england travel highlights

19 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jun 8, 2023

Consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom (UK) has long been one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. For most travelers, like me, the country's appeal has as much to do with its diverse scenery as it does its rich cultural heritage. In fact, the best places to visit in the UK include everything from beautifully preserved country estates and picturesque castles to its many big city art galleries and museums.

You'll find one of the greatest pleasures of a UK vacation, however, is just how easy it is for you to explore this fascinating, diverse, and relatively small country. The UK could easily fit into the state of Texas with room to spare, so you can base yourself in a couple of cities and simply take a train, bus, or ferry to explore other areas.

One of my favorite day trips from London , for example, is to take the 90-minute train ride to beautiful Salisbury . Once there, you're only a short bus ride or tour away from one of the country's most recognizable attractions, Stonehenge. Want to hop between the Scottish cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow ? A one-hour train ride will deposit you in the heart of either city.

Sure, the UK can seem like a very busy travel destination. But plan your sightseeing adventures carefully with my list of the best places to visit in the UK and you'll have no problem making the most of your time.

1. London: The UK's All-in-One Destination

2. edinburgh: scotland's capital, 3. roman-era bath, 4. ancient stonehenge and medieval salisbury, 5. royal windsor, 6. idyllic england: the cotswolds, 7. the magical lake district, 8. medieval york and its minster, 9. the university towns of cambridge & oxford, 10. england's pilgrimage city: canterbury, 11. loch ness and inverness, 12. northern ireland's giant's causeway, 13. liverpool: home of the beatles, 14. manchester: england's football mad city, 15. cardiff: the capital of wales, 16. the channel islands, 17. glasgow & loch lomond, 18. snowdonia: wales' biggest mountains, 19. belfast.

While it's possible to plan a trip to the UK without actually visiting London, it's certainly not a recommendation I'd make. I typically begin my UK visits by spending a few days in the nation's sprawling capital while getting over my jet lag before venturing out to my planned final destination (or destinations).

There are plenty of attractions to keep you busy. Want to learn more about the UK's rich history? You're literally spoiled for choice here as London boasts more than 200 world-class museums and art galleries to explore.

In the City of London, the heart of the old Roman city, you'll find evidence of pretty much every period in history ever since. Some of the top attractions in London are located here, including the Tower of London .

Located beside the spectacular Tower Bridge on the banks of the River Thames , this former palace and prison includes highlights such as the iconic 1,000-year-old White Tower, with its fascinating displays of armor and weaponry, and the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels. I always make a return visit at sunrise or sunset to grab an iconic photo of the Tower of London framed by Tower Bridge.

If you're a fan of Britain's Royal Family, you'll want to head to Buckingham Palace , London's Royal home since Queen Victoria's reign. Here, you can enjoy the colorful pomp of the Changing of the Guard or even take a tour of the Palace's State Rooms. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book in advance as they're only open for a few weeks each year.

From here you can wander along the Thames to the city's Whitehall Road area. Here you'll find Big Ben and the Parliament Buildings , as well as Westminster Abbey, the scene of many a royal wedding.

Another area to visit in London is South Kensington, home to the city's best museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum , as well as the famous Harrods department store. Also check out Trafalgar Square , home to the iconic Nelson's Column and the National Portrait Gallery.

And be sure to make the most of London's excellent transport system. Whether you go by bus or by underground, the system's now so good that you can simply use a debit or credit card to tap in and out as you go. It really is very easy, and once you've mastered that famous map of the city's "Tube" network you'll be traveling like a Londoner.

One of the UK's most attractive cities, the capital city of Edinburgh is also one of the UK's most visited destinations. Popular for its many well-preserved historic buildings, Edinburgh is perhaps best known as the home of the majestic Edinburgh Castle .

Perched high above the old city on a rocky promontory, this 13th-century royal fortress includes highlights such as the famous One O'Clock Salute, held daily at Half Moon Battery, as well as the Scottish Crown Jewels in the Royal Palace . Also worth seeing are the Scottish National War Memorial and the famous Stone of Destiny , the Stone of Scone, which only returned to Scotland after being held for 700 years in London.

From the castle, I always find it easy to explore the other most important historic sites in the city. Follow your nose downhill from the castle to the Old Town via the famous Royal Mile , a delightful medieval cobbled street that's immensely fun to walk. Sure, there are plenty of the usual tacky tourist and souvenir shops, but skip these and look out for the area's fine old architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants, as well as trendy art galleries and studios.

Edinburgh Old Town is also where you'll find the splendid old Palace of Holyroodhouse . From here, I usually make my way to Princes Street and New Town before looping back around to the castle. This broad, more modern avenue was planned in the late 18th century and is extremely popular for its shopping and dining opportunities. It's also where you'll find attractions such as the Royal Botanical Garden and the National Gallery of Scotland.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Edinburgh

Although one of the UK's smaller cities, Bath more than makes up for its diminutive size with a multitude of things to see and do . Named after its famous Roman Baths, this beautiful city has been luring visitors like you and me to its healing waters for more than 2,000 years.

Gushing from three hot springs, the water-known to consist of 43 different minerals, hence its curative properties-travels upwards some 3,048 meters at a rate of 275,000 gallons per day, before spilling out at a consistent 46.5 degrees Celsius. It's a truly awesome sight, and also a little eerie to think that you're standing just feet away from the very hot springs that Romans and early Britons enjoyed some 2,000 years before you got here.

While it's not possible to bathe in the original Roman Baths (try it and you'll be arrested!), a number of nearby spas, most notably the modern Thermae Bath Spa , offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the city's famous waters. This must-do experience features a stunning rooftop pool using the same waters as the Roman Baths, and all with incredible views of city landmarks such as Bath Abbey .

In addition to its ancient history, Bath is also famous for its lovely Georgian architecture. The best examples can be seen along the magnificent, curved Royal Crescent, with its palatial townhomes. One of them, No.1 Royal Crescent , is now a museum that offers a fascinating peek into life during Georgian times.

While Bath is served by the same London rail service as the neighboring port city of Bristol , it's one of those increasingly forward-thinking cities that makes it easy for car drivers, too. My most recent visit in the summer of 2022 was via car, and I avoided traffic and hassle by parking at the extremely affordable Landsdowne Park and Ride facility on the outskirts of the city. Not only is it inexpensive with plenty of availability, but regular bus services will also whisk you away to the heart of the city in just 10 minutes.

Read More: From London to Bath: Best Ways to Get There

One of the planet's oldest World Heritage Sites , Stonehenge has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 4,500 years. It was believed to have been erected as a place of worship, but these days, the crowds consist of tourists drawn by the sheer scale of this magnificent monument to mankind's ingenuity.

It's a sprawling site, covering an area of more than 20 square kilometers and boasting a state-of-the-art visitor center. Here, you can catch a fascinating glimpse not only into the construction of Stonehenge but also its history since then.

But it does get busy, so be sure to plan well ahead and purchase a timed ticket for the day of your visit. Better still, splurge a little on one of the attraction's new VIP admission packages . This unforgettable experience guarantees your spot on a fun "Stone Circle Experience" that includes free time to wander the site on your own. The verdict? It's a must-do.

Be sure to also spend time exploring the nearby medieval city of Salisbury , located just 16 kilometers south of Stonehenge. You'll be rewarded with a chance to visit one of the country's most famous cathedrals, dating back to 1220 and home to an original Magna Carta .

Afterward, spend time wandering the old city center with its many fine churches and historic medieval architecture. Not only are there a number of first-rate places to stay here (I'm partial to the Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel for its central location and 4-star quality and cleanliness), but great little intimate eateries like the Cosy Club on Crane Street. The food here is home-cooked, locally sourced, tasty... and served in an extremely patriotic British setting.

Read More: From London to Stonehenge: Best Ways to Get There

The historic town of Windsor, conveniently located a short train ride west of Central London, offers plenty of fun attractions for tourists . In addition to its lovely Thames-side setting and the many medieval half-timbered buildings along its quaint old cobblestone laneways, it's also home to spectacular Windsor Castle , the most famous of the UK's royal castles.

This grand old castle has served as the summer residence of British royalty for more than a millennium. It was started by William the Conqueror in 1078 and is the world's largest inhabited castle. Highlights include the splendid State Apartments containing the Queen's Gallery and dining hall, each with magnificently painted ceilings and woodcarvings, and St. George's Chapel, famous as the home of the Knights and Ladies of the ancient Order of the Garter.

When you've had your fill of these historic buildings, be sure to also spend time exploring the castle's large and beautiful grounds, almost 10 kilometers long. You'll enjoy some truly memorable panoramic views over Windsor and its castle, and a number of picnic areas, some with barbecue grills, are available if you want to stop awhile.

Traveling with kids? Another area attraction worth visiting is Legoland Windsor . This fun family resort, set on 150 acres of parkland and just a short bus ride from Windsor town center, even boats a modern Lego-themed hotel if you're looking to make a weekend of it.

Also worth seeing is Royal Ascot , the UK's most famous horse-racing venue. While you might want to try to time your trip to coincide with the Royal Meeting held each June, you'll find yourself fighting often huge crowds, all dressed to the nines, here for what is after all one of the most important events on the country's social calendar.

Read More: From London to Windsor: Best Ways to Get There

Covering almost 1,287 square kilometers of charming countryside, the beautiful Cotswolds is undoubtedly one of the most photographed corners of England. Its unrivaled pastoral scenery has earned it a reputation as one of the most beautiful places in the UK, ranking highly on many a traveler's bucket list.

Easy to get to from London and close to the popular tourist attractions of Bath and Bristol , the Cotswolds includes some of the best parts of the counties of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire.

Why visit? Well, if you're anything like me, you're here to experience a true taste of rural English life and explore its many quaint villages . You'll want to include the idyllic village of Bourton-on-the-Water on your Cotswolds itinerary. Nicknamed the "Venice of the Cotswolds," this popular vacation spot boasts a charming river setting and countless well-preserved cottages, some dating back to the 15th century, and all just begging to be photographed.

One of the most popular ways to do this is via the area's extensive trail network, including the excellent 164-kilometer-long Cotswold Way. Other fun things to do include horseback riding and biking, or simply soaking up the history of popular market towns such as Castle Combe or Tetbury.

Located in the northeast of England not far from the border with Scotland , the spectacular Lake District in Cumbria covers an area of 1,448 square kilometers. Not only is it considered one of the most magical places to visit in the UK for its beautiful scenery, its reputation as a place of romance and great culture will forever be associated with its most famous former resident, Beatrix Potter.

It was Potter who in fact led the way with the conservation efforts that have preserved so much of the Lake District when she bequeathed her estate to the National Trust. Her one-time home near Sawrey, Hill Top , can and should be visited for its exhibits and artifacts.

Her legacy also set the stage for the establishment of Lake District National Park . Encompassing 12 of the country's largest lakes including Windermere and Ullswater, the two biggest and best known, this beautiful region is another famous place in the UK that's great to explore on foot. All told the park boasts more than 3,218 kilometers of hiking and walking trails, so be sure to pack your hiking boots.

Other things to do in the Lake District include visiting Scafell Pike , at 978 meters the highest mountain in England. And, of course, there is no end of picturesque towns and villages to explore, including Grasmere .

Read More: From London to the Lake District: Best Ways to Get There

One of northern England's most popular tourist destinations, the medieval city of York, long the ecclesiastical capital of the Church of England, boasts one of the country's most magnificent cathedrals. The country's largest medieval church, York Minster can trace its roots back to the spread of Christianity in the 3rd century, although the splendid present Gothic structure was built almost 1,000 years later.

One of the best ways to get to see this historic landmark is via an official guided tour . I recommend you book in advance, and spend a little time reviewing the available choices to find one best suited to your interests. I opted for the fascinating "Tower Trip" option, a little more expensive but well worth the cost for the magnificent city views.

Other highlights of a visit to York Minster include seeing its spectacular 14th-century stained glass windows, plus the richly decorated interiors of the choir and north transept. You'll also want to visit the crypt, which contains parts of the original 11th-century church the cathedral now stands on.

Another York landmark worth exploring is the historic City Walls . I make a point of strolling this nearly five-kilometer-long structure each and every time I visit the city. Not only is it good exercise, but it's also a fun way to circle around the old medieval city center without the crowds.

Along the way, you'll enjoy excellent views over The Shambles , a narrow 14th-century roadway that's famous for its fine old timber-framed buildings, many of which hang over the street below. It's also an area known for its many restaurants and tearooms, as well as its many boutique shops and galleries.

York also boasts a number of major museums, the most popular being the National Railway Museum . Highlights of this museum's vast collection include many fine old steam engines dating as far back as 1820, plus a unique collection of Royal Trains. The museum also offers an excellent afternoon tea experience in the historic Countess of York railway carriage, bookable in advance.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England
• From London to York: Best Ways to Get There

The UK has long been a center of learning, with two of its most famous university towns also ranking highly as tourist destinations. An easy commute north of London and just 128 kilometers apart, Cambridge and Oxford have for centuries been rivals for the title of the country's top academic establishment, a rivalry celebrated during the famous rowing event, The Boat Race , which takes place each spring on the River Thames .

Despite this generally good-spirited rivalry, each location offers plenty of attractions to make them worthwhile additions to your UK travel itinerary. Highlights of a visit to Cambridge include the chance to wander the UK's largest collection of preserved historic buildings, many of them located within an easy walk of Cambridge University ' s 31 colleges, the oldest of which was founded in 1284.

In addition to touring the stunning college grounds (only a handful of the university's buildings offer tours), you should also take a punt along the River Cam. This must-do activity is something of a Cambridge ritual, and chances are you'll even be "punted" along by a university student willing to share a little of their college experiences.

As with most popular tourist destinations, however, a little advance planning will ensure you find a reputable company for your punting tour. Licensed operators to consider include Cambridge Punt Company , which also offers a private romantic evening tour; and Scholars Punting , which features a fun picnic hamper package worth considering. In both cases, you can keep the cost down by joining a shared tour.

Oxford University's 38 colleges are equally fun to explore. These historic old places of learning are each set around a quadrangle and several inner courtyards along with chapels, dining halls, libraries, and student residences, some of which offer unique tourist accommodation packages, too. Like most UK tourist sites, they do get extremely busy in summer so be sure to book your visit in advance if you can to avoid disappointment.

Other Oxford highlights include the Carfax Tower, with its fine views over the city center, and the many fine old buildings of the town's High Street .

Pay a visit to historic Canterbury in Kent, and you'll soon discover why this beautiful city continues to be such a draw for visitors to the UK.

An easy hour's train ride from central London, Canterbury has been a draw for visitors for centuries. The first visitors were religious pilgrims who have in fact been visiting for more than 1,500 years, ever since St. Augustine first started converting pagan Anglo-Saxons to Christianity here in AD 597.

The city's most famous attraction is Canterbury Cathedral , the home church of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning cathedral offers plenty to see, from the intricately carved masonry of its exterior to its magnificent interior, a highlight of which is the beautiful choir with its statues of six English kings. Also of note are the exquisite Miracle Windows, dating from the 12th century and depicting scenes from the life of murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket .

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the pedestrianized area of Old City Canterbury with its many preserved, historic timber-framed buildings, particularly along Mercery Lane. Be sure to include the excellent Canterbury Roman Museum on your itinerary. It was built around the remains of an original Roman townhouse and its unique mosaic.

Read More: From London to Canterbury: Best Ways to Get There

Despite the fact that the legends of mythical monsters have largely been debunked (just don't tell the locals), spectacular Loch Ness remains an extremely popular tourist attraction for travelers heading to Scotland. While it's unlikely you'll encounter any monsters, you will, however, be rewarded with seeing some of the UK's most beautiful scenery.

Highlights of Loch Ness include the ruins of Urquhart Castle . Set overlooking the loch, it's one of Scotland's largest fortifications, with the current structure dating from the 14th century. For those wanting to learn more about the area's many legends, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition recounts its history, along with that of its monster, including details of ongoing searches for the elusive creature.

A little farther north is Inverness. This lovely city boasts numerous excellent attractions, including Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and the late 19th-century St. Andrew's Cathedral.

History buffs should also check out the Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre . It was in Culloden in 1746 that the English and Scots fought their last battle and where the fate of Scotland as a British dominion was determined. Also of interest are the gravestones of warriors from the Scottish clans, as well as the six-meter-high Memorial Cairn erected in 1881 to commemorate the battle.

• From Glasgow to Loch Ness: Best Way to Get There
• From Edinburgh to Loch Ness: Best Ways to Get There

It's sometimes a little too easy to forget that the UK includes a tiny little piece of Ireland . Northern Ireland, consisting of the northeast corner of the "Emerald Isle," can easily be included on a trip to either country and is well worth taking the time to explore.

My favorite among the many Northern Ireland attractions worth visiting is the magnificent Giant's Causeway, a stunningly beautiful natural feature that looks anything but natural. Just a short drive from the capital of Belfast , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of unusual columns of layered basalt that jut upwards out of the sea and shoreline like some giant's staircase, hence their name.

All told, there are some 4,000 of these polygonal-shaped steps to see and clamber over. Formed over 60 million years ago during a period of intense volcanic activity, it's a truly impressive sight, and easy to see how local legends of giants could so easily have sprung up as a result.

A modern visitor center has been opened here and provides fascinating details about the reality and the myths behind this bucket-list attraction. Guided tours can be arranged, and be sure to make use of the audio guides that are provided with admission. Tickets can be booked online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Read More: From Dublin to Giant's Causeway: Best Ways to Get There

Liverpool , under three hours away from London by rail, offers plenty of cultural excitement for the curious traveler. It's also well-known for its role in giving rise to the English music legacy, not least because of its association with the Beatles .

Music fans are drawn here first and foremost for "Fab Four"-related attractions, such as The Beatles Story located in the renovated Albert Docks area. Also worth seeing are the famous Cavern Club, where the band made its debut in 1961, as well as the former homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Numerous walking tours and bus tours of Beatles sites are also readily available.

Other great reasons to visit Liverpool include its many historic buildings, lovely gardens, and parks, as well as great museums such as the Merseyside Maritime Museum , the Museum of Liverpool , and world-class art galleries like the Walker Art Gallery and the Tate Gallery . These are all located in the city's revitalized Royal Albert Dock area, an historic area enjoyed exploring on foot.

Thanks to its international airport, Manchester is often the first stop for many visitors from North America planning to explore northern England, Scotland, or Wales. It's especially popular for fans of the sport of football (that's soccer to those from the US, including Ted Lasso!).

Manchester is, in fact, home to two top football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. Both are well represented in the must-visit National Football Museum , as are other popular teams from around the UK. Along with displays of memorabilia, trophies, and clothing, fun short movies explain the history of the sport and capture many of its defining moments.

Be sure to also visit at least one Manchester club's stadium, too. The best known is Manchester United's Old Trafford grounds, though Manchester City's Etihad Stadium is also worth seeing. Both offer fascinating tours and behind-the-scenes access. Better still, try to visit when there's a game on!

Other notable places to visit in Manchester include Castlefield , popular for its well-preserved Victorian houses, canals, and Roman ruins. It's also popular to explore on foot for its many old warehouses now serving as trendy shops, hotels, and restaurants.

If you've got time left in your Manchester itinerary, be sure to include Manchester Cathedral and the historic Town Hall. There's also a rich cultural scene that includes museums (Museum of Science and Industry), galleries (Manchester Art Gallery), and entertainment (Chinatown).

Despite being much smaller than both Scotland and England, Wales is home to some of the UK's top attractions. Interesting things to do here range from exploring the breathtaking scenery and enjoying outdoor adventures in its national parks to visiting its historic castles.

One of the best places to sample a little of everything that Wales has to offer is the country's capital, Cardiff , with most travelers beginning their visit at Cardiff Castle . Located in the middle of the city and built on the ruins of an ancient Roman fort, parts of the current structure date as far back as 1090, with much of it restored in the 1800s. Highlights include the State Apartments, the Clock Tower, the Chapel, and a spectacular Banqueting Hall with its fine murals.

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the city's many old Victorian shopping arcades, the best of which can be found around The Hayes. You'll find everything from second-hand record stores to boutique clothing shops and custom jewelers to browse.

Also worth checking out is Cardiff Bay. One of the UK's largest redevelopment projects, this vast area is now home to numerous fine restaurants, theaters, galleries, and shopping opportunities, many of them housed in former warehouses on lovely Mermaid Quay.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

Although just 14 miles away from mainland France , the Channel Islands have been a British territory since 1066. One of the most picture-perfect destinations in the country, these attractive small islands not only boast a milder climate but offer great places to visit that don't get the large crowds like other parts of the country.

The Channel Islands comprise Jersey (the largest island), Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and Herm (the smallest), along with numerous even tinier islands. The intrepid traveler will also be rewarded with everything from quaint seaside towns and villages to explore, historic castles and ruins (sometimes one and the same), as well as outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting.

As for getting here, the Channel Islands are well served by ferries from mainland England, as well as short flights from most major British airports.

Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

The Scottish city of Glasgow is a great place to visit for those who enjoy a mix of cultural attractions and the great outdoors. Once you've had your fix of historic sites such as Glasgow Cathedral and the museums of the University of Glasgow, among others, head out to explore nearby Loch Lomond .

Loch Lomond was dubbed "The Queen of Scottish Lakes" by famed writer Walter Scott, and it's here you'll see Ben Lomond and the beautiful Trossachs countryside. Trossachs National Park now includes Loch Lomond itself and covers some 720 square miles of prime hiking and biking country.

It's also popular for its fishing and boating, including sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. For true outdoor enthusiasts, Loch Lomond is the perfect spot for a "wild camping" adventure. Not only is it safe, you're never too far away from people if you need them. And, of course, you'll agree that the scenery here is even more beautiful when you have it all to yourself.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Glasgow

Not only does the Snowdonia region of Wales boast some of the country's most remarkable scenery — and that's saying something, as it really is a beautiful country — it's also home to the UK's second largest national park: Snowdonia National Park. Spread across nearly 830 square miles, the park is as big a draw for adventurers as it is for those seeking a pleasant and not-too-exhausting day trip.

If you're a hiker you can choose from a variety of trails that wind their way up (and down) Mount Snowdon itself, spending a full day tackling as difficult a route to the top as you desire. And those like me who want to see the spectacular views from the top without all the hard work can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway .

Considered one of the world's top scenic railways, the journey starts in Llanberis before tackling steep inclines up to the "Eryri" visitor center at the top of Snowdon.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Snowdonia

Once omitted from the itineraries of most travelers to the UK, Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, has in recent years become something of a must-see destination. Not only are there numerous historic attractions and cultural experiences to enjoy, but the city's people have the same welcoming attitude that the European nation of Ireland to the south is known for.

One of the city's top claims to fame was its role in the building of the ill-fated ocean liner, RMS Titanic . This connection is celebrated and memorialized in the city's Titanic Quarter , home to the impressive Titanic Belfast attraction. Here, you can explore interactive exhibits that deal not only with the vessel, but the thousands of people involved in its construction and, ultimately, its sinking.

More on England

10 Day England Itinerary: The Best Sights And Attractions In England

This 10-day england itinerary takes you on a tour of the most famous sights in the country, plus a few hidden gems.

If you’re planning a trip to the United Kingdom, it’s hard to know where to start. The first big decision is do you fancy spending all of your time in England, or perhaps venture to Wales or Scotland too? While Britain isn’t a huge island (you could drive from Land’s End in the south to John O’Groats in the north in under 15 hours) the scenery is varied and you’ll want to take your time.

If it’s your first visit, I’d recommend focusing on England, and spending at least a week travelling around. You can move at a fast pace and visit a new place each day, but if you fancy a more leisurely trip, you’ll probably want to allow a minimum of 2 days in some of them, especially when you factor in the travel time.

Coming up is a 10-day England itinerary packed full of the best sights in the country. I’ll admit it’s been really difficult to choose where to include. There are SO many other places that are equally as beautiful, but this route gives you a nice variety.

From London’s museums and iconic landmarks, to the epic beauty of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, Bath’s history and the landscapes of the Lake District, this itinerary has it all! If you want to wander through streets that could feature in Harry Potter or soak up the romance of where The Holiday was filmed, there are some iconic movie locations on this route too.

The easiest way to travel around England is by car. It’ll give you the flexibility to get off the beaten track, visit some unique destinations and pack as much into your trip as your time allows. However, if you’d rather use public transport, all of these locations are accessible by trains or buses too.

10-Day England Itinerary: The Best Sights And Attractions In England

2 days in london.

There’s SO much to see in the UK’s capital, you could easily spend a week exploring the city. For this 10-day England itinerary I’ve suggested you spend 2 days in London and pack in as much sightseeing as you can.

If it’s your first time in London you can’t miss the key landmarks. Watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, see London from a different angle from one of the 32 pods on the London Eye, check the time at Big Ben, explore Westminster Abbey, wave to Nelson in Trafalgar Square, see Tower Bridge open for a tall ship, see the crown jewels sparkling inside the Tower of London and step inside St Paul’s Cathedral. It sounds like a lot, but you can see so many sights with a long walk along the River Thames.

One of the best ways of doing all of this is on a bus tour. We really like this vintage open-top bus tour which is just oh so quintessentially British. This tour has a guide explaining all the top sights.

Alternatively, another tour we love is this half-day bike tour . In 4 hours you get to ride around London taking in all the sights – it’s a really cool way of seeing London, especially on a bright sunny day.

If you love museums, take a trip to South Kensington and venture inside the impressive Natural History Museum and Science Museums. They both have lots of interesting interactive exhibits and are great for families.

For tasty food, take a wander through Borough Market or Camden Market. If you love architecture, how about a little tour of Notting Hill. The pastel coloured houses are like something out of a kid’s book. Or for a great view, walk to the top of Primrose Hill. It’s one of our favourite spots on a sunny day. 

The easiest way to get around London is using public transport. You can either pick up an Oyster Card (a contactless travel card) or use your own contactless bank card.

1 Day In Brighton

After a great few days in London, it’s time to escape to the coast. Brighton is one of the best seaside day trips from London by train (journey takes one hour) and a gorgeous place to explore on foot.

There’s the pier which is crammed full of fun rides, amusement arcades and food outlets wafting the sickly scent of donuts through the air. There’s a mammoth pebbly beach, lined with little art galleries, gift shops and restaurants.

For a great view of Brighton, you could take a trip on the i360 – a tourist attraction which offers great views of the area. Plus, there are some gorgeous hotels on the seafront if you want to stay overnight.

One of our favourite things about Brighton is the shopping scene. The Lanes and North Laine are full of character, and are THE place to visit for independent stores, quirky cafes and restaurants. This is a great place to shop for vintage jewellery and bohemian clothing.

Once you’ve done all of that, you’ll definitely have earned some fish and chips on the beach. Just watch out for the seagulls overhead – they’re always hungry!

1 Day In Dorset

I was debating whether to recommend two days in Cornwall, or break up the journey with one day in Dorset. Needless to say, Dorset won! I visited last year for the first time and would definitely suggest you include a stop there on your 10-day England itinerary.

Dorset is known for its dramatic coastline, known as the Jurassic Coast. I’d recommend the clifftop walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door – England’s iconic rock arch. If you have time, you could also do the walk from Studland Bay to Old Harry Rocks. It’s another beautiful spot, with huge chalk stones standing in the water.

Alternatively, if you fancy a more relaxing day you could drive to West Bay to see the enormous limestone cliffs, which show the falling sea levels from over 175 million years ago. Or enjoy the adorable English villages of Milton Abbas or Abbotsbury.

Both have main streets lined with charming thatched cottages, many decorated with pretty plants and flowers. It’s got a quaint English charm! 

Alternatively, if you’re basing yourself in London for your England itinerary, then this is an amazing 5 day tour of Dorset and Cornwall . On this tour EVERYTHING is taken care of for you, so you don’t need to worry about transport, tickets or anything else like that.

1 Day In Cornwall

Cornwall is one of my favourite parts of England. This southern region of mainland Britain is where you’ll find a spectacular rugged coastline, top surf beaches and some of the best fresh seafood in the country. It’s a walker’s paradise, and a great place for day hikes along the South West Coast Path .

The Cornish coastline is stunning – it’s no wonder it’s one of the top places for people to go on holiday in UK. For beach time head to Fistral Beach (Newquay’s famous surf beach), Bedruthan Steps (epic rock views), Pedn Vounder (might have you fooled for the Caribbean) or Kynance Cove (with its incredible rock formation).

Alternatively, you could focus on Cornwall’s food scene. There are lots of great restaurants dotted around the county, but the most famous town for gastronomy is Padstow .

Legendary chefs Rick Stein and Paul Ainsworth have launched a culinary empire in the town, and there’s a nice mix of high-end to budget friendly options. Most of them involve fresh fish and seafood brought in daily by fisherman in Padstow Harbour. Read our guide to the 13 best places to eat in Padstow before you go! 

1 Day In Bath

Bath is one of England’s prettiest cities. Most buildings here are constructed from Bath stone – a beige limestone which gives the city a certain uniformity. It’s a very walkable city, and one of my top recommendations would be to get lost in the pretty streets.

There are a few highlights not to be missed. If you’re a lover of history, the city of Bath offers a lot. First time visitors must visit the Roman baths . It’s incredible to learn about the ancient ways of the Romans and their impact on modern civilisation.

For the best views, I’d recommend climbing the tower of Bath Abbey (bookable as part of a guided tour). It’s a tiring climb up, but well worth it once you see the stunning cityscapes from the top.

Alternatively, an evening cruise on the water with a glass of prosecco is a great way of seeing the city too!

If you’re craving relaxation after a busy few days of travelling, you could spend some time enjoying the soothing waters of Thermae Bath Spa. There are several pools, saunas and steam rooms. One pool is on a roof terrace and offers lovely views of the city too!

Bath is a sophisticated city, with great places to eat and drink, lovely independent shops and plenty of history, so it’s s great addition to your 10-day England itinerary!

1 Day In The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is one of the most picturesque regions of England. If you’ve grown up watching films set in cute English villages, you can bet 99% of the time they were filmed in this area! You know, the beautiful snowy Christmas scenes in The Holiday and Bridget Jones? Yep, they were filmed in the Cotswolds.

If you’re only spending one day in the area as part of a bigger 10-day England itinerary, I’d recommend visiting Bibury and walking down Arlington Row. After that, head to Moreton in Marsh, Bourton on the Water, Upper and Lower Slaughter and Broadway.

The best way to enjoy this area is on a little road trip, stopping off at towns and villages, then having a little country walk before enjoying a traditional cream tea. There are a number of beautiful accommodation options in this area too, from adorable B&Bs to huge country manor houses.

Alternatively, if you want everything taken care of for you, then this is one of the most popular tours of the Cotswolds from London . It is packed full of all the top things to do in the area, and it’s one of the most recommended Cotswold tours out there!

2 Days In The Lake District

After spending time in The Cotswolds, it’s time to head north. It’s a long journey, so it might be best to add in a travel day at this point if possible.

The Lake District is England’s largest national park and covers 912 square miles. It’s stunningly beautiful, with rolling hills, pretty lakes and some of the best restaurants in the country.

With just two days in the area, we’d recommend a mix of hiking, water activities and good food. There are lots of Michelin starred restaurants in the Lake District , so you could treat yourselves to an extra special meal. Our favourite was Cottage in the Wood, but there are a few others including Simon Rogan’s L’Enclume that we’d love to visit one day!

In terms of hiking, one of our favourite routes is up to Cat Bells. The views from up there are absolutely incredible. We also really enjoyed the hike from Pooley Bridge to Aira Force waterfall . The route passes high over the hills, with epic views of Ullswater from the top.

If you like getting out on the water, then there are plenty of opportunities in this area. You could kayak, hire a sailing boat, try stand up paddle boarding, go canyoning or enjoy a leisurely journey on board the historic Ullswater Steamer.

Another fantastic Great British tour is of 10 lakes in the Lake District . Here you get to hop from each lake seeing which one is your favourite – it’s a

1 Day In Cambridge

You’ve made it to the final day of your 10-day England itinerary, and it’s time for a trip to Cambridge. History lovers will adore walking the grounds of famous university colleges here. The architecture is amazing and feels very grand. The city centre has plenty of shops, restaurants and cafes to enjoy too.

One of the top things to do in Cambridge is go punting . It’s not an activity that goes on in other cities really – Cambridge is THE place for it. There’s nothing quite like gliding down the River Cam learning all about the history of Cambridge while on a punting tour.

As you relax on board the boat you get to see some of the sights that are tricky to view properly from the banks of the river, including the spectacular Bridge of Sighs, the Mathematical Bridge and the back of King’s College.

As another thing to do, it’s really popular to take a tour of the colleges too for that real Cambridge university experience.

It’s a beautiful city to explore, and a great place to round off an exciting and varied 10 days in England.

Fancy going further afield? Head to Scotland and visit Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile or venture out into the stunning Scottish Highlands.

Alternatively, you could cross the border into Wales and visit Snowdonia or the Gower Coast. There’s so much to see in Britain – who knows where you’ll end up!

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One Week in England

One Week in England: The Perfect Itinerary

While it would be a daunting task to see everything England has to offer in the span of only a week, it's possible to hit many of the countries highlights during a week-long itinerary. This seven-day visit to England includes the best of London, Manchester, and Liverpool, as well as stops in the historic town of York and the seaside destination of Brighton.

Using London and Manchester as the main bases for the trip, with one overnight in York and taking advantage of England's amazing train network, it's possible to get an in-depth look at numerous iconic destinations in just a single week. Opt to go by rail rather than renting a car to save time on travel and embrace the walkability of English cities to get the most out of your visit. Whether you're traveling as a couple, solo, or as a family, this itinerary can help guide your planning.

Day 1: London

TripSavvy / Gautier Houba

Welcome to Blighty, as they say in England. After arriving, likely at Heathrow Airport , head to central London. There are plenty of public transportation options from London's airports, including commuter trains, the Tube, and taxi services. Your best bet for a hotel location is somewhere in the heart of the city, like Covent Garden or Marylebone. At the hotel, drop off your bags and get ready for some sightseeing.

The best way to see many of London's famous sites is on foot. Start in Parliament Square, where you'll find Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey. There are great views from the center of Westminster Bridge, which connects the area to Southbank (home of the London Eye). From Parliament Square, walk east along St. James Park to find Buckingham Palace. The palace is open to the public during specific times of the year, so check online ahead of your trip.

Head to nearby Soho for some lunch (the area has dozens of restaurants to pick from) before making your way to the British Museum . The museum is free to enter, except for special exhibitions, and it's great for visitors of all ages and interests. Don't miss the Rosetta Stone and the Egyptian mummies. Other museums in the area include the National Portrait Gallery and the London Transport Museum.

Use your first evening in London to have dinner at one of the city's beloved pubs or take in a West End musical. At the end of the night, check out one of the many high-end cocktail bars , from the American Bar at the Savoy Hotel to Kwãnt.

Day 2: London and Windsor

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Windsor makes for a great half-day trip out of London , so grab a train from Paddington station to Windsor, via Slough, in the morning. Windsor Castle welcomes visitors for tours most days of the year, but you need to book a timed ticket in advance, either online or by phone. Allow two hours to stroll through the castle and around its grounds, including St. George's Chapel. The surrounding area, known as Windsor Great Park, also makes for a nice place to walk if you're not as much of a royal enthusiast. Down the road from Windsor, you'll find Eaton, home of the Eaton Mess.

Head back to London and venture west from Paddington station to find the charming neighborhood of Notting Hill. Known for its colorful row houses and great shopping, the area is a good place to stop for lunch or an early afternoon ice cream at Gelateria 3BIS on Portobello Road. From Notting Hill , it's a quick walk or bus ride south to Kensington Palace, which allows visitors into some of its rooms, as well as its special exhibitions, with a paid ticket. If you'd rather not see two palaces in one day, explore Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park, which often hosts events and concerts during the summer. The Kensington Palace Pavilion , located in the gardens, also offers a high-end afternoon tea (which you should book in advance).

For dinner, venture east to Shoreditch, a thriving neighborhood filled with bars, restaurants, and shops. Some local favorites include Dishoom, Gloria, BRAT, and Home Slice. After dinner, grab a drink at the scenic bar at Duck & Waffle , which is located on the 40th floor of 110 Bishopsgate.

Day 3: Day Trip to Brighton

Get a taste of the English seaside with a day trip to Brighton, located less than an hour south of London by train. Trains regularly leave from London's Victoria and London Bridge stations and tickets are typically inexpensive. The train brings you right into the center of town, with the beach less than a mile walk south. There is plenty of space to lie out on the sand or play in the water, but if it's not particularly sunny or warm, there are many other things to do in and around Brighton . Look for the Brighton Palace Pier, which boasts games and rides, or take a ride on the BA i360, which is billed as the world's tallest moving observation tower.

Those who like shopping will find a lot to uncover in the North Laines, where you can dig through racks of vintage clothes and accessories. For lunch, go traditional at Captains Fish and Chips , found right on the seaside, and don't skip the mushy peas.

Because London is so close, you can decide when you've seen enough of Brighton and head back into the city. If you haven't had a chance to attend a West End play yet, this could be your night. While some productions, like "Hamilton," require tickets booked far in advance, many theaters offer day-of rush tickets. TKTS, which has a booth in Leicester Square, is another good option for discounted or last-minute seats. London also boasts a huge array of live music and concerts, from small blues clubs to major pop concerts, if live music is more your thing.

Day 4: York

Hop on an early morning train from London's King Cross station to York, about two hours north by rail. Tickets can be booked in advance or at the station via LNER , and it's significantly faster and easier to travel by train than by car when venturing out of London. York's train station is within walking distance of the town center, and there are several nice hotels around the city ( Principal York , across from the station, is an excellent choice). Once you've dropped off your bags, take a stroll around York's Roman walls, which circle the city, and seek out its secret passageways and narrow alleys. The Shambles, a street surrounded by overhanging timber-framed buildings, is like something out of "Harry Potter."

After grabbing lunch at one of York's many restaurants, venture to the top of the York Minister , an 800-year-old cathedral that took 250 years to build. It's hard to miss, and visitors can tour the historical site, as well as climb 275 steps to the top of the 230 -foot-high tower. It's a great way to get a view of the entire surrounding area (and to burn off the calories from lunch). Other fun things to do include a boat tour down the Ouse river or a history lesson at The Jorvik Viking Centre, and train enthusiasts will love the National Railway Museum.

In the evening, book a table at The Judge's Lodging , a gastropub with indoor and outdoor tables, or try contemporary British eatery Skosh . After dinner, you can either opt for a few pints at one of the many historic pubs around town or venture underground to Sotano , a hidden cocktail bar that also serves up tapas. Luckily, your hotel is probably within walking distance, making it easy to crash after a night out.

Day 5: Manchester

Manchester is only an hour and 20 minutes by train from York, with numerous trains running between the two cities daily. Once you arrive at Manchester Piccadilly station, get your bearings and drop your bags off at the hotel. Look for places to stay in the Northern Quarter, a hip area with plenty of dining and shopping options. It's especially easy to access via public transportation, and the area is within walking distance of some of the main attractions. Speaking of which, start your day in Manchester off with a museum or two . Some of the most popular include the National Football Museum and the Imperial War Museum North.

After grabbing lunch at  Mackie Mayor , a food hall filled with vendors and communal tables in Manchester's Northern Quarter, explore the nearby shops, ranging from high-end department stores to small vintage boutiques. The designer goods can be found on King Street, Spinningfields, and New Cathedral Street, while the Northern Quarter is best for vintage clothes and record shops. 

For dinner, venture into Stockport Old Town to find  Where The Light Gets In , an intimate restaurant located in an old coffee warehouse (be sure to reserve a table ahead of time). The area has lots of cool bars, restaurants, and pubs, and it's worth exploring some places outside the center of town. It's an easy car ride back to your hotel at the end of the night.

Day 6: Day Trip to Liverpool

Liverpool may be best known as the birthplace of the Beatles, but the port city has lots to see and do even if you aren't a big music fan. It's less than an hour from Manchester by train, so you can decide how much time you want to have to explore Liverpool and how late you want to stick around in the evening. Start the day by embarking on a Beatles tour or exploring the Beatles Museum. Afterward, don't miss the  Tate Liverpool , little sister to London’s Tate Modern, and the  International Slavery Museum , where you'll learn more about Liverpool's past as one of the world's major slave ports.

In the evening, seek out more Beatles action at the  Cavern Club , where the band first got their start. Resident tribute band The Cavern Club Beatles—who have been given the seal of approval from locals—are on hand to entertain most Saturdays and Sundays, making it a great pick for a post-dinner hang. Once you've had your fill of Liverpool, board a train back to Manchester and tuck in for the night.

Day 7: Return to London

Trains from Manchester Piccadilly run back to London several times per hour, arriving in Euston station. It's an easy two-hour journey, so you don't have to rush out of your hotel in Manchester in the morning. In fact, if you have time, grab breakfast at Ezra and Gil , a coffee shop with an all-day brunch menu, before heading back to London. Back in London, drop your bags off at your hotel or opt to store them for the afternoon at Euston's Excess Baggage Co, which is open until 11 p.m.

Spend the afternoon exploring South Bank, including the Tate Modern, Borough Market, the London Eye, and the National Theatre, which often has exhibitions available even if you don't see a play. At the Tate, be sure to head to the 360-degree viewing platform, which offers incredible views of the Thames, St. Pauls Cathedral, and even Wembley Stadium. It's a great place to cap off your week in England.

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The ultimate England Travel Guide: the best things to do, see, and eat

You’ll never run out of things to do in England. You’ll stroll down posh shopping avenues and roam the halls of medieval castles. You’ll marvel at awe-inspiring museums, and when the day’s adventures wind down, nestle into cozy pubs for warm comfort food and friendly conversation. Whether your ancestors were British, you harbor a love for history and the royals, you want to see your favorite television show’s filming locations, or you simply want to visit a country that’s easy to navigate—and where you speak the language—there are countless reasons to join us on one of our England tours . Below, you’ll find our ultimate travel guide to England, with lists of the best things to do, places to see, and foods to savor.

The best time to go Where to visit What to see What to eat and drink What to do What to pack Souvenirs to buy

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The Ultimate Itinerary for 7 Days In England

Europe , Travel , UK | June 19, 2023

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission if you buy anything mentioned here. It doesn't cost you anything extra.

Historic villages, rolling green meadows and charismatic cities ; the best attractions in England are diverse. If you’re planning a trip to see more of the country, you might be wondering exactly how to put together a full itinerary for a week in England. 

In this article, guest blogger Claire will show you the highlights – the best places to visit if you have seven days in England!

Let’s hand over to Claire…

I’m an England local, and I’ve spent my life travelling up and down the country. So I know all of the best places to visit in England, and exactly what to do while you’re here!

One of my top tips is – don’t spend too long in London. It’s a great city, but there’s so much more to see in England!

If you only have one week in the country, you can see a lot of London in a jam-packed day, and then move on to some other British destinations. 

Here’s all you need to know about visiting England! 

7 days in England itinerary

What’s in this England travel guide?

When to visit England

Day one: london, day two: bath and bristol, day three: dartmoor and cornwall.

• Day Four: Cornwall
• Day Five: Cotswolds

Day Six: Manchester and Liverpool

Day seven: lake district, what to pack for your england trip, tips for visiting england.

The beauty of this England itinerary is that it works whatever the season!

England is at its best during the summer, but the weather is never really reliable here; even in the warmest months of July and August, you’ll still find rainy days and mild weather. 

That being said, in the summer we have long days and generally warmer weather – it can be as low as 15°C or as high as 35°C (it even got up to 40°C in London last summer!).

So usually it’s not too hot to explore, although we do have the odd day when you’ll just want to laze in the sun and do nothing.

Tip: if it’s forecasted to be this hot while you’re here, schedule some time to bask on the best beaches in Cornwall – although expect there to be crowds!

Another perk of visiting in the summer months is that you have much longer days, with the sun not setting until 9pm in June. 

In Spring, you’ll find lots of beautiful flowers and witness the days getting gradually longer, and in Autumn, there are incredible colours as the leaves turn orange, yellow and red. 

There are quite a few places to visit in England in winter; while the weather is colder and the days are shorter, England’s attractions are adapted to cooler, wetter weather anyway! 

Christmas is a particularly jolly time of year to visit the country and in January and February, rates for hotels are cheaper. 

How to get around England

This England itinerary is technically completely manageable by public transport, but I would recommend hiring a car via TravelSupermarket if possible. 

Having your own vehicle will make it easy to hop from location to location, and you can do stop-offs at smaller destinations that catch your eye (Cornwall is renowned for having so many amazing attractions that are just a little too far outside of public transport routes!). 

Plus, taking the trains around England can actually add up to be very expensive.

Generally, driving in England is safe (although remember we drive on the left here!); just be mindful about driving around 5:00pm each day, as rush hour traffic can be substantial. 

If you’re on a super tight budget, it’s worth looking into travelling via MegaBus . The journey times are typically long, but it’s probably the cheapest way to get around England if you don’t drive.

Being the capital of England, London is typically the place you’ll land if you fly into England to kick off your tour of the country.

I only recommend spending one day in London on this itinerary; it’s a fantastic city, and you could spend weeks exploring every corner – but if you only have one week in England, you need to remember that there’s so much more to see!

On your day in London, I’d recommend ticking off the following attractions: 

1. Westminster Abbey

2. Guard Change at Buckingham Palace

3. Lunch in Camden, Spitalfields or Leadenhall Market

4. Tower Bridge

5. The Tower of London

6. St Paul’s Cathedral

7. Dinner at Mildred’s (vegetarian food), Caphe House (an incredible Vietnamese restaurant) or The Sun Camberwell (a traditional British pub)

Alternatively, book a one-day DIY tour of London using the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus .

For the next day, head to Bath and Bristol ! Two vibrant cities in the South West, Bath and Bristol have culture, street art and delicious food on offer. 

Start your day in the city of Bath, where you can take in the Roman Baths ( this 90-minute walking tour will allow you to see the highlights and includes your entry ticket to the Baths), Bath Abbey and Georgian architecture like the Crescent and Circus. 

Then, either drive or hop on a quick (ten-minute) train to Bristol, where you can climb on board the SS Great Britain , cross the Clifton Suspension Bridge to take in views of Avon Gorge and check out the street art of places like Stokes Croft and Southville. 

For dinner in Bristol, head to Chilli Daddies for authentic Szechuan hotpot, Cargo Cantina for delicious Mexican cuisine or FISH restaurant for – you guessed it – seafood! 

Once you’ve enjoyed some of the South West’s best cities, it’s time to engage in its nature! Devon and Cornwall are known for having some of the wildest, most dramatic landscapes in England. 

Your first stop should be Dartmoor. This is England’s largest national park, and it’s famous for its jagged tors with epic views from the top, ancient sites like Grimspound, temperate rainforest and beautiful waterfalls, such as Becky Falls. 

It’s the perfect place for a hike and to break up a long drive down to Cornwall. My favourite places on Dartmoor are Wistman’s Wood and Lydford Gorge. 

Then, head down to Cornwall! This is the southwestern part of England; a peninsula that sticks out into the Atlantic Ocean.

Cornwall has a distinct culture and heritage, and even its own language, thanks to the fact that it was very isolated for centuries. 

There are so many incredible things to do in Cornwall , but I’d recommend sticking to the eastern part of the region for this trip (it can take a while to drive all the way down to the west!). 

Depending on your tastes, you might want to walk through a rainforest at the Eden Project , learn about ancient history at Tintagel Castle (allegedly where King Arthur was born!), go surfing in Bude or admire the quaint fishing village of Polperro.

I wouldn’t recommend driving any further than Newquay; in fact, the Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa is the perfect place to stay in! Alternatively, check out this list of the best areas to stay in Cornwall .

Day Four: Cornwall 

Spend the next day on your itinerary focused on exploring Cornwall!

If you’ve stayed in Newquay, you could spend some time exploring the town’s best beaches.

Enjoy the gorgeous Towan Beach, famous for its rocky outcrop that sits next to the cliffs, or take a walk on the South West Coast Path to see the bright blue waters of Watergate Bay, a hotspot for surfing.

Alternatively, if you want a surfing beach closer to town, Fistral Beach has extensive sands and huge waves! 

It’s a four-hour drive from Newquay to the Cotswolds, so you could visit some more spots in East Cornwall on the drive.

If you haven’t already seen them, head to Bodmin Jail, check out the moor for its hiking or head to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, fascinating gardens that were quite literally “lost” after World War One and then rediscovered in 1990. 

Drive up to Bibury, where I recommend staying at The Swan Hotel .  

Day Five: Cotswolds 

Begin your day in the Cotswolds in Bibury. Explore the 14th-century Arlington Row, the impressive Arlington Mill and take in picturesque vistas of the River Coln. 

Then, visit Bourton-on-the-Water, a picturesque village known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds” because of its series of small bridges over the River Windrush. 

Next on your Cotswold road trip is Stow-on-the-Wold, a charming market town with a historic square and St. Edward’s Church, which is renowned for its fairytale-like look. 

Then, head to Upper and Lower Slaughter, where you can see more adorable houses and visit the Old Mill Museum.

The Slaughters Inn is the perfect place for dinner, with hearty meals made from local ingredients. 

You’ve spent a while in nature on this England itinerary, so now it’s time to see some of England’s best cities!

It’s well worth spending a day seeing the urban highlights of Manchester and Liverpool, two of the most exciting cities in the north of England .

Start your day in Manchester by visiting the trendy urban quarter. This part of the city is lined with independent shops, street art murals and boutique cafes. 

Depending on your interests, you could visit one of the Manchester stadiums (either Old Trafford or Etihad Stadium , where Manchester City play!), head to the North Imperial War Museum or see the People’s History Museum.

For lunch in Manchester, there’s nowhere better than the Curry Mile, particularly Mughli which dates back to 1940. 

Then, head to Liverpool – famous for being home of the Beatles! The Beatles Story and Beatles Museum both tell the tale of the iconic pop band.

Finish your day with a cruise on the River Mersey , where you can take in the skyline of Liverpool. 

There are plenty of excellent places to eat in Liverpool – to catch a view of the city, Panoramic 34 is a rooftop restaurant serving delicious dishes and plenty of drinks! 

One day isn’t enough to explore all of the best places to go in Lake District , but as long as you head here early, you can certainly pack in as much as possible!

Read next: Tips for visiting the Lake District

Once you arrive in the national park, visit Lake Windermere , which is the largest natural lake in England. You can do the four-mile West Shore Walk to take in its most beautiful scenery.

It’s also worth hiking up Orrest Head, which is 240 metres high and takes around an hour and 20 minutes to walk up and down. 

Afterwards, drive to Ambleside, a picturesque town located at the northern tip of Lake Windermere. Stroll through the streets lined with quaint shops and cafes, and enjoy a cup of tea with a view of the hills.

Next, head to Rydal Water, a serene lake that’s home to Rydal Cave, a manmade cavern that’s perfect for exploring. 

In the afternoon, visit Wordsworth Grasmere, the former home of the famous English poet William Wordsworth, now home to a museum, gardens and a tea room.

The Albert gastropub is worth visiting for dinner, and depending on when you need to leave the country, you could stay in the Lake District for a night. I recommend Linthwaite House Hotel in Bowness-on-Windemere. 

Along with the items that you’ll pack for any temperate-weather trip, here’s a list of specific things to remember for your trip: 

Adapter : England uses a different type of plug to the U.S, the E.U, Australia and most other countries – so pack a multi-country adapter!

Comfortable walking shoes: Hikes feature throughout this itinerary, so be sure to pack comfortable (and waterproof!) walking shoes.

Rain gear: You might have heard that England has a tendency to be a little rainy – so pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella!

Layers: It’s best to wear layers that you can add or remove, as our weather can be very unpredictable! 

Read next: What to pack for a UK road trip

As a local, here are my top tips for visiting England! 

Keep an eye on the weather

The weather can be vastly different; it can drop ten (or more) degrees in just 24 hours! So it’s best to keep an eye on the weather forecast before your trip there.

Depending on the season, you might want to pack shorts, t-shirts and rain jackets and longer trousers!

Also, make sure you’re never too far away from an umbrella – rain can come at any time! 

Check the opening times

Some attractions, especially in rural areas, have limited opening times, particularly in the winter months. So be sure to know exactly when the places that you want to visit open and close! 

Avoid driving during rush hour

As England is quite a densely populated country, traffic can be a problem! I’d recommend avoiding driving during rush hour; personally, I make my longer trips quite late at night to avoid getting caught in motorway traffic. 

Shop at the supermarkets (and eat meal deals)

If you want to save some money while you’re in England, go supermarket shopping! You can purchase items to make a sandwich here, or if you are staying somewhere with cooking facilities it’s easy to whip up a hot meal. Or, for lunch, you can purchase a meal deal, which includes sandwiches, a snack and a drink for around £3.50. Us Brits live on them! 

Are you ready to spend a week in England?

With gorgeous countryside, historical cities that pulsate with culture and one historic village after another, there’s so much to enjoy on this England itinerary. I hope that it’s encouraged you to get out of London and see some more of this beautiful, charismatic land on your next trip here!

Pin this for your England adventure

The Ultimate 10-Day England Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on January 3, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning the perfect England itinerary can get a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re looking at exploring the country outside of the capital. There is so much to see and do in England that you can be forgiven if you feel slightly dazed when trying to figure out how to pack everything into a short period of time. However, if you’re planning to spend 10 days in England, there are tons of options available for you that can take you all over the country.

Far too many visitors to England set their sites only on London and fail to realise all that lies elsewhere in the country, from beautiful beaches to historic towns to stunning natural vistas — England has it all.

So if you’re interested in mapping out the perfect 10-day itinerary you’ve come to the right place. We’ve lived in and travelled around England extensively and have a lot of knowledge about where to go and how long to spend in each amazing destination in this beautiful country.

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around England

The road and rail systems in England are well-developed, but it can still take some planning to figure out how you want to get around.

First and foremost, you need to figure out which airport or city you will be flying into. If you’re planning on including London on your trip to England (or even if you’re not), then it’s probably easiest to fly into the capital, however, it is worth noting that there are a total of six international airports that serve the greater London area – these include Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted, London City and Southend.

If you are coming from any further than continental Europe, then it is likely you will only fly into Heathrow or Gatwick, located to the southeast and south of Central London respectively. Getting to central London from any of the area’s main airports is straightforward and easy, as there are many different options available.

Once you’ve figured out your plan to get to England, you need to find out how you plan to get around. As I mentioned earlier, the public transit system in the vast majority of England is incredibly well-developed and easy to navigate.

As a general rule, if you’re planning on spending a good amount of time in cities, you can plan to rely solely on the public transport system and your own two feet to get around. This holds especially true for London, but can apply to most major metropolitan areas in England.

When you venture outside of the capital or other cities to enjoy the countryside and rolling hills of England, is when you may want to consider renting a car. While you don’t really need a car in the cities, having your own vehicle when exploring national parks or smaller villages is generally preferable as it can give you an infinite more amount of flexibility and control over your itinerary.

Driving in England is safe and easy, as the roads are in fantastic condition and people are generally very courteous drivers.

Keep in mind for those coming from abroad that they do drive on the left-hand side of the road in England and while this may seem daunting for those who are not used to it, it takes surprisingly little time to get the hang of it — especially if there is other traffic on the road!

If you’re planning on hiring a car while in England, we recommend booking through Rentalcars.com. This platform aggregates prices across many major car hire companies, ensuring that you get a great deal for your rental car.

It’s also worth considering taking out an excess insurance policy through a third party like iCarHireInsurance which will typically be cheaper compared to taking out the equivalent insurance through the car rental company.

If you don’t want to rent a car for your England road trip itinerary or just plan to get one for a couple of days but not for the entirety of your trip, then you’ll likely be wondering what the best way to get between cities is in England.

The rail network is going to be the most comfortable and efficient way to travel between English destinations and the system is extensive and incredibly easy to use. However, trains can be quite expensive in England if not booked far enough in advance. To avoid overpaying on a train ticket, we suggest using Omio to book your journeys well in advance.

If you want to save some money during your trip to England, then the bus is your best bet. Coaches in England are frequent and extensive and can cost a fraction of the same route on the train, however, they are not as comfortable and can be a fair bit slower depending on the route. Again, you can book coach routes online here.

London and Southwest Itinerary

This first itinerary for England has you exploring London and some of the most vibrant regions and cities to the west and along the coast. Though this itinerary can be done by public transport, it would be best done if you rented a car on the fourth day when leaving London.

Days 1-3: London

The best place to begin any trip to England is in its historic and vibrant capital city, London. As one of the largest cities in Europe, London is packed in the brim with cool and interesting things to see and do and there is no way that you will be able to pack it all into a mere three days , so it’s best not even to try.

Instead, concentrate your first day on the sites of central London, including Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery, Green Park, the Palaces of Westminster, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. Take a walking tour if you want to get your bearings and get some historical context for all the sites you’re seeing.

On your second day, visit the Tower of London, gaze in awe at the Tower Bridge, walk across the ultra-modern Millennium Bridge to the Tate Modern and visit St Paul’s Cathedral and Borough Market.

And on your third day in London, visit the incredible British Museum (the Egyptian exhibit is particularly fascinating if you ask me!), before browsing the shops on Oxford Street and in Covent Garden before wandering through the eclectic and trendy SoHo neighbourhood.

For visitors who plan to visit a lot of paid attractions, buying a London Go City Pass will save you money on entrance fees.

If you’re not interested in seeing more of the city, you could opt for a day trip to countless places including Windsor Castle, Oxford, Cambridge , Bath, the Seven Sisters or even to York. You can visit these places independently via coach or train or take a day tour if you’d prefer a guide.

Though three days in London won’t really allow you to venture past the city centre and to see anything much past the main tourist sites, it can still give you an excellent feel for the city (plus plenty of this to visit when you inevitably return!)

Where to Stay in London

Hotel Edward – A great mid-range option in Paddington, west London, this is a great place to stay if you want to be situated close to central London. They have countless great rooms available.

Sanderson Hotel – A hip luxury option in SoHo, this hotel is located only a quick dash away from Oxford Street. They have countless plush rooms on offer and a number of other amenities including a restaurant/bar, gym, spa and many others.

Astor Hyde Park Hostel – This hip hostel is perfect for budget and solo travellers in London. Located centrally close to Hyde Park, it is well situated to explore a lot of London’s top attractions, has fantastic common areas, and offers both dorm and private rooms.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more London hotels!

Days 4-5: Bristol

From London, it’s time to head west to the trendy city of Bristol. This city is often overlooked by tourists and it really is a shame — it really has so much to offer. Though you can easily visit Bristol as a day trip from London, it is worth spending a night here, especially because you can spend your first day exploring all of the amazing sites on the way to the city.

On your way to Bristol, make sure to make a number of stop-offs and detours in order to really pack a lot of the highlights of West England into a short period of time.

A short detour from the motorway to Bristol will lead you to the iconic neolithic site of Stonehenge and a bit further afield, you can visit Salisbury with its famous cathedral.

And just a bit before you hit Bristol proper, make sure to spend a good amount of time exploring the beautiful city of Bath . This historic spa town has been an important settlement since Roman times and there are lots of cool things to see and do here.

Once in Bristol, there are lots of things to see and do in order to really get to know the city, but you can pack in into one day easily, you can take a guided tour or go about independently.

Learn about Bristol’s history at the fantastic M Shed museum or learn more about its maritime history at Brunel’s SS Great Britain museum.

If you’re interested in street art, you will be delighted to hear that the famous artist Banksy got his start in Bristol and it has a thriving arts scene. Bristol also has a wonderful food and craft beer scene and it can be enjoyed while exploring the revitalised area of Wapping Wharf.

Where to Stay in Bristol

Victoria Square Hotel Clifton Village – A plush boutique hotel located in Bristol’s lush Clifton suburb, this is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a mid-range option in the city. They have a range of rooms available and a hearty breakfast included in the nightly price.

The Bristol Hotel – The ideal luxury hotel in Bristol, this place is located within easy walking distance of the city’s top attractions and they have a number of clean comfortable and chic rooms on offer.

The Full Moon Backpackers – An ideal option for those solo and budget travellers amongst us, this hostel is a great choice in Bristol. They have a number of dorms and private rooms available, fantastic common areas and a fantastic laid-back vibe, perfect for exploring Bristol!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bristol hotels!

Days 6-8: Cornwall

On your sixth day of this itinerary, it’s time to drive even further southwest to one of the most beautiful and sunny places in England – Cornwall!

The southwestermost region of the country, Cornwall has long been a favourite holiday destination for locals but foreign tourists rarely venture this way, and it’s incredibly hard to see why — there is so much see and do!

Cornwall is most famous for its beaches, but there is a lot more to it as well. If you’re a nature lover, there are countless walks to go on. If you want to try your hand at surfing, make sure to hit the waves in Newquay, the capital of the sport in England! History buffs will delight in the castles and ruins that dot the region as well.

One of the most famous castles is St Michael’s Mount, just outside of Penzance, which is situated on its own island accessible by a causeway that appears as low tide. If you’re a fan of Arthurian legend, then make sure to visit the dramatic ruins of Tintagel, rumoured to be the birthplace of this legendary British ruler.

Spending two or three days in Cornwall is enough to really see a lot of the region and get a good feel four it, but there is always more to see if you spend more time!

Where to Stay in Cornwall

Palma Guest House – Situated in the heart of St Ives, this is an excellent place to base yourself in Cornwall. They have a number of comfortable rooms available and are located within easy walking distance of all this artsy town has to offer!

Selkies NQY   – Located in Newquay just a few hundred metres from the beach, this is a fantastic luxury option for those visiting Cornwall. Great for a romantic couples getaway, they have a number of luxe rooms available.

Lifeboat Inn – Situated on the bay in the lovely artist’s town of St Ives, this is a great place to stay for couples or families alike. They have a number of spacious rooms available and an option to include breakfast in the room rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other places to stay in Cornwall!

Days 9-10: Brighton

And finally on this 10-day southwestern England route, round out your time in the lovely coastal city of Brighton ! Located due south of London, Brighton is about a five-hour drive from Cornwall, but we recommend taking an entire day on the journey as there are so many incredible stops along the way .

Take the time to enjoy such places like Dartmoor National Park in Devon, the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, the beautiful seaside city of Bournemouth, the historic port city of Portsmouth or even the lovely New Forest in Hampshire before arriving in Brighton.

Once in Brighton, take the time to explore the city centre and the lovely, albeit rocky, beach. Of course, no trip to Brighton would be complete without enjoying yourselves at the iconic Brighton Pier.

If you want to get a bit more active and are not interested in exploring the city much, then the iconic walk along the Seven Sisters cliffs is easily accessible from Brighton. This is one of the most beautiful day hikes in the UK and will take you along the stunning rim of the famous white cliffs of this region of England.

Conveniently, Brighton is located only about a thirty- to forty-minute train ride from Gatwick Airport and other London area airports are easy to access from the city as well, so it makes for a perfect place to end your trip to England.

Where to Stay in Brighton

Artist Residence, Brighton – This quaint boutique hotel is perfect for those looking for something a bit more hip and trendy while staying in Brighton. They have a number of great rooms available, a great location and fantastic amenities including great common areas and a tapas restaurant on site.

Seadragon Backpackers – A great backpackers hostel perfect for budget travellers, they are well-located and have both dorm and private rooms available. They have great common areas and a central location perfect for exploring the best of what Brighton has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Brighton hotels!

London and North England Itinerary

If you’re interested in visiting London and then heading up north during your ten days in England, then this is the perfect itinerary for you. Exploring the historic cities and natural areas of the North, you’re sure to enjoy this route through England.

Again, this is another itinerary where it may prove helpful to have a car for some of it, especially for the bit through the Lake District National Park . If you want to save some money, consider renting a car for a few days from York before continuing on an England by train itinerary.

Spend your first three days of this route in the capital of London, following the same daily activities as mentioned in the Southwest England route above.

Days 4-5: York

From London, hop on a train or hire a car and drive north to the lovely walled city of York. If you do happen to drive (and it is recommended!), then make sure to spend the day stopping off at all of the incredible sites along the way and enjoying the gorgeous English countryside.

Some of these include the lovely university city of Cambridge , the historic city of Worcester, Warwick Castle, Robin Hood’s home of Nottingham or even the incredible Peak District National Park in Derbyshire in central England. You could, perhaps, even make a stop in Oxford or at the incredible Blenheim Palace. Or you could detour to Stratford-upon-Avon – the hometown of Shakespeare!

On the next day, plan to spend it exploring the city. You can see a lot of York in one day and some of the highlights include walking along the city walls, exploring the incredible York Minster, taking in the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey in the Museum Gardens, wandering along The Shambles and learning about the city’s history at the York Castle Museum.

If you’d rather get out into nature, then explore more of rural Yorkshire with a trip to the North York Moors National Park or the Yorkshire Dales National Park — these parks are perfect for nature lovers and Bronte fans alike!

Where to Stay in York

The Queens Hotel – A great boutique option, this place is centrally located, has a number of comfortable rooms on offer and a great and hearty full breakfast is available at an additional cost.

The Grand, York – This is the place to stay in York if you want to be in the lap of luxury during your time in the northern city. They have many plush rooms to choose from, countless luxurious amenities, and a great location for easy sightseeing.

Astor York – An excellent, highly-rated hostel in York, this place is perfect for budget backpackers and solo travellers. They have a range of both private rooms and dorm beds available and are located within ten minutes of York’s historic centre.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more York hotels!

Days 6-7: Lake District

If you didn’t get out and enjoy the natural splendours of Yorkshire, it’s time to do so now in one of England’s most famous national parks — the Lake District. Located in Cumbria, this beautiful area is filled with incredible lakes, mountains and charming villages.

You can spend your time here going on countless walks — there are walks for all skill and fitness levels. There are also countless charming and historic villages to explore, classic pubs to warm up in, and just some absolutely beautiful scenery to enjoy.

Even if you’re not much of an outdoor lover, there s something for everyone in the Lake District and it is well worth taking the time to head out here before heading down to your final destination on this 10-day route through England.

Where to Stay in the Lake District

The Cavendish Arms – A cosy, mid-range option in the Lake District is this historic pub, located in the lovely village of Cartmel. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available and a great breakfast available to enjoy each morning.

Embleton Spa Hotel – If you are after a luxury stay in the Lake District, then this is the perfect choice for you. Located in an 18th-century farmhouse in the beautiful countryside, they have a number of plush rooms available, private apartments, and countless amenities to make your stay a great one.

Kendal Hostel – A great option if you’re travelling on a tight budget or solo, this hostel is one of the best-rated in the Lake District. Situated in a historic Georgian townhouse in the town of Kendal, they have a range of dorm and private rooms available and good self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Lake District hotels!

Days 8-10: Liverpool

And finally on the North England route, end your trip in the historic, vibrant and wonderful city of Liverpool .

Perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of a little-known band called The Beatles, there are plenty of Fab Four-centric sites to see in this city, however, there is so much more in this historic city.

Liverpool has seen a bit of a resurgence in recent years, especially around the newly refurbished Royal Albert Dock which is packed full of trendy restaurants and shops.

You can also learn about Liverpool’s seafaring history as a port city at the Merseyside Maritime Museum. Also worth a visit is the harrowing International Slavery Museum.

Football fans will rejoice in the chance to tour Anfield Stadium , the home to Liverpool FC and Fab Four fans are sure to enjoy the Beatles Story or even a Beatles Tour.

You can even take the time to take a day trip to the nearby city of Manchester if you want to see more Northern English cities.

Where to Stay in Liverpool

The Dolby Hotel – A good option for mid-range travellers. this hotel has a great location overlooking the River Mersey. Located within easy walking distance of the top sites of the city, they have a number of rooms to choose from and breakfast included in the price.

Titanic Hotel Liverpool – If you want a luxurious stay in Liverpool, then look no further than this swanky hotel. Situated a stone’s throw from the top attractions in the city, they have countless amenities and wonderful, comfortable rooms available.

YHA Liverpool Albert Dock – A fantastic backpacker’s hostel, this is the perfect choice for solo and budget travellers. It is located in the centre of the city close to the top attractions and sites, they have both dorm beds and private rooms available and great common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Liverpool .

Northern England Itinerary

If you’ve been to London already and would rather spend your ten days in England somewhere outside of the capital, then this is a great route for you. Still beginning and ending in London, this route is great for those who are planning a trip to the other parts of England and don’t want to concentrate on the capital city.

Day 1: London

Begin your itinerary in London and take a day to explore an area of the city that you haven’t had the chance to yet — there is always something to see and do in London. Take in the street art in Shoreditch, stuff your face at Broadway Market if it’s a Saturday or get lost in the expansive Kew Gardens or Richmond Park .

There are far too many things to do in London that it’s worth spending at least a day in the city even if you’ve visited before.

Days 2-3: York

From London, it’s time to head to York. Follow the suggestions in the itinerary above for the ideas for how to spend your time in York.

Days 4-5: Lake District National Park

From York, head out into the great wide open and enjoy the lovely scenery and villages of the Lake District National Park for two full days.

Days 6-8: Liverpool

And from the Lake District, head to historic Liverpool and enjoy all of the fun things there are to see and do in this historic city.

Days 9-10: Cotswolds

On your final two days, it’s time to head back down south to explore an incredibly charming area of England within easy reach of London – the Cotswolds .

This region, located to the northwest of London, is famed for its quintessentially English towns with thatch-roofed homes and historic pubs. It is the perfect place to end your England itinerary.

Take the time to explore quaint villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Painswick, Burford, Chipping Campden and countless others. These are some of the most beautiful towns in all of England and are sure to transport you back in time.

If you want to get out into nature, then make sure to check out the Cotswolds AONB (area of outstanding natural beauty) which is full of walking trails and lovely, bucolic vistas.

If you’re looking for a quaint and quiet place to round out this epic route through England, you seriously cannot go wrong with spending some time in the Cotswolds before flying home from London.

Where to Stay in the Cotswolds

The Lamb Inn – This charming pub located in the village of Bourton-on-the-Water is the perfect place to rest your head in the Cotswolds. Oozing with charm, they have a range of comfortable and clean rooms available and a great pub downstairs to grab a pint a great bite to eat.

The Fleece – Located in the village of Witney not too far from Oxford, this is a great boutique hotel to stay at in the Cotswolds. T hey have a range of cosy and comfortable rooms available and a fantastic breakfast cooked each morning.

The Old Stocks Inn – Situated in the charming village of Stow-on-the-Wold, this lovely inn is the perfect place to stay if you’re on the hunt for a luxury stay in the Cotswolds. They have a number of beautiful rooms to choose from and lots of other amenities to make your stay fantastic.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cotswolds hotels!

There are so many options of places to visit and things to see during your 10 days in England but, hopefully, these three great routes are able to help you plan the trip of your dreams! From historic cities, gorgeous natural scenery, inviting pubs and a wonderful coastline, England has so much to offer visitors — so make sure to see more than just London!

Are you planning a trip to England? Have you visited before? Let us know in the comments!

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Epping Forest Walks: The Best London Day Hike

The Perfect Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk from London

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi I am planning to ciné to the uk Dec/Jan 20 days

My plan so far is London 4 days 29/12-2/1. Then Bath as a base to tour the south. Can you recommend how many days in the south based at Bath then where in the North or ? I was planning on hiring a car in Bath or London.

Also open to any addition suggestions like quick visit to Ireland or Scotland if you feel it is with timeframe.

Thank you A

Hello Maggie, enjoyed your article on visiting England. Our family is planning to visit England from July 9 through July 20. We are from Boston, MA. Wanted your recommendation as we would also like to visit Scotland. How should I plan my iteneray.

Thank you, Khuzema Safri (Khuz).

Thanks for your comment! If you want to visit Scotland, you may find this article helpful in planning your trip: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/london-scotland-ireland-itinerary/

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What are you looking for, see things differently, welcome to britain.

Discover inventive new experiences and captivating stories in 2024, brought together with a dose of British flair. From exploring film settings and pioneering cultural spaces to countryside trails and relaxing wellness retreats, it’s all happening on our shores and you’re invited!

Join immersive exhibitions as the National Gallery celebrates a landmark anniversary or get a taste for chocolate as Birmingham’s Cadbury World also marks its 200th birthday. Venture off the beaten track for new coastal adventures, exploring new trails and walking routes, or take in sporting action as the world’s best compete in everything from athletics to the Premier League.

Whether it’s getting a feel for our vibrant cultural cities, embarking on a coastal adventure, or discovering locations made famous by film and TV, it’s time to experience Britain differently.

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34 Best Things to Do in London, England

Whether you're keen to brush up on your history knowledge at the Tower of London , tour the home of the monarchy at Buckingham Palace or check out one of the city's many art galleries, London isn't short on things to do. Thespians will

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, King Charles III's London home, is open for touring (except for the king's private quarters, of course) from July to October. On the tour, you'll have access to the 19 State Rooms where the king and members of the royal family host guests for state, ceremonial and official affairs. Opulently accented with chandeliers, candelabras, paintings by Van Dyck and Canaletto, and exquisite English and French furniture, these rooms display some of the most magnificent pieces from the Royal Collection. Along with the grand interiors, the State Rooms, where kings and queens have entertained guests on both official and ceremonial occasions, are also a witness to history. Those who followed the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton closely will recognize the Throne Room, which served as the backdrop for the pair's official wedding photographs.

For tours in the summer, recent travelers suggested taking advantage of the multimedia guide (included with admission and available in multiple languages), so that you hear a detailed history of each room at your own pace. The palace advises you set aside at least two hours to see the State Rooms (and that you wear comfortable shoes), while recent travelers advised that you use the facilities prior to the start of the tour; there are no public restrooms available until you reach the garden. Except in the Garden Café, no food or drinks (except bottled water) are permitted in the palace.

Tower of London Tower of London

Although its exterior might be grim and even unimpressive (especially when compared to stately  Buckingham Palace ), the Tower of London's interior is always bustling with activity. Despite its name, the large complex has a long history as a palace, a fortress and a prison. Each exhibition and activity here explores this history.

If you're enchanted with the monarchy, don't miss the famous crown jewels exhibition. Among the items you'll see is the Imperial State Crown – which is still worn by the queen for each State Opening of Parliament – and the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. In 2020, Prince of Wales' Investiture Coronet joined the display in the Jewel House. For an oral history, take an entertaining tour led by the Yeoman Warders (tower guards). During the hourlong excursion (included in your admission ticket), the guards will regale you with tales of the tower's bloody past. The White Tower is one of the world's most famous castles and a recognizable London landmark. Inside, you'll find the 350-year-old exhibition, "Line of Kings," which includes suits of armor worn by Henry VIII, Charles I, and James II. Keep an eye out for the Tower's famous ravens, who are said to guard the structure.

Houses of Parliament Houses of Parliament

Step through halls where history was made time and again by visiting the British Parliament. Guided and self-guided tours (which come highly recommended by recent travelers) take visitors through multiple areas of the building, including Westminster Hall (the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate, which is more than 900 years old), the House of Commons Chamber and the House of Lords. If you're not interested in perusing the corridors that make up the U.K.'s governing body, many travelers say that simply admiring the iconic structure's impressive exterior is enough, and an absolute must-do for anyone visiting London. 

If you're one of many looking to snap your own photo of one of the most photographed buildings in the world, the best vantage point is from Westminster Bridge. But if you want a truly smashing shot, head on over to Lambeth Bridge or the Golden Jubilee Bridges on the South Bank for a view of Parliament and the London Eye together. Keep in mind that Westminster Bridge connects two of the city's most popular attractions ( London Eye  and Parliament), and as a result is almost always very crowded.

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Westminster Abbey Westminster Abbey

This medieval church, graced by many royal weddings and coronations, offers a magnificent peek at London's far-reaching history. Westminster Abbey is generally busy – and the staff keeps you moving at a pretty swift pace – so do a little research ahead of time to avoid missing your personal must-sees. For instance, if you're a bibliophile, consider a visit to the Poets' Corner. This is the final resting place of famed authors Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens and Rudyard Kipling, among others. If you're fascinated by all the intrigue surrounding the British royalty, you might like to visit the shared tomb of enemies and half sisters Elizabeth I and Mary Tudor.

If you prefer to see the abbey at your own pace, but still want a little guidance on the history you're encountering, take advantage of the multimedia guides, which are included in the price of admission and available in 14 languages. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour (led by the abbey's vergers) and see special places inaccessible to the public, including the tomb containing Saint Edward the Confessor. If you decide to take this tour, you'll pay 10 pounds (around $14) on top of the general admission price.

British Museum British Museum free

The British Museum is both an architectural beauty and a trove of some of the world's most noted antiquities. In fact, many travelers say it's the best museum in all of London. What's more, it's free to visit. From the Rosetta Stone to the Parthenon Sculptures to Mesopotamian objects, the British Museum is a history buff's dream containing artifacts in the millions. The immense collection can make an initial museum visit seem overwhelming: Pick the exhibits that most interest you, and plan return trips if you feel so inclined.

If you want a little help navigating the museum's exhibits – the approximately 80,000 objects on display out of its collection totaling 8 million items – consider tagging along on a guided tour. Several, including the daily eye-opener tours and the LBGTQ-themed "Desire, Love, Identity" tour and Friday evening spotlight tours are free. You can also book an "Around the World in 60 Minutes" tour for 14 pounds (around $20). Audio guides, which cost 7 pounds (about $10), are also available to rent daily.

Covent Garden Covent Garden free

Though called a garden, Covent Garden isn't all about plants and flowers. Rather, it's a piazza and a collection of urban streets boasting numerous upscale stores as well as bars, restaurants, art installations and more. In other words, it's a bustling neighborhood within London's West End. Shops range from famous trademarks like Ralph Lauren and Mulberry to independent brands. In addition to conventional shops and boutiques, Covent Garden has a covered market area where vendors sell everything from antiques to crafts. Similarly, dining options range from foodie destinations like Sushi Samba and Balthazar to casual pubs. Given Covent Garden's open-air orientation, there are appropriately more than 1,000 seats for al fresco dining.

Covent Garden is also home to the Royal Opera House. Even if you're unable (or disinclined) to see an opera, you can tour the lavishly appointed Royal Opera House. Architecture-enthusiasts find the building, especially its glass atrium, stunning and the tours informative. General admission tickets are 19 pounds (about $24) for adults and 16.75 pounds (about $21) for anyone younger than 16. (Check the opera house’s website for dates and times.)

Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly Circus free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Wander over to nearby Chinatown to sample its slew of Asian restaurants and bubble tea shops, and continue on into Soho for some of the city's best LGBT-friendly bars. – Laura French

Regularly compared to  New York 's  Times Square , Piccadilly Circus is the meeting place of five busy roads and is the center of London's hustle and bustle. Whether it's people on their way to work in the morning, shoppers en route to the chain store-lined Oxford Street (just a few blocks north) or lively club and bar hoppers passing through at night, Piccadilly is always thrumming with activity. 

West End Theatre District West End Theatre District

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a fun night out, buy tickets for a showing of Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap," which is the longest-running play in history. – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Catching a show in London's West End theater district is just as necessary as watching a play on  Broadway  during a trip to  New York City . The quality is some of the best in the U.K., and the constant mix of new and classic productions with local and world-renowned talent (think: Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Angela Lansbury, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Benedict Cumberbatch) excites both visitors and locals alike. Even if you don't consider yourself much of a theater devotee, recent travelers said the atmosphere, specifically near the lively Leicester Square, where many of the theaters are concentrated, is worth a late-night wander.

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Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens Hyde Park & Kensington Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A short stroll from Hyde Park Corner will take you to The Grenadier – a tiny pub hidden down a cobbled alley. It opened in 1818 as an officers' mess and now serves beers and classic pub fare in atmospheric, wood-strewn surroundings. – Laura French

Just north of the Royal Albert Hall and northwest of Buckingham Palace  sit Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens: a stretch of green bisected by West Carriage Drive. Hyde Park was once the recreational stomping grounds for King Henry VIII, but now this 350-acre swath of land is open to the public and a must-visit for travelers looking for a relaxing moment away from the city's hustle and bustle. Among Hyde Park's meandering foot and bike paths and flourishing flora and fauna, you'll find a few standout attractions that are worth exploring. Watch the swans and boats glide over the serene Serpentine Lake (or rent a vessel yourself), visit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain or stop by the Speakers' Corner, a site for public speeches and debates since the 19th century (previously used by George Orwell and Vladimir Lenin, among others). For the sporting set, Hyde Park has tennis courts, football pitches (remember: football means soccer here) and a horse-riding arena.  

The London Eye The London Eye

The London Eye (the giant Ferris wheel found in many London panoramas) is on the River Thames and meant to deliver great views – not a thrilling ride. It circles around slowly, offering an unbeatable bird's-eye perspective of London's South Bank. However, those with a fear of heights should beware: When you're more than 400 feet high, the 360-degree views can be a bit disconcerting.

While some travelers say the London Eye is an absolute must-do, others found the experience to be overrated. Some recent travelers said the lines were too long (upward of a couple hours) and the ticket prices too high. However, many others were amazed by the views, especially  Parliament  and  Buckingham Palace . Visitors were keen to note that this ride is not a fast one, with the average rotation of the wheel at least 30 minutes long. You can also combine a ride on the London Eye with a guided boat tour.

Trafalgar Square Trafalgar Square free

For nearly 200 years, Trafalgar square has been a London institution. Flanked by the National Gallery , the square features two fountains, several busts and bronze lions at the base of Nelson's Column. The column, which honors Admiral Horatio Nelson for his success at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, stands 16 feet tall. At its base, bronze panels detail some of Nelson's battles and the two lions are there to protect the monument.

Recent travelers appreciated this famous London locale, noting that it's a great spot for photos and people-watching. However, know that aside from the National Gallery and surrounding shops and restaurants, there isn't much to do at the square itself.

St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral is arguably the second must-see church in London (the first, of course, being Westminster Abbey ). With its imposing dome – one of the largest in the world – St. Paul's forms a predominant spot along London's skyline. It's also a survivor: Although an older incarnation burnt during the Great Fire of London in 1666, the current dome (designed by Sir Christopher Wren and officially completed in 1711) survived numerous World War II bombings.

To make the most of your visit, reviewers highly recommended climbing to the top of the dome to the Golden Gallery. You'll have to hike up 528 steps, but after catching your breath you'll enjoy far-reaching views of the River Thames, the  Tate Modern , and Shakespeare's Globe . And once you've seen the top, head below ground to the crypt (the largest in Europe), where the tombs of notable figures such as Lord Nelson and the Duke of Wellington as well as Wren are housed. Though some reviewers are put off by the pricey admission, most agree that a peek inside is well worth the extra coin.

Natural History Museum Natural History Museum free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Before or after your visit, head next door to the Science Museum to browse interactive exhibits and live science shows, and catch a film at the IMAX, one of the UK's biggest screens (entry to the museum itself is free, though some exhibitions are extra). – Laura French

Located in South Kensington, this museum brims with data from 70,000 different species (from animals to tiny protozoa) and exhibits showcasing everything from dinosaur bones to simulated earthquakes. The Natural History Museum is also a favorite among families, so you'll find it crawling with kids.

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St. James's Park St. James's Park free

One of London's eight Royal Parks, St. James's Park is nearly 57 acres. It's surrounded by three palaces: its namesake St. James’s Palace, Westminster (now the Houses of Parliament ) and Buckingham Palace . The park's semi-circular flower beds – the Memorial Gardens – which sit beside Buckingham are one of its major attractions. The park is flanked one side by the Mall, a route for royal processions that bisects the gardens and on another by the Horse Guards Parade, a parade ground where the annual Trooping the Colour is held. Other notable buildings nearby include No. 10 Downing Street (the Prime Minister's residence) and the Churchill War Rooms . The park also features a portion of the 7-mile Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk and provides habitat for various animal species, including foxes and ducks as well as its famed pelicans. Additionally, runners race through St. James's park as the final leg of the annual London Marathon.

Visitors invariably find the park to be quite stunning and well-maintained. It’s deemed an excellent place for walking while admiring the many historical structures nearby.

National Gallery National Gallery free

Sitting in Trafalgar Square, London's National Gallery features a labyrinth interior so large that it requires a color-coded map to navigate. The museum features paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to early 20th centuries, including Italian Renaissance masterpieces and French Impressionist works. Among its 2,300 in-house pieces, visitors will find famed paintings, such as Botticelli's "Venus and Mars," Rembrandt’s “Self Portrait at the Age of 34” and Van Gogh's "Sunflowers." 

Recent visitors loved the variety of paintings at the National Gallery, saying that travelers may need more than a day to get a glimpse at all the masterpieces that grace its never-ending halls. They also commend the gallery's cafe.

Borough Market Borough Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Across from Borough Market sits the Old Operating Theatre Museum & Herb Garrett: a tiny museum housed in an 18th-century attic of that's the oldest surviving operating theatre (think: operating room) in Europe. It displays intriguing artifacts about the gruesome medical practices of the past. – Laura French

The food-focused Borough Market is effectively three markets in one (with restaurants, bars and shops interspersed throughout). Three Crown Square features large producers and merchants while Green Market has smaller, specialty ones. You'll find everything from cheese to wine to pastries to produce. Borough Market Kitchen provides a platform for street-food vendors. The roughly 1,000-year-old market regularly hosts cooking demonstrations and classes.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick an early tour time and explore slowly. There is so much to see that you may miss small details if you go too quickly. And don't worry about time. Once you're inside, you can stay as long as you like (well, until closing). – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Located at the studios where all eight of the "Harry Potter" films were produced, this is a must for anyone wanting to learn more about the Wizarding World. Visitors can view original film sets – from the Great Hall to Gringotts, Diagon Alley to the Gryffindor Common Room – with hundreds of original props and costumes to browse. Glimpse the model used for Hogwarts Castle, learn about Hagrid's animatronic head, visit Platform 9 ¾ and board the Hogwarts Express; this is a comprehensive, interactive tour for the whole family that's well worth adding to your London bucket list.

Windsor Castle Windsor Castle

Home to more than 40 British monarchs and in use since the 11th century, Windsor Castle is a spectacular daytrip from London. Visitors can wander the elaborate state rooms, observe the famous Changing the Guard and admire the many artworks and collectibles on display. Should time allow, take a stroll along the Long Walk: a nearly 3-mile-long tree-lined road that is part of the castle's park. Though you'll find a cafe and souvenir shop on-site, Windsor (the town) offers a bevy of dining and shopping options.

Though always crowded, a visit to Windsor should not be missed. Time and again, travelers say that it is a wonderful place to see while in London, and many were repeat visitors. Additionally, travelers with mobility issues said they had little trouble exploring the castle.

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Shakespeare's Globe Shakespeare's Globe

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're able, opt for a standing ticket at the performance. You'll get a more authentic experience, plus your proximity to the actors lets you admire their facial expressions and costumes. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

This is not the Globe Theatre of Shakespeare's time. The original Globe Theatre – which staged Shakespeare's plays and where the Bard wrote "Twelfth Night," "King Lear," and several others – opened in 1599 and burned down in 1613. The second Globe was erected in 1614 but was then torn down in 1644, after all theaters where shuttered by Parliament. The current incarnation – referred to as the Globe Theatre by its staff – has been in operation since 1997 and it is a celebrated performing arts venue dedicated to staging the Bard's plays. In a nod to its much older namesake, today's open-air theater has a thatched roof – the only one in the city – that does not cover the central yard. Seating is in the round. Or, for a truly memorable experience, you can choose to stand in the yard just below the stage to watch a performance (as many did in Shakespeare's time).  

Royal Albert Hall Royal Albert Hall

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in December to see Carols at the Royal Albert Hall; it's a spectacular, sing-along show guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. – Laura French

Royal Albert Hall is a concert hall where musicians of all genres perform. It also hosts special non-concert events, including sporting events and dance performances. The building's famed 20,000-square-foot iron roof was the largest unsupported dome in the world when it was installed in 1869 (two years before the hall officially opened). An 800-foot long, 5,200-square-foot mosaic frieze dubbed "The Triumph of Arts and Letters" encircles the structure's exterior. The hall can accommodate 5,900 people.

Victoria and Albert Museum Victoria and Albert Museum free

The palatial Victoria & Albert Museum, named in honor of the 19th-century royal couple, is known more commonly in its shortened form – the V&A. Located in South Kensington, this free museum is a compendium of applied art across a number of genres, disciplines and time periods. The collections are arranged by categories, such as sculptures, Chinese artifacts, and so on, making it slightly easier to navigate this mammoth museum. Among the permanent collections, the V&A also offers diverse temporary exhibitions and free weekly public lectures.

Recent travelers praised the variety and sheer enormity of the art offered here. Many described its permanent collection as surprise around every corner. If you've only set aside a few hours to tour the museum, consult the building's map before you go; a map will help you plan a route of the collections you'd like to see and maximize your visit.

Tower Bridge Tower Bridge free

Along with Parliament and Big Ben, Tower Bridge is London's next must-see architectural marvel, not to mention the most famous bridge that crosses the Thames. Construction on the bridge started in 1886, which means it's practically modern by London standards, but Tower Bridge stands out for its stunning detail and moveable roadways that lift up when large ships need to pass through. The views from the bridge are an added bonus. From the elevated sidewalks visitors get a prime view of the  Tower of London ,  St. Paul's Cathedral's iconic dome, the London Eye and The Monument.

If you're interested in viewing the city from a higher vantage point (about 137 feet above the Thames), consider a visit inside Tower Bridge, during which you go to the top of the bridge – equipped with a glass floor – as well as to the bottom to the engine rooms. However, recent visitors say that those who are afraid of heights might want to forgo walking across the glass floor.

Hampton Court Palace Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace, which Henry VIII acquired in the 1520s and subsequently expanded, features the Grand Hall (with Anne Boleyn's coat of arms carved in the ceiling and antique tapestries on the walls) and the largest kitchens in Tudor England (capable of producing 800 meals a day). Its grounds include 60 acres of formal gardens complete with the oldest surviving hedge maze in the country as well as the largest grape vine in the world.

Past visitors observe that there’s a lot to see and that the huge palace necessitates a lot of walking. They also recommend the audio tour, which is included in the ticket price. The gardens are frequently singled out as worthy of attention.

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Regent's Canal Regent's Canal free

Meandering just shy of 9 miles from Paddington in the west to the Limehouse Basin in the east, this charming river walk offers an idyllic escape from the bustle of the city. It passes several postcard-pretty spots, including Little Venice, where quaint cafes, pubs and restaurants sit on the waterfront; Regent's Park, one of London's most popular green spaces and the home of London Zoo; and Camden Lock, famous for its markets, street food stalls and antique shops. You'll also get to see the East End, including trendy Dalston, Victoria Park (home to a farmers market every Sunday) and Mile End.

There's history behind it, too; the canal opened in the early 19th century to transport coal, building materials and other goods from northern industrial cities to King's Cross – a long-standing center for trade – and operated for more than 140 years.

Camden Market Camden Market free

Londoners and out-of-towners alike enjoy spending a morning (or afternoon) at the Camden Market. Camden Market is actually multiple markets spread out in the neighborhood of Camden. It sprawls with more than 1,000 stalls, shops, bars and cafes carrying close to everything, from furniture to food and lots of fashion. Looking for cheap graphic T-shirts and dresses? Head over to the first set of Camden Market stalls located closest to the Tube station. If you're looking for more of a mix of items, walk over the bridge to the lock market, situated on the peaceful Camden Lock. You'll find stalls filled with antiques, clothing, souvenirs and a variety of food stalls. Food on offer ranges from traditional fish and chips to Middle Eastern fare, hot dogs and Portuguese tarts. This area gives way to the long and winding stables market, consisting of vendors selling vintage home decor, leather goods and clothing.

It's easy to get lost in this market, but with all it has to offer, including cool restaurants and bars tucked between nooks and crannies, visitors agree it's also very fun. The only grievance travelers had concerned the massive crowds that form during the weekend. If you don't want to be shopping amidst wall-to-wall people, consider visiting during the week. Even if you're not intent on shopping, many visitors recommend the market for its diverse food stalls. You can find the Camden Market off of the Camden Town, or Chalk Farm Tube stops, as well as the Camden Road Overground stop. Bus routes nos. 24, 214, 274 and 393 also stop in the area. The market is open daily from 10 a.m. until roughly 6 p.m. (though different businesses may open and close at different times). For more information about the vendors at the market, visit its official website .

Tate Modern Tate Modern free

Located on the South Bank along the Thames, the Tate Modern is part of a group of four museums (all named Tate) which house the 70,000 artworks that comprise the national collection of British art. As its name suggest, this Tate holds the more contemporary-style pieces than its three other counterparts, making it more of a hit or miss among travelers. Dalí and Picasso, as well as many British artists, are represented inside this repurposed power plant – but you'll find the works are scattered. Art is grouped by theme rather than by artist.

Recent visitors said if you're a fan of contemporary and modern art, you'll enjoy the Tate Modern. If you're partial to antiquities or the more traditional works of art, you'll probably be better served at the  British Museum  or the  National Gallery . Art aside, the eateries located within the museum may be enough of a reason for travelers to visit. Both the Espresso Bar and Kitchen and Bar at Tate Modern afford stunning views of  St. Paul's Cathedral , which is situated on the other side of the river. At the very least, take a stroll along the Thames to view the museum's impressive exterior.

Greenwich Greenwich free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Skip the tube and hop on an Uber Boat to arrive in Greenwich by water – they depart from various stops along the Thames, including Tower Bridge, London Bridge, Westminster and the London Eye, with single fares from £5.20. – Laura French

Sitting southeast of central London, Greenwich is a great daytrip within city limits and well worth the trek. Greenwich's claim to fame is undoubtedly the Royal Observatory, where the prime meridian bisects the institution and travelers can stand on both the eastern and western hemispheres. Other favorite museums and attractions include the Greenwich Market, the Cutty Sark, the National Maritime Museum and the Greenwich Market. 

Madame Tussauds London Madame Tussauds London

Famous for its waxworks, this was the first Madame Tussauds museum in the world, established in 1884 on Marylebone Road to display works by French sculptor Marie Tussaud. During the French Revolution, Tussaud was forced craft works of executed nobles – including King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette – to prove she was loyal to the crown. Following the end of the revolution, she left France and traveled to Britain, bringing the waxworks with her, in the early 1800s. Today, the museum upholds the waxwork tradition, with more than 150 realistic-looking figures displayed across 11 zones – from Leonardo DiCaprio to Lady Gaga, Brad Pitt to Harry Styles and Barack Obama to King Charles III.

Recent visitors were impressed and said they enjoyed exploring the different themed areas – from "Star Wars" to "Marvel" – as well as the new Chamber of Horrors room, which explores London's historic criminals. The taxi-themed ride and Marvel 4D show were also a hit, and many recommended it for families, especially those with teenagers. Several commented that lines can be long, even with pre-booked tickets, and it can get crowded inside.

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Up at The O2 Up at The O2

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go early in the morning for crisp air and fewer crowds. Afterwards, head southwest to Greenwich for some food and shopping at Greenwich Market. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Climb over the roof of The O2 – London's arena for major musical and sporting events – for unparalleled views of the city. The Olympic Park and Canary Wharf are among the sights observable from the 170-foot apex. Excursions generally take about 90 minutes, with an hour of walking that travelers typically find rewarding.

Portobello Road Market Portobello Road Market free

Locals and tourists alike tend to adore Portobello Road Market. Located in the posh Notting Hill neighborhood (made famous by the Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts movie of the same name), the market stretches down the long Portobello Road, which is considered to be the area's high street (or main street). The market is filled with hundreds of merchants of all kinds selling a variety of common flea market items including antiques, art, jewelry, clothing and food. But what stands out about Portobello Market (aside from its adorably colorful location) is its collection of antiques and quintessentially English items. In just a few blocks, visitors can find a wellie shop, scores of vintage tea sets, quality London souvenirs and Banksy recreations. The market is also billed as being the largest antiques market in the world. If you have a penchant for fashion, the best sampling is found at the end of the market near the Ladbroke Grove Tube stop. There, visitors will not only find the greatest concentration of locals but a great selection of vintage attire as well.

Recent visitors loved Portobello Market for its lively atmosphere, wide selection of items and cheap food stalls. Although many lauded the quality found at the food stalls, some urged visitors to check out nearby restaurants, as many serve exceptional British and international fare. Others also advised visitors to pay close attention to their belongings. Portobello Market is not only very crowded, but concentrated on a narrow street, creating an easy opportunity for pickpockets to strike. 

The London Dungeon The London Dungeon

Delve into London's macabre past at this interactive attraction, which explores the history of Jack the Ripper, Guy Fawkes, Sweeney Todd and other criminals through live actors, exhibits and rides. Smell, see and hear the city of yesteryear as you wander through the underground vaults of County Hall on the South Bank, exploring a darker side to this bustling city.

Travelers said the London Dungeon was a great way to get a glimpse into the history of the city and were impressed with the quality of acting and special effects. Many enjoyed the rides and other surprises, although some noted it can be frightening for younger children (a minimum age of 12 is recommended). Some also said it was expensive, but discounts are available when tickets are combined with entry to nearby attractions, including Madame Tussauds and the London Eye.

London Transport Museum London Transport Museum

Step inside the London Transport Museum to explore the history of getting around London. Exhibits detail the first London Underground, how the city expanded, Victorian-era transport and much more. Plus, there are multiple hands-on exhibits to keep young ones entertained.

Overall, travelers were pleased with their visits to the museum and found the history fascinating. Others note it's very family-friendly, so you should expect tons of kids during a visit (unless you visit in the late afternoon, when the museum says it's a bit quieter). 

The Wallace Collection The Wallace Collection free

The collection here includes works by renowned artists such as Titian, Velazquez and Van Dyck as well as various medieval and Renaissance objects. The collection was assembled in the 18th and 19th centuries by the Marquesses of Hertford and Sir Richard Wallace and then donated to Great Britain. The permanent collection centers on European paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries and includes notable French paintings and decorative arts from the 18th century. Special exhibits tend to focus on individual artists, such as Frans Hals and Peter Paul Rubens. Before going to see the fine and decorative arts on display in person, you can explore more than 400 items using a free digital guide available from the museum's website .

Art lovers generally find much to enjoy here, and many suggest it merits repeat visits. Some opine that the signs could provide more information about the items on view.

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Churchill War Rooms Churchill War Rooms

The Churchill War Rooms are the underground bunker that Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his war cabinet used to shelter from bomb raids and plot their steps during World War II. The maze-like corridors tell the story of this volatile time period, centering on the larger-than-life leader that Churchill was.

Travelers describe the Churchill War Rooms as fascinating, and more than one traveler calls it a favorite London attraction. Some say that the rooms are much bigger than they had imagined and that people tend to spend a lot of time soaking in the exhibits and information. Others say that the exhibits have a strange layout, which can lead to confusion when trying to follow the sequence of events. Additionally, this popular spot gets crowded, so most museumgoers recommend that visitors get to the Churchill War Rooms early to avoid a long wait.

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The Ultimate 2 Week South West England Road Trip Itinerary

01 apr 2024 29 mar 2024 | danielle.

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!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

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England Tours & Vacations

Buzzing cities, rich history, vibrant cultures and drop-dead gorgeous scenery. England is packed with contrasts and adventures at every turn. 

In England, you’re never too far from stunning patchworks of green countryside, enchanting forests, idyllic rivers and medieval market towns. Our local guides will help you discover England beyond the clichés of fish and chips, endless cups of tea and pints in the pub (although there’ll be plenty of time for that!). From starting the day with sun salutations on the  Cornish coast or zipping through the Lake District on a bicycle, to exploring fairytale-like villages in the Cotswolds or going punting on the River Thames – this is England, the Intrepid way. 

Our England trips

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England highlights

Articles of england.

England or Wales? The UK destination that should be next on your list

England or Scotland? Which country should you visit next?

England or Ireland? Where to go on your next trip

6 unmissable sites on the Hadrian’s Wall Walk

6 things to do in the Peak District in winter

Devon vs Cornwall: Where to holiday next?

8 fun things to do on the River Thames (outside of London)

Explore these 4 hidden caves in Cornwall

England at a glance

Capital city.

56.22 million

(GMT) Greenwich Mean Time : Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin) Type M (see D)

Learn more about England

Local culture.

The culture of England might appear to be much the same as Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. But ask folk from each of these countries and they’ll tell you a different story. Sure, there are many similarities, but England has a unique culture that differs from its neighbors. 

For a start, English culture is extremely diverse with many sub-cultures, dialects, accents and traditions. In fact, there are some pretty stark differences between the north and the south. Northerners are known for their warmth and friendliness, things generally tend to be more expensive in the south, and gravy (which is welcomed on everything in the north) isn't a massive thing down south. That being said, some common cultural ground people share across England include good manners, small talk about the weather and humor that verges on the sarcastic side.

Food and drink

England (and the UK in general) is very multicultural and you’ll find every cuisine from Indian to Lebanese to American. London in particular is a thriving hotspot for foodies with pop-up food villages, quirky converted eateries and over 60 Michelin-stared restaurants. The term “meat and three veg” was coined in England, and while English cuisine doesn’t have a global reputation like French or Italian, the food is simple, hearty and comforting. If you’re looking to try some classic English food, here are some dishes to try.

Fish and chips

A flaky piece of battered fish served on a mound of salty chips, lashings of vinegar and a side of mushy peas. This is as English as it gets. Up north they smother their chips in thick brown gravy or curry sauce. Other popular condiments include tartare sauce and pickled onions or eggs. You’ll find the best fish and chips by the coast in places like Blackpool, Devon or Cornwall.

Bangers and mash 

A ‘banger’ is a sausage in the UK. Why? Well, after WWI when food was still rationed, sausages were plumped up with so much fat that they exploded when cooked. ‘Mash’ refers to creamy mashed potato traditionally made with butter and milk. Et voila, you have bangers and mash - one of Britain’s most beloved dinners. Served with peas and lashings of onion gravy, it’s a hearty and filling dish that goes down particularly well on a cold winter’s night.

Sunday roast

Ask an English person what they think is the most loved national dish, and they’ll probably say a Sunday roast. This age-old tradition isn’t just a lunch eaten on Sunday afternoons, but an opportunity for the whole family or group of friends to spend quality time and enjoy a nice meal together. It’s essentially a centerpiece of roasted meat (usually chicken, beef, pork or lamb) served with crispy roast potatoes, seasonal roasted vegetables and lashings of gravy. It might also be served with a Yorkshire pudding depending on where you are. It's usually served with mint sauce (for lamb), horseradish sauce (for beef), or bread sauce and redcurrant jelly (for chicken). You can get a roast dinner in most pubs every Sunday.

Full English breakfast 

Also known as a fry up, this hearty breakfast consists of eggs (usually fried but you can also get scrambled or poached), bacon, sausage, baked beans, grilled tomato, mushrooms and hot buttered toast. It’s typically served with a mug of tea or coffee. The carb and fat-rich foods also make it a go-to hangover cure for many Brits, and cafes usually serve it as an all-day dish. You’ll find slightly different versions of a fry up in Cornwall, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. 

Festivals and events

Glastonbury Music Festival

Glastonbury is the crown jewel of the British music festival calendar. This five-day festival draws in about 200,000 people and is the size of 500 football pitches. You’ll find everything from world-class music acts, rising stars, comedy, dance, wellness villages, permaculture workshops, cabaret, secret bars, circus and so much more. It’s an eclectic, vibrant, random and truly wonderful festival – even when it’s pouring with rain.

Notting Hill Carnival 

The Notting Hill Carnival is a vibrant Caribbean festival that takes place every August on the streets of Notting Hill in Kensington, London. The streets come alive with sound systems, DJs, live steel bands, costumed dancers, Caribbean flavors and smells, and spirited party goers. Thousands of people join the streets to enjoy the carnival vibes and party late into the night. Stemming from the Trinidad Carnival, Notting Hill Carnival began in 1966 and has remained a key part of London’s festival calendar.

World of Music, Arts and Dance (WOMAD) 

WOMAD is a gathering of 40,000 people at a beautiful site in Charlton Park to celebrate music, art, dance and culture from around the world. Spend your days exploring different music stages and grooving in the sunshine (or rain!), take part in one of the 80+ workshops, travel around the globe vicariously through your tastebuds at the food village, or perch yourself on the ground with a cold drink to simply take it all in. 

Diwali in Leicester 

Diwali – the Indian festival of lights that is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains – in Leicester is one of the world’s biggest Diwali celebrations outside of India. People travel from all over the UK and beyond to see the “Golden Mile” – illuminated temples and firework displays that symbolize the triumph of light over darkness, evil over light and knowledge over ignorance. The cultural program in Leicester includes music, dance, fire performers, religious ceremonies, delicious street food and funfair rides.

Chelsea Flower Show

Stop off in London for breathtaking floral displays of the  RHS Chelsea Flower Show.  Established in 1912, the Chelsea Flower Show is an exhibition of show gardens and floral displays set within the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. The Chelsea Flower Show is held in May and draws garden-lovers from all over the world. 

When is the best time to visit England?

The UK experiences the best weather from June to August, though there’s never any guarantee that summer is full of sunshine and warmth. The crowds might be bigger, but this is because the country wakes up from a dark winter slumber and celebrates – a lot. Outdoor dining is in full swing, pubs and bars are pumping and festivals flood the events calendar. Spring and autumn can be cool and wet but with some sunny days, and the days are still long enough to enjoy the country’s diverse and picturesque scenery. Winter (December to February) brings short days, grey skies and sometimes snow, though this is more often in England’s northern counties or places are higher elevations. Top advice: always have a rain jacket and a brolly at the bottom of your bag.

Read more about the best time to visit England

Read how to get around England

Similar destinations

Can't decide which country to travel to? Let us help:

• England or Ireland?
• England or Scotland?
• England or Wales?

England travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Can I use my cell phone while in England?

Cell phone coverage is generally very good in most parts of England, but it might be patchy in more remote areas. Ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive if traveling from overseas.

Is tipping customary in England?

Tipping isn’t expected but if you’re happy with a meal or service, a tip is always appreciated. Rounding up a taxi fare to the nearest pound is common.

What are some common sayings in England?

• “Alright?” = Hello, how are you?
• “Cuppa” = a cup of tea 
• “Bloody” = a term used to emphasize something, e.g. “That was bloody sad” or “It’s bloody cold outside”
• “Brolly” = umbrella 
• “Chuffed” = a term used to express you are very happy or pleased about something, e.g. "I'm chuffed with my new haircut"
• “Cream crackered” = Cockney rhyming slang for “knackered" (meaning extremely tired)
• “Quid” = a slan terms for pounds, e.g. “ten quid” means £10
• “Pudding” = dessert 
• “Tea” = dinner (used more in northern England)

What is internet access like in England?

Internet access is good in England, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots easily found in most cities and major towns.

What are the toilets like in England?

Modern, flushable toilets are the standard in England.

Can I drink the water in England?

Drinking tap water is safe in England unless otherwise marked. We recommend bringing a refillable bottle with you to avoid buying single-use plastic bottles to do your bit for the environment.

Are credit cards widely accepted in England?

Major credit cards are widely accepted in shops and hotels in England.

Smaller shops may not accept credit cards, so it’s never a bad idea to carry some cash for smaller items such as a coffee, or if you’re splitting bills with your group.

What is ATM access like in England?

ATMs are called cash machines or cashpoints in the UK.

You will see plenty of them on main streets and shopping centers.

You can use Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, Plus, Amex and Cirrus at most English cash machines, as well as international bank cash machines in bigger towns and cities.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in England?

• 1 Jan - New Year's Day
• Good Friday 
• Easter Monday
• Early May Bank Holiday 
• Spring Bank Holiday 
• Summer Bank Holiday
• 25 Dec - Christmas Day
• 26 Dec - Boxing Day

Note: some of the above public holidays don’t have dates as the date changes every year.

Is England a safe destination for LGBTQI+ travelers?

England is an LGBTQI+ friendly destination and there are many social meeting places for the LGBTQI+ in big towns and cities like London, Bristol, Manchester, Leeds, etc. Brighton is known as the LGBTQI+ capital of England with some of the best LGBTQI+ bars, hotels and clubs in the country.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  Smartraveller  before you travel.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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CLUB WYNDHAM TRAVEL

18-day best of europe, june 2024 - june 2025.

Enjoy 18 days of adventure throughout Europe with Cosmos. Departs from London, England.

Tour Details

A European tour should include the most popular and exciting cities, the must-see sights, picturesque scenery, and a mix of culture, history, and just plain fun. This, and more, is what you get on the Best of Europe tour. Visit London, where you could join one of our optional excursions or just discover the city at leisure. From there, cross the Channel on the Eurostar train to Brussels and then continue by coach to discover many diverse continental destinations. Local Guides will tell you all about Amsterdam’s canals; Rome’s St Peter Square; Florence’s Renaissance old city center with a replica of the “David” by Michelangelo; Pompeii, where you’ll see what life was like during the Roman Empire; Paris’s most famous landmarks, and much more. 

As you journey through Europe, you’ll also enjoy spectacular scenery, such as the picturesque Rhineland with its scenic countryside, historic castles, and charming villages, and breathtaking views of the Italian and French Rivieras. Sit back and relax as you drive past the Burgundy vineyards in France and through gorgeous alpine landscapes from Switzerland to Italy. Marvel at the beauty of Tuscany with its rural villages, rolling hills, vineyards, rows of cypress trees, and olive groves, and stand in awe as you witness the blue sea and amazing views on the Sorrento coast and the legendary island of Capri. Last but not least, you’ll love the green hills and valleys as you travel through Umbria to visit medieval Assisi. All of this and more await you on this dream European vacation designed for value-minded keen travelers!

Package Includes:

6 Countries | 17 Breakfasts | 3 Dinners | 17-Night Hotel Stay

Accommodations: 

• London: Novotel London West    
• Amsterdam: Holiday Inn Express Arena Towers
• Wiesbaden: Holiday Inn Express Wiesbaden
• Lucerne: Drei Koenige
• Venice Poppi
• Rome: BV Oly Hotel
• Sorrento: Central Park
• Florence: B&B Firenze City Center
• Nice: Ibis Styles Nice Vieux Port
• Grenoble: Mercure Alpotel
• Day 1 : London, England
• Day 2 : London
• Day 3 : London – Brussels – Amsterdam, The Netherlands
• Day 4 : Amsterdam – Wiesbaden, Germany
• Day 5 : Wiesbaden – Heidelberg – Lucerne, Switzerland
• Day 6 : Lucerne
• Day 7 : Lucerne – Verona, Italy – Vernice Area
• Day 8 : Venice Area
• Day 9 : Venice Area – Assisi - Rome
• Day 10 : Rome
• Day 11: Rome – Pompeii – Sorrento Coast
• Day 12: Sorrento Coast. Excursion to Capri
• Day 13: Sorrento Coast – Florence
• Day 14: Florence – Pisa – Eze, France – French Riviera
• Day 15: French Riviera – Orange – Grenoble
• Day 16: Grenoble – Beaune – Paris
• Day 17: Paris
• Day 18: Paris, France

Reserve Your Tour Today Call 800-732-0203

Cruise Details

Indulge in French flavors on a palate-pleasing itinerary that highlights the essence of France’s Burgundy and Provence. Uncover the Roman history of Chalon-sur Saône and delight in charming Tournus with its towering Romanesque abbey and historic apothecary shop. Visit French châteaux from Burgundy to Provence, taste your way through the French culinary capital of Lyon and visit the Papal Palace in Avignon. While you’ll get more than a taste of Burgundy and Provence during this itinerary, the essence of these destinations will linger on your palate – and in your heart – for a lifetime!

4 Ports | 1 Country | 6 Excursions | Roundtrip

• Day 1 : Porto, Portugal
• Day 2 : Entre-os Rios, Portugal
• Day 3 : Peso da Régua, Portugal
• Day 4 : Vega de Terron, Spain
• Day 5 : Barca d’Alva, Portugal
• Day 6 : Peso da Régua, Portugal
• Day 7 : Porto, Portugal
• Day 8 : Porto, Portugal 

PlusPoints is a payment option for PlusPartner owners that entails a combination of points and cash toward select Club Wyndham Travel bookings. The amount of points allowed per booking is subject to change and is based on the cost of the tour. PlusPoints can be used for the first two passengers in a room and allows owners the flexibility to use less points than listed and use more cash toward the reservation. PlusPoints is subject to change and availability. PlusPoints bookings will be assessed a non-refundable $69 PlusPartner point exchange fee. Points that are PlusPartners-qualified may not be rented during the Express Reservation window.

Tour and rates are subject to change and availability. Rates are listed per person based on double occupancy per room. Flights, airport transportation, and meals other than other specified are not included. Excursion during leisure time, upgraded excursions, and incidental expenses are not included. Additional taxes, fees, and restrictions may apply. Tours, events, and excursions may include extensive walking and/or uneven terrain. Travelers are responsible for all required travel documents, including but not limited to passports or travel visas. Minimum age requirements may apply. Travel is arranged by Club Wyndham Travel, 6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32821.

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England vs Iceland. International Match.

7:45pm, Friday 7th June 2024.

Wembley Stadium.

• J Thorsteinsson ( 12' 12th minute )
• Get a NOW Sports Membership

England 0-1 Iceland: Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson nets winner as minnows stun Three Lions in final Euro 2024 warm-up

Report as Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson nets winner and misses fine chance to score another as Iceland beat England 1-0 at Wembley in Three Lions' final warm-up game ahead of Euro 2024; Harry Kane squanders England's best opportunity in woeful performance from Gareth Southgate's side

Digital Football Journalist @Ronnabe

Saturday 8 June 2024 15:07, UK

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Woeful England lost their final warm-up game ahead of a tournament for the first time since 1968 as minnows Iceland left Wembley with a deserved 1-0 win.

The Three Lions were soundly beaten by the minnows who finished fourth in their qualifying group for the finals, yet looked the more potent throughout England's final warm-up game and could have won by more.

They caught the hosts out with their first attack of the game when Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson was played over the halfway line and turned John Stones, before beating Aaron Ramsdale too easily at his near post.

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Harry Kane squandered a glorious first-half chance to level when he blazed Cole Palmer's delicate cross over from six yards, but England created few other clear-cut chances of note, while John Stones was withdrawn at the interval as a precaution after suffering an early knock on his ankle.

Instead, Thorsteinsson wasted an even better opportunity to double Iceland's lead after the break when he mistimed a free effort from Hakon Arnar Haraldsson's square ball as England were cut through with increasing ease.

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Boos greeted the final whistle as England's hopes of ending their preparations on a high became a damp squib, with the Three Lions needing an unrecognisable performance when they face Serbia in Gelsenkirchen in nine days' time to allay a number of concerns.

Player ratings

England: Ramsdale (5), Walker (4), Stones (4), Guehi (7), Trippier (5), Rice (5), Mainoo (6), Foden (5), Palmer (6), Gordon (6), Kane (4). Subs: Konsa (6), Alexander-Arnold (7), Gomez (5), Toney (5), Saka (5), Eze (6).

How plucky Iceland haunted England again

England began with the verve with which they had ended their eventual stroll to victory against Bosnia and Herzegovina, pinning Iceland in and dictating play against a block even lower than the one they had faced on Monday night.

How the teams lined up

Grealish, Maddison, Maguire miss out on England squad

Euro 2024 latest news

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But from one simple move, they were caught out 12 minutes in and never recovered. With Declan Rice and Kyle Walker caught up-field, a quick interchange of passing on the left left England exposed and allowed Thorsteinsson to run at Stones.

The Man City defender was turned too easily before Ramsdale compounded the errors ahead of him by allowing the ball to squirm in at his near post.

Kane should have made amends soon after but sidefooted a golden opportunity over when Palmer cut inside and lofted a fine ball into the England captain.

The Chelsea man went close himself after Rice's pressure forced goalkeeper Hakon Rafn Valdimarsson into a poor pass straight at him, but Daniel Leo Gretarsson denied him with an important block.

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Stones did not re-emerge for the second half after Thorsteinsson landed awkwardly on him in the first minute, but England did at least improve in the early minutes following the interval.

Palmer shot wide from a tight angle following a heavy touch and Kane guided an Anthony Gordon cross wide before Iceland began to expose increasing gaps in the England midfield.

Hakon Arnar Haraldsson was the beneficiary of one-such break, finding space on the right and waiting to release Thorsteinsson, who had a tap-in to double Iceland's lead but let the Three Lions off the hook with a poor connection.

• Gareth Southgate made eight changes to the England team that started against Bosnia and Herzegovina, with only Marc Guehi, Kieran Trippier and Cole Palmer keeping their places.

England's problems became worse as they were almost exposed from a corner soon after, with Gretarsson's back-post header only kept out by a smart Ramsdale save.

A number of changes swung the momentum back into the hosts' favour but they could only huff and puff, as they had done all game, without ever forcing a difficult save out of Valdimarsson.

The closest they came to an equaliser was through substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold, who saw an injury-time effort deflected just past the far post.

That would have been more than England deserved, as a chastening defeat reminded them of how much work is still to be done before their Group C campaign begins next Sunday.

Southgate: We weren't good enough

England manager Gareth Southgate :

"You'd like a good performance, a crowd that's been entertained and to be leaving on a high.

"Clearly, the performance wasn't at the level it needed to be. There are some very clear reasons for that, and it gives us a chance to focus the mind.

"These last games going into tournaments can be a little bit scrappy like that, in terms of focus because players are worried about picking up an injury.

"The most disappointing part tonight was out of possession, we didn't press well. We were too stretched, and in the last two or three games in particular we've been excellent at that. With the ball, we could have been better, but we still created some very good chances.

"A lot of the players needed the minutes, who have been coming back from injury, who have played a lot but had a week's break, and are out of that rhythm.

"Of course, at the end where you ideally want the experience on the pitch to keep the calm and work your way back into the game, we were taking those players off to look after them.

"I'm not going to dress up the disappointment about the performance, but we have to stay calm because we know what has to be put right and we'll put that right before the game with Serbia."

The key dates for England

All times BST

Monday June 10 - England squad fly to Germany

Sunday June 16 - Serbia vs England, Gelsenkirchen, kick-off 8pm

Thursday June 20 - Denmark vs England, Frankfurt, kick-off 5pm

Tuesday June 25 - England vs Slovenia, kick-off 8pm

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