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HomeRoad TripsEuropeWest EuropeGreat BritainEnglandSouth England
Isle of Wight

South England Road Trip

London - Brighton - Portsmouth - Isle of Wight - Salisbury - Plymouth - Bodmin - Porlock - Bath - Oxford

Expect on your itinerary

Historical sites Historical sites
Security Security
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Landscape Landscape
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
South England Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages10 km1,306 h/stage2.2

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a South England Road Trip in England?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 540EUR drive & more 175EUR sleep & more 946EUR eat & more 1,152EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,273EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,813EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 864EUR drive & more 238EUR sleep & more 1,903EUR eat & more 1,728EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,869EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,733EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,512EUR drive & more 313EUR sleep & more 2,695EUR eat & more 2,304EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 5,312EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 6,824EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,700EUR drive & more 350EUR sleep & more 660EUR eat & more 1,152EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,162EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 4,862EUR
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South England Road Trip Itinerary

The South England Road Trip is a great way to explore the beauty of England. Starting in London, the route takes you through some of the most beautiful towns in the country, including Brighton, Isle of Wight, Plymouth, Porlock and Oxford, with a total distance of 812 miles. It is recommended to complete the trip in 12 days, with the best time of the year to drive being in the summer months. The route is full of historical sites, stunning landscapes and UNESCO Heritage Monuments. The roads are in excellent condition, making the drive comfortable and safe. This road trip is suitable for all drivers, although it requires a high budget to manage. The South England Road Trip is an unforgettable experience, full of memories and moments to cherish.
number of days 12 number of days
route length 1,306 km route length
budget high budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the left traffic direction
accident level low accident level

START London

Distance 1,285 km Driving time 21.8 h Pace: modest 334.2 kWh Airports LTN , LGW , LHR , STN
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London, the capital of England, is an amazing city to visit. It is home to many of the country’s most iconic landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace. London is also a great place to begin your South England Road Trip. The most convenient way to get to London is to fly into London Heathrow Airport (LHR). From there, you can rent a car for your trip and explore the sights of the city. Once you have your rental car, you can explore the city’s many attractions, from the London Eye to Westminster Abbey. Be sure to check out the National Gallery and the British Museum, as well as the many parks and gardens scattered throughout the city. London is also home to many excellent restaurants and pubs, so be sure to make time to sample some of the city’s culinary delights. After you’ve had a chance to explore the city, you can head out on your South England Road Trip, checking out destinations such as Stonehenge, Bath, and Oxford. With its wealth of attractions, London is an ideal place to begin your journey.

1 London - Brighton

Distance 110 km Driving time 1.3 h Pace: fast 33.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site interesting cultural site accommodation options
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Welcome to the London-Brighton road trip! This stage of your journey will take you through some of the most iconic sites in England. Starting in London, you'll pass through the beautiful countryside of Kent and Sussex, before reaching the vibrant city of Brighton. The whole journey will cover a distance of 68 miles and take less than 2 hours. Along the way, you'll be able to explore historical sites like the Tower of London, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Canterbury Cathedral, and the Royal Pavilion in Brighton. Don't forget to take a break to take in the stunning views of the English countryside! Be sure to keep an eye out for other attractions, such as the White Cliffs of Dover and the Seven Sisters. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

2 Brighton - Portsmouth

Distance 80 km Driving time 1.2 h Pace: fast 24.1 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site attractive landscape interesting cultural site accommodation options
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Brighton to Portsmouth? This stage of your journey is only 50 miles long and can be completed in less than 2 hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the most interesting places. Start your journey in Brighton, the vibrant seaside resort town, where you can admire its iconic pier, take a stroll along the beach, and explore the historic city centre. The next stop is Arundel Castle, a stunning 11th century building that is one of the best preserved medieval castles in England. You can also visit the beautiful Arundel Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century. On your way to Portsmouth, make sure to stop at Chichester, a charming city with a beautiful 12th century cathedral and a Roman amphitheatre. You can also visit the nearby Fishbourne Roman Palace, which is one of the most important Roman archaeological sites in Britain. Finally, you will arrive in Portsmouth, the UK’s only island city. Here you can explore the historic harbour, visit the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, and take a stroll along the Southsea seafront. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

3 Portsmouth - Isle of Wight

Distance 29 km Driving time 0.9 h Pace: slow 6.6 kWh View map Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip? Start in Portsmouth, England and drive 18mi to the Isle of Wight. This journey will take you less than 1 hour and you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places along the way. In Portsmouth, you can visit the Historic Dockyard, which is the home of the famous HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum, where you can learn about the history of the Royal Navy. The city is also home to the Spinnaker Tower, a 170m tall observation tower with a breath-taking view of the city. On the Isle of Wight, you can explore the Needles, a row of three distinctive chalk stacks, and the Alum Bay, where the multicolored sand cliffs create a stunning landscape. You can also visit Carisbrooke Castle, a medieval castle with a unique history, and the Osborne House, the former summer palace of Queen Victoria. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

4 Isle of Wight - Salisbury

Distance 100 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: modest 25.9 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Are you ready to go on a road trip from Isle of Wight to Salisbury? This 62mi journey will take you less than 3 hours, but you will be able to experience a lot of interesting places along the way. Start your journey in Isle of Wight, where you can explore the spectacular Osborne House, the former summer home of Queen Victoria. You can also visit the beautiful Carisbrooke Castle, which is home to a 16th century well. Continue your journey to Salisbury, where you can see the iconic Salisbury Cathedral, a stunning example of Early English architecture. You can also visit the Salisbury Museum, which has a great collection of artifacts from the area's history. On your way, keep an eye out for some of the other historical sites, like the Calshot Castle and the Hurst Castle. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

5 Salisbury - Plymouth

Distance 236 km Driving time 3.6 h Pace: fast 70.8 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options
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Start your road trip adventure in Salisbury, England, a city full of history and culture! Begin by exploring the Salisbury Cathedral, a Gothic architectural marvel and the tallest church spire in the United Kingdom. Then, take a stroll through the city centre and enjoy a traditional meal at one of the many restaurants. After leaving Salisbury, your next stop is Exeter, a city with a long history and lots to explore. Visit the Exeter Cathedral, a stunning Norman structure, and take a walk along the city's historic walls. Make sure to take a break in the Princesshay shopping centre, too! Finally, end your journey in Plymouth, a vibrant city with plenty to see and do. Visit the National Marine Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the UK, and explore the attractions at Plymouth Hoe. Be sure to take a trip to the Barbican, with its unique blend of cobbled streets, independent shops, and galleries. This stage of your road trip is a mere 147 miles, and can be done in fewer than 4 hours. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

6 Plymouth - Bodmin

Distance 260 km Driving time 4.5 h Pace: modest 67.5 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options
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Welcome, road-trippers! This stage of your journey begins in Plymouth, England, and takes you through some of the most beautiful and interesting places in the country. Starting in Plymouth, you will travel 161 miles in fewer than 5 hours to reach Bodmin, at the end of your journey. Along the way, you will visit the iconic Land's End, a stunning stretch of coastline and the most westerly point of mainland England. Here, you can explore the rugged cliffs and stunning beaches, and take in the breathtaking views. You will also have the opportunity to visit the many attractions and enjoy the local cuisine. Finally, you will reach Bodmin, where you can explore the town's historic buildings, parks, and gardens. We hope you enjoy this stage of your journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.

7 Bodmin - Porlock

Distance 151 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: fast 45.4 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Are you looking for an amazing road trip experience? Then this stage of your journey is perfect for you! Starting in Bodmin, England, you will drive through Bude, and end in Porlock. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting sites in these locations. In Bodmin, you can visit the Bodmin Jail, a former prison that is now a museum that tells the story of the prisoners and staff. In Bude, take a stroll along the beach, or explore the Castle Bude, a castle ruin from the 17th century. Finally, in Porlock, you can visit the Porlock Weir, a historic harbor that has been in use since the 12th century. This stage of your journey is 94 miles long and should take you less than 3 hours to complete. Keep your eyes open for historical sites along the way! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

8 Porlock - Bath

Distance 120 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: modest 31.2 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site accommodation options junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting cultural site
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Let's start in Porlock, England and explore Wells and Bath, two of the most beautiful cities in the country! This journey is 74 miles long and can be completed in less than 3 hours. As you drive, you will pass by some of the most iconic historical sites in England. Along the route, you will find several UNESCO Heritage Sites. Be sure to take your time to appreciate the beauty of these sites. In Wells, you can explore the beautiful Wells Cathedral and the Bishop's Palace. In Bath, you can visit the Roman Baths, the Royal Crescent, and the Jane Austen Center. Don't forget to take plenty of pictures! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

9 Bath - Oxford

Distance 127 km Driving time 2.0 h Pace: fast 38.0 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Welcome to the road trip stage from Bath to Oxford, a journey of 79 miles that will take you less than two hours. This stage is part of a longer tour that will take you through some of the most beautiful and historical places in England. Your first stop is Bath, a city of grand architecture and ancient Roman baths. Here you can explore the Royal Crescent, the Circus, and the famous Pulteney Bridge. After taking in the sights and sounds of the city, you can head to the nearby village of Lacock to explore its medieval streets, or to the ancient stone circle of Stanton Drew. Next, you'll be heading to Oxford, the city of dreaming spires. Take some time to wander the cobbled streets and admire the architecture of the colleges. Make sure to take a stroll along the River Thames, and don't forget to visit the Ashmolean Museum. Along the way, keep an eye out for some of the historical sites that this route has to offer. With so much to see, you're sure to have an unforgettable journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.

10 Oxford - London

Distance 73 km Driving time 0.9 h Pace: fast 22.0 kWh View map Itinerary
junction of road trips UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site interesting cultural site accommodation options
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Embark on a road trip from Oxford, England to London and discover the best of both cities! This 45 mile journey will take you less than an hour of driving, so you can make the most of your time and explore the places that interest you the most. You'll have plenty of time to visit some of the most renowned UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Tower of London and Blenheim Palace. Don't forget to check out the Oxford University colleges, the Ashmolean Museum, and the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford. In London, you can visit the iconic Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. There are also plenty of other attractions in both cities to explore, so make sure you check out the itinerary of this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!

  London

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The grand finale of your South England Road Trip is none other than the iconic city of London. As the capital of England, London is a vibrant and bustling city filled with an abundance of cultural and historical attractions, as well as plenty of modern-day entertainment. With so much to see and do in the city, you could spend weeks exploring the streets and attractions. A great place to start your London adventure is the Tower of London. This 900-year-old castle is a World Heritage Site and home to the Crown Jewels. Other iconic landmarks to visit include Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and St Paul's Cathedral. The city is also home to many of the world's best art galleries and museums. The British Museum, National Gallery, and Tate Modern are all must-visits. If you're looking for some entertainment, there are plenty of theatres, cinemas, and music venues to explore. You can also take a relaxing stroll through one of London's beautiful parks such as Hyde Park, Regent's Park, or St James's Park. London is renowned for its shopping and culinary offerings. From the traditional markets of Covent Garden, Borough Market, and Camden Market to the designer stores of Knightsbridge and Oxford Street, you'll find something for everyone. London's food scene is also world-class, with restaurants serving dishes from every corner of the globe. For those traveling to London by air, the closest international airport is London Heathrow Airport (LHR). If you'd prefer to drive, the city is easily reached by motorway from the rest of the UK. London is the ultimate destination for your South England Road Trip. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of attractions, this iconic city is sure to make your journey unforgettable.

South England Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

Embark on the South England Road Trip for a comprehensive exploration of England's stunning landscapes and profound history. Covering approximately 812 miles starting from the vibrant city of London, this adventure offers a diverse tapestry of cultural heritage and breathtaking scenery. Perfect for travelers looking to delve into the heart of England's southern territories, this journey is a thoughtful blend of urban excitement and serene countryside.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

  • London: The capital city presents a treasure trove of iconic sites, including the historic Tower of London, the regal Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum, which holds a vast collection of world art and artifacts.
  • Brighton: A seaside escape famed for its colorful Brighton Beach huts, the Victorian Brighton Pier, and a thriving arts scene. Don't miss the Royal Pavilion, an exotic palace with a blend of Indian and Chinese architecture.
  • Isle of Wight: Accessible by ferry, this enchanting island boasts dramatic white chalk cliffs, including the renowned Needles rocks, and Queen Victoria's palatial holiday home, Osborne House.
  • Plymouth: A port city steeped in naval history, where the Mayflower set sail in 1620. The city's attractions include the historic Barbican district and the National Marine Aquarium, the largest in the UK.
  • Porlock: Nestled in the heart of Exmoor National Park, Porlock is a charming village surrounded by lush woodlands and rolling hills, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.
  • Oxford: Renowned for the University of Oxford, the oldest university in the English-speaking world, this city is characterized by its medieval colleges, the Bodleian Library, and the Radcliffe Camera.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal months for the South England Road Trip are from June to August, offering warm weather that is perfect for enjoying the picturesque landscapes and the plethora of outdoor activities available.

Potential Risks:

Expect well-maintained but potentially crowded Roads during summer, particularly around popular tourist destinations. Be mindful of the costs, as the South of England can be expensive, with prices reflecting its status as a premier travel destination.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • Allocate at least 12 days to truly savor each location's unique charm and history.
  • The itinerary features numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the historic city of Bath, with its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture.
  • Stonehenge, one of the wonders of the world and the best-known prehistoric monument in Europe, lies within reach on this route.
  • Budget accordingly for a range of experiences, from luxury accommodations to fine dining and entry to various historical sites and attractions.

A good choice for:

Immerse yourself in the quintessential English experience with the South England Road Trip. Ideal for those who wish to bask in England's rich cultural legacy and its picturesque natural landscapes, summer presents the quintessential backdrop for this extraordinary excursion.

Facts for safer driving in England

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.8
max speed urban max speed urban 48 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 96 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 112 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls yes
seat belts seat belts yes

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