famously hippy culture before heading to Rainbows End Cafe on the High Street for some food.

This award-winning family cafe is completely vegetarian and renowned for its homemade food. They have an inviting, colourful salad bar with loads of tasty and healthy options, as well as soups and main dishes that change daily and a selection of tempting cakes.

Although everything on offer is exclusively veggie or vegan, their home-cooked, British food will satisfy even the most avid meat-eaters, so definitely choose this cafe to refuel.

Climb up Glastonbury Tor

After lunch, leave the car in Glastonbury and walk to famous Glastonbury Tor (it's a short walk along the A361).

This hill rises above the town and is topped by historic St Michael's Tower (the remains of 14th century Church of St Michael) and boasts 360-degree views of the Isle of Avalon, Glastonbury, and Somerset.

Make your way to the top to take in the beautiful Somerset countryside one last time before walking back into town and picking up the car to drive on to Exeter.

Drive to Exeter and go for dinner

Drive southwest along the A361 to join up with the M5 which will take you the rest of the way to Exeter, with the whole drive taking around and hour and a half.

You'll probably arrive in the early evening, so just find somewhere for dinner before you call it a night. We've got two restaurant suggestions to give you some inspiration:

• Old Firehouse - for a lively, informal meal we'd recommend going for your second pizza of the trip at the Old Firehouse. Popular with both locals and students alike thanks to its buzzing atmosphere, this pub serves up giant 14-inch square pizzas with loads of different meaty, veggie, and vegan toppings to choose from.
• @Angelas - this quiet restaurant it tucked away in the western quarter of the city and is a great place for a quality, relaxed meal. Serving up classic dishes using the best local and seasonal ingredients, everything is sure to be delicious and a true celebration of the area.

Day 5: Exeter - See the sights & have a Devon cream tea

Visit exeter cathedral.

Have a lie in to start day seven (we've given you enough early mornings!), and set off to look around Exeter whenever you're ready; as cities go it's pretty quiet and slow-paced, so expect a more leisurely sightseeing experience compared to your time in Bristol.

Start at Exeter Cathedral located in the centre of town. This vast church is one of the greatest cathedrals in England, and has a whole load of stunning features to look out for, including colourful stained glass windows, an ornately decorated nave, the earliest complete set of misericords, and one of the longest uninterrupted medieval vaulted ceilings in the world.

It costs £7.50 to enter the church which goes towards its maintenance, and free audio guides are available to tell you all about its history.

Get cultured at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum

From the Cathedral, walk north for a few minutes to the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (or RAMM) for an educational peruse of the exhibitions.

This museum covers a really diverse range of topics, including antiquities, fine art, natural history, and world cultures, so there's bound to be something that catches your interest.

If the vast number of exhibitions is a little overwhelming, we'd recommend prioritising the art collection (which has around 7,000 pieces), and the fascinating specimens in the zoology collection.

From here just have a stroll around the centre of the city, stopping for lunch when you get peckish and generally taking in Exeter's charm at your own pace.

Have a traditional Devon cream tea at Tea on the Green

End up back at the Cathedral mid-afternoon just in time for a classic Devon cream tea at Tea on the Green cafe.

This quintessentially southern British treat consists of freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam washed down with a cup of tea, and it's definitely the best way to spend an afternoon in Devon.

Top tip: the Cornish have their own version of this tea time favourite where the scone is split in two and topped first with the jam then the cream, whereas in Devon it's strictly clotted cream first.

Locals can get pretty passionate about which way round you spread your toppings, so make sure you're an honorary Devonian this tea time!

Top off the afternoon at Exeter Quayside

Spend what's left of your afternoon enjoying Exeter Quayside, a historic yet contemporary area of the city which straddles the River Exe.

Once a prehistoric port, this bustling area is full of charming antique shops, cosy cafes, and classic British pubs and restaurants, so there's plenty to choose from to occupy the last couple of hours before dinner.

If you're after something a little more active after your very laid-back day, you could head to The Quay Climbing Centre - one of the South West's largest climbing walls - on the south side of the river, or rent a kayak or stand up paddle board for an hour to enjoy the water as the sun sets. You can hire kayaks and boards from Kayakhub on Maritime Court.

Either go for dinner at the Quay or walk north from the river towards the Cathedral where you'll find loads of great places to eat before retiring to your hotel ready for an early start on day eight.

Day 6: Salisbury via the Jurassic Coast - Visit Lyme Regis & go fossil hunting in Charmouth en route to Salisbury.

Take a scenic drive along the jurassic coast to lyme regis.

Time for another scenic drive! Leave Exeter as early as possible and drive south from the city to Exmouth, following the local roads all the way down to the rocky cliffs of Orcombe Point which mark the start of the stunning Jurassic Coast.

This World Heritage Site stretches along 95-miles of coastline and is one of the country's most famous areas for discovering fossils and understanding the past through its incredible rock formations.

You'll only be driving about half of this rocky stretch, hugging the coastline from Exmouth through the small towns of Sidmouth and Seaton to get to Lyme Regis.

Wriggling through the local roads will get you to Lyme Regis in around an hour and 45 minutes, however you could just follow the A3052 all the way from Exeter and get there in an hour if you're not fussed about the scenery (although we'd strongly recommend the longer detour).

Take a break from driving and enjoy the seaside charm of Lyme Regis

Located at the heart of the Jurassic Coast where west Dorset and east Devon meet, Lyme Regis is renowned for its beauty, so stop off here to stretch your legs and soak up the stunning landscapes.

Park in Monmouth Beach Car Park then wander along The Cobb, a long stone pier which forms the harbour, and breathe in the fresh sea air.

If the weather's not great and the sea is a little wild then you might not be able to make it right the way to the end of the pier, however if it's safe to do so definitely give it a go.

Walk back down The Cobb and have a stroll along the unspoilt seafront of Sandy Beach with its fishing boats bobbing on the water, before wandering back to the car to continue your drive.

Drive on to Salisbury, stopping to go fossil hunting in Charmouth

A visit to the Jurassic Coast wouldn't be complete without some fossil hunting, so hop in the car and drive a few minutes down the road to neighbouring Charmouth.

This large shingle beach with its dramatic, rugged cliffs is known internationally for its fossils, so walk down the beach and see if you can find any.

A visit to the Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre is a good idea if you want a higher fossil-finding success rate as they have loads of information on the best ways to find them, and even run group fossil walks if you're really serious about taking home a souvenir.

Go for a classic British fish and chips with lashings of salt and vinegar for lunch before you hit the road again (Charmouth Fish Bar is your best bet for where to get it), and go back to the car to drive to Salisbury.

Just follow the A35 to connect up with the A354 which should get you to Salisbury in around an hour and a half.

Day eight has already been super busy, so when you arrive put your feet up in your hotel room and rest before grabbing a light dinner (portions of fish and chips are notoriously large so you'll probably still be full from lunch) and calling it a night.

Day 7: Salisbury - Visit Magna Carta, go to Stonehenge & have dinner

Go to salisbury cathedral to visit magna carta.

Wake up refreshed on day nine and head to Salisbury Cathedral.

We know we've sent you to a handful of cathedrals already, however Salisbury's offering is more than just a religious building as it's home to the best preserved of the four surviving copies of Magna Carta, a charter of rights agreed to by the king in 1215 that promised justice, fairness, and human rights.

This historic document inspired movements towards freedom all over the world, so is a pretty incredible sight to behold which you'll find in the Chapter House of the Cathedral.

Magna Carta itself is housed in a darkened tent-like structure in the middle of an insightful, interactive exhibition that will get you clued-up on the making of the document, why it's housed in Salisbury, and its importance around the world.

Have a look around the rest of the Cathedral whilst you're there (it has the tallest spire in Britain), and bear in mind that whilst it's free to look around and visit Magna Carta, the recommended donation of £7.50 per adult is greatly appreciated to keep the Cathedral open for visitors.

Have lunch then drive to Stonehenge

After you've finished at the Cathedral have a little wander around the green and the surrounding area (travel tip: walk through High Street Gate, it's really pretty), before heading to a nearby cafe for lunch.

Some suggestions include the Bell Tower Tea Room overlooking the Cathedral, and Boston Tea Party, a South West chain that feels like a cosy, independent cafe selling home-cooked food and great coffee.

After lunch, pick up the car and set off for legendary Stonehenge which is only a 20-minute drive north along the A360.

This famous stone circle is one of Britain's most iconic landmarks and is thought to date back around 4,500 years with archaeologists believing it was constructed gradually from 3000 BC to 2000 BC.

Its construction and purpose, however, are still debated today as there are no written records detailing its origins, and the myths surrounding the stones are one of the best parts of this attraction.

Theories range from the spiritual to the supernatural, and there's loads of speculation as to how the stones were moved and positioned so perfectly without the sophisticated tools and machinery to do so.

Go for a walk around the stone circle and come up with your own theory on how the stones got there (our bet is aliens), and stick around to visit some of the sight's other attractions if you want to. These include a group of Neolithic houses built to replicate how people lived 4,500 years ago, the Standing in the Stones exhibition which offers a 360-degree virtual simulation of what it would be like to stand amongst the stones during the summer and winter solstices, and the Stonehenge Exhibition which offers some insight into the landmark and displays over 250 objects uncovered in the area.

Every part of this amazing attraction is super interesting, so we'd recommend spending the whole afternoon here seeing as much of it as you can. General admission costs £17.50 for adults and last entry is at 3pm with the site closing at 5pm.

Enjoy some classic British pub grub for dinner

You've had a Devon cream tea, you've devoured a classic fish and chips, now it's time for another British staple - hearty pub grub (aka a meal at a pub) - so drive back into Salisbury, freshen up at your hotel, and head to the 14th-century half-timbered Haunch of Venison.

As one of Salisbury's oldest pubs, this is the ultimate rustic spot for your British pub experience, and to fully soak up the atmosphere we'd recommend first having a drink in the characterful downstairs bar before heading upstairs to the simple yet elegant restaurant.

Admittedly the food has a touch more class than some of your standard British pubs, but they still sell many of the classics including sausages and mash, steak and chips, fish pie, and of course fish and chips (if you're up for round two).

Expect to also find some great vegetarian options, and to head back to your hotel (very) full of your new favourite British dish.

Day 8: Salisbury to Chichester to Brighton - Explore Chichester & drive to Brighton

Drive to chichester and either relax on the beach at west wittering or explore the city.

Set off early on day ten - you've got a lot of road to cover to get you from Salisbury to Brighton, taking the most scenic route possible through the South Downs National Park and stopping off in Chichester along the way.

Your scenic route from Salisbury to Chichester avoids the busy M27 motorway and instead takes a detour slightly north through the South Downs.

To get to the picturesque rolling hills of this national park, take the A36 east out of Salisbury and join up with the B3335 before enjoying this lovely area of countryside as you use your map or sat-nav to follow the B roads east.

Try to end up close to South Harting where you can join up with the B2141 which will take you south into Chichester.

Relax on the beach at West Wittering or explore Chichester city

By day ten of your road trip things could go one of two ways: either you'll be brimming with enthusiasm to make the most of what little time you have left and want to do as much sightseeing as possible, or your energy levels will be wavering a little and you'll be in the mood for something relaxing before you hit up Brighton tomorrow.

Either way we've got you covered, and have come up with two different suggestions to suit your mood (as well as cater for the unpredictable British weather).

Option 1 - If it's a warm and sunny or crisp winters day and you're after the chilled option, we'd recommend staying in the car and driving south past Chichester to the Witterings.

These two sleepy seaside villages, East and West Wittering, are perfect for a spot of relaxed wandering and gift shop browsing, followed by a sprawl on the golden sand or a chilly walk along the water at nearby West Wittering beach.

The beach holds a Blue Flag Award, and is a beautiful unspoilt spot to enjoy some sandy coastline in contrast to the rocky shingle of the Jurassic Coast. Spend a leisurely few hours here, grabbing a hot tea or an ice cream from the cafe (depending on the time of year) and enjoying the area's natural beauty.

Option 2 - If the weather's not great or you're just in the market for some more sightseeing, drive into Chichester centre, leave the car in New Park Car Park and go for an explore.

This city has a fascinating history as a Roman settlement, and is home to another stunning cathedral, so take a look around to get a feel for the place. We'd recommend walking the city walls (the most intact circuit of Roman defenses in the south of England) to see the heart of the city, following the mile and a half trail around its historic sights, before ending up at the Pallant House Gallery for a cultural indoor activity where you can shelter from the weather if you need to.

This modern British art museum explores contemporary art from 1900 to the present day, and is housed in a beautiful 18th century townhouse that's a work of art in itself. Spend a couple of hours browsing the art and taking a break at the Pallant Cafe before you're ready to drive on to Brighton.

Drive to Brighton in time for an evening activity

Set off from Chichester with enough daylight left to make the hour and a quarter drive to Brighton before it gets dark, heading back into the South Downs National Park and following the A283 east.

Be sure to drive through the picturesque village of Steyning for a little more British small-town charm before heading south and along the coast to Brighton.

We're giving you even more options to choose from once you've arrived in this vibrant seaside city, so select one of the following suggestions to get to grips with Brighton's evening scene:

• Play a round of UV crazy golf at Globalls - quirky, jungle-themed crazy golf course Globalls features life-sized animal sculptures and crazy wall art, all glowing in a rainbow of neon colours under the UV lights (wear white so you can get in on the glowing action). This is putting like you've never experienced it before, and a unique way to spend a fun evening in Brighton.
• See a movie at the Duke of York's Picturehouse - recognised as the oldest function-built continually operating cinema in the UK, the Duke of York's was built in 1910 and screens a diverse range of movies, from new releases, to foreign productions, to cult classics. Head here for a spot of cinematic culture, or just catch that film you've been meaning to see for ages.
• Have a pint in a cave at The Tempest Inn - if you just fancy a quiet drink, then The Tempest Inn is a must. This seafront pub sits right on the beach, boasting uninterrupted sea views and selling local Sussex beers and great cocktails. The real gem of this pub is, however, downstairs, where you'll find a warren of pink-hued caves where you can cosy up with a pint; you may not get the beach views, but for the ultimate drink-with-a-difference, it's definitely worth the sacrifice.

Day 9: Brighton - Brighton walking tour, take in the views from the British Airways i360 & go for your final dinner

Visit the royal pavilion and wriggle down through the lanes.

It's the final full day of your south England road trip, so make the most of it with one last early morning, kicking off your self-guided walking tour with a visit to the unique Royal Pavilion.

Originally built as a seaside pleasure palace for King George IV, this quirky building mixes regal opulence with exotic architectural styles from India and China, and it's unlike anything you will have seen so far on your road trip.

Just seeing it from the outside is impressive enough, however you won't regret choosing to go inside to admire the enviable bedrooms, stunning reception rooms, lavish banqueting room, and vast kitchen all making it an impressive sight to behold.

Admission costs £13.50 (or is 10% cheaper if booked online).

Travel tip: if you're visiting around Christmas, part of the grounds is transformed into an ice rink between November and January where you can skate against the backdrop of the Pavilion as it glows with festive lights. An hour's skate costs £10 and it's best to book online in advance.

The Lanes are another of Brighton's most iconic attractions, so once you've seen enough of the Royal Pavilion find this historic maze of alleyways which stretch south from nearby North Street.

Located at the heart of what was once the fishing town of Brighthelmstone, these quaint lanes are lined with independent shops and boutiques selling all manner of antiques, jewellery, and one-of-a-kind clothing alongside quirky cafes, jazz bars and restaurants.

Explore the whole area, indulging in some window (or actual) shopping as you soak up the atmosphere.

One shop we'd definitely recommend having a look inside is the fabulously-named Choccywoccydoodah which sells the wackiest chocolate creations and cakes that are nothing short of works of art.

Walk along the seafront and have some fun on Brighton Palace Pier

Walking all the way through to the south side of The Lanes will naturally bring you out at the seafront (either via Black Lion Street or Ship Street), so go for a short stroll east along the beach to end up at the famous Brighton Palace Pier.

This 1,722-foot long Victorian pier is probably the most iconic sight in the whole city, stretching out into the sea and buzzing with thrill-seeking roller coasters, indulgent food stalls, and the Palace of Fun arcade which will transport you back to your childhood.

Discover the length of the Pier, go on some rides if you're up for it (brave the Turbo Coaster if you fancy an adrenaline rush), and treat yourself to some naughty fast food for lunch (fish and chip round three?) to do this sight justice.

Travel tip: whilst you're on the Pier make sure you look west across the water and spot the old Brighton West Pier.

It was built in the 1860s and suffered various bouts of damage in the 1970s and 1980s, before catching fire in 2002 and being deemed beyond repair. Today you can just see its shell sitting on the water as a reminder of where Brighton's seafront entertainment began.

Top off your sightseeing with a trip up the British Airways i360

From the Pier, walk back east along the beach (stop for a sit down if your feet are getting tired), and head towards the British Airways i360 for you final Brighton activity.

This giant glass viewing pod slowly rises 450 feet into the air offering panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the rolling hills of the South Downs in the distance. There's a bar on board, so grab a drink and toast your road trip as you enjoy the views, making sure you do a full circuit of the pod to take in the scenery at every possible angle.

'Flights'depart every half an hour and cost £16.50, offering a magical way to salute the beginning of the end of your road trip.

You'll probably have a little time left before you need to get ready for dinner, so pick up some last minute souvenirs, have one final Brighton stroll, then head back to your hotel to get ready to go to the restaurant.

Treat yourself to a celebratory dinner at The Gingerman

Have a table booked at The Gingerman and head there in the evening to celebrate the amazing trip you've just experienced - you've seen a lot!

This intimate, cosy restaurant close to the seafront is the perfect spot for a special yet unfussy meal focused on simple, quality ingredients and amazing flavours.

The imaginative menu celebrates seasonal produce, with a great selection of British meat, fish, and veggie options and irresistible desserts (you can opt for either two or three course for a set price, and we definitely advise going for a pudding).

Enjoy your food, reminisce about your favourite memories from the trip, and make the most of the final night of your holiday.

Day 10: Brighton to London - Drive to London and make the journey home

The only thing on the agenda for day 12 is driving back to London to start your journey home, so pack your things and hop in the car whenever you're ready to go.

Once you've made it back to London, drop off your hire car if you have one, spend a little time in London if you fancy it, then make your way to the airport or train station. We hope you've enjoyed your trip!

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South West England School Day Trips

Our educational travel experts have selected their top day trip picks for schools in the South West. Explore ancient limestone rock formations in Somerset, discover Britain's colonial past in Bristol, uncover Roman culture in Bath, see where US troops prepared for D-Day in Devon or learn ancient skills in Dorset - the South West offers so many opportunities to learn outside the classroom.

Be inspired with these school day trips located in South West England

Our educational travel specialists have selected their top recommendations for school day trips in South West England.

Your next school trip could be closer than you think with these educational visits, attractions and experiences located in Devon, Dorset and Somerset.  We’ve selected our favourite day trips in South West England to support your teaching of Geography , History , Science as well as some fun visits to incorporate into Activity Week . Each excursion has been chosen because it delivers a specialist school programme so that you can be sure that your students will get the best learning experience outside the classroom. For more school trip ideas based in the far South West, also see our Cornish pages .

When organising a day trip it is essential that your coach is punctual and reliable. Voyager School Travel owns a specialist coach company called  Pegasus Coaches  based in Hampshire. W herever possible our school groups are transported by Pegasus coach, driven by our own professional driver, so you can be sure of a safe and reliable service.

With expertly designed itineraries, free planning visits, door to door coach transport and the financial security of an ABTA backed service we will help you create a unique and memorable learning experience for your class.

Explore these top day trip ideas in South West England

When organising a day trip it is essential that your coach is punctual and reliable and that's why, wherever possible, all our day trips include transport with Pegasus Coaches , our very own specialist school coach company based in Hampshire. 

Cheddar Gorge - award winning school experience, Somerset

Set in a in a beautiful limestone ravine, the caves of Cheddar Gorge have attracted visitors since 1837. Go underground to discover how the caves were formed in the Ice Age and marvel at the stunning stalagmite and stalactite formations before a multi-media experience that explains how Stone Age people once occupied the caves. At the Museum of Prehistory students will learn about Cheddar Man – Britain’s oldest skeleton which was found here. Specialist talks, demonstrations and tours available for school groups.

Learn to Surf at The Wave Bristol

The Wave is a unique inland surfing lagoon and artificial wave pool offering a safe environment for active learning adventures. Unlike many days out, a trip to the Wave combines a healthy dose of exercise with a memorable learning experience, contributing to students’ mental and physical well being. The experienced Wavemaker coaches provide high quality surf lessons tailored to the needs of the group including special educational needs and adaptive surfing. No experience required (though students must be able to swim at least 25 metres). Free preparatory surf for teachers and organisers plus full risk assessment for your trip, making the paperwork easy to complete.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

Stonehenge’s iconic ring of standing stones has to be one of the most well-known and outstanding prehistoric monuments in Britain. The site offers a fascinating backdrop to History, Geography and Science lessons covering topics such as the Bronze Age, hunter-gatherers of the Neolithic period, physical and human geography, and the science behind how our ancestors might have moved and raised the stones. Free teacher resources available.

© James Clark, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

We The Curious - Science Museum, Bristol

One of the country’s best hands-on science centres with a changing programme of events such as the Invention Lab, where they can make their own light-up badge, Good Vibrations, a stage show that explores the science of sound, and the exciting 3D planetarium show. The passionate Live Science team will and help students get the most from the exhibits, and there are loads of experiments to take part in, from building with giant blocks to examining your own veins.

Roman Baths, Bath

Take your students back in time to discover Roman life at the world-famous Roman Baths, a well preserved site set on a sacred mineral spring which includes a Roman Temple, Roman Bath House and fascinating museum. We can organise interactive sessions for students (Key Stages 1 to 4) where students work with original Roman materials while overlooking the Great Bath.

Meet the dinosaurs of the Jurassic Coast

Follow in the footsteps of Mary Anning, the pioneering palaeontologist who found her first fossil here in 1823 when she was just 12 years old. Dorset's Jurassic Coast (from Lyme Regis, Chesil Beach, Isle of Portland & Lulworth Cove, Studland Bay) is home to England’s first Natural World Heritage site where students can study the coastal landforms and processes which make this part of the south coast so unique and significant.

© Heather Cowper https://www.flickr.com/photos/heatheronhertravels/

M Shed Bristol - discover Bristol's vibrant history & culture

Explore the rich history of Bristol through the stories and objects of the inhabitants who have worked, lived and shaped this interesting and vibrant city. Learn about Bristol Places, Life and People, such as famous Bristolians Banksy and Aardman, while also tackling Bristol’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade - there’s plenty for your students to explore and discuss.

© Herman V. Wall, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The secret tragedy behind Devon's D-Day training beaches, South Devon

Exercise Tiger was a large scale training operation where US troops rehearsed their amphibious landings on Slapton Sands in readiness for the D-day landings on Utah Beach. But the exercise ended in disaster with the tragic loss of 749 American servicemen and almost delaying the D-day landing operation. Your students will visit the memorial and hear the story of Exercise Tiger which was under the strictest secrecy at the time and hardly reported afterwards.

© Clive Perrin / Viking Longhouse, Ancient Technology Centre, Cranborne, Dorset

Ancient Technology Centre, Dorset

Students step back in time to experience the realities of life of their predecessors from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Roman, Anglo Saxon and Viking eras. This outdoor education centre provides curriculum-based historical experiences where students learn ancient skills from blacksmithing, rope-making and fire-making in an authentic setting of reconstructed ancient structures including a Viking longhouse, Roman forge, Saxon workshop and Iron Age earthouse. Day trips, field trips and residentials available for school and college groups.

Boscastle Geography Field Trip, Cornwall

This beautiful village was hit by a freak flash flood in August 2004, washing cars and buildings into the sea and putting lives in danger. At Boscastle, geography students can study how the topography of the land funnelled vast volumes of water into the village and learn about the £4.5m flood defence scheme designed to prevent the village being flooded in the future. Boscastle makes a fascinating KS3 Rivers and Flooding case study.

Eden Project

The Eden Project is a visitor attraction in Cornwall located in a reclaimed Kaolinite pit. The complex is dominated by two huge enclosures consisting of adjoining domes that house thousands of plant species, and each enclosure emulates a natural biome. The largest of the two biomes simulates a Rainforest environment and the second, a Mediterranean environment. The 35-acre site is filled with sculptures, play areas, vegetable gardens, restaurants and even a zip wire, all with environmental conservation, education and sustainability as their core message. The result is the world’s most exotic, scent-filled, fun, interactive, imaginative and sheer mind-blowing classroom on the planet!

Going underground - Cornish Tin Mines, Cornwall

Explore the geography and history of Cornwall’s tin industry with guided visits to heritage tin mining sites such as the amazingly preserved Geevor Tin Mine, Bottallack Mines, an iconic landmark in Cornwall’s historic tin mining industry and location for BBC’s Poldark, and the fascinating Heartlands World Heritage Mining Centre.

© Daderot, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Unearth the science & history of Trebah Gardens, Cornwall

With its stunning coastal backdrop and sub-tropical planting Trebah Gardend is one of the most finest gardens of Cornwall and is the perfect complement to a visit to the Eden Project. History students will learn about how, in 1944, 7,500 US Infantrymen boarded ten landing craft from Trebah beach to take part in the assault on Omaha Beach.

All our UK school day trip packages include:

• A detailed itinerary with pre-booked excursions
• Door to door transport on a Voyager-owned Pegasus coach (Pegasus coach subject to availability)
• Free teacher place for every 8 students on the trip
• Dedicated person to support you before, during and after your trip
• 24-hour emergency back-up – we won’t leave you stranded
• No quibble cancellation policy – full refund if we have to cancel your trip
• The security of an ABTA-backed financial guarantee
• Comprehensive travel insurance
• Assistance with inspection visits

Voyager School Travel owns a specialist coach company called   Pegasus Coaches , and wherever possible our school groups are transported by Pegasus coach, driven by our own professional driver, so you can be sure of a safe and reliable service.

The benefits of using Voyager to organise your day trip

One stop shop   – from transport to excursions we take care of every detail. We make it easier to organise a day trip with just one point of contact, a single invoice and help with risk assessments, leaving you more time to deal with students and parents.

Get the most from a short trip   – as educational travel specialists we have the expertise to recommend an inspirational day trip which is packed full of learning. You’ll be surprised by what can be achieved in just one day. 

Travel safely   – we are one of the only school travel companies with our own specialist school coach company which means you benefit from preferential rates, door to door service and drivers who are experienced in looking after school groups (indeed other school travel companies use our coaches too!).

We’ve got your back   – book your trip as a package so if you encounter a problem you can rely on our experienced team to sort it out. And with our own coach fleet, we can guarantee that we’ll never leave you stranded.

Peace of mind if plans change   – if we have to cancel your trip because of COVID or any other reason, your group is eligible for a full no-quibble refund.

Financial protection   - by booking your day trip as a package with us, your trip is completely protected by the ABTA financial guarantee.

Get a quote ✅

Receive a no-obligation quote for your group from one of our educational travel experts.

Other trips you may be interested in

Southern England School Day Trips

Our favourite day trips & visits in Southern England - coach transport included!

UK Activity Week School Day Trips

The best activity & enrichment week visits & fun day trips ideas

UK & Ireland school trips

There's lots to uncover close to home for UK schools. Browse our trips

Highlights of South West England

• Fully customisable itinerary
• Prices from: £1575 per person
• Best time to go: April - October
• Transport: Rental car included (optional)

Breathtaking beaches

From the vast expanse of golden sand at Woolacombe to the surfing hotspot of Fistral Beach in Newquay, the beaches here are among the best in the world.

Explore the beautiful artists’ town of St Ives which is home to some of the best art galleries and museums in Britain, including Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden.

The town is a rabbit warren of little alleyways full of independent galleries and excellent places to eat and drink.

Fabulous food

From Rick Stein’s famous seafood restaurants in Padstow to Nathan Outlaw’s two Michelin star restaurant in Port Isaac, foodies flock from far and wide to dine on the wonderful local produce of south-west England. From seafood shacks to fine dining, there is something to suit all budgets and tastes.

Dorset’s Jurassic Coast

Covering 95 miles of beautiful coastline, the Jurassic Coast is Britain’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site and records 185 million years of the earth’s history. The natural limestone archway at Durdle Door is one of the most famous landmarks on the south coast.

Tintagel Castle

Discover historic Tintagel Castle, the reputed birthplace of King Arthur, which dates back to 1230. With a dramatic coastal location, this is one of the most spectacular historic sites in Britain.

Coastal walks

Explore hidden coves and beautiful fishing villages nestled amongst the stunning coastline here. The famous South West Coast Path walking trail runs for 630 miles around the entire coastline of Cornwall, Devon and Dorset, and is clearly waymarked in both directions.

An Unforgettable Road Trip in Cornwall, Devon & Dorset

Discover beautiful beaches and picture-postcard villages on this fantastic self-drive tour of England’s magnificent south west.

Explore wild Exmoor National Park before travelling into Cornwall with its world-famous beaches and sublime seafood. Venture through the rugged Lizard Peninsula into delightful South Devon where you’ll find quaint villages and delicious cream teas, before travelling back in time to Dorset’s Jurassic Coast – an incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back 185 million years.

Begin your self-drive holiday with a spectacular drive through Exmoor National Park – famous for its rugged coastline, sweeping moors and iconic Exmoor ponies – before stopping to explore the quaint adjoining villages of Lynton & Lynmouth with their Victorian Cliff Railway. Continue past the fascinating Valley of the Rocks to Devon’s golden northern coast where you’ll have plenty of time to relax at some of England’s finest beaches, such as Woolacombe and Saunton Sands.

Continue past the quaint village of Clovelly into the ancient Celtic kingdom of Cornwall where you can explore King Arthur’s Tintagel Castle – one of Britain’s most spectacular historic sites – and the vibrant, foodie town of Padstow.

South Cornwall awaits – truly one of Europe’s most beautiful regions. Discover the artists’ town of St Ives, the magical Minack Theatre, the ancient tidal island of St Michael’s Mount, and iconic Land’s End. The coastline here is remarkable and there are awe-inspiring walks in every direction.

Venture past quaint fishing villages and rugged clifftops into beautiful South Devon. The coastline here is dotted with beautiful beaches and picturesque towns such as Salcombe, while the larger towns of Dartmouth and Brixham have a fascinating maritime history to discover. Nearby you could visit Greenway House – the beloved holiday home of author Agatha Christie – and the magnificent woodland garden which drifts down the hillside towards the sparkling Dart Estuary.

Travel through the English Riviera into Dorset where the incredible coastline dates back 185 million years. This magnificent stretch of coast is teeming with dinosaur fossils and geological landmarks like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. Inland there are picturesque woodland walks and cosy inns which Thomas Hardy used as a backdrop for his tales of love and tragedy.

Return to Bristol where your unforgettable tour of south-west England will come to an end.

Suggested Itinerary

The holiday ideas on our website are just examples of the amazing trips we offer.  Think of this itinerary as a starting point which can be tailored into something completely unique to you by our award-winning specialists.

We love the opportunity to use our first-hand knowledge and experience to design and deliver the perfect, bespoke holiday experience for you.

Whilst our suggested itinerary begins in Bristol, it is also available to start from many other locations including London.

Day 1: Bristol to North Devon

Arrive in Bristol where you’ll collect your hire car and travel south into Exmoor National Park – famous for its rugged coastline, sweeping moors and iconic Exmoor ponies.

If time allows you could stop and visit tranquil Cleeve Abbey and magnificent Dunster Castle before stopping in the quaint adjoining villages of Lynton & Lynmouth with their Victorian Cliff Railway.

Continue along the coast to the fascinating Valley of the Rocks – a dramatic geological feature on the northern edge of Exmoor and an unmissable photo opportunity – before arriving in Devon’s golden north-west coast where you will spend the next two nights. Overnight – North Devon

Day 2: North Devon Sightseeing

Today you could spend the day relaxing on some of England’s finest beaches such as Woolacombe and Saunton Sands, or travel into Exmoor National Park to hike through beautiful wooded valleys and dramatic moorland.

For an unforgettable experience, take a boat trip to Lundy Island which lies 12 miles off the coast. Although only three miles in length and half-a-mile wide, the island offers an amazingly diverse range of things to do for day-trippers, and because of its isolation the habitat for wildlife is often compared to that of Galapagos. Boats depart from both Bideford and Ilfracombe. Overnight – North Devon

Day 3: North Devon to North Cornwall

Visit the delightful village of Clovelly before travelling into the ancient Celtic kingdom of Cornwall. Stop to explore King Arthur’s Tintagel Castle which dates back to the 13th century and is one of Britain’s most spectacular historic sites. Overnight – North Cornwall

Day 4: North Cornwall Sightseeing

Today you could visit Port Isaac – an idyllic village which has featured in countless films and TV series including Fisherman’s Friends and Doc Martin. This traditional fishing village is home to several excellent restaurants, including the acclaimed Restaurant Nathan Outlaw which overlooks rugged Cornish coastline.

Nearby, the vibrant town of Padstow has a similar foodie reputation, and celebrity chef Rick Stein has several popular seafood eateries where you can experience the fantastic local produce of North Cornwall. Overnight – North Cornwall

Day 5: North Cornwall to South Cornwall

Continue south into the heart of Cornwall. This proud region has a rich cultural heritage which has left an indelible mark on the landscape, not least in the fascinating mining sites that have created the largest World Heritage Site in the UK. With dozens of museums and historic sites spread across Cornwall and West Devon, there are many places where you can stop and learn about the world-changing Cornish mining culture.

Your base for the next three nights is the coast of South Cornwall – truly one of the world’s most breathtaking stretches of coastline. This wonderful region is packed full of historic sites, quaint villages, and brilliant beaches. Overnight – South Cornwall

Day 6: South Cornwall Sightseeing

The endless attractions of Cornwall are yours to discover today. You could explore the arty town of St Ives, with its famous galleries and museums, or head to iconic Land’s End – Britain’s most south-westerly point.

Just south of Land’s End is the incredible Minack Theatre – Cornwall’s world-famous open-air theatre which is carved into the granite cliff and set in glorious gardens overlooking the spectacular panorama of Porthcurno Bay. Overnight – South Cornwall

Day 7: South Cornwall Sightseeing

Today you could relax near your accommodation and enjoy a short stroll along the coast, or venture further afield to cross the tidal causeway to St Michael’s Mount – a spectacular island known as ‘the jewel in Cornwall’s crown.’ The castle on the rock rises majestically out of the sea and dates back to the 14th century.

Nearby there are countless places to explore, including the quintessential Cornish fishing village of Mousehole, the rugged Lizard Peninsula with its majestic clifftops, and the vibrant, foodie town of Falmouth which is home to Henry VIII’s Pendennis Castle. Overnight – South Cornwall

Day 8: South Cornwall to South Devon

Travel east into the Roseland Heritage Coast – home to an endless array of picture-postcard villages such as St Mawes and Portloe. Stop to explore the Eden Project, a dramatic global garden housed in a tropical biome. This huge, tropical garden offers a fascinating insight into the story of mankind’s dependence on plant life

Travel through the historic, maritime city of Plymouth with its picturesque Barbican district into glorious South Devon – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Overnight – South Devon

Day 9: South Devon Sightseeing

Today you could spend some time exploring Devon’s magical coastline which is fringed with beautiful towns such as Salcombe, Brixham and Dartmouth. There are countless gorgeous beaches to relax at, as well as historic sites to discover like Greenway House – once home to author Agatha Christie – and the grand 1920s country retreat Coleton Fishacre, with its glorious gardens by the sea.

Alternatively, travel inland to Dartmoor National Park which offers wild, open moorlands and deep river valleys. Overnight – South Devon

Day 10: South Devon to Dorset

Today you will make your way through the ‘English Riviera’ with its popular Victorian seaside towns and into Dorset. You could stop en route to visit the historic city of Exeter with its famous Cathedral – one of England’s finest – and the world-class Royal Albert Memorial Museum where you can learn more about Devonian and English history. Overnight – Dorset

Day 11: Dorset Sightseeing

Today you could step back in time to the age of the dinosaurs at Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. This 95 mile stretch of coastline was granted UNESCO World Heritage status for its outstanding geology revealing 185 million years of Earth’s history. The stunning natural landmarks of Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove and Chesil Beach can all be found along this coastline and shouldn’t be missed.

If time allows, you could explore the unique Isle of Portland, discover the bustling harbour town of Weymouth, or venture inland into ‘Thomas Hardy Country’ with its ancient forests and cosy inns. Overnight – Dorset

Day 12: Dorset to Bristol and depart

Today you will depart Dorset and travel back to Bristol to return your hire car. At this point your memorable self-drive tour of Cornwall, Devon & Dorset will come to an end.

What's Included?

Your holiday includes:

• Carefully selected en-suite accommodation for 11 nights including traditional English breakfast
• Comprehensive information pack
• Personalised itinerary with our recommendations for the best places to eat and drink and sightseeing suggestions
• Map of England with our recommended driving route
• 12 days rental of an Economy car (other vehicle categories available) including comprehensive insurance
• 24-hour emergency contact number
• Full financial protection

Your holiday doesn't include:

• Travel insurance
• Lunches and evening meals

Accommodation & Prices

We know that after a busy day of sightseeing an exceptional place to stay makes all the difference. That’s why all of the accommodation we select is hand-picked using our first-hand knowledge of the best places to stay.

Our discerning team has a wealth of experience, and we extensively research and regularly review all of the accommodation we select for our clients.

Please choose from one of our accommodation categories below. If you wish to combine these categories or perhaps upgrade for a special occasion let us know in your enquiry.

A collection of quality 4* Guest Houses and 3* Hotels often located in beautiful locations which provide an excellent standard of accommodation.

Tastefully decorated and furnished, these properties are generally owned and operated by locals who have a genuine passion for their region which they are keen to share with you. Their warm hospitality is sure to be a highlight of your experience.

It also comprises larger 4* Hotels selected for their high standard of accommodation, exceptional service, and great location. These range from traditional luxury to contemporary Hotels.

These are truly magical places and amongst the best England has to offer. The perfect choice when you would like somewhere really special which can be a treat for the night or for your entire holiday.

Our packages include car rental and comprehensive insurance for the duration of your holiday. Absolute Escapes has an excellent relationship with a number of car hire operators and we are able to offer quality vehicles and great value for money.

If you plan to bring your own vehicle, we are also able to offer this itinerary without a rental car.

All our packages include:

• Collision Damage Waiver
• Super Damage Excess Waiver
• Third Party Insurance
• Theft Waiver
• Good for 2 people
• Maximum of 4 passengers
• 2 large suitcases
• Manual or automatic transmission
• Good for 2 – 4 people
• Maximum of 5 passengers

Intermediate

• Good for up to 4 people
• 3 large suitcases
• Good for 5 people
• Maximum of 7 passengers
• 3 – 4 large suitcases

Related blog posts

How do our self-drive holidays work.

Since 2004, we've led the way in planning remarkable road trips in the UK. Like a perfectly tailored suit, each itinerary is crafted around you. Learn more about us and our self-drive holidays in our new guide. Read more

10 Stunning Secret Beaches in Devon & Cornwall

Keen to escape to the beautiful coast of Devon and Cornwall but want to avoid the crowds? We're shining the spotlight on our favourite secluded beaches and coves which are quietly waiting to be explored. Read more

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Train strikes in May 2024: Full list of dates and lines affected

Rail lines are set for disruption in the week following the first May bank holiday as train drivers at 16 rail companies strike on different days.

Thursday 25 April 2024 10:29, UK

Train drivers will stage a fresh wave of strikes and overtime bans in May, causing disruption to the rail network.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay.

Members of Aslef union at 16 rail companies will walk out on different days from 7 to 9 May.

Additionally, all members will refuse to work any overtime from 6 May to 11 May.

Here is a full list of the services affected by strikes and when.

Rail strike dates

Tuesday 7 May

Strikes will affect c2c, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express and South Western Railway.

Wednesday 8 May

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Trains.

Thursday 9 May

Strikes will affect LNER, Northern Trains and TransPennine Express.

Overtime ban dates

From Monday 6 May to Saturday 11 May union members will not work overtime.

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, means some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

How do strikes and overtime bans affect services?

Strikes tend to mean services on lines where members are participating are extremely affected or cancelled entirely, whereas overtime bans often lead to reduced services.

Are there strikes on the Tube too?

There have been regular strikes on London Underground too recently, and while there aren't any planned walkouts for drivers, customer service managers are set to walk out on Friday 26 April in a dispute over terms and conditions.

There will also be an overtime ban for the customer service managers on the following days:

Monday 29 April

Tuesday 30 April

Wednesday 1 May

Tuesday 2 May

Wednesday 3 May

Thursday 4 May

Friday 5 May

The Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) says the action by its members is likely to cause Tube stations to close at the last minute, including on the Saturday following the strike (27 April), while TfL has said on its website "some stations may need to close at short notice".

Despite the warning, a TfL spokesperson has said they aren't expecting significant disruption.

This action follows strike action taken by the same workers on 10 April, which the TSSA said had a "real impact" with "many stations shut at short notice".

They say they are "extremely concerned" about TfL's 'Stations Changes' proposals.

"We have made it clear that our union will not accept the continued threats to our members' roles, locations, terms, and conditions to stand unchallenged," a TSSA spokesperson said.

"We will continue to take sustained action until London Underground is prepared to negotiate with us in good faith."

Commenting on the impending strikes, a TfL spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that TSSA is continuing with this strike action following a consultation process.

"While we don't expect this action will cause significant disruption, we urge TSSA to continue to work with us to help find a resolution.

"There are no planned job losses as part of these vital changes which will improve the service we provide to customers at our stations."

How can I stay in the loop?

You can use the National Rail's journey planner to see when trains are running.

Be sure to check it close to when you plan to travel, as it will be updated regularly.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Why are the strikes still happening?

Aslef rejected a two-year offer of 4% in 2022 and another 4% this year, saying it is way below inflation, and is linked to changes in terms and conditions.

Aslef said train drivers have not had an increase in salary for five years, since their last pay deals expired in 2019.

The union said after its members voted overwhelmingly in February to continue taking industrial action, it asked the train operating companies to hold talks.

General secretary Mick Whelan said the year-old pay offer of 4% and another 4% was "dead in the water".

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Rusmania • Deep into Russia

Around Kolomenskoe Metro Station

Kolomenskoe estate.

  The Kolomenskoe Estate runs all the way along the right-bank of the River Moscow from Kolomenskaya to Kashirskaya metro stations and is one of the most popular sights in Moscow outside of the city centre, favoured by both locals and tourists. Historically the Kolomenskoe Estate was the location of the village (selo) of Kolomenskoe, which according to legend was founded by refugees from Kolomna fleeing the Mongol-Tatar Invasion.  The village was first mentioned in 1336 in the will of Ivan Kalita and was always under the ownership of the Moscow grand princes and later the tsars.  During the reign of Tsar Alexis, Kolomenskoe became a royal residence and a grand wooden palace was built here, which survived up until the time of Catherine the Great.  Due to this connection, Tsar Peter the Great and other Romanovs were born here.

Today the estate is run as a museum-reserve as part of the Moscow State Unified Art, Historical, Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve. The estate covers a very large area and you could spend most of the day here if you want to see everything, but if you are short of time the main area worth visiting in the estate is the Tsar's Court and the sights on the neighbouring Voznesenskaya Ploschad, although the modern recreation of Tsar Alexis's Palace in the very south of the Estate is also a contender. Various events, activities, concerts and fares are also held at the estate.  Entrance to the territory of the estate is free of charge and there is free admission to its museums and exhibitions of the third Sunday of the month.

Although the estate has seven entrances the most commonly used one is entrance 2 which is the most obvious entrance if walking from Kolomenskaya metro station.  Immediately next to the entrance is the Atrium Exhibition Hall, which holds an exhibition entitled "Masters, Techniques and the Art of Russian Building from the 14th to 19th centuries.

Russian Wooden Architecture Complex

Several examples of Russian wooden architecture were transferred from North Russia and Siberia to the north-west section of the Kolomenskoe Estate around Ulitsa Zhuzha, where a Russian Wooden Architecture Complex has been formed to better preserve the buildings.  

Gateway Tower of the Nikolo-Korelsky Monastery

The first structure here is the Gateway Tower of the Nikolo-Korelsky Monastery.  The monastery is located in Severodvinsk on the mouth of the Northern Dvina River and was first mentioned in 1419.  In the late 17th century new wooden fortifications were built around the monastery, the main entrance of which was this wooden gateway tower.  The tower was removed from Severodvinsk and reconstructed in Kolomenskoe in 1932 and restored in 2007.

Mokhovaya Tower of the Suma Stockade

Next to the gateway tower is the Mokhovaya Tower of the Suma Stockade.  The stockade ('ostrog' in Russian) was built in the 17th century on the White Sea but all that survives today is the northern-western tower which was called the Mokhovaya Tower.  It was transferred to Kolomenskoe in the 1930s.  The tower has an exhibit inside on the history of the Suma Stockade in particular and on historic defences in Russia's Pomorye area in general.

Tower of the Bratsk Stockade

The third tower here is the Tower of the Bratsk Stockade which was built by Cossacks in 1631 on the bank of the River Angara in Siberia.  A study of the stockade was carried out in the mid-20th century and in 1959 the north-western tower was relocated to Kolomenskoe.  It was restored in 2007.

Slightly further east from these three towers on the Zhuzha stream is a Watermill.  Unlike the other wooden structures here, the watermill is a recreation and was built in 2007 to replicate a traditional Russian watermill.  The watermill is functioning and inside it has an exhibition on the process of making flour and the traditional equipment used is on display.

Falconry Yard of Tsar Alexis

On the other side of the stream is another modern recreation.  This is the Falconry Yard of Tsar Alexis which is dedicated to the tradition of hunting with falcons which was popular among the Russian grand princes and tsars.  The yard was recreated using archival documents to replicate the type which would have been used by Tsar Alexis.  It includes an exhibition on the history of falconry and falconry recreations are also held here in spring and summer.

St George's  Wooden Church

To the south of the three towers on Ulitsa Nizhnyaya is St George's Church which was built in 1685 on the bank of the River Yorga, a branch of the Northern Dvina, in North Russia.  The church was closed after the Revolution and was allowed to fall into disrepair, along with the village where it stood.  The church was relocated to Kolomenskoe in 2008.

Ethnographical Museum Complex

On Ulitsa Bolshaya not too far from the Saviour Back-Gates of the Tsar's Court there is a small wooden school building and then the estate's Ethnographical Museum Complex which comprises the Peasant's Farm and the Blacksmith's Yard.  The Peasant's Farm includes recreations of a typical late-19th century peasant's house with a grain store, a stable, and a chicken coop, complete with a cow, a horse and some chickens.   Just after the Peasant's Farm is the Smith's Yard.  The recreation features the smith's houses, which display tools made by the smith, and an actual smith himself working at a brick furnace.

Tsar's Court

The estate's main attraction is the area between Ulitsa Bolshaya and Ulitsa Shtatnaya and the Kolomensky Stream which once comprised the Tsar's Court.  

Saviour (Spasskie) Back-Gates

The Saviour Back-Gates served as the service entrance to the royal courtyard and the palace and were erected in 1673 and.  The gates have two entrances: a wider one for carts and a narrower one for people.  In the 1680s two premises were built onto the gates to house the sentries.  These were demolished in 1814 but reconstructed in 2007.  Also attached to the gates is part of the walls which once surrounded the whole courtyard.

Our Lady of Kazan Church

Just beyond the Saviour Back-Gates within the former royal court, is the Our Lady of Kazan Church which once served as the family church of the tsars.  The church dates from 1651 replacing an earlier wooden version which was erected during the reign of Tsar Alexis.  The church houses the Our Lady Sovereign Icon which was discovered in the church's basement after a peasant woman saw the icon and the church in a dream.  On the very same day it was found in 1917, Emperor Nicholas II was forced to sign his act of abdication.   It is known as the Our Lady Sovereign Icon as the Virgin Mary is sat on a throne with the infant Christ on her lap and holding a sceptre and an orb.  Apart from a brief period of closure between 1941 and 1942, the church remained opened during the Soviet period.  Behind the church are gardens known as the Kazansky Garden.

Foundations of Palace and Monuments

The original wooden palace of Tsar Alexis once stood to the south of the Our Lady of Kazan Church, and to the left of this area the foundations of the Food and Bread Chambers can still been seen.  Also located here is a Monumental Pillar to the Liberation of the Serfs which was erected in the late 19th century and a 17th century Petition Pillar.

Front Gates Complex

Opposite to the Spasskie Back-Gates is the Front Gates Complex which includes a bell tower and the buildings of the chancellery (prikaznie) chamber, the colonel's (polkovnichi) chamber, a vault, the culinary (povarennaya) chamber and the nourishment (sytny) building.  The gates were built under the reign of Tsar Alexis in 1673 and served as the main entrance to the court; it was through here that the tsar and his family and guests would have entered the court.

Today the complex houses the 'Milestones in History of Kolomenskoe' Exhibition which details the history of Kolomenskoe ranging from archaeological evidence of a stone-age settlement, the estate's peak as a royal residence (including a model of the original wooden palace) and then its decline as the capital moved to St Petersburg.  The exhibition also includes examples of beautifully decorated icons, bibles and prayer books and other items used during worship.  Temporary exhibitions are also held in this complex.

Voznesenskaya Ploschad

Just outside the Front Gates Complex of the Tsar's Court is an area known as Voznesenskaya Ploschad (Ascension Square) where Kolomenskoe's most famous sites can be found - the Ascension Church. 

Ascension Church

The Ascension Church is unique as it is the first Russian church to feature a tent-dome and represents a break with the traditional Byzantine architectural style and the beginning of a distinct Russian architectural style.  The church was built between 1528 and 1532 on the orders of Grand Prince Vasili III to commemorate the birth of Vasili's long-awaited heir – the future Tsar Ivan the Terrible.  Today the church is protected as a World Heritage Site as part of the White Monuments of Vladimir and Suzdal and now run as a museum.  In addition to the interior of the church itself, there is also an exhibition entitled "Archaeology and Restoration of Ascension Church".

St George's Church

Standing next to the Ascension Church is St George's Church and its bell tower.  In the 16th century a stone bell tower was built here for the Ascension Church.  Later in the 17th century a wooden refectory was added to the bell tower and consecrated as St George's Church. According to legend a wooden church dedicated to St George previously stood here having been erected on the orders of Dmitri Donskoy in gratitude for his victory at Kulikovo Field.  In the 19th century the wooden St George's Church was demolished and replaced with the current stone version.  Today the church is used to hold temporary exhibitions.

Water Tower

Next to St George's Church is a stone Water Tower which was built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 17th century to provide the royal court with a water supply.  Restoration work has since taken place on the tower in the 18th, 20th and 21st centuries.  Today the water tower is open as a museum and has two exhibitions:  "The Water Supply System of the Tsar's Court" and "The History of Water Supply Techniques form the 12th to the 20th Century" which include a working model of how the water tower worked.

Palace Pavilion

The final structure in this part of the estate is the Palace Pavilion which represents the only surviving part of the palace of Emperor Alexander I.  As a child, Alexander used to spend time in Kolomenskoe with his grandmother Catherine the Great and he ordered a palace be built here in 1825.  However the emperor died shortly afterwards and never got to visit his new palace.  In the 1870s the palace was demolished and only this pavilion remained.  The pavilion's main feature is its façade which includes a small portico and statues of two lions.  Today the pavilion is used to hold temporary exhibitions and for concerts of classical and folk music.

South of the Tsar's Court

Immediately south to the Tsar's Court Front Gate Complex are yet more interesting sights including a small copse of ancient oak trees, some of which are thought to be up to 600 years old. 

Polovtsian Baba

Among the oak trees is what is known as a Polovtsian Baba.  It is a stone carving of figure though to represent ancestors and used for worship.  It was created by the Turkic Polovtsy tribe sometime in the 11th or 12th century and was brought to Kolomenskoe in the 1930s.

Boris Stone

Slightly further along is a bolder which is one of the Boris Stones which are medieval artefacts dating from the 12th century.  This particular stone was brought here from near Polotsk in Belarus, where they were originally thought to have been used to mark a boundary.

Peter the Great's House

The wooden house just outside the Tsar’s Court is known as Peter the Great's House.  It was originally built on an island in the mouth of the Northern Dvina River in 1702 for Peter the Great who lived there for two months whilst observing the construction of the Novodvinskaya Fortress to protect Arkhangelsk.  In the 19th century the house was moved to Arkhangelsk and then in 1936 it was moved to its present location in Kolomenskoe - the birthplace of Peter the Great.  The house now works as a museum dedicated to Peter the Great and entitled "Builder, Sailor and Hero".  The interior has been recreated to how it would have looked during the time of Peter the Great and there are displays which detail the early life and interests of the tsar-reformer.

Beekeepers Estate and Gardens

Further west is the Beekeepers Estate which now holds an exhibition on "Kolomenskoe Honey" which has two halls:  one dedicated to the history of beekeeping and one a reconstruction of a 19th-century peasant hut in the Moscow Governorate.  Just outside the estate is the Apothecary's Garden and the Voznesensky Garden.

Russian Riding Court

South of the Voznesensky Garden is a modern recreation of a traditional Russian Riding Court complete with stables, a groom's house, a coach house and a real blacksmith.

Kolomenskoe Estate is cut in two by the Kolomensky stream which is located at the bottom of what is known as the Golosov Ravine.  The part of Kolomenskoe located on the southern side of the ravine is known as Dyakovo after the village which was once located here.

Golosov Ravine

The Golosov Ravine itself is an interesting and mysterious place.  It is believed there may have been a pagan shine dedicated to the god Veles here and there are many legends connected with the place.  The most famous is that in 1621 Tsar Alexis' guards captured a small regiment of Tatars.  When questioned, the Tatars said that they are part of Khan Devlet-Giray's forces and have just come from the ravine where there was a strange green mist. However Devlet-Giray attacked Moscow in 1571.  The Tatars were even dressed in old-fashioned clothes with weapons of that time.

Maiden and Goose Boulders

At the top of the ravine, close to the bridge back to the Riding Court, are two unusually shaped rocks which have come known as the Maiden (Devy) and Goose (Gus) Boulders and are said to aid fertility and cure a range of illnesses.

St John the Baptist Church in Dyakovo

The main man-made sight in Dyakovo is the Beheading of St John the Baptist Church in Dyakovo.  The church was built during the reign of Tsar Ivan the Terrible but the exact years of construction are unknown.  It is believed that Ivan may have had it built to commemorate him becoming tsar in 1547.  The church consists of five tent-domes: one larger central one with four smaller corner domes.  In 1924 the church was closed, but was reopened once again from 1949 to 1957.  After this it was closed once more and left to fall into disrepair.  In 1971 the church's cemetery was closed and then destroyed in 1980.  However in 1992 the church was returned to the Orthodox Church and by 2009 fully restored.  Around the church is the Dyakovsky Garden.

Dyakovo Gorodische

Further south, close to the River Moskva and next to the Dyakovsky Ravine, is the site of the Dyakovo Gorodische which archaeological digs have determined was the site of an Iron Age settlement.  A whole range of Iron Age settlements around the Rivers Volga, Valdai and Oka were subsequently considered to be home of Dyakovo Culture which was named after this settlement in Kolomenskoe.

Chyortov Gorodok

A second site of a Dyakovo Culture settlement in the south-east of the estate is known as the Chyortov Gorodok (which can be translated as Demon's or Devil's Town) another site of an ancient settlement. There is also a natural spring here.

South of the Estate

Tsar alexis' palace.

The final site within Kolomenskoe is the reconstruction of Tsar Alexis' Palace which is located in the very south of the estate close to Kashirskaya metro station.  The original wooden palace was built in the Tsar’s Court at Kolomenskoe between 1667 and 1672, however by 1767 it was in ruins and Catherine the Great had it completely demolished.   In the 1990s it was decided to have a recreation made and the southern part of the estate was selected so as not to disturb any of the real historical sites in the north.  Old plans and other historical sources were referred to for both the exterior and interior of the palace and the recreation was completed in 2010.

The palace is open to the public as a museum and its interiors are the main attraction. They are said to be faithful representations of how the original palace would have looked on the inside, but as impressive as they are you cannot escape the newness and modernity of it all.  There is also an exhibition entitled "Treasures of Russian 17th-Century Art" which displays items, painting, engravings and handicrafts.  In addition various temporary exhibitions are also held here.

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