7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds traveling south to Cambridge, Canterbury, London, and Nottingham
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Description
Explore the best of England on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Leeds, West Bretton, Cambridge, London, Canterbury, Kensington, Nottingham, Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor. This road trip itinerary in England seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Leeds, 1 night in Cambridge, 1 night in Canterbury, 1 night in London, and 1 night in Nottingham. 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 got 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. London Eye and Buckingham Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Tower Bridge, learn more about the unique British Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hyde Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Leeds, West Bretton, Cambridge, London, Canterbury, Kensington, Nottingham, Alrewas, Crich, 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, accommodation, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Leeds - Arrival day
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- Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms
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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 in Leeds for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, 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 Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms or taking a stroll in the city center. 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.
Savor the flavors at HOME, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Premier Inn Leeds City Centre (Leeds Arena) hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Leeds tonight.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Pixel Bar Leeds after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Wax Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, North Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Leeds
- West Bretton
- Cambridge
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Drive 269 km, 3 hours 45 min
- Leeds Art Gallery
- Roundhay Park
- Royal Armouries Leeds
- Yorkshire Sculpture Park
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On day 2 of your road trip in England, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Leeds and West Bretton. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cambridge, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Leeds covers several incredible sights, including an art gallery, a park, and a museum. Start your adventure at Leeds Art Gallery. This often recommended art gallery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Roundhay Park, a must-see park in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Royal Armouries Museum. This well-known museum offers an enriching experience.
After soaking in Leeds’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: West Bretton. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 21 min. When you arrive in West Bretton, it's time to take a break from the road.
Yorkshire Sculpture Park is an increasingly popular sculpture garden we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its noteworthy features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cambridge. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Cambridge. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a memorable dining experience in Cambridge by booking a table at Midsummer House, renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional creative menu. For a different culinary experience in Cambridge, Restaurant Twenty-Two shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Cambridge Tap, known for its lively atmosphere. The Free Press is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Eagle offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 3
- Cambridge
- London
- Canterbury
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Drive 207 km, 3 hours 50 min
- Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
- British Museum
- London Bridge
- Borough Market
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of London. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Canterbury, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Cambridge, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of London. Your travel time is around 1 hour 19 min.
Begin your journey at Tower Of London and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Tower Bridge, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to British Museum, a photogenic museum. Nearby, you will also find London Bridge. This spectacular historical landmark is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Borough Market, an instagrammable food market that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Canterbury. Canterbury offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Canterbury's best restaurants.
Start your culinary exploration in Canterbury by securing a reservation at The Sportsman. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern british cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Il Posticino, a popular restaurant in Canterbury. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Bell & Crown after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Pegasus Tap Room, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Houdini’s Magic Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 4
- Canterbury
- London
- Kensington
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Drive 114 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Tate Modern
- Madame Tussauds London
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Big Ben
- lastminute.com London Eye
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - London and Kensington. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in London. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, London. This car ride takes around 1 hour 31 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Tate Modern, a widely recognized art gallery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Madame Tussauds London and admire its remarkable features. When you’re ready, continue to Big Ben, an astonishing monument beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on London Eye, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.
Set your GPS to Kensington and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kensington beckons with new experiences!
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Victoria And Albert Museum. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.
At the end of the day, you will drive to London, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in London. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The American Bar, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cahoots London, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hawksmoor Borough. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Américain, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Connaught Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Juno Rooms is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 5
- London
- Nottingham
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Drive 215 km, 3 hours 33 min
- Trafalgar Square
- National Gallery
- St James's Park
- Buckingham Palace
- Hyde Park
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore London, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Nottingham. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in London, including a public square, an art gallery, a park, a palace and much more! Start your adventure at Trafalgar Square. This timeless public square is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to National Gallery located in London for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of St James's Park. Its idyllic features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Buckingham Palace. This palace has a picture-perfect appeal. For a change of pace, head to Hyde Park. As one of the most globally renowned attractions in London, this park is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nottingham. Check in and spend some time relaxing 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 Nottingham. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Discover the culinary delights of Nottingham by securing a reservation at Kushi-Ya. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of japanese cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try alchemilla, renowned for its delicious modern british 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 Ibérico World Tapas, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering mediterranean and asian influences menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Foremans Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Bodega Nottingham, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Pepper Rocks provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in England.
Day 6
- Nottingham
- Alrewas
- Crich
- Edensor
- Leeds
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Drive 240 km, 3 hours 59 min
- National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
- National Tramway Museum
- Chatsworth House
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Leeds, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Set your GPS to Alrewas and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 50 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Alrewas beckons with new experiences!
Take your self-guided tour to National Memorial Arboretum, a well-known war memorial that everyone visiting Alrewas should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Alrewas, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Crich may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in Crich, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Head to National Tramway Museum, an often recommended tramway museum in Crich.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Crich and set your GPS to Edensor. 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 31 min. Upon reaching Edensor, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Your self-guided tour starts at Chatsworth House, a popular palace that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Leeds. Leeds offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Leeds's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cosy Club, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Clayton Hotel Leeds offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Leeds.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Power, Corruption & Lies is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Brudenell Social Club, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 7
- Leeds - Departure day
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- Park Square
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Day 7 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.
As your final day in England unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Leeds's best shopping area, The Corn Exchange. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to England. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.
Immerse yourself in Leeds’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Park Square. This instagrammable public square is sure to ignite your curiosity.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Leeds.
Savor the flavors at Gaucho Leeds, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bill's Leeds Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings.
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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