12-Day England Road Trip from Bristol to Nottingham, York, Lancaster, Birmingham, and London

Say hello to Bristol! Your exciting road trip through England is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Bristol for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Bristol is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bristol. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in England. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bristol. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at COR, a luxury local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious rating and impressive menu, COR consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern british cuisine.

Also highly recommended is Bulrush, one of the best 1-star Michelin establishments in Bristol. Take your pick from the modern british menu, which has consistently earned Bulrush high ratings and praise from satisfied guests.

Experience the best local flavors while in Bristol and reserve a table at Root. Its delectable vegetarian and modern offerings have contributed to impressive reviews from numerous patrons who’ve already savored its meals. At this lavish dining spot, expect a perfect blend of sumptuous cuisine and exceptional service.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Small Bar, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,933 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Botanist Bristol, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,047 customers. This spot is known for its unique atmosphere and impressive selection of beverages, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

The Milk Thistle is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 716 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in England!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Bristol and Nottingham. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Nottingham. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Journey into the unknown at Bristol Cathedral, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable anglican or episcopal cathedral has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,282 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Bristol Aquarium is a recommended place to visit. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,180 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Bristol is Brunel's SS Great Britain. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 8,847 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Bristol offers an experience you will remember.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bristol, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Nottingham. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 37 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Nottingham. Nottingham offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Nottingham.

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at Kushi-Ya, a luxury local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious rating and impressive menu, Kushi-Ya consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional japanese cuisine.

Also highly recommended is alchemilla, one of the best 1-star Michelin establishments in Nottingham. Take your pick from the modern british menu, which has consistently earned alchemilla high ratings and praise from satisfied guests.

Experience the best local flavors while in Nottingham and reserve a table at Ibérico World Tapas. Its delectable mediterranean and asian influences offerings have contributed to impressive reviews from numerous patrons who’ve already savored its meals. At this lavish dining spot, expect a perfect blend of sumptuous cuisine and exceptional service.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, an awesome bar you can go to is 400 Rabbits. This place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 647 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,844 customers.

Pit & Pendulum is another great place where you can celebrate your adventures in Nottingham. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,872 customers.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Castleton, Edensor, and York, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in York. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Nottingham, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Edensor may take around 1 hour 6 min. Upon your arrival in Edensor, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Chatsworth House one of your first sightseeing stops in Edensor. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,015 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Edensor and set your GPS to Castleton. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 30 min. Upon reaching Castleton, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Peak District National Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 32,768 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Peak Cavern. This show cave has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,494 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to York, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of York's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Skosh, one of the top upscale restaurants in York. Offering a diverse menu focusing on modern british cuisine, Skosh has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

A local favorite is Roots. This exceptional dining experience in York has been awarded 1 Michelin stars. Featuring modern cuisine, this popular Bib Gourmand restaurant is a top choice for both locals and tourists.

Experience a taste of York at Valhalla, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,740 customers.

One of the best bars in York you could visit tonight after your dinner is Little Italy. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,037 customers.

Another popular bar in the region is The Ivy St Helen's Square York. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,879 customers.

Locals also enjoy Pivní York. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,396 customers.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in England, where you’ll be making 3 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of York and Lancaster. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lancaster. Lancaster will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Lancaster, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Lancaster. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to book a table at The Quarterhouse, a popular restaurant in Lancaster. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 213 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at The Fenwick during your stay in Lancaster. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 567 satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Golden Lion, one of the top bars you could visit in the city. Golden Lion is an excellent place for a refreshing evening drink and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 285 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

On day 5 of your road trip in England, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Liverpool, Chester, and Birmingham. In the evening, you’ll end up in Birmingham, where you will stay for 1 night.

Liverpool’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lancaster behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 25 min. Liverpool welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to The Beatles Story. This artist museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,275 visitors.

Royal Albert Dock Liverpool is another popular attraction you could visit today. This point of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 44,352 visitors.

Cavern Club is also highly recommended by travelers. This bar has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,941 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Liverpool, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Chester may take around 39 min. Upon your arrival in Chester, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Birmingham. Birmingham offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Birmingham's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Take your Birmingham getaway to new heights by dining at Purnell's, a restaurant. Renowned for its world-famous 1 Michelin-star rating and a variety of creative and refined dishes, Purnell's consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern cuisine.

A renowned dining spot in Birmingham is Opheem, which holds a rating of 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting ambiance and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its indian menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Opheem’s culinary mastery.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Birmingham and reserve a table at the 1-star Michelin restaurant, Adam's. Its delectable modern menu has contributed to impressive reviews from many previous guests. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be particularly excited to experience this Bib Gourmand restaurant.

Bacchus Bar is an excellent example. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,586 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Birmingham. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,002 customers.

The Ivy Temple Row is another of the best bars in the city of Birmingham that serves various drinks. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,888 customers.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in England.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Westminster, Leavesden, and London. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in London, where you’ll be staying for 5 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Leavesden, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Birmingham to Leavesden may take around 2 hours 1 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this exhibition room an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 82,133 reviews.

Set your GPS to Westminster and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Westminster beckons with new experiences!

At the end of the day, you will drive to London, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of London, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in The Wolseley, a distinguished dining establishment in London. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 5,980 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in London is Burger & Lobster Leicester Square. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 4,454 happy diners.

Hawksmoor Air Street stands out as a local favorite in London. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,216 customers.

Many locals go to The Connaught Bar to have a good time. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 654 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option is Hawksmoor Seven Dials. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,084 customers.

The Red Lion, Parliament Street is another great option in London. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,534 customers.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in London, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in London, London, Kensington, Richmond, and London. You still have 4 nights left in London.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Richmond Park. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 26,255 reviews.

Kensington’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Richmond behind. This drive usually takes around 36 min. Kensington welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in London.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of London's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bill's Soho Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in London. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 4,178 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Cahoots London while in London. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, treasured by 2,678 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of The Ivy, a favorite in London. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,597 discerning guests.

After dinner, visit The Old Bank of England for a drink or two. This bar serves plenty of food and drink options and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,562 customers.

You can also enjoy your night at Rules. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,824 customers, it's safe to say that Rules promises an unforgettable bar experience.

Alternatively, locals recommend The Ship & Shovell. This bar, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,465 customers, is a great place to meet new friends.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!

Wake up to day 8 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 3 nights left in London, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Greenwich Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 44,005 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Greenwich and set your GPS to East Ham. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 20 min. Upon reaching East Ham, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to London and your accommodation.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of London's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Berners Tavern while you’re in London. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 1,817 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in London is The Palomar. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 1,537 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

While in London, enjoy Smith & Wollensky’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 1,343 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in London, Social Eating House. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,280 customers.

Travelers and locals alike also recommend Old Shades. This bar has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,047 customers.

American Bar is another popular place for a drink, considered one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 667 customers.

Head back to your accommodation in London and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!

Day 9 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. England is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of London's best restaurants.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Estiatorio Milos. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in London boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from around 1,065 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in London is Simpson's in the Strand. It has garnered a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 830 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

If you're in the mood for an after-dinner drink, Artesian is our number one recommendation. Around 657 customers have rated this bar 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Bar Américain also has a great drinks menu. This bar is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 697 reviews.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!

Greet day 10 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to London for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Camden Town, London, Richmond, Eton, and London.

When you’ve had your share of London, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Richmond. Your travel time is around 32 min.

Make Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this non-departmental public body an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 45,021 reviews.

After soaking in Richmond’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Eton. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 27 min. When you arrive in Eton, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in London.

As you explore more of London, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Salisbury, Bath, and Bristol. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bristol. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Salisbury Cathedral. This anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,491 reviews.

Continue your journey at Stonehenge. This tourist attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 51,913 travelers from near and far.

After soaking in Salisbury’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bath. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Bath, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Roman Baths. This thermae is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 31,875 reviews.

Continue your journey at Thermae Bath Spa. This spa is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 8,744 travelers from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bristol. This car ride takes around 39 min.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Bristol, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Bristol.

Make a reservation at Catch22 Restaurant, a popular dining spot in Bristol. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 893 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at The Strawberry Thief while indulging in the charm of Bristol. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, cherished by 654 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Hotel du Vin Bristol, a treasured establishment in Bristol. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 918 satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city, Hyde & Co. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 287 reviews and guarantees you a great time.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to a popular bar like The Clockwork Rose. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 249 customers.

The options in Bristol don’t end there, you could also spend some time at the excellent Watershed. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,171 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

Head back to your accommodation in Bristol and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!

Day 12 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bristol before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Optimize your last day in England and go on a shopping spree in Bristol’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in England, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery.

Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bristol.

You’ll then say farewell to Bristol. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in England!