6-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds to York and surrounding area

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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 6-day road trip in England! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Leeds, York, Rydal, Ambleside, Windermere, Chester, Castleton, and Edensor.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in England. You will spend 2 nights in Leeds and 3 nights in York. 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 Leeds, 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 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 Leeds, York, Rydal, Ambleside, Windermere, Chester, Castleton, and Edensor, 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

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

Leeds 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 Park Square. 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 Leeds. 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 Leeds, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at HOME, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Premier Inn Leeds City Centre (Leeds Arena) hotel. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Leeds tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pixel Bar Leeds, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Wax Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out North Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in England!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Leeds
  • York
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Drive 47 km, 1 hour 20 min

  • National Railway Museum York
  • York Minster
  • Shambles Market
  • Jorvik Viking Centre
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including York. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in York, where you'll spend 3 nights.

York’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Leeds behind. This drive usually takes around 46 min. York welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering National Railway Museum, an interesting museum known for its photogenic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at York Minster, a popular church.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Shambles Market and uncover the details of this eye-catching market. Make sure to also explore Jorvik Viking Centre, a notable museum.

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.

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.

Dine in style at Yakamoz, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, House Of The Trembling Madness boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Turtle Bay York. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in York.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Habit Cafe Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Shambles Tavern provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Pivní York offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • York
  • Rydal
  • Ambleside
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Drive 405 km, 6 hours 15 min

  • Lake District National Park
  • Rydal Cave
  • Stock Ghyll Force
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in York, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Rydal, Ambleside, and Windermere.

Rydal is brimming with adventures.

Spend your afternoon discovering Lake District National Park, a well-known national park known for its romantic features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Ambleside, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Rydal to Ambleside may take around 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ambleside, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Rydal Cave is a beloved cave we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Ambleside. This car ride takes around 7 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Stock Ghyll Force, a locally appreciated waterfall 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 for the day, you’ll return to York and your accommodation.

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

Dine in style at Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Plonkers boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Ivy St Helen's Square York. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in York.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Dusk, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Fossgate Tap offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

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Day4

Day 4

  • York
  • Cheshire West and Chester
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Drive 366 km, 4 hours 33 min

  • Chester Zoo
  • Chester City Walls
  • Eastgate and Eastgate Clock
  • Chester Cathedral
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in York, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you still have 1 night to spend in York, there’s no need to rush. Experience Chester to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Chester.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Chester. This car ride takes around 2 hours 4 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Chester Zoo, a well-known zoo in Chester. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Chester City Walls. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Eastgate And Eastgate Clock is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most standout monument in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the up-and-coming Chester Cathedral and discover what makes this church unique.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Little Italy, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Cut & Craft beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Wildes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in York tonight.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • York
  • Castleton
  • Edensor
  • Leeds
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Drive 242 km, 4 hours 11 min

  • Peak Cavern
  • Peveril Castle
  • Blue John Cavern
  • National Trust - Dark Peak
  • Chatsworth House
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Castleton and Edensor. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Leeds, where will spend 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Castleton. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Peak Cavern, a curiosity-inducing cave 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 Peveril Castle and admire its visually striking features.

When you’re ready, continue to Blue John Cavern, an intriguing cave beloved by locals and tourists alike.

When you're ready for some sights, head to National Trust - Dark Peak, a curiosity-inducing nature reserve in Castleton. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Leeds. This car ride takes around 1 hour 26 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Edensor is Chatsworth House, a popular palace that draws attention for its enchanting features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Leeds. 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 Leeds. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cosy Club, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Clayton Hotel Leeds? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Leeds.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Power, Corruption & Lies. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Brudenell Social Club, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Leeds - Departure day
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  • Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms
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Day 6 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Leeds 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 Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms before you head out.

Make the most of your final day in England by visiting Leeds’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Trinity Leeds. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gaucho Leeds, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bill's Leeds Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Leeds. 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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