Angers to Exeter Road Trip Guide: Best Stops & Scenic Drive

Did you know the A28 between Alençon and Rouen was once part of the Roman road linking Lyon to the English Channel? That's just one historic thread in the tapestry of this 700 km Angers to Exeter drive. Crossing from France's Loire Valley to England's Devon coast, you'll navigate ferry crossings, motorways, and scenic byways.

This guide answers the common questions: how long to drive Angers to Exeter (roughly 8-9 hours including ferry), is it worth driving Angers to Exeter (absolutely, for the diversity), and what are the best stops Angers to Exeter. We'll also highlight things to do between Angers and Exeter that go beyond the typical rest stop.

The landscape shifts from the gentle Loire vineyards to the hedgerow enclosed fields of Normandy, then to the rolling chalk downs of southern England. The A28 passes through the Perche Regional Nature Park, with its forested hills and medieval manor houses. Near Alençon, look for the point of departure of the legendary 'Chemin de la Liberté' (route of WWII escape).

• UNESCO Sites: The Loire Valley (châteaux) is a short detour south of Angers. In England, Stonehenge and Avebury are within 30 minutes of the A303.
• Local markets: In Argentan, the Saturday market sells Camembert and Calvados. Near Exeter, the town of Topsham has a Friday fish market.
• Roadside delicacies: Stop at a 'boulangerie' for a 'tarte normande' or pick up Devon cream teas at a farm shop.

For those interested in how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities, consider veering off the A28 at Sées to explore the 12th-century cathedral and the nearby Carrouges Castle. The contrast between French châteaux and English manor houses is a cultural highlight.

The primary route from Angers to Exeter involves driving to Ouistreham (near Caen) and taking a ferry to Portsmouth. The French leg uses the A28, A11, and N12 highways; in England, the A3, M27, and A303 get you to Exeter. Estimated total driving time is 5 hours (excluding ferry), with the ferry crossing taking 6 hours.

• Highways: A28 from Angers to Alençon, then A11 to Le Mans, N12 to Caen. In UK: A3 and M27 to Salisbury, then A303 to Exeter.
• Ferry: Brittany Ferries from Ouistreham to Portsmouth (book in advance for better rates). Check-in 1 hour before departure.
• Tolls: French motorways are tolled; cost about €15-20 for the stretch from Angers to Caen. UK roads are toll-free except for a few bridges.

For fuel, expect to spend around €70-90 for the driving portion, depending on your vehicle efficiency. Diesel is generally cheaper in France; petrol prices are similar. Fuel stations are frequent every 30-40 km on motorways, but in rural areas they are sparse. Fill up before entering the A28.

French motorways are well-paved and illuminated at night, but secondary roads like the N12 have unlit stretches. In the UK, the A303 can be congested near Stonehenge. Speed limits in France: 130 km/h on toll roads, 110 km/h on dual carriageways. UK: 70 mph on motorways. Always carry a breathalyzer in France (legal requirement).

• Child-friendly stops: In France, the 'Parc des Miniatures' near Le Mans (1:87 scale models) or the 'Parc de la Vallée' in Caen with playgrounds. In UK, the 'Beacon Hill' country park with walking trails.
• Pet-friendly: Most service areas have pet exercise areas. In France, 'Aire de la Vallée de l'Authre' has a dog park. In UK, 'Micheldever' service area allows dogs on lead.
• Rest zones: Scheduled stops every 2 hours. Rest areas on A28 include 'Aire du Perche' (quiet, shaded). On A303, 'A303 Dual Carriageway' has lay-bys but no services; plan to stop at 'Amesbury' for a break.

If fatigue sets in, the best places for a nap are rest areas off the A28/11 near 'La Ferté-Bernard' (has a 24h petrol station and picnic tables). In the UK, the 'Bulford Camp' lay-by on A303 is safe but unlit. Police patrol frequently on both routes. Hidden off-route spots: the village of 'Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei' (5 min from A28, a 'Plus Beaux Villages de France') or the abandoned 'Brick Lane' fortifications near Portsmouth.