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A Self-Driving Holiday in England: Two Weeks Exploring the South
This two-week self-driving holiday to England is ideal for travellers arriving by car from France, Belgium, the Netherlands and further afield. Crossing via Le Shuttle from Calais, you’ll have the freedom to explore England at your own pace.
A Self-Driving Holiday in England: Two Weeks Exploring the South
This two-week self-driving holiday to England is ideal for travellers arriving by car from France, Belgium, the Netherlands and further afield. Crossing via Le Shuttle from Calais, you’ll have the freedom to explore England at your own pace.
About The Itinerary
This two-week self-driving holiday to England is ideal for travellers arriving by car from France, Belgium, the Netherlands and further afield. Crossing via Le Shuttle from Calais, you’ll have the freedom to explore England at your own pace, with the comfort of your own vehicle and the flexibility to linger where you choose. England is much more than just London, and this itinerary is designed to showcase the regions beyond the capital, without the need to drive into the city.
Over the course of two weeks, this itinerary takes you through some of southern England’s most rewarding regions — from the seaside towns and historic cities of Kent, through the vibrant coast and rolling countryside of Sussex, along the dramatic Jurassic Coast in Dorset, across the wild landscapes of Dartmoor and Exmoor, and into the far southwest of Cornwall. From there, the journey turns inland to the elegance of Bath, the academic calm of Oxford, the cathedral city of Worcester, and finally the timeless villages and rolling hills of the Cotswolds.
Designed for relaxed, rewarding travel, this route balances scenic driving with carefully chosen overnight stays, allowing time to truly settle into each destination. From white cliffs and coastal paths to national parks, historic streets and countryside inns, this self-drive journey reveals England at its most authentic and welcoming.
We recommend allowing two full weeks to experience southern England properly — unhurried, flexible, and rich in memorable moments.
Itinerary Info
Duration:
14 Nights
Itinerary Schedule
Calais, France to Kent, England
Arrive in England by car via Le Shuttle from Calais or by ferry, and begin your journey in the lush landscapes of Kent, often known as England’s Garden. From Folkestone or Dover, drive to your first base on the North Kent coast.
Day 1 & 2: Stay in Broadstairs
We recommend spending two nights in Broadstairs to enjoy its classic seaside charm, sandy bays and relaxed pace. Located on the Isle of Thanet, this corner of Kent is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional seaside towns and big coastal skies. With coastal walking paths, lively harbour towns and a strong local food scene, Thanet offers a wonderful introduction to England’s seaside life — unhurried, welcoming and full of character.
Day 2: Canterbury Historic Tour
Join the Canterbury Historic Walking Tour and step into over 2,000 years of history. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this engaging walk brings the city’s past to life as you explore its Roman walls, medieval streets and timber-framed buildings.
Along the way, you’ll uncover stories of pilgrims, archbishops and kings, learn how Canterbury became one of England’s most important religious cities, and admire the exterior of the world-famous Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With time for questions, hidden details and local insight, this tour offers a fascinating introduction to one of England’s most historic cities.
Day 2: Whitstable & Coast
Take a scenic drive to Whitstable, a lively coastal town famous for its oysters and long maritime heritage. For centuries, Whitstable oysters have been prized across England, once served to royalty and still celebrated today as one of the town’s greatest traditions.
Stroll along the working harbour, watch fishing boats come and go, and enjoy the relaxed seaside atmosphere. Along the waterfront you’ll find oyster huts, seafood shacks and small restaurants serving freshly shucked oysters alongside local fish and shellfish. Browse independent shops and galleries, or simply enjoy a drink by the sea while soaking up the coastal views — a wonderfully authentic taste of England’s seaside life.
Day 3: Drive to the Sussex Coast
Leave Kent behind and enjoy one of the most scenic coastal drives in southern England as you head toward Brighton. The route takes you past rolling countryside, historic villages and wide open views toward the English Channel. Keep an eye out for orchards, hop fields and chalk hills, all classic features of this part of England.
As you approach Sussex, the landscape begins to change, opening into the gentle curves of the South Downs National Park, with long views across farmland and glimpses of the sea in the distance. Arriving in Brighton, you’ll feel the atmosphere shift — from rural calm to lively seaside energy — with its famous pebble beach, elegant seafront and creative, independent spirit waiting to be explored.
Day 3 & 4: Stay in Brighton
Enjoy two nights in Brighton, one of England’s most characterful seaside cities. Known for its creative energy and welcoming atmosphere, Brighton blends classic seaside traditions with a lively, modern spirit.
Spend time wandering The Lanes, a maze of narrow streets filled with independent boutiques, antiques and cafés, stroll along the iconic seafront and historic piers, or visit the striking Royal Pavilion — Brighton’s former seaside palace, famous for its exotic domes, lavish interiors and surprising history. With the sea on one side and the rolling South Downs on the other, Brighton offers a wonderful mix of culture, coast and character, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Brighton Food Tour
A guided experience that reveals the very best of Brighton through the eyes of locals. On this immersive tour you’ll explore the city’s vibrant streets, coastal culture and hidden gems with a knowledgeable guide who brings Brighton’s spirit to life.
Discover colourful neighbourhoods, independent shops, creative spaces and off-the-beaten-track spots that most visitors miss. Along the way you’ll hear stories about Brighton’s people, places and culture that give this seaside city its unique character. It’s a fun, engaging way to experience Brighton beyond the usual highlights — perfect for travellers who want to see the city like a local.
Day 4: Guided Tour of Seven Sisters
Step beyond the city and into one of England’s most breathtaking landscapes on the South Downs & Seven Sisters from Brighton tour. Travelling in a small group with a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll journey through the rolling chalk hills of the South Downs National Park, a landscape shaped by centuries of farming, walking and storytelling.
Stand above the dramatic Seven Sisters white cliffs, where sweeping views stretch across the English Channel and the coastline curves away in unforgettable fashion. Along the way, you’ll stop at scenic viewpoints such as Devil’s Dyke, enjoy time to explore the countryside on foot, and hear the stories that bring this ancient landscape to life.
With wide open skies, fresh sea air and some of the finest coastal views in England, this relaxed and immersive experience offers a wonderful contrast to Brighton’s lively streets — and a true highlight of your time on the Sussex coast.
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