7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds to Harrogate, Ambleside, and Chester

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in England includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of York. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Harrogate, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Leeds, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of York. Your travel time is around 48 min.

Savor the day by heading to York Minster, a notable church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Shambles Market, where you can soak in the instagrammable surroundings.

Next, explore Jorvik Viking Centre, yet another popular place to see in the area. After the museum, make time to go to York Dungeon. This instagrammable haunted house is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to York Castle Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum you won’t want to miss.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Harrogate, 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 Harrogate. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Hales Bar, a popular restaurant in Harrogate. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Harrogate at The Fat Badger, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated RHS Garden Harlow Carr. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Harrogate tonight.

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

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Windermere and Ambleside. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Ambleside, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Windermere. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 55 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction is a beloved museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Windermere, an awe-inspiring lake that’s well-regarded in the area.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ambleside may take around 36 min. Upon your arrival in Ambleside, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Stock Ghyll Force is a worthwhile waterfall we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Ambleside. Ambleside 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 Ambleside's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Lake Road Kitchen, an iconic dining spot in Ambleside. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Lily Bar, a popular restaurant in Ambleside. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Greet day 4 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Ambleside, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Rydal and Keswick.

Rydal is brimming with adventures.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit National Trust - Tarn Hows, an underrated lake that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure.

Savor the day by heading to Lake District National Park, a notable national park that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Rydal, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Keswick. Your travel time is around 23 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Rydal Cave, a beloved cave that everyone visiting Rydal should see.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Old Stamp House Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Ambleside. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kysty, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Chester. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Chester, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Chester and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Chester beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Chester Zoo, a locally renowned zoo known for its visually striking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Chester Cathedral, an up-and-coming 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 Chester City Walls and uncover the details of this breathtaking historical landmark. Make sure to also explore Eastgate And Eastgate Clock, an underrated monument.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Chester. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Chester, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at 1539 Restaurant and Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Chester. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at BarLounge - Chester. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Chester this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Prohibition after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Liquor And Co, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Craft & Company also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Say good night to Chester and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!