Road Trips from London: The 6 Best Routes to Explore

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London, a city steeped in history and bustling with modern energy, is an ideal starting point for exploring beyond its urban confines. Beyond the iconic landmarks and vibrant streets lies a realm of natural wonders, charming villages, picturesque landscapes and cultural treasures waiting to be discovered.

Join us as we embark on a journey through some of the most beautiful and historic routes from London. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply craving the freedom of the open road, these road trips from London promise a unique glimpse into the diverse beauty of the United Kingdom.

road trip from London

Is this your first time visiting the United Kingdom? Get all the information you need in our UK Travel Guide, including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Windsor to Bristol

History buffs will love this road trip to the southwest of England. It includes everything from a royal residence and historical architecture to ancient Roman baths and a historically significant 12th-century harbour town.

Windsor

Nestled along the serene banks of the River Thames, Windsor is a quintessential English town brimming with history and regal charm. Just a short drive west of London, this ancient settlement is renowned for its majestic Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest and largest occupied castle.

Steeped in over a thousand years of royal history, Windsor Castle beckons visitors with its grandeur and storied past, offering a glimpse into the lives of British monarchs past and present. Beyond its castle walls, Windsor boasts picturesque streets lined with quaint shops, traditional pubs, and riverside walks, making it a delightful stop on any road trip adventure from London.

Windsor Highlights

  • Take a tour of Windsor Castle, including the State Apartments, St. George’s Chapel, and the Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House.
  • Stroll through Windsor Great Park, once a popular hunting forest with Saxon kings.
  • Explore the town centre. See if you can spot the 16th-century Crooked House, which has been a butcher’s shop, a brewery, and an antique shop in its time and is now a tea shop – perfect for a cuppa!
  • Tour the River Thames by boat to Boveney Lock for views of Windsor Castle, Eton College, Mill House and the Brocas Meadows.
  • Visit the fantastic Legoland Windsor theme park.
  • Take a tour of the prestigious Eton College, which has produced prime ministers, world leaders, Nobel laureates, and generations of English aristocrats.
  • Learn about the town’s history at the Windsor and Royal Borough Museum.
  • Take a ghost tour and hear about Windsor’s dark and supernatural past!
  • Attend a performance at the historic Theatre Royal Windsor.
  • Visit the Windsor Farm Shop on the Windsor Estate for lots of local goodies.

Salisbury

Salisbury is renowned for its stunning medieval cathedral and its proximity to Stonehenge. The city’s charming streets are lined with historic buildings, including timber-framed Tudor houses and elegant Georgian townhouses.

Salisbury Highlights

  • Visit the medieval Salisbury Cathedral, which boasts the tallest church spire in the country and houses one of the four surviving copies of the Magna Carta.
  • Walk around the Market Place in the heart of Salisbury town.
  • Explore the site of the original Salisbury settlement of Old Sarum, a vast Iron Age hill fort occupied by Romans, Normans and Saxons.
  • Visit the enigmatic Stonehenge, one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Located on wild and windswept Salisbury Plain, this prehistoric stone circle was built over 4,000 years ago, and its purpose remains shrouded in mystery.
  • Walk along the beautiful River Avon from Elizabeth Gardens.
  • Learn about the region’s history at the Salisbury Museum, which includes Stonehenge artefacts.
  • Explore the beautiful scenery and wildlife at Harnham Water Meadows.
  • Visit the historic 18th-century Mompesson House in Salisbury’s Cathedral Close.

Bath

Bath is renowned for its Roman-built baths, which have been a focal point since ancient times. Bath is also celebrated for its Georgian architecture, with the Royal Crescent and the Circus prime examples of this elegant style.

The city is full of charming streets lined with honey-coloured stone buildings, housing boutique shops, quaint cafés, and museums that tell the story of its rich history and architectural splendour.

Bath Highlights

  • Visit the Roman Baths, the best-preserved Roman spas in the world.
  • Relax and unwind at the modern Thermae Bath Spa, where the stunning open-air rooftop pool offers incredible views.
  • Explore the Georgian architecture in town, including the Royal Crescent, the Circus, and the Pulteney Bridge.
  • Visit the Jane Austen Centre to learn more about the famous writer who spent several years living and writing in Bath and set both Northanger Abbey and Persuasion in the city.
  • Visit the stunning Gothic Bath Abbey for panoramic city views.
  • Discover Bridgerton filming locations in Bath, the perfect setting for the Regency-era drama.
  • Visit Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House and Museum, Bath’s oldest house from circa 1483 and home of the famous Sally Lunn bun, a semi-sweet bread.

Bristol

Bristol is a vibrant city known for its maritime heritage, creative arts scene, and diverse cultural offerings. The city’s history as a major port is evident in its historic harborside, where centuries-old warehouses have been transformed into museums, galleries, and lively waterfront venues.

Bristol is also famous for its street art culture and thriving music scene. The iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge dominates the city’s skyline, spanning the picturesque Avon Gorge.

Bristol Highlights

  • Visit the Clifton Suspension Bridge for breathtaking views of the city and the Avon Gorge.
  • Explore street art in the Stokes Croft and Bedminster neighbourhoods.
  • Visit the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery.
  • Take a boat tour from Bristol Harbor.
  • Visit the 1843 SS Great Britain, which now serves as a museum.
  • Walk around the Bristol Old City and explore its buildings dating back to the 1600s.
  • Explore Clifton Village, a picturesque neighbourhood with many shops and eateries.
  • Attend a concert at the O2 Academy Bristol.
  • Visit the St. Nicholas Market (closed on Sundays).
stone castle at the end of a long walk lined with grass and trees

Cambridge to Oxford

On this road trip, you’ll experience the academic prestige and architectural beauty of two of the world’s most renowned universities, coupled with Regency charm and a dynamic mix of culture, shopping, and industrial heritage.

Cambridge

Cambridge, a historic city in eastern England, is renowned worldwide for its prestigious university, the University of Cambridge, established in 1209.

The city’s rich academic heritage has fostered a vibrant intellectual community, making it a hub for education and research. Its picturesque scenery, characterized by the River Cam and iconic college architecture like King’s College Chapel, attracts tourists and scholars alike.

Cambridge Highlights

  • Explore the esteemed University of Cambridge including the stunning King’s College Chapel.
  • Go punting on the River Cam – take a guided tour or punt yourself.
  • Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum to see an impressive collection of artworks.
  • Explore Cambridge’s beautiful Botanical Garden.
  • Walk from the Millpond through the Meadows along the River Cam to the picturesque village of Grantchester. In his 1912 poem The Old Vicarage, Grantchester, poet Rupert Brooke wrote about this place with the infamous line, “Is there honey still for tea?”
  • Visit Cambridge Market and try the locally-made fudge, it’s to-die for!
  • Visit the Whipple Museum to learn about the history of science.
  • Visit the very moving Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial, a World War II American military war grave cemetery.
  • Visit the 12th-century round church, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Royal Leamington Spa

Royal Leamington Spa, often simply called Leamington, is a charming town in Warwickshire known for its 18th-century Regency architecture, stunning gardens, and historical significance as a spa town.

Leamington Spa has developed into a vibrant town that seamlessly blends its rich heritage with modern attractions, tree-lined avenues, beautifully landscaped gardens, and elegant historic buildings.

Royal Leamington Spa Highlights

  • Explore the award-winning Jephson Gardens with their lush landscapes, fountains, and beautiful glasshouse.
  • Discover the history of the town’s spa origins and enjoy contemporary art exhibitions at the Royal Pump Rooms and Art Gallery.
  • Shop at an array of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants on bustling Regent Street.
  • Relax in the picturesque Mill Gardens situated alongside the River Leam.
  • Admire the impressive Gothic architecture at All Saints Church.

Birmingham

Birmingham is a vibrant and diverse city known for its rich industrial history and cultural heritage. As the second-largest city in the UK, Birmingham boasts a dynamic mix of modernity and tradition, featuring striking architecture, a thriving arts scene, and an extensive canal network that rivals Venice.

Birmingham Highlights

  • Visit the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery for a glimpse into Birmingham’s rich and vibrant past.
  • Explore Birmingham’s oldest district, the Jewelry Quarter, to see bespoke jewellery stores, restaurants, bars, and cafĂ©s.
  • Visit the beautiful Birmingham Botanical Gardens.
  • Visit the 18th-century Baroque St Philip’s Cathedral, the seat of the Bishop of Birmingham.
  • Step onto a 1930s open-topped heritage working boat and take a relaxing boat trip around Birmingham’s canal loops.
  • Visit the amazing Cadbury World to learn about the chocolate-making process.
  • Shop at the Bullring and Grand Central modern shopping centres for great retail therapy!
  • Attend a performance at the magnificent Symphony Hall.

Oxford

Oxford is renowned worldwide for its prestigious University of Oxford, the oldest university in the English-speaking world. This historic city is characterized by its stunning architecture, including the iconic Radcliffe Camera, the Bodleian Library, and numerous college buildings that date back to the medieval period.

Beyond its academic legacy, Oxford boasts a rich cultural scene with museums like the Ashmolean, lush parks, and a vibrant arts community. The city’s picturesque streets and charming pubs add to its timeless appeal.

Oxford Highlights

  • Explore the world-class University of Oxford, which includes gardens, libraries and museums,
  • Discover the Oxford Botanic Garden, founded in 1621.
  • Visit the Ashmolean Museum to see impressive art and archaeology exhibits.
  • Walk along the Oxford Canal towpath to see locks, bridges and even a tunnel.
  • Visit one of the 26 Bodleian Libraries scattered around campus.
  • Explore the Covered Market to browse over 50 independent shops.
  • Visit Oxford Castle and Prison to learn more about this city’s history.
  • Walk around beautiful Christ Church Meadow.
  • Visit the Pitt Rivers Museum, home to several archaeological and anthropological collections.
  • Attend a performance at the Oxford Playhouse.
large domed building with other spires nearby and countryside in the background

Brighton to the New Forest

A road trip from Brighton to the New Forest is a delightful journey through some of England’s most picturesque coastal and countryside landscapes. You’ll stop at castles, pretty towns, and historic landmarks, and follow the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park.

Brighton

Brighton is a lively and eclectic seaside city renowned for the iconic Brighton Pier, which offers traditional amusements and stunning sea views. Brighton’s lively arts scene is evident in its numerous galleries, theatres, and street performances, while The Lanes offer a maze of narrow streets filled with independent shops, cafĂ©s, and vintage stores.

Brighton Highlights

  • Walk along the famous Brighton Pier and enjoy a locally made ice cream.
  • Visit the former royal residence, the Royal Pavilion, and its beautiful gardens.
  • Explore North Laine, a vibrant hub of independent restaurants, pubs, cafĂ©s, and shops.
  • Visit the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery for world-class art, history and design.
  • Stroll along the Prom to enjoy Brighton Beach and the cafĂ©s and art galleries that line the pebble beach.
  • Rise 138 metres above the city in a glass viewing pod, the British Airways i360, for spectacular views.
  • Stroll through the Brighton Open Market and shop at stalls selling local produce, clothes and crafts.
  • Visit the Brighton Toy and Model Museum, located in four Victorian cellars under Brighton’s main train station.
  • Attend a performance at the Brighton Dome.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a historic maritime city renowned for its rich naval heritage. Home to the historic dockyard, Portsmouth boasts a collection of famous ships, including the HMS Victory, Lord Nelson’s flagship, and the Mary Rose, Henry VIII’s warship. The city’s waterfront is lined with attractions such as the Spinnaker Tower, offering panoramic views of the Solent and the bustling harbour.

Portsmouth Highlights

  • Visit the fantastic Historic Dockyard to learn about Britain’s maritime history.
  • Visit the 170-meter-tall Spinnaker Tower for panoramic views of the harbour.
  • Visit the D-Day Museum to see exhibits of the Allied invasion of Normandy during World War II.
  • Walk along the Millennium Promenade from Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, through Gunwharf Quays and Old Portsmouth to Southsea.
  • Visit the beautiful 12th-century Portsmouth Cathedral in the historic heart of the city.
  • Explore the Portsmouth City Museum and Art Gallery, where you can find out just about anything you want to know about the city!
  • Visit the Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum, open on Saturdays and Sundays during summer.
  • Attend a concert or event at the Portsmouth Guildhall.

Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight, situated off the southern coast of England, is a picturesque island known for its stunning natural beauty and royal connections. This quaint destination offers a diverse landscape of sandy beaches, rolling countryside, and dramatic cliffs.

The island is home to iconic landmarks such as The Needles, a series of chalk stacks rising from the sea, and Osborne House, Queen Victoria’s beloved summer residence. Take the Portsmouth to Fishbourne ferry to explore the Isle of Wight by car.

Isle of Wight Highlights

  • Visit the Needles, a row of three chalk sea stacks that is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks.
  • Walk the Isle of Wight Coastal Path, a 70-mile waymarked walk following the coastline around the island.
  • Visit Osborne House, a former royal residence built for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
  • Explore the charming seaside town of Ventnor or the quaint village of Shanklin.
  • Visit the historic Carisbrooke Castle, a stunning Saxon fortress and castle of the Norman conquest.
  • Take a ride in a restored Victorian and Edwardian carriages on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
  • Visit the beautiful Benedictine monastery, Quarr Abbey.

New Forest

The New Forest is a beautiful national park renowned for its ancient woodlands, expansive heathlands, and picturesque villages. Established by William the Conqueror in 1079 as a royal hunting ground, it is now a haven for wildlife, including free-roaming ponies and pigs, deer, and diverse bird species.

  • Visit the New Forest capital of Lyndhurst for open forest walks, ponies and afternoon tea!
  • Head for Paultons Park, the premier theme park on the south coast and home to Peppa Pig World.
  • Have fun at the New Forest Water Park, where you can wakeboard, water ski, and fall off the enormous inflatable aqua park at the lake’s edge!
  • Explore the hundreds of New Forest cycle routes from Brockenhurst, a pretty and traditional village in the heart of the forest.
  • Discover the charming village of Beaulieu, home to the National Motor Museum, the historic 13th-century Palace House and the Georgian village of Buckler’s Hard, where Nelson’s warships were built.
  • Visit Lymington, which has a lively harbour and is a perfect base for a couple of days, particularly if you enjoy messing about on the water. 
tall white rocks and sea stacks

Other UK Travel Ideas

Rochester to Dover

A road trip from Rochester to Dover promises an exploration through the heart of Kent, known as the ‘Garden of England.’ Starting in the historic city of Rochester, with its stunning cathedral, ancient castle, and connections to Charles Dickens, you’ll journey southeast through rolling countryside and charming villages. As you travel, you’ll pass through areas rich in history and natural beauty, including the lush landscapes of the North Downs.

Rochester

Rochester, on the River Medway in Kent, is a historic city celebrated for its rich heritage and picturesque charm. Dominated by the imposing Rochester Castle, the city also boasts the stunning Rochester Cathedral, one of the oldest in England. Rochester’s cobbled streets and quaint shops create a timeless atmosphere, further enhanced by its literary connections to Charles Dickens, who lived nearby and featured the city in several of his works.

Rochester Highlights

  • Visit the historic 12th-century Rochester Castle, an imposing fortress with a complex history of destruction and rebuilding. 
  • Explore Rochester Cathedral, which features a mix of architectural styles, from Norman to Gothic, and stunning stained-glass windows.
  • Visit The Guildhall Museum to learn about the town’s history.
  • Explore the Huguenot Museum, which is dedicated to the French Protestants who fled religious persecution and settled in England.
  • Take a boat trip along the River Medway or walk along the Esplanade.
  • Visit the Six Poor Travellers House, a Tudor charity house.
  • Explore the iconic Rochester Bridge.
  • Attend the Dickens Festival if you pass through Rochester during the summer.

Canterbury

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Canterbury is a historic city renowned for its magnificent Canterbury Cathedral, the spiritual heart of the Church of England. The city’s rich history is evident in its medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and ancient city walls. The city’s connection to Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales adds to its literary significance.

Canterbury Highlights

  • Visit the fabulous UNESCO World Heritage Canterbury Cathedral.
  • Stroll along the beautiful River Stour that flows through the town.
  • Explore the Canterbury Roman Museum to learn about the city’s ancient past.
  • Visit the Westgate Towers Museum and Viewpoint for panoramic city views.
  • Walk along the city walls, which date back to the Roman era and offer great views.
  • Visit St. Martin’s Church, the oldest church in the English-speaking world. Its architecture dates from Roman, Saxon, Norman, and medieval times.

Margate

Margate has been a popular holiday destination since the 18th century and is known for its sandy beaches. The town attracts visitors with its traditional amusement arcades, beachfront cafés, and the historic Dreamland amusement park.

The town is also known for its artistic community, anchored by the Turner Contemporary gallery, which showcases modern and contemporary art.

Margate Highlights

  • Visit Dreamland, an amusement park that dates to the 1800s.
  • Relax on Margate’s sandy beach in summer.
  • Visit the Turner Contemporary, an art gallery named after the famous painter J.M.W. Turner, who frequently visited Margate.
  • Walk along the historic Margate Harbor Arm pier.
  • Visit the Margate Museum to see exhibits on the town’s maritime, seaside, and cultural heritage.
  • Explore the Old Town, home to the iconic Shell Grotto.
  • Explore the Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, a historic saltwater pool that dates to the 1930s.
  • Visit the 17th-century Margate Caves.

Dover

Dover is best known for its iconic white chalk cliffs that rise majestically above the English Channel. It serves as the closest point to continental Europe, with France visible on clear days, just 21 miles across the water. Dover’s strategic importance is underscored by its impressive medieval castle, often referred to as the ‘Key to England,’ which has stood guard over the town for centuries.

Dover Highlights

  • Visit Dover Castle, a medieval fortress that has guarded the town and its harbour for over 800 years.
  • Explore the UK’s most iconic natural landmark, the White Cliffs of Dover.
  • Visit the Dover Western Heights, a network of historic fortifications that date back to the Napoleonic Wars.
  • Explore the Dover Museum to learn about local history.
  • Visit the 19th-century South Foreland Lighthouse.
  • Discover the Dover Transport Museum, home to vintage cars, buses, trams, and other vehicles.
historic market place with half-timbered buildings and a central memorial

Chelmsford to Norwich

A road trip from Chelmsford to Norwich weaves its way through the charming landscapes of East Anglia. You’ll visit historic cities and picturesque coastal towns and see local landmarks and Roman heritage along the route.

Chelmsford

Chelmsford, the county town of Essex, boasts a rich heritage dating back to Roman times, evident in its well-preserved historical sites such as the stunning Chelmsford Cathedral and the Shire Hall. The city offers a thriving cultural scene, with numerous parks, shopping districts, and annual festivals that draw visitors from across the region.

Chelmsford Highlights

  • Visit the beautiful park and stately home, Hylands Estate.
  • Stroll through the beautiful RHS Garden Hyde Hall, one of the finest in East England.
  • Visit the stunning 15th-century Chelmsford Cathedral.
  • Visit the Chelmsford Museum to learn about the city’s history and people.
  • Attend a show at the Civic Theatre.

Colchester

Colchester, often celebrated as Britain’s oldest recorded town, is steeped in a rich tapestry of history that spans back to Roman times. This vibrant town boasts a wealth of historical landmarks, including the well-preserved Colchester Castle, which houses an impressive museum showcasing artefacts from its storied past. The town’s historic streets are lined with charming medieval buildings, and its cultural scene is lively, with numerous galleries, theatres, and festivals.

Colchester Highlights

  • Visit the 11th-century Colchester Castle.
  • Walk along the River Colne.
  • Visit the Hollytrees Museum, showcasing Colchester’s 18th and 19th-century history.
  • Walk through the beautiful Castle Park gardens.
  • Explore the ancient Roman Wall that surrounds the town.
  • Visit the Natural History Museum to see exhibits on local wildlife, fossils, and geology.
  • Attend a performance at the Mercury Theater.
  • Drive to nearby beaches, such as Frinton-on-Sea or Walton-on-the-Naze.

Southwold

Southwold, a quintessentially charming coastal town on the Suffolk Heritage Coast, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, historical interest, and seaside charm. Known for its iconic lighthouse, colourful beach huts, and bustling pier, Southwold provides a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation and recreation.

Southwold Highlights

  • Explore 190-metre-long Southwold Pier, where you’ll find traditional pier attractions.
  • Visit Southwold Lighthouse, which surprisingly is in the centre of town!
  • Relax on the beautiful sandy beaches.
  • Browse the bustling independent local shops and marketplace for holiday souvenirs.
  • Take a guided tour of Adnams, Suffolk’s award-winning brewery.
  • Enjoy fish and chips from the best in town: The Little Fish and Chip Shop or Mrs T’s Fish and Chips.
  • Visit the Southwold Boating Lake and Tea Room for a traditional afternoon tea.
  • Admire the colourful beach huts, and take loads of photos of them!

Norwich

It’s no surprise that Norwich is known as one of the best small cities in England. Packed with fascinating history, medieval architecture, and top attractions, Norwich is a fantastic destination for a day out or a short city break. It’s my home city, so I have a special love for the place!

Norwich Highlights

  • Visit 900-year-old Norwich Cathedral to see its beautiful interior, stained glass windows, and a beautiful cloister.
  • Walk around the Norwich Lanes for independent shops, cafĂ©s, and restaurants.
  • Explore medieval Norwich Castle to see exhibits on local history, including the Vikings and the Normans.
  • Go to Norwich Market, England’s oldest open-air market, for local produce, crafts and delicious street food.
  • Visit the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, home to an impressive modern and contemporary art collection, including works by Picasso, Bacon, and Giacometti.
  • Take a boat trip on the tranquil River Wensum.
  • Walk around the beautiful Norwich Cathedral Close and visit the Bishop’s Garden.
cobbled street lined with historic buildings and a square church tower in the distance

Cotswolds

The Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is loved for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and quintessentially English countryside. Spanning several counties, including Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and Warwickshire, the area is characterized by its rolling hills, honey-coloured limestone cottages, and historic market towns.

Burford

The medieval town of Burford lies on the edge of the so-called ‘Golden Triangle’, bordered by the A40, A44 and A429. This triangle is the location of some of the Cotswolds’ most idyllic chocolate box villages, including Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Moreton-in-Marsh, Broadway, Bibury, and Lower Slaughter.

Burford Highlights

  • Explore the historic High Street, lined with cute shops and cafĂ©s.
  • Stroll along the River Windrush with its three-arched medieval bridge.
  • Enjoy a meal at a traditional Cotswold pub – we recommend The Highway Inn, right on the High Street.
  • Visit the fantastic Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens.
  • Visit Tolsey Museum, housed in a historic Tudor market building.

Painswick

Painswick is a beautiful and historic wool town known as ‘The Queen of the Cotswolds’. Built from locally quarried stone, it is one of the best-preserved settlements in the Cotswolds and is a great starting point for exploring the area.

Painswick Highlights

  • Visit St. Mary’s Church and its unique churchyard with 99 yew trees
  • Explore the Rococo Garden, a 17th-century garden with follies, fantastic views and plenty of space to roam.
  • Hike the Cotswold Way to Birdlip and climb Cooper’s Hill, location of the annual Cheese Rolling Festival location.
  • Discover the Painswick Beacon, the site of an ancient Iron Age hill fort that offers some of the best panoramic views of the Cotswolds and, on a clear day, Wales.
  • Immerse yourself in the countryside and explore beautiful Painswick Valley to see local flora and fauna.

Cirencester

Cirencester, often referred to as the ‘Capital of the Cotswolds,’ is best known for its rich Roman heritage, picturesque streets lined with charming Cotswold stone buildings, bustling markets, and quaint shops.

Cirencester Highlights

  • Visit the Corinium Museum to explore Cirencester’s history as a Roman town.
  • Explore Cirencester Park, which surrounds Cirencester House, with beautiful gardens and woodland trails.
  • Stroll around the Market Place and browse local shops, cafĂ©s, and the Corn Hall indoor market.
  • Visit the Parish Church of St. John Baptist to admire the impressive Gothic architecture.
  • Sample local Cotswold cuisine – we recommend the historic 18th-century Bear Inn.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the pretty River Chrun, which flows along the edge of town.
  • Discover the ancient Roman Cirencester Amphitheatre located just outside the town centre.
small stream running through a village with stone buildings and trees

Information About Driving in England

Whether you’re road-tripping England in a car, camper, or motorbike, make sure you’ve got all your documents handy and your spare tyre is in good condition. If your road trip itinerary is longer than a few weeks, you may want to consider a vehicle service before you go, and a breakdown cover is probably a good idea.

  • Remember to drive on the left during your trip to England!
  • Drivers from non-EU countries may require an International Driving Permit (IDP). The general rule is that an IDP will be required if your licence is not in Latin script. Check with your hire company or embassy if you’re in doubt.
  • You must have at least third-party insurance for your vehicle. You do not require a green card if your car is registered in the EU.
  • Your car must be considered roadworthy and legal in the country in which it is registered.
  • Your headlights must be adapted for driving on the left if your vehicle is registered outside the UK.
  • Unlike France, the UK does not have laws requiring you to carry specific equipment in your car, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t. Being prepared in the event of an accident or a breakdown is invaluable. Ideally, you should carry a reflective jacket, a warning triangle, a first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher.
  • Understand insurance options, mileage limits and fuel policies before booking a rental car.

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