11-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to Bristol, Basingstoke, London, and Stratford-on-Avon

Greet day 2 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Manchester 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 Stretford, Manchester, and Wigan.

Immerse yourself in Manchester’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Science And Industry Museum. This respected museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Manchester Art Gallery, a must-visit art gallery in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Heaton Park, a popular park.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Stretford, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Manchester may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Manchester, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Longford Park School is a locally appreciated park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picturesque features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Manchester, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Wigan. This drive usually takes around 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your self-guided tour starts at Haigh Woodland Park, an increasingly popular park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE, a popular restaurant in Manchester. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Manchester at Sam's Chop House, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Annies. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Manchester tonight.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Bath, Stourton, and Salisbury, 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 Basingstoke. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bath, 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 Bristol to Bath may take around 38 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bath, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Royal Victoria Park, Bath, an up-and-coming park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Thermae Bath Spa and admire its history-steeped features. When you’re ready, continue to Roman Baths, a notable archeological site beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bath and set your GPS to Stourton. 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 43 min. Upon reaching Stourton, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Stourhead is a captivating park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its standout features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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 32 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Stonehenge and explore the UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

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 Basingstoke. Basingstoke 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.

As you explore more of Basingstoke, 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 to another unforgettable day in England!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Eton, Brentford, and London. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in London. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Eton. This car ride takes around 46 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Windsor Castle. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Brentford, 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 Eton to Brentford may take around 30 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Brentford, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and explore the UNESCO world heritage-designated features.

London’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brentford behind. This drive usually takes around 40 min. London welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is London Eye. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the observation deck before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Big Ben. This astonishing monument is a traveler-favorite in the town. Not far away, you’ll also find Westminster Abbey. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church.

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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in London by booking a table at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, celebrated for its delectable french menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 3-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Américain, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Connaught Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Juno Rooms offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in London, featuring family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at British Museum, a globally renowned museum in the city. Then, head to National Gallery and soak in the ambiance of this historic art gallery.

There are many interesting places to see in London and when you are ready for more, go to Trafalgar Square. This is one of the city’s most iconic spots. After exploring the public square, visit the timeless Tower Of London. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the iconic Tower Bridge, an iconic monument in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in London. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Wiltons Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Rules. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting American Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Old Shades, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Scarfes Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, London and Leavesden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Stratford-on-Avon, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in London today. One of the most top-rated attractions included on the itinerary is St James's Park. This respected park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Buckingham Palace and learn what makes this breathtaking palace unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the interesting Regent's Park. After exploring the park, head to Madame Tussauds London. This top-rated wax museum is a highlight in London.

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 Leavesden may take around 42 min. Upon your arrival in Leavesden, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, a widely recognized museum in Leavesden. Explore its picture-perfect 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 Stratford-on-Avon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Garrick is an excellent place to start.

Say good night to Stratford-on-Avon and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!

On day 10 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 Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, and Edensor. In the evening, you’ll end up in Manchester, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Stratford-on-Avon promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Shakespeare's Birthplace. This heritage-rich museum is a highlight of any visit in the town.

Set your GPS to Warwick and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Warwick beckons with new experiences!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Warwick Castle, a notable castle that draws visitors from near and far.

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 Warwick to Edensor may take around 1 hour 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Edensor, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Chatsworth House, a notable palace in Edensor. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 Manchester. Manchester 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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Browns Manchester, an iconic dining spot in Manchester. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Manchester. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Teppanyaki Chinatown, a hidden gem nestled in Manchester. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Port Street Beer House, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Fringe offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Mary D's Beamish Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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