5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to Harrogate and Ambleside
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-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 2 nights in Manchester, 1 night in Harrogate, and 1 night in Ambleside. 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 Manchester, 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. Chester Zoo and National Railway Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable York Minster, learn more about the unique Science And Industry Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Shambles Market.
As you hit the open road and drive through Manchester, York, Harrogate, Ambleside, Windermere, Rydal, Grasmere, and Chester, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Manchester - Arrival day
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- Northern Quarter
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Welcome to Manchester, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Manchester's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Manchester 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 Northern Quarter, a must-see neighborhood, and 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 Manchester. 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 Manchester, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, 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 Fazenda Manchester, 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 Peaky Blinders Manchester, 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 your lively evening at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Corbieres Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Directors Box ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Manchester
- Harrogate
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Drive 154 km, 2 hours 55 min
- York Dungeon
- Shambles Market
- York Minster
- National Railway Museum York
- Turkish Baths Harrogate
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - York and Harrogate. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Harrogate. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Manchester, including a haunted house, a market, a church, a museum, a spa and much more! Start your day with a visit to York Dungeon. This curiosity-inducing haunted house 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 Manchester 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 York Minster, a captivating church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for National Railway Museum and Turkish Baths Harrogate.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Harrogate, 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 Harrogate's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Hales Bar, an iconic dining spot in Harrogate. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Fat Badger, a popular restaurant in Harrogate. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RHS Garden Harlow Carr, a hidden gem nestled in Harrogate. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Ivory Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to North Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Disappearing Chin provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 3
- Harrogate
- Ambleside
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Drive 159 km, 2 hours 55 min
- The Bridge House
- The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
- Rydal Cave
- National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ambleside, Windermere, Rydal, and Grasmere. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Ambleside, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is The Bridge House. This increasingly popular historical landmark is an eye-catching place to see in Harrogate. Continue your discovery at The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction, a photogenic museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Harrogate, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Rydal Cave. This up-and-coming cave offers an enchanting encounter with Harrogate. Next, make your way to National Trust - Allan Bank And Grasmere 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 Harrogate.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Ambleside. Ambleside 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 Ambleside, 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 lovely meal at Lake Road Kitchen, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Lily Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Old Stamp House Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Ambleside tonight.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 4
- Ambleside
- Manchester
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Chester Zoo
- Chester Cathedral
- Eastgate and Eastgate Clock
- Chester Roman Amphitheatre
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On day 4 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Manchester, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Ambleside includes a zoo, a church, a monument, an archeological site and much more! Chester Zoo is must-visit zoo and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Chester Cathedral, a curiosity-inducing church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Eastgate And Eastgate Clock, a stunning monument, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Ambleside. If you’re looking for more, Chester Roman Amphitheatre is also a curiosity-inducing attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Manchester. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Manchester's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE, a top-rated dining spot in Manchester. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sam's Chop House, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Annies. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Manchester.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Arcane stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Liquor Store offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Atlas Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!
Day 5
- Manchester - Departure day
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- Science and Industry Museum
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Day 5 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Manchester before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Science And Industry Museum, a respected museum before you head out.
Maximize your last day in England and go on a shopping spree in Manchester’s shopping center, the lively Afflecks. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in England.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Manchester.
You’ll then say farewell to Manchester. 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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