Discovering Hidden Gems: The Ultimate Road Trip through England
Are you itching to pack your bags and hit the road for a picturesque adventure through the charming English countryside? England is home to ancient buildings, scenic countryside trails, and charming villages waiting to be explored. With so many must-visit destinations, it can be challenging to create an itinerary that covers all the hidden gems England has to offer. This article aims to offer you an ultimate road trip itinerary that covers the best of England’s hidden gems.
Day 1: London to Bath
Begin your adventure in London, taking the M4 westbound, and drive directly to your first destination: Bath. Often overshadowed by Oxford and Cambridge, Bath is a hidden treasure that deserves attention. Its cobblestone streets, elegant Georgian architecture, and Roman-built baths draw tourists from all over the world.
On arrival, explore the Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman spas in the world. A guided tour is available, which lasts approximately one hour and has audio guides available in multiple languages. From there, head to the Royal Crescent, an iconic row of 30 Georgian townhouses, and indulge in some classic creams tea.
Day 2: Bath to Glastonbury
After breakfast, hop back into your car and drive to the mystical town of Glastonbury. From the stunning Abbey and the Chalice Well Gardens to the majestic Glastonbury Tor, the town is full of legends and energy. The Tor remains the most iconic landmark, with a climb to the top focusing inward, towards one’s own self.
When you’ve explored the town, move along with the road trip, westbound to the stunning Cheddar Gorge. Here you’ll find the largest gorge in the UK and the perfect place for a long walk, followed by a much-needed break at a world-famous cheese-making dairy or a local pub before moving along to Bristol.
Day 3: Bristol to Dartmoor
After exploring Bristol’s famous Clifton Suspension Bridge, indulge in some handmade chocolate at one of the local chocolatiers. Then, jump into your car and head to Dartmoor. This beautiful wilderness has countless opportunities for hiking, walking, and outdoor activities. From the Bronze age village at Grimspound to the beautiful Lydford Gorge pools, Dartmoor National Park has something for everyone. Spend the night camping or glamping in one of the local campsites to get the full wilderness experience.
Day 4: Dartmoor to Fowey
Spend the morning exploring Dartmoor’s stunning natural beauty and scenery before moving along the road trip, south along the A38 and A30 to Fowey. This small town in Cornwall is one of England’s hidden seaside gems. With a stunning coastal view, the town is an excellent destination for surfers, artists, and writers. Take a walk along the scenic coastal paths before ending the day with some traditional Cornish cuisine at one of the many seaside restaurants.
Day 5: Fowey to Bournemouth
From Fowey, follow the A38 to Plymouth, the historic harbor city famous for its maritime heritage, before driving onto the lovely beach town of Bournemouth. You can take a walk along the golden sands of the Blue Flag beaches and immerse yourself in the warm waters of the Dorset coast. The town itself is full of opportunities for shopping, dining, and relaxation before heading back to London via the A338 and M3.
Conclusion
This five-day road trip through England takes you through the heart of hidden gems, giving you a chance to experience the charm and beauty that England has to offer. With a mix of ancient landmarks, breathtaking countryside trails, and stunning coastal views, this road trip has something for everyone. We hope this itinerary inspires you to hit the road and explore England’s most exceptional hidden gems.
