Towns of Southwest Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on the Towns of Southwest Road Trip, a 245-mile journey through some of England’s most beautiful towns. Starting in Bristol, the trip heads through Priddy, renowned for its picturesque landscape and outdoor activities, onto Shaftesbury, a charming town with a rich history and a wealth of attractions. From there, the route continues to Exeter, home to a number of UNESCO Heritage Sites, and then onto Dorchester, with its quaint shops and nearby beaches.
With good road conditions throughout the route, this road trip is suitable for all types of drivers. However, be aware of some narrow roads, particularly in rural areas. The recommended time to complete the trip is 5 days, and the best time of year to take the trip is in the spring or summer.
This road trip provides a unique experience and will leave you with memories to last a lifetime – but it’s not for the budget conscious. Enjoy!
5
number of days
394 km
route length
high
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Bristol
Distance 394 km
Driving time 8.2 h
Pace: modest
102.5 kWh
Airports
BRS
,
CWL
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Bristol is an exciting city in the southwest of England, and an ideal starting point for the “Towns of Southwest Road Trip”. It has a unique blend of culture, heritage and creativity, with a vibrant harbourside, and plenty of attractions to explore.
Start your journey at the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, and take in the stunning views of the Avon Gorge and the River Avon. Then head to the world-famous SS Great Britain, the world’s first great ocean-going liner, and take a tour of the ship, and explore its fascinating history.
No visit to Bristol is complete without a trip to the historic city centre, with its narrow lanes, historic buildings and numerous shops and restaurants. Don’t miss out on a visit to the City Museum, which traces the history of Bristol and the surrounding area.
Head out of the city and explore the nearby countryside, with its rolling hills, picturesque villages, and beautiful beaches. Visit the historic cities of Bath and Wells, and explore the magnificent Cheddar Gorge and the Mendip Hills.
The closest international airport to Bristol is Bristol Airport (BRS), which provides excellent connections to destinations across the UK and Europe. Car rental services are available at the airport, making it easy to explore the area at your own pace.
1
Bristol
- Priddy
Distance 47 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: slow
10.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip starting in Bristol, England? You will be driving for fewer than two hours and covering a distance of 29 miles. This journey will take you through Tyntesfield and Cheddar, before ending in Priddy. On the way, you will be able to enjoy some of the most beautiful sights in the area. From historical sites to picturesque landscapes and scenic roads, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be aware that some sections of the road may be narrow, so please take extra care when driving. This is just one part of a larger tour, so for more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants and campsites, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
Priddy - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Priddy
- Bath
Distance 33 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: slow
7.7 kWh
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Welcome to the Priddy-West Harptree-Bath road trip! This 21mi journey will take you less than an hour to complete, so you can easily take the time to explore the sights along the way. Start your journey in Priddy and take in the historic sites of this charming village. Then, take a drive through West Harptree and admire the scenic views of the countryside. Finally, make your way to Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its many attractions. Along the way, you'll find plenty of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites to visit. Don't forget to check the itinerary for this stage for more information about these options. Enjoy your journey!
Bath - England - Europe - Road Trip - flickr.com
Bath - England - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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3
Bath
- Shaftesbury
Distance 52 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: modest
13.6 kWh
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Embark on a 32-mile journey from the beautiful city of Bath to the charming town of Shaftesbury - a trip that will take you less than an hour. Start your journey in the city of Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its Roman Baths, the Royal Crescent, and the iconic Pulteney Bridge. Then, head to the nearby town of Bradford on Avon, and visit its historic Saxon Church, the Tithe Barn, and the Saxon Weir.
As you continue your road trip, you will reach the town of Mere, where you can explore its impressive castle ruins. Then, take a break in the picturesque village of Zeals and visit the historic St. Aldhelm's Chapel. Finally, you will reach the town of Shaftesbury, where you can visit the ruins of the 12th-century Shaftesbury Abbey and the Gold Hill Museum.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, so for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Shaftesbury - England - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Shaftesbury
- Exeter
Distance 112 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: modest
29.1 kWh
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Start your road trip in Shaftesbury, a charming town in England, and take a 70 mile drive to Exeter. Along the way, you will get to explore the picturesque town of Sherborne. This route is perfect for a day trip, as it will take you fewer than two hours to complete.
In Shaftesbury, you'll find many historical sites to explore, including an old abbey. You can also enjoy the beautiful views of the countryside as you drive through the scenic roads. In Sherborne, you can visit the ruins of the old castle or explore the gardens of Sherborne House.
Once you reach Exeter, you'll find plenty of attractions, including the famous cathedral and the old city walls. You can also take a walk along the River Exe and explore the city's many shops and restaurants.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and 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? Pack your bags and get ready for a fun and exciting road trip!
Exeter - England - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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5
Exeter
- Dorchester
Distance 89 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: modest
23.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Exeter-Lyme Regis-Dorchester road trip! This route is a 55 mi drive that will take you less than two hours to complete. You will be amazed by the picturesque landscapes and the historical sites you will be able to visit along the way.
Starting in Exeter, you will find yourself in a city full of history and culture, and you will be able to visit the Exeter Cathedral, the largest of its kind in Devon. As you continue your journey, you will be able to admire the beautiful coast of Lyme Regis, with its fossil-rich cliffs and the iconic Cobb harbor.
Finally, you will reach Dorchester, a town with a rich history, where you will be able to visit the Maiden Castle, the largest Iron Age hill fort in Europe.
During your drive, you will be able to take in the beautiful scenery, and you will also be able to explore some of the hidden gems along the way.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Dorchester - England - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
Dorchester - England - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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6
Dorchester
- Wareham
Distance 61 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: modest
15.8 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Dorchester to Wareham, a journey of 38 miles that will take you fewer than two hours. Start off your journey in Dorchester, a historic town with a rich history and plenty of attractions to explore, such as the Nothe Fort and the Dinosaur Museum. Then, head to Blandford Forum, a charming town with a lovely market square and a beautiful church. Your next stop is Wimborne Minster, a quaint town with a 12th century minster, a traditional market and a museum. Finally, you will arrive in Wareham, a picturesque town with a beautiful river and a historic town centre.
The route will take you through narrow sections of road, so pay attention to the road and enjoy the stunning views. Don't forget to take a look at the historical sites and the scenic roads along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Wareham - England - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
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Wareham
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The scenic coastal town of Wareham in England is the perfect ending point for the Towns of Southwest Road Trip. This charming town boasts plenty of attractions for travelers looking for a memorable experience.
Start by exploring the Wareham Town Museum. This museum has a wealth of information about the town's long and fascinating history. Learn about the explorations of local pirates, the town's connections to the English Civil War, and much more.
Take a stroll around the Wareham Quay. This bustling harbor is the perfect spot to watch the boats come in and out and to appreciate the stunning views of the River Frome. The Quay is also home to a number of excellent seafood restaurants, so be sure to sample the local delicacies.
For those looking for a more active experience, the Wareham Forest is the perfect spot. This large wooded area is home to a number of trails, perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. The forest is also home to a variety of wildlife, so keep an eye out for deer, birds, and other animals.
Finally, be sure to visit the Wareham Town Wall. This impressive structure is the only complete town wall in England, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Travelers looking for a memorable experience should make Wareham the ending point of the Towns of Southwest Road Trip. The closest international airport is Bournemouth Airport (BOH).
Towns of Southwest Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Bristol
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End:
Wareham
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Distance:
394 km
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Stay:
5 days
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Getting there:
Bristol Airport (BRS),
Cardiff International Airport (CWL)
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When to drive:
April, 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 captivating Towns of Southwest Road Trip, a picturesque 245-mile odyssey that takes you from the vibrant city of Bristol through the rolling hills and charming towns of England's southwestern region, concluding in the historic Dorchester. This route is a treasure trove of England's rich heritage and stunning landscapes, offering a delightful experience for drivers of all skill levels.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Bristol: This bustling city is not only celebrated for its maritime history but also for its thriving street art scene, exemplified by the works of the infamous Banksy. Visitors can enjoy a walk along the historic Harbourside or explore the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge.
- Priddy: Known for its tranquil countryside, Priddy is perfect for nature enthusiasts. The annual Priddy Folk Festival is a cultural highlight, and the nearby Cheddar Gorge offers spectacular limestone cliffs and underground caves to explore.
- Shaftesbury: This quintessential English town is famous for the steep, cobbled street of Gold Hill, which has been featured in films and commercials. The Shaftesbury Abbey Museum and Garden provides insights into the town's rich Saxon heritage.
- Exeter: A city with a layered history, Exeter is home to the magnificent Exeter Cathedral, which features a stunning vaulted ceiling. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum offers a dive into local history, and the city's Roman walls speak to its ancient past.
- Dorchester: Steeped in literary history, Dorchester was once home to the famous novelist Thomas Hardy. The town's proximity to the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its fossil-rich cliffs, makes it a prime location for both history buffs and beachgoers.
Best Time to Go:
Experience the full beauty of the region during the spring when blooming flowers add color to the landscapes, or in the summer when longer daylight hours provide ample time for exploration and the weather is perfect for coastal visits.
Potential Risks:
While the journey is serene, drivers should be mindful of potentially narrow and winding rural Roads, especially when navigating through areas with limited visibility. It's important to remain updated on local weather forecasts and Road conditions to ensure a safe Trip.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Bristol's Floating Harbour is a marvel of engineering, once a vital port and now a modern social hub with restaurants, bars, and cultural institutions.
- The Mendip Hills near Priddy are designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering breathtaking views and a haven for wildlife.
- Shaftesbury's Gold Hill is also known as 'Hovis Hill' due to its appearance in the iconic 1973 Hovis bread advertisement, directed by Ridley Scott.
- Exeter's underground passages, dating back to the 14th century, are a unique historical feature, originally built to house lead pipes that brought fresh water into the city.
- Dorchester is in close proximity to Maiden Castle, one of the largest and most complex Iron Age hillforts in Europe, providing a glimpse into Britain’s prehistoric past.
A good choice for:
The Towns of Southwest Road Trip presents a splendid blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and cultural richness. This journey through England's southwest is an invitation to discover the soul of the region, with each mile unfolding new stories and landscapes that promise to leave travelers with lasting impressions and cherished memories. To capture the essence of these towns, allocate at least 5 days to immerse yourself in the local ambiance and relish the diverse experiences along the way.
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