12-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to Windermere, York, Whitby, Durham, Alnwick, and Newcastle upon Tyne

On day 2 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Manchester and Salford. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Manchester, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Northern Quarter, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Manchester. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions. Another must-visit is Castlefield, a neighborhood offering a different perspective on Manchester.

Make a stop at Manchester Cathedral. This up-and-coming church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to John Rylands Research Institute And Library located in Manchester for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Manchester Art Gallery. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the art gallery, continue your tour of the city with a visit to The Lowry. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this performing arts theater.

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

Manchester is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Manchester.

Have a fantastic dining experience at MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sam's Chop House offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Annies is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Manchester.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Arcane, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Liquor Store offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Atlas Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Manchester and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in England.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Windermere and Clappersgate. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Windermere, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Let Queen Adelaide's Hill set the tone for the day. Borrans Park is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing park is one of the best-rated sights in Manchester.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Lake District National Park. This mesmerizing national park is a sight to behold.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Windermere, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Windermere, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Windermere, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Grasmere, Dockray, and Keswick.

Start your day at National Trust - Allan Bank And Grasmere. Then, wander over to Aira Force. If serene sites excite you, this waterfall will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find National Trust - Tarn Hows. This idyllic lake is a favorite among visitors.

Windermere offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Castlerigg Stone Circle is a curiosity-inducing spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this often recommended park.

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.

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including York. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in York, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Experience National Railway Museum, an interesting museum in the city. Then, head to York Minster and soak in the ambiance of this stunning church.

There are many interesting places to see in Windermere, and when you are ready for more, go to York City Walls. This is one of the city’s most increasingly popular culturally significant spots of interest. After exploring the historical landmark, visit the worthwhile Rowntree Park.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in York. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Yakamoz, a top-rated dining spot in York. If you're in the mood for something new, try House Of The Trembling Madness, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Turtle Bay York. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in York.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Habit Cafe Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Shambles Tavern offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in York. Pivní York is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Head back to your accommodation in York and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in England.

Day 6 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in York. You’ll stay in York for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

York is brimming with adventures.

Make a stop at Shambles Market. This captivating market is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Jorvik Viking Centre located in York for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of York Dungeon. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the haunted house, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Clifford's Tower, York. Visitors usually appreciate the culturally significant features of this castle. Next up is York Castle Museum, a highly recommended museum.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in England. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of York's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Plonkers offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Ivy St Helen's Square York. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in York.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Dusk, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Fossgate Tap offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

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

On day 7 of your road trip in England, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Whitby are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Whitby, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make a stop at Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse. This curiosity-inducing lighthouse is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to 199 Steps located in York for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Whitby Abbey. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the archeological site, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Captain Cook Memorial Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the standout features of this museum. Next up is Rnli Whitby Museum, a highly recommended museum. For a change of pace, head to Whalebone Arch. As one of the most frequently visited attractions in York, this monument is the perfect place to end your self-guided sightseeing tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Whitby. Check in and relax 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 Whitby. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Whitby Endeavour, an iconic dining spot in Whitby. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Durham. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Durham, where will spend 1 night.

Durham University Oriental Museum is must-visit museum and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Prebends Bridge, an up-and-coming historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Durham Cathedral, a stunning church, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Whitby. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the increasingly popular Elvet Bridge. If you’re looking for more, National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Durham, 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 Durham's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Spice Lounge, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Gussto Tapas Bar - Durham offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Durham.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Station House, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Shakespeare. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Angel, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Newcastle upon Tyne. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Newcastle upon Tyne, where you'll spend 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Hancock Museum and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, St. Mary's Cathedral, a heritage-rich church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to The Castle, Newcastle, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Tyne Bridge.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Newcastle upon Tyne. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Broad Chare, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Côte Newcastle offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turtle Bay Newcastle is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Round off your dining experience by visiting All Bar One Newcastle, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Alvinos Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Tyne Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Hexham and Bardon Mill. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Manchester, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Hexham Abbey is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This stunning church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Housesteads Roman Fort - Vercovicium - English Heritage Site, another must-visit landmark and beloved archeological site renowned for its breathtaking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Newcastle upon Tyne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Sycamore Gap. This romantic rock formation is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Newcastle upon Tyne experience. We also recommend visiting Castra Vindolanda, an up-and-coming archeological site.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Manchester, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Manchester, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Browns Manchester, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Teppanyaki Chinatown as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Manchester.

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.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.