South England offers a rich combination of historic towns, coastal landscapes and peaceful countryside, making it a perfect region for an immersive road adventure. Over five days, a well-planned South England road trip allows travellers to experience iconic landmarks, dramatic cliffs, charming villages and cultural heritage sites—all within manageable driving distances.
For those planning a 5 day road trip in southern England, this guide outlines a scenic and efficient driving route, complete with daily itineraries, local tips and route suggestions for making the most of your journey through the south coast of England.
Day 1: London to Winchester via Windsor
Begin your journey by departing from London early in the morning and head west to Windsor, home to the world-famous Windsor Castle. The historic riverside setting and well-preserved medieval town centre make it an ideal first cultural stop. After exploring, continue driving through the Berkshire countryside towards Winchester—England’s ancient capital.
Winchester offers a mix of Roman and medieval history with highlights like Winchester Cathedral, the Great Hall and cobbled backstreets, perfect for evening exploration. Stay overnight in one of the several charming inns for a quiet end to the day.
Day 2: Winchester to the Jurassic Coast
From Winchester, drive southwest toward the Dorset coastline, stopping briefly in Salisbury to see the iconic Salisbury Cathedral. Continue toward Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door—two of the most stunning geological features along the Jurassic Coast.
This stretch of the south coast England driving route offers dramatic sea views, fossil-laden cliffs and scenic hiking paths. It’s a destination equally suited for photography and outdoor activity. Spend the night in a seaside town like Weymouth, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and coastal ambiance.
Day 3: Exploring c and Villages
Head west towards East Devon, following the coastline through Sidmouth and Beer—two atmospheric villages known for their fossil cliffs and beach promenades. A good tip is to take the narrow country lanes for a true experience of scenic drives in South England.
End your day in the larger town of Exeter, where you can stroll along the historic quayside or visit Exeter Cathedral. This makes for a convenient overnight stop with ample accommodation and dining options.
Day 4: Dartmoor National Park and Plymouth
Leave the coast for a day and venture inland to Dartmoor National Park. The rugged moorland, granite tors and open pastures are ideal for walks and roadside stops. Consider visiting the ancient clapper bridge in Postbridge or the village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor.
Later in the day, make your way southwest to Plymouth. Visit the historic Barbican harbour, the Mayflower Steps and the Royal William Yard. An overnight stay in Plymouth offers a balance between maritime history and modern seaside atmosphere.
Day 5: Cornwall Highlights and Return via Tintagel
For the final day of your South England road trip, head across the Tamar Bridge into Cornwall. A visit to Tintagel Castle—linked to King Arthur lore—offers clifftop trails and panoramic coastal views. The drive along the Atlantic Highway from Bude to Tintagel is among the most scenic drives in South England.
Plan to return either to London via the M5 motorway or continue exploring Cornwall if time allows. If heading back, consider a detour through the Cotswolds or Bath for a picturesque end to the trip.
