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

1 / 54
Photo of Manchester tallest building Beetham Tower, reflecting in Manchester Canal.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 5-day road trip in England! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Manchester, Milton Keynes, Watford, Leavesden, Eton, Birmingham, Lichfield, Alrewas, 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 Milton Keynes, and 1 night in Birmingham. 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, Watford, Leavesden, Eton, Birmingham, Lichfield, Alrewas, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Manchester

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in
Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

  • Manchester - Arrival day
  • More
  • Cathedral Gardens
  • More

Say hello to Manchester! Your exciting road trip through England is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Manchester for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 Cathedral Gardens. 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.

Find your way to your hotel in Manchester. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in England. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 highly-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're eager to try something different, consider Fazenda Manchester, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Peaky Blinders Manchester. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Kimpton Clocktower Hotel after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Corbieres Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Directors Box also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • Manchester
  • Milton Keynes
  • More

Drive 282 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Science and Industry Museum
  • Heaton Park
  • More

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.

Visiting Science And Industry Museum is always a good idea. This captivating museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the detailed wonders of Heaton Park, a must-see park in the city.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Churros Mexicanos, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Brasserie Blanc? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bistro Live Milton Keynes as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Milton Keynes.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Midsummer Tap Milton Keynes, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • Milton Keynes
  • Watford
  • Leavesden
  • Eton
  • Birmingham
  • More

Drive 285 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • Cassiobury Park
  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
  • St George's Chapel
  • Windsor Castle
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Watford, Leavesden, and Eton. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Birmingham, 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 Leavesden may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Leavesden, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Cassiobury Park, an increasingly popular park that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Watford, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Leavesden. This drive usually takes around 12 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, a famous museum known for its photogenic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Eton, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Leavesden to Eton may take around 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Eton, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit St George's Chapel, Windsor, a curiosity-inducing church 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 Windsor Castle and admire its historic features.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Purnell's, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Simpsons is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Birmingham. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Opheem. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for indian cuisine in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Equator Bar Birmingham, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bacchus Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • Birmingham
  • Lichfield
  • Alrewas
  • Cheshire West and Chester
  • Manchester
  • More

Drive 277 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Beacon Park
  • National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
  • Chester Cathedral
  • Chester Zoo
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Lichfield, Alrewas, and Chester. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Manchester, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Lichfield’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Birmingham behind. This drive usually takes around 38 min. Lichfield welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Beacon Park and explore the visually striking features.

Alrewas’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lichfield behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Alrewas welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Alrewas is National Memorial Arboretum, a captivating war memorial that draws attention for its remarkable features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Chester. This car ride takes around 1 hour 45 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Chester is Chester Cathedral, a locally appreciated church that draws attention for its breathtaking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Chester Zoo, a gorgeous zoo that stands out in the city.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Manchester by securing a reservation at El Gato Negro. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of spanish cuisine. For another dining delight, visit mana, celebrated for its delectable creative british and modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Higher Ground, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern british menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Arcane offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Liquor Store is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Atlas Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • Manchester - Departure day
  • More
  • Northern Quarter
  • More

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 Northern Quarter, 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 last-minute shopping spree in Manchester, Spinningfields is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.

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 for something new, try Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable 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!

Read more

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

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.
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.

We guarantee

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

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.