12-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Liverpool to Chester, Windermere, York, Cambridge, Stratford-on-Avon, and Bourton-on-the-Water
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 12-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 Liverpool, 1 night in Chester, 2 nights in Windermere, 2 nights in York, 1 night in Cambridge, 1 night in Stratford-on-Avon, and 1 night in Bourton-on-the-Water. 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 Liverpool, 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. Royal Albert Dock Liverpool and Chester Zoo are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Lake District National Park, learn more about the unique Roman Baths, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of National Railway Museum.
As you hit the open road and drive through Liverpool, Chester, Troutbeck Bridge, Ambleside, Near Sawrey, Rydal, Windermere, Grasmere, Keswick, York, Cambridge, Stratford-on-Avon, Arrow, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Bath, 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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Day 1
- Liverpool - Arrival day
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- The Liverpool Waterfront
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Say hello to Liverpool! 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 Liverpool for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Liverpool 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 The Liverpool Waterfront, or just 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 Liverpool. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Liverpool, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at KURDINA RESTAURANT AND BAR, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rudy's Pizza Napoletana - Castle Street offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Quarter is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Liverpool.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Brass Monkey after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Sanctuary Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Underground Gin Society also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Liverpool
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Drive 8 km, 1 hour 1 min
- Walker Art Gallery
- Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral
- Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
- The Beatles Story
- Wheel Of Liverpool
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Liverpool has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Liverpool by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Liverpool, including an art gallery, a church, a historical landmark, a museum, an observation deck and much more! Start your day at Walker Art Gallery. This eye-catching art gallery is an increasingly popular place to see in Liverpool. Then, wander over to Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. If awe-inspiring sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Royal Albert Dock Liverpool. This picture-perfect historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.
Liverpool offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, The Beatles Story is a locally appreciated spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the enchanting The Wheel Of Liverpool. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this frequently visited observation deck.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Liverpool's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at OH ME OH MY, a top-rated dining destination in Liverpool. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Georgie Porgy Cafe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Queens Wine Bar and Bistro. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Liverpool this evening.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Mcguffie & Co after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Ye Hole In Ye Wall for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Rox Cocktail Bar Liverpool is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!
Day 3
- Liverpool
- Cheshire West and Chester
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Drive 45 km, 1 hour 16 min
- Chester Zoo
- The Grosvenor Museum
- Chester Cathedral
- Eastgate and Eastgate Clock
- Chester Roman Amphitheatre
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Chester. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Chester, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Liverpool, including a zoo, a museum, a church, a monument, an archeological site and much more! Start your adventure at Chester Zoo. This locally renowned zoo is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to The Grosvenor Museum located in Liverpool for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Chester Cathedral. Its stunning features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Eastgate And Eastgate Clock. Visitors usually appreciate the historic features of this monument. Next up is Chester Roman Amphitheatre, a highly recommended archeological site.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Chester, 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 Chester. 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at 1539 Restaurant and Bar, a popular restaurant in Chester. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Chester at The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant, 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 BarLounge - Chester. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Chester tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Prohibition, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Liquor And Co offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Chester. Craft & Company is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 4
- Cheshire West and Chester
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 217 km, 3 hours 14 min
- Holehird Gardens
- Borrans Park
- The Bridge House
- National Trust - Hill Top
- Rydal Cave
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 5 vibrant destinations - Troutbeck Bridge, Clappersgate, Ambleside, Near Sawrey, and Rydal. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Windermere. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Chester is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a botanical garden, a park, a historical landmark, a museum, a cave and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Holehird Gardens and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Borrans Park, a visually striking park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to The Bridge House, one of the village’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile National Trust - Hill Top. When you're finished at the museum, Rydal Cave awaits your visit. This cave is a visually striking highlight on today's itinerary.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Windermere. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
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.
Day 5
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 100 km, 2 hours 26 min
- Lake District National Park
- National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
- Castlerigg stone circle
- Black Moss Pot
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Windermere, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Lake District National Park. This well-known national park is a romantic place to see in Windermere.
As you stroll around Windermere, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Castlerigg Stone Circle. This often recommended archeological site offers a historic encounter with Windermere. Next, make your way to Black Moss Pot to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Windermere.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Windermere and your accommodation.
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.
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 6
- Bowness-on-Windermere
- York
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Drive 179 km, 2 hours 58 min
- National Railway Museum York
- Museum Gardens
- York city walls
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On day 6 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 York. In the evening, you’ll end up in York, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Start by visiting National Railway Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is York Museum Gardens, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated botanical garden renowned for its romantic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Windermere by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to York City Walls. This culturally significant historical landmark is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Windermere experience.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in York. York offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of York, 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Yakamoz, a top-rated dining destination in York. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider House Of The Trembling Madness, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turtle Bay York. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in York this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Habit Cafe Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Shambles Tavern, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pivní York provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 7
- York
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Drive 2 km, 37 min
- York Minster
- Shambles Market
- Jorvik Viking Centre
- York Dungeon
- York Castle Museum
- Clifford's Tower, York
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Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in York for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in York, including a church, a market, a museum, a haunted house, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to York Minster. This interesting church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Shambles Market, which may be one of the most visually striking places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring York on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Jorvik Viking Centre, a captivating museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for York Dungeon and York Castle Museum. End your day with a visit to Clifford's Tower, York, a worthwhile castle that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in York. 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen, a popular restaurant in York. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of York at Plonkers, 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 The Ivy St Helen's Square York. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in York tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Dusk, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Fossgate Tap is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- York
- Cambridge
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Drive 263 km, 3 hours 46 min
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden
- Fitzwilliam Museum
- The Corpus Clock
- The Backs
- Newton's Apple Tree
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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 Cambridge. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cambridge, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Cambridge University Botanic Garden. This beloved botanical garden is a romantic place to see in York. Continue your discovery at Fitzwilliam Museum, a standout museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around York, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Corpus Clock. This up-and-coming art installation offers a photogenic encounter with York. Next, make your way to The Backs to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Newton's Apple Tree, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark 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 York.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Cambridge, 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 Cambridge's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at The Cambridge Blue, a top-rated dining destination in Cambridge. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Mill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Clarendon Arms. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cambridge this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Cambridge Tap, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Free Press is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Eagle also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
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 9
- Cambridge
- Stratford-upon-Avon
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Drive 168 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Anne Hathaway's Cottage
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Stratford Butterfly Farm
- Holy Trinity Church
- Shakespeare's Funerary Monument
- Hall's Croft
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Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Stratford-on-Avon, 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 Stratford-on-Avon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Cambridge includes a historical landmark, a museum, a butterfly garden, a church, a monument and much more! Anne Hathaway's Cottage is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Shakespeare's Birthplace, a captivating museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Stratford Butterfly Farm, a romantic butterfly garden, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Cambridge. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the worthwhile Holy Trinity Church. If you’re looking for more, Shakespeare's Funerary Monument is also an up-and-coming attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Hall's Croft, a place of visually striking interest in the town.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Stratford-on-Avon's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Garrick offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.
Day 10
- Stratford-upon-Avon
- Bourton-on-the-Water
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Drive 105 km, 1 hour 57 min
- Ragley Hall, Park & Gardens
- National Trust - Bibury
- The Model Village
- Birdland Park & Gardens
- Bourton-on-the-water
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On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Arrow, Bibury, and Bourton-on-the-Water. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Bourton-on-the-Water, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Stratford-on-Avon promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Ragley Hall, Park & Gardens. This enchanting castle is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy National Trust - Bibury, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Birdland Park And Gardens. This gorgeous zoo is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Bourton-on-the-water, an up-and-coming point of interest, and take a stroll around the area.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Bourton-on-the-Water. Bourton-on-the-Water offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bourton-on-the-Water. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 11
- Bourton-on-the-Water
- Liverpool
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Drive 390 km, 5 hours 14 min
- Pulteney Bridge
- Bath Abbey
- Roman Baths
- The Circus
- Royal Crescent
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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 1 vibrant destinations - Bath. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Liverpool. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for an exciting day in Bourton-on-the-Water. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a historical landmark, a church, an archeological site, a public square and much more! Begin your adventure at Pulteney Bridge. This is an often recommended historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Bath Abbey, an often recommended church in Bourton-on-the-Water.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Roman Baths. From there, take a leisurely stroll to The Circus, another of the city’s intriguing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Royal Crescent, an UNESCO world heritage-listed place of interest in the city.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Liverpool, 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 Liverpool. 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 fantastic dining experience at Mowgli Street Food, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Floating Grace offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Premier Inn Liverpool (West Derby) hotel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Liverpool.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Lady Of Mann, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Boom Battle Bar Liverpool, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Abditory likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 12
- Liverpool - Departure day
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- Bold Street
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Day 12 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Liverpool before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Bold Street, a street that captures the true essence of Liverpool. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Liverpool.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Red Sea Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Liverpool. 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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