One-Week Relaxed England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to Birmingham

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The quiet canals of Birmingham
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Photo of Birmingham, Alabama, USA downtown city skyline.
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Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 8-day road trip in England with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in England at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Manchester, Urmston, Wigan, Salford, Walsall, Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, Balsall Heath, Coventry, West Bromwich, Tividale, Dudley, Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Manchester and 3 nights in Birmingham. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in England.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in England. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Manchester, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across England and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across England with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in England.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in England. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Peak District National Park. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Chatsworth House.

Traveling leisurely through England means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Science And Industry Museum. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Heaton Park. Get close to the spectacular National Memorial Arboretum and the wonderful National Sea Life Centre. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through England's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in England.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in England. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through England's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the England.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through England. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in England. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in England and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in England today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Northern Quarter
National Trust - Dunham MasseyTrafford PalazzoManchester Art GalleryManchester CathedralHeaton Park
Haigh Woodland ParkThe LowryScience and Industry MuseumManchester MuseumCastlefield
Walsall ArboretumNational SEA LIFE Centre BirminghamBirmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Sutton ParkCannon Hill ParkWar Memorial ParkCoventry CathedralCoventry Transport Museum
Sandwell Valley Country ParkShri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, TividaleDudley Zoo and CastleBlack Country Living Museum
Chasewater Country Park - Staffordshire County CouncilNational Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)National Tramway MuseumChatsworth HousePeak District National Park
Sackville Garden

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Manchester - Arrival day
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  • Northern Quarter
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Manchester, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Manchester and begin your adventure in England.

Manchester 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 Northern Quarter, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Manchester. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in England. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Manchester, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fazenda Manchester, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Peaky Blinders Manchester. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Corbieres Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Directors Box likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in England. Enjoy your first taste of Manchester as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Manchester
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Drive 68 km, 2 hours 16 min

  • National Trust - Dunham Massey
  • Trafford Palazzo
  • Manchester Art Gallery
  • Manchester Cathedral
  • Heaton Park
  • More

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Manchester and visit amazing attractions in Urmston and Manchester destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Manchester. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Manchester allows for both. Start by heading to National Trust - Dunham Massey. This popular park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Manchester Art Gallery, a locally appreciated art gallery. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Manchester Cathedral. Round off your day at Heaton Park, another gem in Manchester with enchanting features to discover.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Manchester, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a memorable dining experience in Manchester by booking a table at El Gato Negro, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional spanish menu. For a different culinary experience in Manchester, mana shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative british and modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Higher Ground is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern british cuisine in Manchester. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Arcane. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Liquor Store, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Atlas Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in England. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in England tomorrow with new energy.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Manchester
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Drive 75 km, 1 hour 47 min

  • Haigh Woodland Park
  • The Lowry
  • Science and Industry Museum
  • Manchester Museum
  • Castlefield
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On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Manchester, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Manchester will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.

Castlefield is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Wigan, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the town.

Manchester is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a performing arts theater, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Haigh Woodland Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, The Lowry, an instagrammable performing arts theater that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Science And Industry Museum, one of the town’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Manchester Museum.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Manchester has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Browns Manchester, a top-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Teppanyaki Chinatown. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Manchester.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Port Street Beer House after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar Fringe, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Mary D's Beamish Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across England.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Manchester
  • Birmingham
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Drive 146 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Walsall Arboretum
  • National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
  • Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
  • More

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across England promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Walsall and drive in the direction of the city of Birmingham for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Birmingham, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Manchester, including a park, an aquarium, and a museum. Start your day at Walsall Arboretum. This mesmerizing park is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Manchester. Then, wander over to National Sea Life Centre. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this aquarium will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Birmingham Museum And Art Gallery. This photogenic museum is a favorite among visitors.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Birmingham. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in England by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Birmingham.

Have a memorable dining experience in Birmingham by booking a table at Purnell's, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Birmingham, Simpsons shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Opheem is known as a top local spot for its delicious indian cuisine in Birmingham. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Birmingham.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Equator Bar Birmingham after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bacchus Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Birmingham!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Birmingham
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Drive 109 km, 2 hours 48 min

  • Sutton Park
  • Cannon Hill Park
  • War Memorial Park
  • Coventry Cathedral
  • Coventry Transport Museum
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of England and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Birmingham and beyond. With 2 nights left in Birmingham, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Birmingham today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Sutton Park. This serene park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cannon Hill Park and learn what makes this idyllic park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited War Memorial Park. After exploring the park, head to Coventry Cathedral. This up-and-coming church is a highlight in Birmingham. As your day continues, stop by Coventry Transport Museum, known for its photogenic features.

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

Exploring the food culture in Birmingham offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre, an IHG Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tiger Bites Pig, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Folium. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Birmingham this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Birmingham and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Birmingham
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Drive 56 km, 1 hour 36 min

  • Sandwell Valley Country Park
  • Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, Tividale
  • Dudley Zoo and Castle
  • Black Country Living Museum
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On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Birmingham and visit amazing attractions in West Bromwich, Tividale, and Dudley destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Birmingham. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Birmingham on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Sandwell Valley Country Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this gorgeous park before continuing your journey. Shri Venkateswara (balaji) Temple, Tividale is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing hindu temple is one of the best-rated sights in Birmingham.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Dudley Zoo And Castle. This picture-perfect zoo is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Black Country Living Museum.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Birmingham.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Galleria, a highly-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Ivy Temple Row, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Malmaison Birmingham. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Birmingham this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in England.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Birmingham as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through England with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in England!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Birmingham
  • Manchester
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Drive 211 km, 3 hours 59 min

  • Chasewater Country Park - Staffordshire County Council
  • National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
  • National Tramway Museum
  • Chatsworth House
  • Peak District National Park
  • More

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in England is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the village of Alrewas and end it in the city of Manchester. You’ll stay in Manchester for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in England.

Start your adventure at Chasewater Country Park. This beloved park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of National Memorial Arboretum, a must-see war memorial in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to National Tramway Museum. This increasingly popular tramway museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Chatsworth House, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Peak District National Park. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Manchester in this laid-back road trip in England. You'll stay here for 1 night.

Exploring the food culture in Manchester offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider 63 Degrees, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vincenzo Trattoria. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Manchester.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Circus Tavern is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Temple (temple Of Convenience), offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Dusk Til Pawn. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in England!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Manchester - Departure day
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  • Sackville Garden
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in England is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Manchester.

Make the most of your final day in England by visiting Manchester’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Manchester Arndale. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in England.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Sackville Gardens. This frequently visited park is a popular place to see in the city.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Manchester or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Adam Reid at The French, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Manchester and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in England is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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