Midlands, Cardiff & Southern Wales
Cardiff to Peak District
Midlands, Cardiff & Southern Wales Road Trip
Embark on a 11-day self-drive adventure through the heart of Wales and the English Midlands. This itinerary takes travellers from creative cities to wide open national parks, with winding coastal roads and market towns in between. Taking in the lively streets of Cardiff to the peaks of the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) and William Shakespeare’s hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon, this itinerary combines city culture, regional stories, and striking landscapes.
Along the route, discover medieval castles, character filled market towns, and world class gastronomy, as well as whisky and gin tastings, river cruises, and stargazing under Dark Sky Wales. Drives through countryside roads, interspersed with cultural experiences and historic landmarks, make this journey a feast for the senses.
Curated by Infinity Holidays, this self-drive itinerary offers flexibility alongside must do experiences. Carefully selected accommodation, guided tours, and immersive activities ensure a seamless journey for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. This journey promises the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Day 1 to 2: Cardiff
Begin in Cardiff, Wales’ vibrant capital. Enjoy a walking tour through the city’s historic streets, included in your Infinity Holidays package, and soak in landmarks like Cardiff Castle, boasting over 2,000 years of history.
Beyond the castle, explore Cardiff Bay with its cafés, shops, and galleries, or immerse yourself in Welsh heritage at St Fagans National Museum of History. Sports fans can visit The Principality Stadium or catch a live match if timing permits.
Local cuisine is a highlight—sample artisanal dishes at independent restaurants or traditional Welsh delicacies at markets and cafés. Infinity Holidays ensures both cultural immersion and convenience, setting the perfect tone for the journey ahead.
Day 3: Swansea via Caerphilly Castle
Drive about an hour from Cardiff to Swansea, stopping at Caerphilly Castle. Known for its Great Hall and extensive fortifications, the castle offers a glimpse into medieval Wales and is accessible with an optional Cadw Explorer Pass.
Along the scenic route, enjoy rolling countryside and charming villages. In Swansea, explore the waterfront or local markets and sample regional specialties—a gentle introduction to Wales’ diverse landscapes.
Day 4: Ebbw Valley | Brecon Beacons
Head northeast to Ebbw Vale and Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park. Begin at Penderyn Distillery for gin and whisky tastings showcasing Welsh craftsmanship.
Explore the Brecon Beacons with scenic walks, cycling, and photography opportunities. Stay at the Norman Castle of Brecon Hotel, where medieval architecture meets modern comfort. After dark, enjoy stargazing with Dark Sky Wales, with experiences taking place in several locations below some of the country’s best night skies.
This day blends local spirits, dramatic landscapes, and immersive nature, making it a standout on your self-drive adventure. Infinity Holidays ensures seamless logistics and curated recommendations.
Day 5: Worcester
Drive North East through Abergavenny and Hereford to Worcester, passing picturesque villages and countryside. Explore Worcester Cathedral, rich in history and architectural splendour and uncover the city’s Civil War heritage.
Optional highlights include riverside walks along the River Severn and bustling food markets. Infinity Holidays can guide your clients to the best local dining, letting travellers enjoy regional specialties while leisurely exploring the city.
Day 6 to 7: Stratford-upon-Avon
Arrive in Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace, for two days of cultural immersion. Infinity Holidays packages include a River Cruise and City Audio Tour for unique perspectives on the town.
Explore Shakespeare Country, including Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Holy Trinity Church, or wander local markets to discover artisanal products and regional foods. Quaint streets, timbered houses, and riverside charm make it ideal for leisurely exploration, with curated experiences blending literary history and local culture.
Day 8: Birmingham
Continue to Birmingham, a city that blends industrial heritage with modern attractions. Enjoy a private walking tour with Travel Curious, exploring Centenary Square, Victoria Square, Brindleyplace, and the city’s museums.
Visit Warwick Castle, in nearby Warwickshire, England for an interactive experience that brings a thousand years of drama to life, set within expansive landscaped grounds.
In Birmingham, tap into one of the UK’s most exciting food scenes, from vibrant street markets to refined dining rooms showcasing regional produce. This stop pairs immersive attractions with contemporary city energy, enhanced by Infinity Holidays’ curated experiences.
Day 9: Ironbridge | Telford
Take scenic detours through nearby villages and historic sites, stopping at cafés or riverside trails. This day immerses travellers in industrial landmarks while showcasing picturesque countryside.
Day 10: Peak District (Buxton)
Finish in the Peak District, based in Buxton. Explore villages like Bakewell and Matlock, follow winding country roads lined with dry stone walls, and take in Buxton’s Georgian buildings and spa town character.
Optional walking routes, historic landmarks, and local delicacies add depth to your visit. Infinity Holidays offers curated recommendations, ensuring a memorable finale to your clients self-drive adventure.
Conclusions & Travel Tips
This road trip itinerary through the Midlands, Cardiff, and Southern Wales blends history, culture, and striking landscapes. From Cardiff’s vibrant streets and fairy-tale castles to the Brecon Beacons’ natural beauty and Stratford-upon-Avon’s literary charm, every day offers unforgettable experiences.
Our tips:
- Best time to visit: Spring to early autumn for mild weather and long daylight hours.
- Driving: UK roads are well-maintained; expect occasional narrow lanes in rural Wales.
- Accommodation: Infinity Holidays curates hotels and inns along the route.
- Activities: Guided tours, tastings, and curated experiences included.
Discover this self-drive adventure at your own pace, blending history, culture, and scenic drives. Book with Infinity Holidays for a seamless, enriching journey through some of the UK’s most captivating destinations.
Itinerary Inclusions:
- 2 nights in Cardiff at the Hilton Cardiff
- 1 night in Swansea at the Mecure Swansea Hotel
- 1 night in Castle Lodge Brecon Beacons Region
- 1 night in Worcester at the Worcester Bank House Hotel Spa & Golf BW Premier Collection
- 2 nights in Stratford-upon-Avon at Double Tree by Hilton, with Stratford-upon-Avon: River Cruise & City Audio Tour
- 1 night in Birmingham at Castle Bromwich Hall Hotel Sure Hotel Collection by Best Westin, with Birmingham Private Walking Tour
- 1 night in Ironbridge (Telford) at the Best Western Valley Hotel
- 1 night in Peak District and Best Western Plus Buxton Lee Wood Hotel
From $2,899
Price is per person twin share and on sale until 30 April 2026. Available for select travel dates: April to December 2026. Package code: IZ54254
Map & Directions: Midlands, Cardiff & Southern Wales
