5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to York and Ambleside and surrounding area

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Description

Explore the best of England on a remarkable 5-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Manchester, York, Ambleside, Rydal, Windermere, Keswick, Liverpool, and Chester.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in England. You will spend 2 nights in Manchester, 1 night in York, 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 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. Royal Albert Dock Liverpool and Lake District National Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Manchester, York, Ambleside, Rydal, Windermere, Keswick, Liverpool, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

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Day1

Day 1

  • Manchester - Arrival day
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  • Northern Quarter
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach Manchester and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Manchester, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Manchester is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Manchester. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in England. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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 delicious dinner at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Fazenda Manchester offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Peaky Blinders Manchester. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Manchester.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Corbieres Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Directors Box offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in England!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Manchester
  • York
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Drive 117 km, 2 hours 11 min

  • National Railway Museum York
  • York Minster
  • Shambles Market
  • Jorvik Viking Centre
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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 1 place, which are York. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in York, where will spend 1 night.

National Railway Museum is an ideal stop early in the day. This popular museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to York Minster, which may be one of the most symbolic 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 Shambles Market, a notable market in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Jorvik Viking Centre.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Yakamoz, an iconic dining spot in York. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of House Of The Trembling Madness, a popular restaurant in York. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Turtle Bay York, a hidden gem nestled in York. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Habit Cafe Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Shambles Tavern is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Pivní York is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day3

Day 3

  • York
  • Ambleside
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Drive 288 km, 5 hours 1 min

  • Stock Ghyll Force
  • Lake District National Park
  • Rydal Cave
  • The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
  • Castlerigg stone circle
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, including Ambleside, Rydal, Windermere, and Keswick. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Ambleside, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Stock Ghyll Force makes a great addition to your morning plans. This worthwhile waterfall is a majestic place to see in York. Continue your discovery at Lake District National Park, an instagrammable national park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around York, 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 a visually striking encounter with York. Next, make your way to The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Castlerigg Stone Circle, an underrated archeological site 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 Ambleside, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Lake Road Kitchen, a top-rated dining destination in Ambleside. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Lily Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Old Stamp House Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ambleside this evening.

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.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Ambleside
  • Manchester
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Drive 260 km, 4 hours 13 min

  • Museum of Liverpool
  • Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
  • World Museum
  • Chester Cathedral
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Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in England includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Liverpool and Chester. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Manchester, where you'll spend 1 night.

Museum Of Liverpool is must-visit museum and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, an extraordinary historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to World Museum, a heritage-rich museum, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Arcane, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Liquor Store is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Atlas Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Manchester - Departure day
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  • Castlefield
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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.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Castlefield, a neighborhood that you shouldn't miss while in Manchester. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

For a shopping spree in Manchester, we recommend the lively Manchester Arndale. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Browns Manchester, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu.

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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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