The Manor Houses of England Self-Drive

Day 1 : London > New Forest

Upon arrival at London Heathrow or Gatwick, you’ll collect your rental car and begin a leisurely drive south into the enchanting landscapes of the New Forest. Your destination is Burley Manor (4-star) or the luxurious Chewton Glen Hotel (5-star), both nestled among ancient woodlands and peaceful meadows. After checking in, take the remainder of the afternoon to unwind and settle into your surroundings. If time allows, you might enjoy a quiet stroll through the nearby village of Burley or relax at the hotel spa. As the day fades, enjoy a locally sourced dinner in the comfort of your hotel’s elegant dining room or a nearby countryside inn.

Day 2 : New Forest

Wake up to a hearty full English breakfast before setting out to explore the serene beauty of the New Forest. With its wild ponies, shaded trails, and charming villages, the area invites you to slow down and take in its timeless charm. You may choose to visit the historic village of Lyndhurst or venture toward the coast to the Georgian seaside town of Lymington. If you’re in the mood for something special, a short ferry ride (own expense) to the Isle of Wight makes for a rewarding detour. Upon returning to your hotel, perhaps indulge in an afternoon tea or a treatment at the spa before another delicious dinner and a restful night’s sleep.

Day 3 : New Forest > Devon

After breakfast, it’s time to continue westward toward Devon. Your journey takes you along England’s dramatic southern coast, where a stop at Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove offers the perfect chance to stretch your legs and take in iconic views of the Jurassic Coast. As you enter Devon, the scenery becomes lush and rolling. You’ll arrive either at the Victoria Hotel (4-star) in the elegant seaside town of Sidmouth or at Bovey Castle Hotel (5-star), nestled in the heart of Dartmoor National Park. Whether you choose the coastline or countryside, your evening ends with fine dining and quiet luxury in your new surroundings.

Day 4 : Devon

Devon invites exploration, and today you’ll have the chance to discover some of its most treasured landscapes. If you’re staying at Bovey Castle, spend the morning roaming Dartmoor’s rugged beauty – visit Haytor Rocks, wander through Widecombe-in-the-Moor, or explore Castle Drogo, perched above the River Teign. From Sidmouth, the coast beckons with seaside strolls, cliff walks, or a scenic drive to towns like Salcombe or Dartmouth. Also visit Kents Cavern one of the most important Stone Age sites in Europe and one of Britain’s best showcaves. Take time for a traditional Devon cream tea before returning to your hotel for an evening of relaxed elegance and excellent food.

Day 5 : Devon > Cotswolds

Today, you’ll leave Devon behind and head northeast to the storybook hills of the Cotswolds. As you wind your way through the countryside, golden stone cottages, dry-stone walls, and rolling pastures begin to appear – your welcome to one of England’s most picturesque regions. Check in at either the Painswick Hotel (4-star) or the stately Ellenborough Park (5-star) near Cheltenham. The afternoon is yours to enjoy a slow wander through one of the nearby villages such as Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold, or Burford. End your day with a candlelit dinner, perhaps by a roaring fire, before settling in for a quiet night surrounded by timeless English charm.

Day 6 : Cotswolds

With no rush this morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before spending the day exploring the Cotswolds at your own pace. Take in a local market, visit Sudeley Castle or Hidcote Gardens, or simply wander between honey-hued villages filled with antique shops, tearooms, and art galleries. If you enjoy walking, there are countless gentle trails through meadows and fields that connect the villages. Return to your hotel in the afternoon for an included afternoon tea and a bit of relaxation before one final Cotswolds dinner.

Day 7 : Cotswolds > London

After breakfast, make your way into London, where you will return your rental car, and spend your final two nights at either The Bloomsbury Hotel (4-star) or The Kensington Hotel (5-star). Upon arrival, you’ll step into a different rhythm as the energy of the city replaces the calm of the countryside. Spend the afternoon exploring your neighborhood with a private guide – perhaps a walk through Kensington Gardens, a visit to the Victoria & Albert Museum, or tea at Fortnum & Mason. Enjoy dinner at a nearby bistro or discover one of London’s many fine-dining options before retreating to your stylish hotel.

Day 8 : London

Your last full day offers endless possibilities. Begin with half-day tour of London. Stroll through Westminster to see Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey. From there, walk along the Thames toward the London Eye, or take a boat ride to the Tower of London. In the afternoon, you might choose to visit Covent Garden for boutique shopping and street performances, or head to the British Museum for a deeper dive into history. As evening falls, toast your final night in England with a celebratory dinner – whether it’s modern British cuisine or something more adventurous.

Day 9 : London

Enjoy one last leisurely breakfast before a private transfer whisks you from your hotel to the airport.  Alternatively, continue with your onward travels in the UK.