10-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester traveling south to Birmingham, London, and Cheltenham
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Explore the best of England on a 10-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Manchester, Royton, Birmingham, Warwick, Stratford-on-Avon, Leavesden, London, Greenwich, Brentford, Kensington, Eton, Salisbury, Avebury, Cheltenham, Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor. This road trip itinerary in England seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Manchester, 1 night in Birmingham, 5 nights in London, and 1 night in Cheltenham. 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 Manchester, 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. London Eye and Buckingham Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Manchester, Royton, Birmingham, Warwick, Stratford-on-Avon, Leavesden, London, Greenwich, Brentford, Kensington, Eton, Salisbury, Avebury, Cheltenham, Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Manchester - Arrival day
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- Cathedral Gardens
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach Manchester and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Manchester for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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 Cathedral Gardens or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Manchester. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Manchester. 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.
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.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Corbieres Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Directors Box offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Manchester
- Birmingham
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Drive 184 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Tandle Hill
- Manchester Art Gallery
- Science and Industry Museum
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Royton and Manchester, 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 Birmingham. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with a photogenic and a history-steeped in Manchester. Begin your sightseeing with Manchester Art Gallery. This up-and-coming art gallery is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Science And Industry Museum, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.
After soaking in Manchester’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Royton. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 36 min. When you arrive in Royton, it's time to take a break from the road.
Spend your afternoon discovering Tandle Hill, an underrated park known for its peaceful features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Birmingham. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Birmingham. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Birmingham by reserving a table at Purnell's. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Opheem, recognized for its delicious indian dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Adam's, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Birmingham. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.
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.
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.
Day 3
- Birmingham
- Warwick
- Stratford-upon-Avon
- Leavesden
- London
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 49 min
- Warwick Castle
- Stratford Butterfly Farm
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Warwick, Stratford-on-Avon, and Leavesden. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in London. You will spend 5 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Warwick today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Warwick, 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 Warwick may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Warwick, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Warwick Castle, an interesting castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Warwick, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stratford-on-Avon may take around 19 min. Upon your arrival in Stratford-on-Avon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Your self-guided tour starts at Stratford Butterfly Farm, a beloved butterfly garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Shakespeare's Birthplace and admire its instagrammable features.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stratford-on-Avon and set your GPS to Leavesden. 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 1 hour 37 min. Upon reaching Leavesden, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Begin your journey at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter and explore the picture-perfect features.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in London. 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.
Have a memorable dining experience in London by booking a table at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern french menu. For a different culinary experience in London, Hélène Darroze at The Connaught shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 3-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, Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern french cuisine in London. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Américain. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Connaught Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Juno Rooms provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Say good night to London and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 4
- London
- Greenwich
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Drive 40 km, 2 hours 27 min
- Tate Modern
- Borough Market
- London Bridge
- Regent's Park
- Greenwich Park
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On day 4 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in London, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to London for 4 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience London and Greenwich to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Get ready for a day filled with a breathtaking, a photogenic, a standout, a symbolic, a romantic, and a majestic in the charming city of London. Your adventure starts at Tate Modern, a widely recognized local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Borough Market. This widely recognized food market is known for its picture-perfect appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander London's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to London Bridge. This culturally significant historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Regent's Park is also worth visiting.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of London, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Greenwich may take around 51 min. Upon your arrival in Greenwich, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Make your way to Greenwich Park, a well-known park that draws attention for its romantic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to London and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of London's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bill's Soho Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Estiatorio Milos. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lyaness, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Polski provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Buckingham Arms offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
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.
Day 5
- London
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Drive 17 km, 1 hour 25 min
- Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Big Ben
- Madame Tussauds London
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On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore London. You’ll stay in London for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Prepare for a day full of a mesmerizing, a visually striking, a respected, a culturally significant, an UNESCO world heritage-designated, a romantic, and a detailed. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Tower Of London. This iconic castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Tower Bridge, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out London Eye, one of the most wondrous places to see in London. This observation deck is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Big Ben. Wander around and soak in the culturally significant atmosphere this monument offers. Finally, take the path to the impressive Madame Tussauds London, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of London's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at The Palomar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Clermont London, Victoria boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Berners Tavern. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Merchant House London is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Artesian, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Jin Bo Law. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 6
- London
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Drive 6 km, 53 min
- National Gallery
- Trafalgar Square
- St James's Park
- Buckingham Palace
- British Museum
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Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in London, including an art gallery, a public square, a park, a palace, a museum and much more! Start your day at National Gallery. This instagrammable art gallery is a captivating place to see in London. Then, wander over to Trafalgar Square. If masterful sites excite you, this public square will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find St James's Park. This mesmerizing park is a favorite among visitors.
London offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Buckingham Palace is a globally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the palace, don’t forget to check out the heritage-rich British Museum. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this globally renowned museum in London.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in London. 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.
Savor the flavors at Goodman City, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Burger & Lobster Leicester Square beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Wiltons Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at American Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Old Shades for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Scarfes Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 7
- London
- Kensington
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Drive 31 km, 1 hour 44 min
- Kew Gardens
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Science Museum
- Royal Albert Hall
- Hyde Park
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to London, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
London is home to plenty of attractions that offer a charming, a scenic, a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, and a heritage-rich! Start at Hyde Park, a timeless park that is worthwhile a visit in the town.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Brentford. This drive usually takes around 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a captivating botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brentford, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kensington. This drive usually takes around 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Victoria And Albert Museum, a top-rated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Science Museum, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings. Next, explore Royal Albert Hall, yet another notable place to see in the area.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in London.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in London. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at Rules, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hawksmoor Seven Dials. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Heliot Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Speaker, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Old Bank Of England. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 8
- London
- Eton
- Salisbury
- Avebury
- Cheltenham
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Drive 252 km, 3 hours 54 min
- St George's Chapel
- Windsor Castle
- Stonehenge
- Avebury
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Eton, Salisbury, and Avebury. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cheltenham, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of London, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Eton may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Eton, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to St George's Chapel, Windsor, a locally appreciated church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Windsor Castle, where you can soak in the breathtaking surroundings.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Salisbury. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Begin your journey at Stonehenge and explore the culturally significant features.
Set your GPS to Avebury and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 43 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Avebury beckons with new experiences!
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Avebury, an up-and-coming archeological site that draws visitors from near and far.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Cheltenham. Cheltenham offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cheltenham's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Le Champignon Sauvage in Cheltenham by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Le Champignon Sauvage offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Lumière, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 9
- Cheltenham
- Alrewas
- Crich
- Edensor
- Manchester
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Drive 280 km, 4 hours 31 min
- National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
- National Tramway Museum
- Chatsworth House
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On day 9 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 Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor. In the evening, you’ll end up in Manchester, where you will stay for 1 night.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Crich. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to National Memorial Arboretum, a popular war memorial that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Alrewas, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Crich. This drive usually takes around 46 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is National Tramway Museum.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Edensor, 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 Crich to Edensor may take around 31 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Edensor, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Head to Chatsworth House, a locally renowned palace in Edensor. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Manchester. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Manchester, 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.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Manchester by reserving a table at El Gato Negro. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of spanish cuisine. For a different taste, head over to mana, renowned for its delectable creative british and modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Higher Ground, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern british menu. With a Bib Gourmand acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Manchester.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Arcane, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Liquor Store offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Manchester. Atlas Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 10
- Manchester - Departure day
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- Sackville Garden
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Day 10 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Manchester before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in England by visiting Manchester’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in England.
Begin your adventure at Sackville Gardens. This is a beloved park you should not miss.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Manchester.
You’ll then say farewell to Manchester. 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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