9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds to Windermere and Cotswold and surrounding area

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through England. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Leeds, 3 nights in Windermere, and 2 nights in Cotswold. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in England. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Leeds, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover England on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in England. Lake District National Park and National Railway Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable York Minster, learn more about the unique Shakespeare's Birthplace, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Shambles Market.

As you hit the open road and drive through Leeds, York, Malham, Windermere, Keswick, Ambleside, Near Sawrey, Grasmere, Rydal, Stratford-on-Avon, Evesham, Bibury, Cotswold, Bourton-on-the-Water, Northleach, and Oxford, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of England. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in England.

Throughout your road trip in England, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in England.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in England fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in England today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Park Square
National Railway Museum YorkClifford's Tower, YorkShambles MarketYork MinsterYork city walls
Janet's FossRibblehead ViaductWhite Scar CavesWindermere
Keswick MuseumThe Bridge HouseStock Ghyll ForceNational Trust - Hill TopNational Trust - Tarn Hows
National Trust - Allan Bank and GrasmereLake District National ParkRydal CaveCastlerigg stone circleAshness Bridge
Shakespeare's BirthplaceAbbey ParkNational Trust - Bibury

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Leeds - Arrival day
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  • Park Square
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Say hello to Leeds! 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 Leeds for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Leeds is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Park Square, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Leeds. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Leeds, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at HOME, a top-rated dining destination in Leeds. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Leeds City Centre (Leeds Arena) hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Leeds this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pixel Bar Leeds, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Wax Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Leeds. North Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Leeds
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Drive 91 km, 2 hours 9 min

  • National Railway Museum York
  • Clifford's Tower, York
  • Shambles Market
  • York Minster
  • York city walls
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Leeds, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Leeds, including a museum, a castle, a market, a church, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at National Railway Museum. This captivating museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Clifford's Tower, York located in Leeds for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Shambles Market. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the market, continue your tour of the city with a visit to York Minster. Visitors usually appreciate the historic features of this church. Next up is York City Walls, a highly recommended historical landmark.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cosy Club, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Clayton Hotel Leeds is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Leeds tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Power, Corruption & Lies. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Brudenell Social Club, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Leeds
  • Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 181 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Janet's Foss
  • Ribblehead Viaduct
  • White Scar Caves
  • Windermere
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Malham and Windermere. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Windermere, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming village of Leeds. Your adventure starts at Janet's Foss, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Ribblehead Viaduct. This underrated monument is known for its instagrammable appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Leeds's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to White Scar Caves. This stunning cave offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Windermere is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Windermere. Windermere offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Say good night to Windermere and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 98 km, 2 hours 19 min

  • Keswick Museum
  • The Bridge House
  • Stock Ghyll Force
  • National Trust - Hill Top
  • National Trust - Tarn Hows
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Windermere for your remaining 2 nights in the town 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 Keswick, Ambleside, and Near Sawrey.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Windermere, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at Keswick Museum, an underrated museum in the town. Then, head to The Bridge House and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Windermere, and when you are ready for more, go to Stock Ghyll Force. This is one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing romantic spots of interest. After exploring the waterfall, visit the underrated National Trust - Hill Top. Not far away, you'll also find National Trust - Tarn Hows. This lake is a romantic highlight in Windermere.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Windermere. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 100 km, 2 hours 23 min

  • National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
  • Lake District National Park
  • Rydal Cave
  • Castlerigg stone circle
  • Ashness Bridge
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On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Windermere, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Grasmere, Rydal, and Keswick. You still have 1 night left in Windermere.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Windermere on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated sightseeing destination, National Trust - Allan Bank And Grasmere. Afterward, continue to Lake District National Park, a national park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Windermere’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Rydal Cave. This locally appreciated cave is an essential stop. Following that, head to Castlerigg Stone Circle, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Ashness Bridge, an increasingly popular historical landmark in the village.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Windermere. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
  • Cirencester
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Drive 396 km, 4 hours 57 min

  • Shakespeare's Birthplace
  • Abbey Park
  • National Trust - Bibury
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Stratford-on-Avon, Evesham, and Bibury, 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 Cotswold. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Windermere. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a park, and a historical landmark. Begin your adventure at Shakespeare's Birthplace. This is a well-known museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Abbey Park, a beloved park in Windermere.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to National Trust - Bibury.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cotswold. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cotswold. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Cirencester
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Drive 128 km, 2 hours 19 min

  • Bourton-on-the-water
  • Birdland Park & Gardens
  • Church of St Peter and St Paul, Northleach
  • National Trust - Hidcote
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On day 7 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in Cotswold, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Cotswold for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bourton-on-the-Water, Northleach, and Hidcote Bartrim to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. Next, go to Birdland Park And Gardens.

After visiting Bourton-on-the-water and Birdland Park And Gardens, have a stroll along Cotswold's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Church Of St Peter And St Paul, Northleach. This stunning church offers a unique experience. National Trust - Hidcote is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

As you explore more of Cotswold, 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.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Cirencester
  • Leeds
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Drive 340 km, 4 hours 44 min

  • Oxford Castle
  • Carfax Tower
  • Covered Market
  • Radcliffe Camera
  • Oxford University Museum of Natural History
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Oxford. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leeds, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Oxford Castle. This beloved castle is an awe-inspiring place to see in Cotswold. Continue your discovery at Carfax Tower Tower Of The Church Of St Martin Carfax, a breathtaking monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cotswold, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Covered Market. This beloved market offers a respected encounter with Cotswold. Next, make your way to Radcliffe Camera to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Oxford University Museum Of Natural History, a captivating museum that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cotswold.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Leeds. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gaucho Leeds, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bill's Leeds Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Aire Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Leeds.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Roland's Leeds is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Lost & Found Leeds Club, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Distrikt. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Leeds - Departure day
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  • Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms
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Day 9 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Leeds before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms. This worthwhile escape room is a popular place to see in the city.

On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at Leeds’s popular marketplace, Trinity Leeds. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Leeds. 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!

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