12-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to Windermere, York, Bakewell, and Bath and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Manchester. You’ll stay in Manchester for 1 night.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Castlefield. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Check out the beloved park, Sackville Gardens. Afterward, continue to Manchester Art Gallery, an art gallery every traveler should visit. As you explore Manchester’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to John Rylands Research Institute And Library. This often recommended library is an essential stop. Following that, head to Science And Industry Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by The Crystal Maze Live Experience, a locally appreciated escape room in the city.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Manchester. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE, a top-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sam's Chop House, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Annies. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in England includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Near Sawrey and Windermere. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Windermere, where you'll spend 2 nights.

As you explore Near Sawrey’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Near Sawrey’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Manchester behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 54 min. Near Sawrey welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to National Trust - Hill Top, an intriguing museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Windermere. This car ride takes around 30 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction, a worthwhile museum known for its standout features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Windermere, an increasingly popular lake.

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

Windermere 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 Windermere.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Keswick. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Windermere, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Keswick’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Windermere behind. This drive usually takes around 42 min. Keswick welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Castlerigg Stone Circle, an increasingly popular archeological site in Keswick. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Keswick Museum. This worthwhile museum is a top recommendation in the area.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Lake District National Park, an interesting national park that everyone visiting Keswick should see.

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

Windermere 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 Windermere.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Windermere and set your GPS to York. 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 2 hours 21 min. Upon reaching York, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is National Railway Museum. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to York Minster. This interesting church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to York City Walls. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark.

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.

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 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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Habit Cafe Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Shambles Tavern, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pivní York provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in York, where you have 1 night left to stay.

To truly experience York, make sure to drop by Shambles Market. This popular market is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Jorvik Viking Centre, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out York Dungeon, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in York. This haunted house is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, York Museum Gardens. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this botanical garden offers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Helmsley, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from York to Helmsley may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Helmsley, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Helmsley Castle, an increasingly popular castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in York. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Dusk after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Fossgate Tap for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

On day 7 of your road trip in England, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Yorkshire Bridge and Bakewell are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bakewell, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Yorkshire Bridge. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Yorkshire Bridge is Bamford Edge, a frequently visited cliff that draws attention for its serene features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bakewell. This drive usually takes around 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Bakewell Old House Museum, an intriguing museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Bakewell Bridge and admire its history-steeped features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bakewell, 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 Bakewell, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in England.

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Bath. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bath, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bath. This car ride takes around 3 hours 26 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit The Circus, a worthwhile public square that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Pulteney Bridge and admire its visually striking features.

When you’re ready, continue to Bath Abbey, a curiosity-inducing church beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Roman Baths, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Thermae Bath Spa, a history-steeped place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

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

Savor the flavors at Ole Tapas, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Scallop Shell beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Cornish Bakery. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bath tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Hideout, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Canary Gin Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Star Inn is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!

On day 10 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in Bath, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Bath, there’s no need to rush. Experience Salisbury, Monkton Combe, and Bath to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Experience Bath Skyline, an up-and-coming hiking area in the city. Then, head to Royal Crescent and soak in the ambiance of this UNESCO world heritage-listed historical landmark.

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 3 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Stonehenge. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop.

When you’ve had your share of Salisbury, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Monkton Combe. Your travel time is around 55 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to National Trust - Prior Park Landscape Garden, an increasingly popular park in Monkton Combe. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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 Bath, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Jars Meze, a top-rated dining destination in Bath. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Herd Steak Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Joya Italian Steakhouse. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bath this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Saint James Wine Vaults, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Grapes is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Opium Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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 3 places, which are Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stratford-on-Avon. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Manchester, where will spend 1 night.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Bibury, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bath to Bibury may take around 1 hour 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bibury, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to National Trust - Bibury, an intriguing historical landmark that everyone visiting Bibury should see.

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 41 min. Upon your arrival in Stratford-on-Avon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Stratford Butterfly Farm, an intriguing butterfly garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Shakespeare's Birthplace and admire its historic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Escape Live Stratford Upon Avon, a worthwhile escape room beloved by locals and tourists alike.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Manchester. Manchester offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Browns Manchester, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Teppanyaki Chinatown. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Manchester.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Port Street Beer House, known for its lively atmosphere. Bar Fringe is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Mary D's Beamish Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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