12-Day England Road Trip from London traveling north to Oxford, Liverpool, Kendal, Leeds, and Birmingham

Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach London and pick up your car. You’ll stay in London for 4 nights 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.

London is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in London. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in England. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cahoots London, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bill's Soho Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Estiatorio Milos. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Américain. Alternatively, go to The Connaught Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar Polski provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in England!

Greet day 2 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to London for your remaining 3 nights 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 Westminster, Kensington, and Richmond.

When you arrive in Westminster, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Hyde Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 126,766 visitors.

When you’re finished at Hyde Park, head to Royal Albert Hall. This one-of-a-kind concert hall is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 37,841 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Richmond. This car ride takes around 19 min.

Make Science Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this science museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 65,368 reviews. More than 2,989,000 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Victoria and Albert Museum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 55,517 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 3,932,738 annual visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kensington, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Richmond. This drive usually takes around 19 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. This non-departmental public body is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 45,021 reviews.

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

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

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Palomar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Berners Tavern offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Burger & Lobster Leicester Square. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.

Keep the evening going at Artesian, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to American Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Old Shades, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions London has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in London by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Big Ben. This cultural icon is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 61,373 reviews.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else London has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences London offers and add your favorites to your England travel package below.

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

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Rules, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hawksmoor Seven Dials, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Simpson's in the Strand. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Scarfes Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. BFI IMAX is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Old Bank of England offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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 neighborhood. Since you will return to London for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience London and Camden Town to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Regent's Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 44,079 visitors.

Madame Tussauds London is another popular attraction you could visit today. This wax museum has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 71,843 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to London and set your GPS to Camden Town. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Camden Town, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Tower of London. This castle is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in London, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 101,481 visitors. Around 2,741,126 people visit this attraction every year.

When you’ve had your share of London, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Camden Town. Your travel time is around 11 min.

Make British Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this national museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 148,750 reviews. More than 5,906,716 people visit this place of interest every year.

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

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

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Smith & Wollensky, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hawksmoor Air Street beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Premier Inn London County Hall hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. The Ship & Shovell is an excellent place to start.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Oxford, Eton, Woodstock, and Cheapside, 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 Oxford. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Covered Market. This much-appreciated market hall is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 9,506 reviews.

Set your GPS to Cheapside and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cheapside beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at St George's Chapel, Windsor. This castle chapel is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,434 visitors.

When you’re finished at St George's Chapel, Windsor, head to Windsor Castle. This one-of-a-kind historic house museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 53,263 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Oxford, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Make sure to reserve a table at The Big Society, an iconic dining spot in Oxford. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Antep Kitchen, a popular restaurant in Oxford. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Victoria, a hidden gem nestled in Oxford. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Mad Hatter, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The White Horse offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Oxford. The House is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 1 night left in Oxford, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

When you’ve had your share of Oxford, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bath. Your travel time is around 1 hour 36 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Pulteney Bridge. Previous visitors have rated this road bridge an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,931 reviews.

Roman Baths is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This thermae is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 31,875 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Thermae Bath Spa. This spa is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 8,744 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bath, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Salisbury may take around 58 min. Upon your arrival in Salisbury, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Stonehenge. This tourist attraction is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Salisbury, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 51,913 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Oxford, 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.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at La Cucina, a highly-rated dining destination in Oxford. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bbuona, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kazbar Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Oxford this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Jolly Farmers, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Turf Tavern offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Sandy's Piano Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Stratford-on-Avon and Warwick. 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.

When you’ve had your share of Warwick, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Stratford-on-Avon. Your travel time is around 19 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Stratford Butterfly Farm. This butterfly house is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Stratford-on-Avon, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,018 visitors.

Shakespeare's Birthplace is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 16,156 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Oxford, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Warwick may take around 54 min. Upon your arrival in Warwick, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Warwick Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 21,167 reviews.

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.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Quarter, a top-rated dining spot in Liverpool. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mowgli Street Food, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Cowshed Liverpool. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Liverpool.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Brass Monkey 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, Lady of Mann 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.

On day 8 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 Chester and Liverpool. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kendal, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Liverpool, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Chester. This drive usually takes around 39 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Chester Zoo. This much-appreciated zoo is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 36,440 reviews.

After soaking in Liverpool’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Chester. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in Chester, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Museum of Liverpool. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,961 reviews.

Royal Albert Dock Liverpool is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 44,352 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Cavern Club. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,941 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Kendal. Kendal offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Kendal, 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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Kendal, Windermere, Greenholme, and Dockray. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leeds, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Windermere, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Windermere, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,172 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Leeds, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Leeds.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal. Make sure to reserve a table at HOME, an iconic dining spot in Leeds. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cosy Club, a popular restaurant in Leeds. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds, a hidden gem nestled in Leeds. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pixel Bar Leeds stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, North Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Brudenell Social Club is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Leeds and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, York. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Birmingham, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking in Leeds’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: York. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 46 min. When you arrive in York, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see National Railway Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,320 visitors and gets around 807,591 visits every year.

York Dungeon is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,016 travelers.

York is also the home of Shambles Market. Around 10,860 people have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is York Minster. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 18,951 reviews, a visit to this church building is a great idea.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Birmingham, 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 Birmingham. 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.

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Purecraft Bar & Kitchen, a highly-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're eager to try something different, consider Grand Central Kitchen, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Folium. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Birmingham this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Equator Bar Birmingham, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bacchus Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Birmingham, Leavesden, Watford, and Dudley, 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 London. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Dudley. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. This extraordinary art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,255 visitors. Each year, around 856,000 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Leavesden’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dudley behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 8 min. Leavesden welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, a remarkable exhibition room where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 82,133 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of London. London offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at The Red Lion, Parliament Street, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Holiday Inn London - Bloomsbury, an IHG Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Wolseley. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

Day 12 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of London before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at London’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of England. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of England forever.

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

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Ivy, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to London. 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!