South West Explorer
England
The classic English road trip, from London through the Wiltshire plain to Stonehenge's mystery, Bath's Georgian perfection, Glastonbury's myths, Exmoor's wild ponies, Dartmoor's granite tors, and finally Cornwall's surfer beaches and the granite edge of Land's End. The full cross-section of England's most beautiful and historically dense corner, from the capital to the Atlantic.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- London
Head west on the M4, then south through Marlborough's broad Georgian high street to the Wiltshire chalk downs. The ancient world arrives fast.
- Stonehenge
The world's most sophisticated prehistoric stone circle, built 3000-1500 BC. Bluestones hauled 240 km from Wales stand sentinel on Salisbury Plain.
- Bath
Britain's only fully UNESCO-listed city. Roman Baths, the Royal Crescent and the Thermae Spa let you bathe in the same waters as the Romans.
- Glastonbury
The Tor rises 158m above the Somerset Levels, reputedly the Isle of Avalon. The ruined abbey claims the oldest Christian foundation in Britain.
- Exmoor
Heather moorland falls to England's highest sea cliffs at Countisbury. Wild ponies roam the plateau above Lynmouth's dramatic gorge-foot harbour.
- Dartmoor
England's highest moorland plateau, strewn with Bronze Age stone rows and granite tors. Hay Tor at 457m gives a 360-degree sweep across Devon.
- St Ives
Cobbled fishing port famous for its Tate gallery and turquoise Porthminster Beach. Surfers, artists and seal-watching boats share the harbour.
- Land's End
England's westernmost point where the A30 meets the Atlantic. Longships Lighthouse stands offshore; Sennen Cove surf beach lies just to the north.
Where to Eat
- The Pump RoomBritish
Elegant dining in a historic setting, offering traditional British fare and afternoon tea.
- The Seafood RestaurantSeafood
Renowned for fresh seafood dishes with panoramic views of the Cornish coast.
- The Elephant RestaurantModern British
Michelin-starred restaurant serving contemporary British cuisine with local ingredients.
- The Masons ArmsGastropub
Charming thatched-roof pub offering hearty meals and local ales in a cozy atmosphere.
Things to Do
- Roman BathsHistoric Site
Explore ancient Roman bathing and socializing complex with well-preserved ruins and museum.
- Eden ProjectBotanical Garden
Massive biomes housing diverse plant species from around the world in a reclaimed quarry.
- Tintagel CastleHistoric Site
Clifftop ruins linked to the legend of King Arthur, offering dramatic sea views.
- St Michael's MountHistoric Site
Tidal island with medieval castle and gardens, accessible by causeway or boat.