Best London RV Itinerary for weekly rv rental - Overview
A 7-day RV rental from London typically involves exploring the charming English countryside and coastal areas, rather than extensive city driving, covering approximately 700-1000 km for a rewarding experience, with late spring to early autumn being the ideal seasons. This itinerary focuses on experiencing the best of England's diverse landscapes and historical sites, while strategically managing RV use around the capital. The recommended duration for a comprehensive RV trip exploring outside London is a minimum of 7 days, allowing for a relaxed pace. For live availability and current prices, start with our RV Rental London - Complete Guide 2026 guide. The best season for this adventure is from April to October, offering pleasant weather and longer daylight hours, perfect for maximizing your sightseeing and outdoor activities.
With a rented motorhome, you have the freedom to craft a flexible adventure. Planning your route is key, especially given the unique driving conditions in England. Should any questions arise during your planning or booking process, remember that our 24/7 Support means real people are behind you, ready to help before, during, and after your reservation, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.
7-Day Classic Route in London
A classic 7-day RV route starting from London might involve scenic drives through the Cotswolds, visiting historic Bath, exploring the Jurassic Coast, and returning to a London-area depot, minimizing inner-city driving due to congestion charges (ULEZ) and challenging parking. This itinerary focuses on iconic English landmarks while embracing the flexibility and comfort of a rented motorhome.
- Day 1: London RV Pick-up → Windsor (~40 km / 25 miles). Begin your adventure with a drive to Windsor, home to the magnificent Windsor Castle. Secure your RV at a nearby campsite, then take public transport or walk to explore the castle and town.
- Day 2: Windsor → Oxford → Cotswolds (Burford area) (~100 km / 60 miles). Head west to Oxford to discover its historic university, then continue into the charming Cotswolds. Stay overnight at a welcoming Cotswolds campsite.
- Day 3: Cotswolds exploration (~50 km / 30 miles). Dedicate today to soaking in the beauty of Cotswold villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. Enjoy local shops and traditional pubs.
- Day 4: Cotswolds → Bath (~70 km / 45 miles). Journey south to the Georgian city of Bath, famous for its Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. Find an RV campsite near Bath with convenient public transport links to the city center.
- Day 5: Bath → Jurassic Coast (Lulworth Cove/Durdle Door) (~120 km / 75 miles). Drive to the dramatic geological wonders of the Jurassic Coast, including Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Camp at a picturesque site along the coast.
- Day 6: Jurassic Coast → New Forest National Park (~80 km / 50 miles). Experience the ancient woodlands and wild ponies of New Forest National Park. Enjoy leisurely walks or cycle rides, parking your RV at a designated New Forest campsite.
- Day 7: New Forest → London RV Drop-off (~150 km / 90 miles). Enjoy a leisurely drive back towards London, ensuring you allow ample time for traffic and timely return of your vehicle. Traveling with a rented RV should always provide peace of mind, and our Top-Level Deductible Reimbursement option can offer just that for your journey on British roads.
14-Day Extended Journey in London
An extended 14-day RV journey from London allows for deeper exploration of England, encompassing diverse regions like the south coast, Wales, and perhaps even the Peak District or Lake District, at a leisurely pace. This longer duration lets you truly immerse yourself in each destination without feeling rushed.
- Days 1-3: London Pick-up, South Downs National Park, Brighton. After collecting your motorhome, head to the South Downs National Park for white cliffs and rolling hills. Continue to the vibrant coastal city of Brighton. Stay at regional campsites, enjoying the seaside charm.
- Days 4-6: Jurassic Coast & Dartmoor National Park. Explore the stunning coastline of the Jurassic Coast in more detail, perhaps trying some coastal hikes. Then, venture inland to the wild moorland of Dartmoor National Park. Designated campsites are readily available in both areas.
- Days 7-9: Cornwall & Devon. Drive through the picturesque fishing villages, surf beaches, and historical sites like Tintagel Castle in Cornwall and Devon. This region offers a unique blend of rugged beauty and local folklore.
- Days 10-12: The Cotswolds & Stratford-upon-Avon. Return eastward to the quintessential English villages of the Cotswolds, spending more time exploring its nooks and crannies. Include a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare's birthplace, before finding rural campsites for the night.
- Days 13-14: Oxford & return to London. Revisit the historic university city of Oxford, or explore new areas you missed. Enjoy a final scenic drive back to your London drop-off point.
Each day respects Avi Bandana's recommended maximum of 150 km (100 miles) of driving, allowing ample time for exploration and embracing the slow travel philosophy. To make planning such an extensive trip even easier, consider our Rent&Plan service, which pairs your RV rental with pre-planned routes by professionals from RV PLANET, and offers a 25% Planning Discount for using rvplan.net.
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Recommended RVPlan Trip for London
For those seeking a comprehensive pre-planned adventure, the "
The RVPlan trip, starting and ending in London, provides a structured yet flexible framework, taking the guesswork out of route planning. It's designed by true RV specialists who understand the nuances of motorhome travel. You can even use the RV PLANET routes to itemize and track every expense along the way for easy budgeting, giving you full transparency on your total trip cost. This allows you to focus purely on enjoying the journey, knowing all the details have been considered by professionals. On the routes offered through RV PLANET routes, you can itemize and track every expense along the way for easy budgeting.
Must-See Stops Along the Way (Avi Bandana Picks)
Avi Bandana recommends incorporating unique cultural and natural experiences into your RV itinerary, such as exploring historical sites, visiting traditional markets, and enjoying authentic local restaurants, as highlighted in RVPlan trips. Beyond the main attractions, these curated picks offer a deeper connection to England's essence when you rent a motorhome.
- Traditional Visits: Seek out historic landmarks and quintessential English experiences. Consider visiting a grand estate like Blenheim Palace (near Oxford) or the ancient Roman amphitheatre in St. Albans, just north of London. For more broad ideas, check out our RV Travel Guide to London - Tips and Top Spots 2026.
- Traditional Restaurant / Fine Dining: Indulge in local gastronomy. Avi Bandana suggests finding establishments that serve regional specialties, ensuring an authentic taste of England. Look for country pubs serving hearty Sunday roasts, or coastal eateries offering fresh seafood near the Jurassic Coast.
- Traditional Market: Explore vibrant local markets. Places like Borough Market in London (though best visited without the RV due to city access), or smaller farmer's markets in Cotswolds towns like Cirencester, are perfect for discovering artisan crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs, and for experiencing the community's pulse. With a well-equipped RV kitchen, you can transform these market finds into delicious meals. Find inspiration on our RV-friendly recipes playlist.
- Local Industry: Where possible, engage with local industries. This could involve visiting a craft brewery in the Cotswolds for a tasting, a cider farm in Devon, or a local cheese producer in rural England, offering insight into regional craftsmanship and flavors.
These experiences enrich your journey, allowing you to connect more deeply with the places you visit. For those considering a flexible return point, explore the "One-Way RV Rental in London - Price Guide 2026".
Daily Driving Distances & Drive Times in London
Avi Bandana recommends a maximum of 100 miles (150 km) per day on average when planning a motorhome holiday, encouraging a slower pace to fully enjoy the journey and attractions along the way. This mindful approach to travel ensures you're not just driving through a place, but truly experiencing it.
This recommendation is particularly important in the UK, where narrow country roads, numerous roundabouts, and driving on the left can make travel more demanding for first-time RVers. Drive slowly and carefully, and you can drive almost anywhere without issues. No need to stress - just use common sense and pay attention.
Example drive-time estimates for your weekly RV itinerary: London to Oxford is approximately 90 km (56 miles), taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. Bath to Stonehenge is roughly 50 km (30 miles), taking under an hour. Driving through the heart of the Cotswolds between villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold might be only 10 km (6 miles) but can take 20-30 minutes due to winding roads. When planning, remember to factor in time for navigating UK road signs, which can differ from those in other countries, and for potential urban access restrictions like London's ULEZ and Congestion Charge zones. For more on navigating these challenges, consult our "One-Way RV Driving in London - Route Planner 2026".
Best RV Class for This Itinerary - Couple & Family Picks
Selecting the right RV class is crucial for comfort and maneuverability on a weekly London-based rental, with Class B Camper Vans ideal for couples and Class C Alcoves best suited for families, considering typical UK road conditions and travel requirements. We are true RV specialists, not just a travel agency side department, and our advice is tailored to real RV travel.
For Couples: Class B - Camper Van
Avi Bandana recommends the Class B Camper Van for couples due to its compact size and ease of driving on the UK's narrower roads, particularly when exploring quaint villages. These versatile vans, typically averaging 5.5-6.5 meters in length and designed for 2 adults, offer excellent fuel efficiency, often consuming 8-11 Liters/100 Km, making them economical for weekly trips. Their smaller footprint also simplifies parking and navigating congested areas around London, while still providing essential amenities like a compact kitchen, bed, and often a small toilet and shower. Consider models like the "2 Berth Hi Top" or "Aero" for your adventure.
For Families: Class C - Alcove
For families of 4-6, the Class C Alcove motorhome is an excellent choice, providing ample living space and sleeping capacity. These vehicles average 6.5-7.5 meters in length and comfortably accommodate 4-6 people with multiple sleeping places, including an elevated alcove bed popular with children. Their average load capacity of 300-500 kg is ideal for family luggage and gear. While slightly larger, their integrated design ensures all amenities are onboard, and fuel consumption typically averages 11-13 Liters/100 km. Models like the "Euro Deluxe" or a larger "4 Berth Deluxe" are great options. Our Rent&Plan service combines your RV rental with a ready-made itinerary crafted by travel experts, offering full access to trip-planning software, which completely removes the planning headache for both couples and families.
Is 7 days too long for London?
Seven days is not too long for London itself if you plan to immerse yourself deeply in the city's myriad attractions; however, for an RV rental starting from London, it's generally recommended to use the RV to explore beyond the city, dedicating perhaps 1-2 days to central London via public transport and the remaining 5-6 days to the surrounding English countryside. An RV is your gateway to broader England, not typically the best way to navigate central London.
RVs are not ideal for navigating central London due to the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and Congestion Charge, as well as extremely limited and expensive parking options. A balanced approach would involve parking your RV at a campsite on the outskirts of London with good public transport links, spending a couple of days exploring the city's highlights like the Tower of London or the British Museum, and then embarking on your motorhome adventure into the countryside for the rest of the week.
For more details on managing costs and finding deals, our "RV Rental in London - Prices and Best Deals 2026" guide offers comprehensive information.
Can you sleep in a motorhome on a public road in the UK?
While it is generally legal to sleep in a motorhome on a public road in the UK if there are no specific restrictions (like 'no overnight parking' signs), it is often discouraged and regulated by local bylaws, making designated campsites a safer, more appropriate, and amenity-rich option. Always look for signage indicating specific prohibitions against overnight parking.
Local authorities have the power to enforce parking restrictions, and ignorance of these bylaws is not a defense. Many towns and popular areas have implemented bans on overnight vehicle parking to manage tourism and local impact. For safety and convenience, especially for first-time RVers, using official campsites or certified locations (e.g., those part of the Caravan and Motorhome Club or Camping and Caravanning Club) is highly recommended, as they offer facilities like toilets, showers, and waste disposal. Near London, designated campgrounds like Abbey Wood provide excellent facilities and transport links.
Can you sleep anywhere in a campervan in the UK?
No, you cannot legally sleep anywhere in a campervan in the UK; while wild camping laws vary by region (e.g., more permissive in Scotland, largely restricted in England and Wales), it's generally only permitted on private land with the owner's explicit permission or in designated campsites. The "right to roam" in England and Wales typically applies to walking, not overnight stays in vehicles.
Attempting to wild camp without permission can lead to fines, confrontations with landowners, and a negative impact on the local environment. It's essential to respect private property and local regulations. Near London, in particular, finding suitable wild camping spots is virtually impossible and strongly discouraged; always plan to stay at established campsites or specific motorhome stops found through resources like RV PLANET (rvplan.net). Pre-planning your stops ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable weekly RV rental experience.
How much does it cost to rent a motorhome for a week in London?
The cost to rent a motorhome for a week in London typically ranges from £700 to £1,500, varying significantly based on vehicle class, season, rental duration, included amenities, and the specific rental company. Prices are dynamic, similar to flight tickets, changing daily based on availability and demand.
Beyond the base rental fee, expect additional costs such as fuel (averaging 8-13 Liters/100 Km depending on RV class, like a compact campervan versus a larger Class C motorhome), campsite fees (£20-£50 per night), insurance excess, and potential tolls (e.g., Dartford Crossing). For travel into London, be prepared for specific city access charges, including the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charge (£12.50 per day for non-compliant vehicles) and the Congestion Charge (£15 per day) for certain central areas. Booking during off-peak seasons (shoulder months like April/May or September/October) can significantly reduce rental costs compared to peak summer (July/August). For detailed budgeting, our RV PLANET routes allow you to itemize and track every expense along the way.
Remember, Bandana offers full transparency with no hidden fees, so what you see is what you get when you compare prices for your weekly RV rental in London.
What to see in England in 7 days?
In 7 days from London, you can explore diverse regions like the historic castles and gentle hills of the Cotswolds, the Roman baths in Bath, and the dramatic coastline of the Jurassic Coast, offering a rich blend of history, nature, and culture. A motorhome rental provides the perfect mobile base for this exploration.
- Historical & Cultural: Visit Windsor Castle, explore the ancient Roman Baths in Bath, and wander through the historic streets of Oxford. Each offers a unique glimpse into England's past.
- Natural Beauty: Discover the rolling hills and picturesque villages of the Cotswolds, or marvel at the geological wonders along the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. New Forest National Park offers serene woodlands and free-roaming ponies.
- Practical Tip: Prioritize a few key regions rather than trying to cover too much ground in a week to fully enjoy each destination without rushing. Our "RV Rental England - Complete Guide 2026" offers a broader context for planning such a trip.
Travel slowly, max 100-150 km per day on average. Take time to feel the place, connect to the culture, the food, and the scenery. This pace allows for genuine discovery.
How to plan a motorhome holiday?
Planning a motorhome holiday involves selecting your RV class, mapping out a flexible itinerary with daily driving limits, booking campsites in advance, and familiarizing yourself with UK driving rules and vehicle regulations, especially for urban areas like London. Bandana makes the comparison and booking process easy, ensuring you find the perfect vehicle for your adventure.
- Choose Your RV: Select an RV class based on your group size and comfort preferences (e.g., a compact campervan for couples or a spacious Class C motorhome for families), considering vehicle size for UK roads.
- Map Your Route: Plan a flexible itinerary respecting Avi Bandana's recommendation of maximum 100-150 km per day. Incorporate highlights and ensure sufficient time for relaxation and exploration. Resources like RV PLANET (rvplan.net) offer pre-planned routes.
- Book Campsites: Secure your overnight stays, especially during peak season, as wild camping is largely restricted in England and Wales. Many national and state parks reserve only 25-30% of spots for advance booking, with the rest being first-come, first-serve. You'll find a spot; if not at the first campground, then the next one. Always call ahead before driving.
- Understand UK Driving: Familiarize yourself with driving on the left, navigating numerous roundabouts, speed limits, and vehicle size restrictions for narrow roads or historical towns. Drive slowly and carefully, and you can drive almost anywhere without issues.
- London Specifics: Be aware of London's ULEZ and Congestion Charges, and plan for RV pick-up/drop-off points typically located outside the immediate city center, often with good public transport connections.
Looking for the easiest, safest, and most affordable way to rent an RV? We compare final prices across 50+ suppliers so you don't have to, making your planning seamless.
What is the best season for scenic drives?
The best season for scenic drives in England is generally late spring (April-May) to early autumn (September-October), offering pleasant weather, vibrant landscapes, and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. This period provides optimal conditions for a comfortable and visually stunning RV trip.
- Spring (April-May): Enjoy blooming wildflowers, lighter traffic before the school holidays begin, and comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring gardens and countryside trails around London.
- Summer (June-August): While offering the longest daylight hours and warmest weather, this is also peak tourist season, leading to crowded attractions, higher prices for weekly RV rentals, and busier roads. Booking well in advance is essential if you plan a summer trip.
- Autumn (September-October): Witness stunning autumnal foliage, particularly in areas like the Cotswolds and national parks, with cooler temperatures and still ample daylight for scenic routes. This is often considered a shoulder season, offering a good balance of weather and fewer crowds.
- Winter (November-March): Shorter days, colder temperatures, and potential for adverse weather conditions (rain, ice, occasional snow) make winter less ideal for extensive scenic driving, though festive markets in cities like Bath can be appealing for shorter trips.
No matter the season, remember that Bandana RV offers full transparency, so there are no hidden fees or surprises when you plan your "Cheap RV Rental in London - Budget Guide 2026" or a more premium experience.
What's a good daytrip from London but still in the UK?
Excellent RV-friendly day trips from London within the UK include Windsor for its iconic castle, the historic university city of Oxford, or the charming villages of the Cotswolds, all accessible within a reasonable drive, provided RV parking is planned strategically outside congested areas. These destinations offer rich cultural and historical experiences.
- Windsor: Home to Windsor Castle, one of the King's official residences. RV parking is available outside the immediate town center, usually requiring a short walk or shuttle into the main attraction area. The drive from London is typically under an hour (~40 km).
- Oxford: A city famed for its prestigious university, historic architecture, and punting on the River Cherwell. Utilize park-and-ride facilities for RVs (such as those located at Pear Tree or Redbridge) to access the city center easily, avoiding the complexities of city driving with a larger vehicle.
- The Cotswolds: A region of idyllic rolling hills, honey-coloured stone villages, and thatched cottages. Popular villages like Burford, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bibury offer picturesque stops with designated parking areas for larger vehicles outside the main village hubs. The drive is approximately 1.5-2 hours from London.
These day trips provide a taste of England's beauty without straying too far from London, offering a perfect complement to your weekly RV itinerary.
What are the best-rated London day trips?
Some of the best-rated day trips from London, easily accessible by RV with appropriate planning for parking outside urban centers, include the ancient stone circles of Stonehenge, the spa city of Bath, and the maritime history of Portsmouth. These destinations offer diverse experiences from ancient history to naval heritage.
- Stonehenge: This prehistoric monument is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a profound historical experience. Located about 140 km (90 miles) west of London, large vehicle parking is available at the visitor center, making it RV-friendly.
- Bath: Famous for its Roman-built baths, stunning Georgian architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Situated approximately 160 km (100 miles) west of London, RVs should utilize the city's park-and-ride services, as city center driving is challenging for larger vehicles.
- Portsmouth: A historic naval city with attractions like HMS Victory, the Mary Rose Museum, and the Spinnaker Tower. Located about 120 km (75 miles) southwest of London, ample parking can be found further from the historic dockyard, often requiring a bus or taxi for access.
Each of these locations offers a unique adventure for those with a weekly RV rental in London, providing a break from city life and a dive into England's rich past. For travelers seeking a more opulent experience, consider exploring "Luxury RV Rental in London - Premium Prices 2026".
What is the best countryside near London?
The best countryside near London for an RV adventure includes the picturesque Chiltern Hills for rolling landscapes and charming villages, the Surrey Hills for scenic walks and vineyards, and the Kent Downs for its "Garden of England" beauty, all offering accessible escapes from the city. These Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) provide ideal settings for a tranquil motorhome holiday.
- Chiltern Hills AONB: Known for its chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and charming market towns, the Chilterns offer numerous scenic drives and walking trails with a good selection of campsites. It's located just an hour's drive northwest of London.
- Surrey Hills AONB: Characterized by heathland, chalk downs, and vineyards, the Surrey Hills are ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying local produce. Many RV-friendly campsites are available, and it's easily reachable within an hour southwest of London.
- Kent Downs AONB: Often referred to as the 'Garden of England,' this area features orchards, hop gardens, and oast houses. It offers coastal routes and historical sites, with several well-equipped RV parks. The Kent Downs are about an hour southeast of London, providing a lovely contrast to the bustling city.
These regions showcase England's natural beauty and provide perfect backdrops for relaxing and unwinding with your rented motorhome.
What You Shouldn't Miss
- Windsor Castle: The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, a must-see for its royal history and magnificent State Apartments. Park your RV outside the town and take a pleasant stroll in.
- The Roman Baths in Bath: Explore the ancient Roman spa and temple complex, one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world.
- Jurassic Coast's Durdle Door & Lulworth Cove: Witness stunning natural arches and coves along this UNESCO World Heritage coastline, perfect for scenic hikes and photography.
- Cotswolds Villages: Spend a day or two wandering through the honey-stone villages of Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Bibury, enjoying traditional tea rooms and local crafts.
- New Forest National Park: Spot wild ponies roaming freely amidst ancient woodlands and heathland, a tranquil escape ideal for cycling and gentle walks.
- Oxford's University Colleges: Take a walking tour of the historic university, marvel at the architecture, and perhaps even try punting on the River Cherwell.
Looking for expert insights from Avi Bandana? Top 5 Adventures - recommendations from Avi Bandana
Final Thoughts
A weekly RV rental from London offers an incredible opportunity to discover the diverse landscapes and rich history of England. Imagine waking up to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, exploring ancient Roman sites in Bath, or breathing in the fresh sea air along the Jurassic Coast, all from the comfort of your own mobile home. It’s a journey of discovery, flexibility, and unparalleled personal connection with your surroundings.
Remember, the key to a successful motorhome adventure is careful planning, a slower pace of travel, and choosing the right vehicle for your needs. At Bandana, we're here to support you every step of the way, ensuring your London RV rental experience is stress-free and full of wonderful memories. Get inspired for your next trip and embrace the freedom of the open road.
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