Seasides of Southwest Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the best of England's southwest coast with the Seasides of Southwest Road Trip! Starting in the vibrant city of Bournemouth and ending in the historical city of Plymouth, this 225 mile road trip is the perfect way to explore the stunning beaches and landscapes of this area. Along the way you'll pass through Weymouth, Lyme Regis, Torquay, and Salcombe, each with their own unique attractions. The best time to drive this route is during the summer months, when the days are longer and the weather is warmer. You'll be able to take in the beautiful countryside, including the rolling hills and picturesque coastline, as well as the many beaches along the route. You should be aware that the roads can be partly curvy and narrow in places, but overall the roads are in good condition. This road trip is suitable for every driver and will provide a high level of experience and memories. It can be managed with a high budget, so if you're looking for a memorable and exciting adventure, this is the perfect road trip for you!
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number of days
362 km
route length
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budget
family
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traffic direction
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START
Bournemouth
Distance 362 km
Driving time 11.7 h
Pace: slow
83.2 kWh
Airports
BOH
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SOU
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Bournemouth is a picturesque seaside town located on the south coast of England, a great starting point for your 'Seasides of Southwest Road Trip'. Perfectly situated between the Isle of Wight and Poole Harbour, it is a popular tourist destination with 7 miles of stunning sandy beaches to explore.
For those arriving by air, the closest international airport is Bournemouth Airport (BOH) which offers car rental services. Once you've picked up your car, take the time to explore the town's many attractions. Visit the historic pier and the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum which is home to an impressive array of artwork and sculptures. Or why not take a boat trip and explore the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with plenty of opportunities for fossil-hunting.
For the more adventurous, take a drive out to the New Forest National Park and explore the area's many heathlands, forests and wetlands. Hire a bike and take the opportunity to explore the area in more depth.
Bournemouth is a great starting point for your 'Seasides of Southwest Road Trip', with plenty of opportunities to explore and discover. Enjoy the stunning beaches, explore the local attractions and enjoy the fresh sea air.
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Bournemouth
- Weymouth
Distance 74 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: slow
17.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 46mi road trip starting in Bournemouth and leading you through some of the most beautiful and interesting locations in England. Drive along the coast and explore the stunning views of Swanage, Corfe Castle, Kimmeridge and East Lulworth, before arriving in Weymouth. The journey will take you less than 3 hours and you can enjoy a ferry crossing along the way. Be aware that the road is very winding in some sections and can be quite narrow, so pay attention when driving. This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour, with more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants and campsites available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Don't miss the chance to explore the historical sites and scenic roads of this amazing journey!
Weymouth - England - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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2
Weymouth
- Lyme Regis
Distance 66 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: modest
17.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your road trip in Weymouth, England and take a 41mi journey through the stunning countryside of Isle of Portland, Abbotsbury, and Lyme Regis. This scenic route will take you fewer than 2 hours to drive, and you can expect to find some narrow sections of road along the way. While on the road, be sure to take in the stunning views of the countryside, and if you’re feeling adventurous, why not stop off at one of the many attractions along the way. In Isle of Portland, visit the Portland Castle, a 16th century fortification, or take a tour of the Portland Bill Lighthouse. Abbotsbury is home to the Abbotsbury Swannery, a unique experience where you can view the nesting grounds of thousands of swans, and Lyme Regis is a great place to explore the Jurassic Coast. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage.
Lyme Regis - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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3
Lyme Regis
- Torquay
Distance 72 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: slow
16.6 kWh
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Embark on a captivating road trip from Lyme Regis to Torquay, a 45mi drive taking no more than two hours. On your way, you will pass through the lovely seaside town of Exmouth, where you can enjoy a ferry crossing. As you drive, be sure to keep an eye out for historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. Sections of the route may be narrow, so be sure to drive with caution. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the area and find the perfect spot for lunch or a rest. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Torquay - England - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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4
Torquay
- Salcombe
Distance 70 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: slow
16.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Start your road trip through the beautiful English countryside with a visit to Torquay. This coastal town has plenty of attractions to offer, from its beautiful harbor to its stunning coastal views. From Torquay, continue your journey to Dartmouth, an old fishing port that is now a popular tourist destination. Here you can take a ferry crossing and explore the charming streets, with plenty of pubs and restaurants to choose from. From Dartmouth, your journey continues to Salcombe, where you will find a picturesque harbor, a vibrant waterfront, and a stunning beach. As you drive, take in the beautiful scenery, with narrow roads winding through lush countryside. Don't forget to take a ferry crossing between Dartmouth and Salcombe to enjoy the views of the coast. This stage of your road trip will take fewer than three hours and cover a distance of 43 miles. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary. Enjoy your journey!
Salcombe - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Salcombe - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wallpaper Flare
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5
Plymouth
Distance 79 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: slow
18.2 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the stunning English countryside! We start in Salcombe, a fishing village full of charm and beauty, and make our way to Bigbury-on-Sea, a picturesque beach with stunning views of the English Channel. From there, we travel to Wembury, where you can explore the National Trust nature reserve and take a walk along the South West Coast Path. Finally, we end our journey in Plymouth, a bustling city with plenty of attractions to explore. The entire journey is only 49 miles and should take no more than 3 hours, so you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the scenic roads and stunning views along the way. Remember, some sections of the route will be narrow, so be sure to pay attention to your surroundings. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Plymouth - England - Europe - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
Plymouth - England - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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Plymouth
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Plymouth, a coastal city in South West England, is the perfect ending point for the “Seasides of Southwest Road Trip”. Rich in history, Plymouth offers plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. Take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the Mayflower Steps, the place from which the original Mayflower set sail for America in 1620. You can also take a trip to the National Marine Aquarium, the largest in the UK, or visit the Royal Citadel, an impressive 17th-century fortress.
For car travelers, Plymouth is easily accessible by road. It is connected to the rest of the country by the M5 motorway, which links Plymouth to Bristol and other major cities in the South West. There are also plenty of car parks in the city center, making it easy to park and explore.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Exeter Airport (EXT), which is located just 40 miles away. From there, you can take a train to Plymouth, or rent a car and drive the remaining distance.
No matter how you choose to get there, Plymouth is the perfect destination to end your “Seasides of Southwest Road Trip”. With its beautiful waterfront, historic sites, and excellent transport links, Plymouth is a must-see destination for any traveler.
Plymouth - England - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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Seasides of Southwest Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Bournemouth
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End:
Plymouth
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Distance:
362 km
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Stay:
4 days
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Getting there:
Bournemouth Airport (BOH),
Southampton Airport (SOU)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the enchanting Seasides of Southwest Road Trip, a scenic odyssey tracing the contours of England's southwest coast. Stretching 225 miles from the lively town of Bournemouth to the historic maritime city of Plymouth, this route is a tapestry of stunning beaches, lush hills, and quaint coastal villages. It offers a quintessential English seaside experience, steeped in history and natural beauty.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Bournemouth: This dynamic coastal city boasts a seven-mile stretch of golden sands and a vibrant cultural scene, with gardens, piers, and Victorian architecture enhancing its charm.
- Weymouth: A classic English seaside town with a rich history, Weymouth features a picturesque Georgian seafront and is part of the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage site.
- Lyme Regis: Often called the `Pearl of Dorset,` this historic town is a hot spot for fossil enthusiasts and features the iconic, centuries-old Cobb harbor wall, which has been featured in literature and film.
- Torquay: Nestled in the heart of the English Riviera, Torquay offers a mild climate, palm-lined promenades, and a harbor that has inspired many Agatha Christie novels.
- Salcombe: A haven for yachting and water sports, Salcombe is set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is ringed by serene coves and turquoise waters.
Best Time to Go:
While the summer months, from June to August, provide the best conditions for beach-going and exploring, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and the chance to witness the coastline's transformation with wildflowers or autumnal colors.
Potential Risks:
While driving, be mindful of the occasional narrow lanes, especially in rural areas, and remember to adhere to local driving regulations. Parking in popular destinations can be limited during peak season, so plan ahead.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The region is steeped in maritime history, with connections to the Pilgrim Fathers, Sir Francis Drake, and the Royal Navy.
- The route passes through two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Jurassic Coast, renowned for its geological formations and fossils, and the Cornish Mining Landscape, reflecting the area's industrial heritage.
- Gourmet travelers will enjoy the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and the famous Cornish pasty.
A good choice for:
The Seasides of Southwest Road Trip is a journey through time and nature, offering a blend of cultural heritage and coastal allure. Whether you're seeking tranquility on hidden beaches, adventure in the great outdoors, or a deep dive into the area's rich past, this Road Trip is a gateway to the wonders of England's southwest coast.
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