Road Trips in England

One of England’s main attractions is, of course, London enjoying a picturesque location on the banks of the River Thames. All of the top-rated city venues are easily accessible by car which is considered a major advantage, especially among tourists. 

However, the capital is not the only highlight that can be visited in the eastern part of the country. Dover, with its breathtaking White Cliffs, and Canterbury, where you’ll find the beautiful St. Augustine’s Abbey, are equally interesting to explore. Travellers seeking peace and quiet should head for Penshurst Place or Wakehurst Place where they will admire medieval manors and take a stroll in the colourful botanic gardens. Leave the car at the entrance, and dive into a world of greenery and tranquillity!

Winchester and Salisbury both have long histories that spawned numerous monuments dotting the cityscape. Tourist attractions in these cities range from towering guildhalls and sizeable cathedrals to attractive municipal parks. What’s more, the cities are equally great starting points for the local attractions such as Stonehenge.

Holidaymakers who are interested in sites dating back to the Roman and Iron Age times should consider paying a visit in both Bristol and Bath. The cities are located at a stone’s throw from the stunning Bristol Channel and may become a great gateway for the exploration of the region.

Central England, the home of the famous William Shakespeare, is strongly connected with art and culture. You will have a unique opportunity to discover the playwright’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, admire the famous Victorian redbrick homes in Birmingham, or leave your car behind and immerse yourself in the natural gems of the Peak District National Park where plenty of outdoor activity options await.

Liverpool welcomes travellers with a burst of popular culture. Here, the visitors will marvel at the Liverpool Pier and learn more about the history of the Beatles. There are very few free parking spots in the centre of Liverpool so you should be prepared to have some spare cash to pay for parking tickets. 

Tired of the busy city streets? You should definitely consider going further north to visit Preston with its peaceful Moor Park and a stunning selection of attractions, including Preston Flag Market, Sessions House, and the Cenotaph.

Those who seek to experience natural landscapes should direct their steps to the National Lake District characterised by breathtaking views that are nowhere else to be found. Tranquil venues, mountain peaks, and long bike trips are the top attractions of the area.

Darlington, Durham, and Newcastle cannot be missed while exploring the northernmost parts of England. Each of the cities is car-friendly and provides plenty of parking spaces where you can leave your vehicle and explore the tourist attractions at your own pace. Yet another exciting highlight of the region is the famous Hadrian’s Wall, a defensive fortification that spans a total of almost 120 km.

Located in the foothills of the stunning Pennines, Bradford lures tourists with prominent examples of Victorian buildings such as the City Hall or the Bradford Cathedral. The most rapid development of the city took place in the 19th century when it was transformed into a textile manufacturing centre. While in Bradford, jump behind the wheel and discover Saltaire Village, a Victorian model village and a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is a perfect example of the urban planning dating back to the 19th century.

Those who are into religious architecture shouldn’t miss Fountains Abbey, one of the best preserved Cistercian monasteries in the whole country founded at the beginning of the 12th century. 

Suggested Road Trips in England

• The Cotswolds: This route takes you through the rolling hills and quaint villages of the Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty in central England. Highlights of this road trip include the charming villages of Bibury and Castle Combe, and the historic city of Bath, famous for its Georgian architecture and Roman baths.

• The Lake District National Park: This road trip takes you through the heart of the Lake District, a stunning area of natural beauty in northwest England. Highlights of this trip include the picturesque lakes of Windermere and Ullswater, and the mountainous scenery of the Lakes.

• The Jurassic Coast: This scenic drive takes you along the 95-mile stretch of coastline that is rich in natural and geological history. Highlights of this road trip include the dramatic cliffs and beaches of Dorset, and the historic ports of Lyme Regis and Weymouth.

Each of these road trips offers a unique experience and is a great way to explore some of England's most beautiful and historic destinations. Whether you are looking for scenic drives, historic cities, or natural beauty, England has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for a road trip.

Renting a car in England is a piece of cake as there exist plenty of opportunities to find car hire spots in most of the major English cities. If the first part of your trip is a plane flight, hiring a car will be even easier. Usually, each international airport can boast a broad offer of car hire companies that are often located in one of the main terminals.

If you’ve already got your dream car, buckle up and let’s start your journey around England...but first make sure that you know and understand all the traffic regulations that will ensure your safety on the road. 

The British are known for many strange habits, among which you’ll find driving on the left-hand side of the street. A rookie driver will definitely have more difficulty in getting used to the new road environment than an old hand. Extra care has to be taken when leaving one-way streets and junctions. On a roundabout, cars that are already on it will have priority over the vehicles that want to enter traffic.

Whenever a vehicle breaks down, the driver should switch on the hazard warning lights and the warning triangle should be placed approx. 50 m from the car on less frequented roads and 150 m on all motorways.

Wearing seatbelts is a must for all passengers occupying both rear and front seats. Adults should make sure that toddlers under 14 years of age are wearing seatbelts or special child restraints. 

What’s important to remember while driving around England is to avoid driving in lanes that are reserved for buses and taxis. These are indicated by special road markings and signs on which you will find the specified period of operation during which the lane should not be used by regular vehicles. As in other European countries, a solid single line on the road means no overtaking on that particular road section.

Unless the traffic signs indicate other speed limits, you should drive at a speed of up to 113 km/h (70 mph) on motorways and dual-carriageways, 97 km/h (60 mph) on single-carriageway roads, and 48 km/h (30mph) in built-up areas. Mind you, all of the English traffic signs will provide you with information on speed limits in miles per hour.

The maximum speeding fine that you can receive for speeding amounts to £1,000 with an additional number of penalty points (between 3 and 6). Factors taken into consideration in such situations are previous convictions and the actual speed of the car.

Even though British drivers are considered amiable and have the reputation of being good motorists, you should be cautious of many people who disregard the speed limits and drive at a speed exceeding 100 mph.

While driving around England, you should be aware of the fact that there are cameras installed at a number of traffic lights across the country. Their purpose is to catch drivers who cross the junction on red lights. After one month from the offence, you may receive a notification that will require you to prove you didn’t commit the crime. Otherwise, you will have to face the prosecution. 

When taking a road trip in England, it's important to be aware of the following:

• Traffic and road conditions: Depending on the time of year and the route you take, you may encounter heavy traffic, especially in cities and tourist hotspots. It's also important to be aware of road conditions, especially during the winter months, when roads can be slippery and weather conditions can be severe.

• Speed limits and driving rules: In England, the speed limit on motorways is 70 mph, and on other roads it varies from 30 mph to 60 mph. It's important to familiarize yourself with the local driving rules and regulations, such as the requirement to drive on the left side of the road.

• Parking: Parking can be a challenge in some areas, especially in busy cities and tourist hotspots. Make sure to check local parking restrictions and availability before setting out on your trip.

• Fuel costs: Fuel costs in England can be relatively high, especially in tourist hotspots and remote areas. Make sure to budget accordingly and plan your fuel stops in advance.

• Accommodation: Depending on the time of year and the destination, finding accommodation can be a challenge, especially during peak tourist season. It's a good idea to book accommodation in advance to ensure availability.

• Weather: The weather in England can be unpredictable, especially during the summer months when rain showers can be frequent. Make sure to check the weather forecast before setting out on your trip, and pack appropriate clothing and gear.

By being aware of these factors and planning ahead, you can ensure that your road trip in England is a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience.

The best time of year for taking a road trip in England can depend on personal preference, but generally the months of May to September are considered the best time to visit. During these months, the weather is typically mild to warm, with longer days and less rain. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

However, it's important to be aware that during the peak tourist season (July and August), popular destinations can be very busy, and it may be more difficult to find accommodation and parking. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting England during the shoulder seasons (April and October), when the weather is still pleasant and there are fewer tourists.

In terms of weather conditions, it's important to be prepared for the possibility of rain at any time of year, as England is known for its often-unpredictable weather. It's a good idea to pack waterproof clothing and gear, even during the summer months.

Overall, the best time of year for taking a road trip in England is a matter of personal preference, and depends on what you hope to see and do during your trip.

The cost of a road trip in England can vary depending on your travel style, accommodation choices, and the activities you plan to do. However, as a rough estimate, you can expect to spend around £100-£150 per day per person on a road trip in England, including car rental costs.

The cost of renting a car in England can vary depending on the type of vehicle you choose, the rental company you use, and the length of your rental. On average, you can expect to pay around £30-£50 per day for a small car, £50-£70 per day for a midsize car, and £70-£100 per day for a luxury car.

In addition to car rental costs, you'll also need to factor in the cost of fuel, which can be quite expensive in England. As of April 2023, the average cost of petrol is around £1.36 per litre, while the average cost of diesel is around £1.40 per litre.

Accommodation costs can also vary widely depending on the type of accommodation you choose and the location you're visiting. In general, you can expect to pay around £50-£100 per night for a budget hotel or hostel, £100-£150 per night for a mid-range hotel, and £150-£300 per night for a luxury hotel.

Food and drink costs can also add up, especially if you plan to eat out at restaurants or pubs. A typical meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around £15-£20 per person, while a pint of beer can cost around £4-£5.

Overall, a week-long road trip in England for two people could cost anywhere from £1,400 to £2,100, depending on your travel style and accommodation choices. A month-long road trip could cost anywhere from £4,800 to £7,200. However, these are just rough estimates, and your actual costs could be higher or lower depending on your individual travel choices.

If you're planning a road trip in England, here are some guidebooks and road maps that you may find helpful:

• Lonely Planet England: Lonely Planet is a popular travel guide publisher that offers comprehensive information on various destinations around the world, including England. Their guidebook on England is packed with helpful tips on places to see, things to do, and where to eat and stay.

• Michelin Great Britain & Ireland Road Atlas: This detailed road atlas by Michelin is a great resource for planning your route in England. It shows all major highways, roads, and points of interest, making it easy to navigate the country.

• AA Road Atlas Britain: The AA Road Atlas is another popular road map for navigating England. It includes detailed maps of all major cities, as well as information on road distances and travel times.

• Rick Steves England: Rick Steves is a popular travel writer and television personality who specializes in European travel. His guidebook on England offers practical advice on everything from transportation to sightseeing, as well as recommendations for restaurants and accommodations.

• Rough Guide to England: The Rough Guide series offers detailed information on various destinations around the world, including England. Their guidebook on England includes information on history, culture, and geography, as well as practical advice on travel and accommodations.

These are just a few examples of the many guidebooks and road maps available for England. It's always a good idea to do some research before your trip to find the resources that best meet your needs.

If you're looking for some good reads to help you prepare for a road trip in England, here are some suggestions:

• Notes from a Small Island by Bill Bryson: In this travelogue, American author Bill Bryson takes a humorous and insightful look at England, exploring its history, culture, and quirks. It's a great way to get a feel for the country before your trip.

• On the Road by Jack Kerouac: Although this classic novel is set in America, its themes of adventure and self-discovery are universal. It's a great read to get you in the mood for a road trip and inspire a sense of freedom and exploration.

• The Road to Little Dribbling by Bill Bryson: In this follow-up to Notes from a Small Island, Bryson revisits England 20 years later and explores its changes and traditions. It's a great read for anyone interested in English culture and history.

• The English: A Portrait of a People by Jeremy Paxman: In this book, British journalist Jeremy Paxman takes a deep dive into English culture and identity, exploring the country's history, traditions, and quirks. It's a fascinating read for anyone interested in getting to know the English people.

These are just a few examples of the many books that could inspire and prepare you for a road trip in England. Whether you choose to read about English culture, travelogues, or classic novels, there's something out there for every type of reader.