Best Places to Visit When Driving from Bournemouth to Westminster
Travelling from Bournemouth to Westminster by car is a great way to explore the sites in and around southern England. From the stunning villages of the New Forest to the high-tech city of Reading, there is a wealth of places to visit that can suit any traveler's interests.
In this article, we will suggest the top travel destinations to consider on your next trip from Bournemouth to Westminster. Whether you are looking for beautiful landscapes or cultural experiences, these locations will offer a diverse range of attractions to enhance your road trip to London.
1. The New Forest
Located east of Bournemouth, the New Forest is a must-visit place on any journey from Bournemouth to Westminster. This stunning national park, with vast open spaces and ancient woodlands, provides an excellent spot for a day trip adventure.
To see more of the park, you can park your car and explore its open heathlands, picturesque villages, and numerous attractions. The park is home to some majestic wild animals like ponies, deer, and cattle grazing freely on roadside meadows. You might as well stop by a charming restaurant in Lymington or Brockenhurst for a cup of British tea.
2. Winchester
Situated northwest of Southampton, Winchester is an ancient town that boasts a fascinating history, fine arts, and architectural heritage. As the ancient capital of England, it is a place packed with traditional pubs, ancient watering holes, and numerous museums.
The historic Winchester Cathedral is a great place to start, as it has been repeatedly voted the favorite of UK's cathedrals and also played host to Jane Austen's burial. You can also head down to the town center to have a glimpse of King Arthur's Round Table at the Great Hall, home of the Winchester Castle.
From there, you can explore the town's unique shops, cafes, and cultural attractions, like the Discovery Centre. Winchester is a perfect spot to explore history and soak in all the beauty and excitement that the town has to offer.
3. Oxford
Located a mere 60 miles from Westminster, Oxford is a haven for academics and literary enthusiasts worldwide. The town has several universities, including the oldest university in the English-speaking world dating back to 1167.
A tour of the university and college buildings is an excellent way to explore Oxford's rich history. Christ Church College, Harry Potter's film location, is a must-visit, as it offers breathtaking architecture and history in abundance. You might also come across some timeless artwork by Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci at the Ashmolean Museum.
The roads leading to Oxford are long and winding, so it's best to take your time and enjoy all the sceneries that come along the way.
4. Bath
A short distance from Bristol lies Bath, a city that is rich in history and home to Roman Bathhouses and several thermal springs. The city's Georgian architecture and stunning landscape earned it a place in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Centers.
A tour of the Roman Baths is a highlight of any visit to Bath, but don't miss out on the chance to explore the city's independent shops, cafe culture, and small museums. There are also several popular attractions like the Jane Austen Centre and the Fashion Museum located a stone's throw away.
5. Reading
Finally, a visit to Reading should not go amiss on any road trip from Bournemouth to Westminster. The city boasts a vibrant cultural and economic scene, with many attractions for visitors to explore.
Art enthusiasts should visit the West Berkshire Museum, which celebrates the area's culture and rich history through art. On the other hand, foodies will appreciate the diversity of restaurant options ranging from street vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Reading has a thriving music and theatre scene, with several venues in the town center hosting live performances every week. You can catch a show at the Hexagon Theatre or watch a great performance at the Southbank Centre. Whatever your interests are, Reading has something for everyone.
Conclusion
This road trip from Bournemouth to Westminster is an opportunity to explore the beautiful regions of southern England. By combining natural landscapes, cultural sites, and historic architectures, you can have an unforgettable adventure. From the New Forest to the vibrant city of Reading, you can experience everything that southern England has to offer. Make sure to plan your journey, take your time on the road, and appreciate all the sites that come along the way.