7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to York and Windermere

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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 7-day road trip in England! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Manchester, York, Windermere, Keswick, Near Sawrey, Ambleside, Rydal, Grasmere, Coniston, 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 York, 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. Chester Zoo and National Railway Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Manchester, York, Windermere, Keswick, Near Sawrey, Ambleside, Rydal, Grasmere, Coniston, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

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

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Manchester. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in England. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in 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 Manchester, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Manchester. If you're in the mood for something new, try Fazenda Manchester, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Peaky Blinders Manchester. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Manchester.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Corbieres Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Directors Box provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in England!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Manchester
  • York
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Drive 119 km, 1 hour 55 min

  • Manchester Art Gallery
  • 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 York, where you will stay for 1 night.

Your adventure in Manchester is only getting started when you visit Manchester Art Gallery, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Science And Industry Museum. This interesting museum is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Manchester's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Heaton Park. This history-steeped park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

York 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 York.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Yakamoz, a highly-rated dining destination in York. If you're eager to try something different, consider House Of The Trembling Madness, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turtle Bay York. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in York this evening.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day3

Day 3

  • York
  • Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 179 km, 2 hours 59 min

  • Shambles Market
  • Jorvik Viking Centre
  • York Dungeon
  • York Minster
  • National Railway Museum York
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are York. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Windermere, where will spend 3 nights.

Make time for Shambles Market, an interesting market that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Jorvik Viking Centre, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at York Dungeon. This haunted house is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring York at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit York Minster. After exploring the church, head to the well-known National Railway Museum.

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

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
  • Keswick
  • Near and Far Sawrey
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Drive 99 km, 2 hours 20 min

  • The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
  • Castlerigg stone circle
  • National Trust - Hill Top
  • More

On day 4 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 Windermere, Keswick, and Near Sawrey.

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

When you’ve had your share of Windermere, 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 43 min.

Savor the day by heading to The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction, an increasingly popular museum that draws visitors from near and far.

Keswick’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Windermere behind. This drive usually takes around 43 min. Keswick welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Keswick is Castlerigg Stone Circle, a locally appreciated archeological site that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Near Sawrey may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Near Sawrey, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit National Trust - Hill Top, an often recommended museum 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 Windermere and your accommodation.

Windermere 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 Windermere.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
  • Ambleside
  • Rydal
  • Grasmere
  • More

Drive 56 km, 1 hour 39 min

  • Stock Ghyll Force
  • The Bridge House
  • Rydal Mount & Gardens
  • Rydal Cave
  • National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
  • More

Greet day 5 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Windermere, 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 Ambleside, Rydal, Grasmere, and Coniston.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Windermere and set your GPS to Ambleside. 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 17 min. Upon reaching Ambleside, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Stock Ghyll Force, an underrated waterfall known for its awe-inspiring features. Next, continue your sightseeing at The Bridge House, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ambleside and set your GPS to Rydal. 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 4 min. Upon reaching Rydal, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rydal Mount, a curiosity-inducing museum known for its visually striking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Rydal Cave, an often recommended cave.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Rydal, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Grasmere. This drive usually takes around 7 min.

National Trust - Allan Bank And Grasmere is a locally appreciated point of interest we recommend visiting today.

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

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

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
  • Cheshire West and Chester
  • Manchester
  • More

Drive 242 km, 3 hours 14 min

  • Chester Zoo
  • Chester Cathedral
  • Eastgate and Eastgate Clock
  • Chester Roman Amphitheatre
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in England includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Chester. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Manchester, where you'll spend 1 night.

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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Chester, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Windermere to Chester may take around 1 hour 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Chester, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Chester Zoo. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the zoo before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Chester Cathedral. This frequently visited church is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Eastgate And Eastgate Clock. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the monument. Next, take your journey to Chester Roman Amphitheatre, an up-and-coming archeological site.

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.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE, a top-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sam's Chop House, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Annies. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Arcane, known for its lively atmosphere. The Liquor Store is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Atlas Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day7

Day 7

  • Manchester - Departure day
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  • Manchester Cathedral
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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 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 heritage-rich church before you head out.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Manchester’s popular marketplace, Manchester Arndale. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Browns Manchester, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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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