5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester traveling east to Milton Keynes and Oxford

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through England. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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 Milton Keynes, and 1 night in Oxford. 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. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter and Windsor Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Manchester, Milton Keynes, Leavesden, Eton, Windsor, Oxford, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Kenilworth, and Salford, 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
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Day1

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 discovering what to see in Manchester before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fazenda Manchester, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Peaky Blinders Manchester. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, known for its inviting atmosphere. Corbieres Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Directors Box provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Manchester
  • Milton Keynes
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Drive 282 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Science and Industry Museum
  • Heaton Park
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On day 2 of your road trip in England, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Manchester are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Milton Keynes, where you will stay for 1 night.

Experience Science And Industry Museum, a popular museum in the city. Then, head to Heaton Park and soak in the ambiance of this respected park.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Milton Keynes, 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 Milton Keynes's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Churros Mexicanos, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Brasserie Blanc is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bistro Live Milton Keynes. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Milton Keynes tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Midsummer Tap Milton Keynes, a top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Milton Keynes
  • Leavesden
  • Eton
  • Windsor
  • Oxford
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Drive 178 km, 2 hours 43 min

  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
  • Windsor Castle
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Leavesden, Eton, and Windsor. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Oxford, where will spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Leavesden and set your GPS to Eton. 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 33 min. Upon reaching Eton, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Leavesden is Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, an extraordinary museum that draws attention for its visually striking features.

After soaking in Leavesden’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Eton. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 33 min. When you arrive in Eton, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Eton is Windsor Castle, a top-rated castle that draws attention for its culturally significant features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Windsor. This drive usually takes around 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Legoland Windsor Resort and explore the visually striking features.

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

Oxford 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 Oxford.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Polish Kitchen, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Old Parsonage Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Standard. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Oxford.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Mad Hatter stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Three Goats Heads Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The White Horse is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Oxford
  • Stratford-upon-Avon
  • Warwick
  • Kenilworth
  • Manchester
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Drive 280 km, 3 hours 58 min

  • Stratford Butterfly Farm
  • Shakespeare's Birthplace
  • Warwick Castle
  • Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden
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Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in England includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, and Kenilworth. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Manchester, where you'll spend 1 night.

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 1 hour 5 min. Upon your arrival in Stratford-on-Avon, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Stratford Butterfly Farm, a beloved butterfly garden in Stratford-on-Avon. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Shakespeare's Birthplace. This popular museum is a top recommendation in the area.

Warwick’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Stratford-on-Avon behind. This drive usually takes around 19 min. Warwick welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Warwick Castle, a locally renowned castle known for its visually striking features.

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 Kenilworth. Your travel time is around 15 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Kenilworth Castle And Elizabethan Garden, an increasingly popular castle known for its history-steeped features.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Manchester. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Discover the culinary delights of Manchester by securing a reservation at El Gato Negro. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of spanish cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try mana, renowned for its delicious creative british and modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Higher Ground, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern british menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Arcane. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Liquor Store offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Atlas Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Manchester - Departure day
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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.

Make the most of your final day in England by visiting Manchester’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Spinningfields. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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