Itinerary

A week in South West England sounds like a delightful adventure. With your car, you’ll have the freedom to explore the stunning countryside, charming villages, and beautiful coastlines at your own pace. Here’s a fun and engaging itinerary for your 7-day trip, starting from London:

## Day 1: London to Bath

Morning:

• Start your journey early and head to Bath (about a 2.5-hour drive).
• Once you arrive, grab a hearty breakfast at a local café. The Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House is a must-try for their famous buns!

Afternoon:

• Explore the Roman Baths and the stunning Bath Abbey. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the Pulteney Bridge for some picturesque views.
• Enjoy lunch at a local pub, perhaps The Raven for some delicious pies.

Evening:

• Wind down with a visit to the Thermae Bath Spa for a relaxing soak in the rooftop pool with views of the city.
• Dinner at The Olive Tree, a lovely spot for some fine dining.

## Day 2: Bath to the Cotswolds

Morning:

• After breakfast, drive to the Cotswolds (about 30 minutes).
• Start in Castle Combe, often dubbed the prettiest village in England. Take a leisurely walk and snap some photos.

Afternoon:

• Head to Bourton-on-the-Water, where you can enjoy lunch by the river. Try The Croft Restaurant for a cozy meal.
• Visit the Cotswold Motoring Museum or just wander around the charming shops.

Evening:

• Drive to Stow-on-the-Wold for dinner at The Old Butchers, known for its local produce.
• Spend the night in a quaint B&B or a cozy inn.

## Day 3: Cotswolds to Oxford

Morning:

• After breakfast, make your way to Oxford (about an hour’s drive).
• Start your day with a visit to the Ashmolean Museum.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at The Eagle and Child, a historic pub frequented by J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful University of Oxford. Don’t miss the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College.

Evening:

• Have dinner at The Oxford Kitchen, a modern British restaurant.
• Stay overnight in Oxford.

## Day 4: Oxford to Stonehenge and Salisbury

Morning:

• Depart Oxford and head to Stonehenge (about a 1.5-hour drive).
• Spend some time exploring this iconic prehistoric monument.

Afternoon:

• Drive to Salisbury (about 30 minutes) and have lunch at The Chapter House.
• Visit Salisbury Cathedral, home to the tallest spire in England and the best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at The Red Lion, a charming pub with a great atmosphere.
• Overnight in Salisbury.

## Day 5: Salisbury to the Jurassic Coast

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to the Jurassic Coast (about a 1-hour drive to Lyme Regis).
• Spend the morning exploring the beach and fossil hunting.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at The Cobb Arms with views of the harbor.
• Visit the Lyme Regis Museum or take a scenic walk along the coast.

Evening:

• Drive to Dorchester (about 30 minutes) for dinner at The Olive Tree.
• Stay overnight in Dorchester.

## Day 6: Dorchester to Exeter

Morning:

• Depart for Exeter (about a 30-minute drive).
• Visit the Exeter Cathedral and take a stroll through the Exeter Quayside.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at The Old Firehouse, known for its delicious pizzas.
• Explore the Royal Albert Memorial Museum or take a walk along the Exeter City Wall.

Evening:

• Have dinner at The Magdalen Chapter, a lovely spot with a great atmosphere.
• Overnight in Exeter.

## Day 7: Exeter to Dartmoor and Return to London

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a scenic drive through Dartmoor National Park. Stop at Haytor for some stunning views and a bit of hiking.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park or head to Princetown for a bite at The Plume of Feathers.
• Start your journey back to London (about a 3.5-hour drive).

Evening:

• Arrive in London, and if you have time, enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant in the city.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the opening hours of attractions in advance.
• Book accommodations ahead of time, especially in popular areas.
• Keep your camera handy; the scenery is breathtaking!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable trip to South West England! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌍🚗✨