6-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester traveling north to Windermere

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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 Manchester, Windermere, Ambleside, Grasmere, Rydal, Keswick, and Lancaster.

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 and 3 nights in Windermere. 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. Lake District National Park and Science And Industry Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Manchester, Windermere, Ambleside, Grasmere, Rydal, Keswick, and Lancaster, 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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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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Fazenda Manchester offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Peaky Blinders Manchester is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Manchester.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kimpton Clocktower Hotel stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Corbieres Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Directors Box is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Manchester
  • Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 134 km, 2 hours 2 min

  • Alan Turing Memorial
  • Manchester Art Gallery
  • John Rylands Library Research Institute and Library
  • Science and Industry Museum
  • The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
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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 Windermere, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Alan Turing Memorial is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This noteworthy monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Manchester Art Gallery, another must-visit landmark and curiosity-inducing art gallery renowned for its visually striking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Manchester by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to John Rylands Research Institute And Library. This respected library is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Manchester experience. We also recommend visiting Science And Industry Museum, a captivating museum. Nearby, you'll also find The Crystal Maze Live Experience, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

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

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 45 km, 1 hour 22 min

  • Stock Ghyll Force
  • National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
  • Lake District National Park
  • Rydal Cave
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Windermere, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Ambleside, Grasmere, and Rydal.

Check out the worthwhile waterfall, Stock Ghyll Force. Afterward, continue to National Trust - Allan Bank And Grasmere, a point of interest every traveler should visit. As you explore Windermere’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Lake District National Park. This interesting national park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Rydal Cave, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Windermere and your accommodation.

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

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 83 km, 1 hour 56 min

  • Castlerigg stone circle
  • Keswick Museum
  • Friars Crag
  • Ashness Bridge
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On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Keswick. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Windermere, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

No visit to Windermere is complete without Castlerigg Stone Circle. This locally appreciated archeological site is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Keswick Museum, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Windermere, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Friars Crag. This often recommended park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Ashness Bridge, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
  • Manchester
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Drive 136 km, 2 hours 33 min

  • Lancaster Priory Church of Saint Mary
  • Lancaster Castle
  • Lancaster City Museum
  • Butterfly House
  • Williamson Park
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Lancaster. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Manchester, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the intriguing Lancaster Priory, a stunning church in Windermere. Next, go to Lancaster Castle.

After visiting Lancaster Priory and Lancaster Castle, have a stroll along Windermere's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Lancaster City Museum. This heritage-rich museum offers a unique experience. Butterfly House is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Williamson Park, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Windermere.

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.

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

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Manchester - Departure day
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  • Manchester Cathedral
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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 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 Manchester Cathedral, a culturally significant church before you head out.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Manchester, Afflecks is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location.

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!

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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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