7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to York, Ambleside, Liverpool, and Chester and surrounding area

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Explore the best of England on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Manchester, York, Ambleside, Windermere, Rydal, Liverpool, Chester, Stanton-in-Peak, and Castleton.

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, 1 night in Ambleside, 1 night in Liverpool, and 1 night in Chester. 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. Royal Albert Dock Liverpool and Chester Zoo are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Manchester, York, Ambleside, Windermere, Rydal, Liverpool, Chester, Stanton-in-Peak, and Castleton, 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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, a popular restaurant in Manchester. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Manchester at Fazenda Manchester, 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 Peaky Blinders Manchester. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Manchester tonight.

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 7-day road trip in England!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Manchester
  • York
  • More

Drive 117 km, 2 hours 11 min

  • National Railway Museum York
  • York Minster
  • Shambles Market
  • Jorvik Viking Centre
  • 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. York are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in York, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Manchester, 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 1 hour 37 min.

Savor the day by heading to National Railway Museum, a captivating museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to York Minster, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

Next, explore Shambles Market, yet another interesting place to see in the area. After the market, make time to go to Jorvik Viking Centre. This photogenic museum is well worth the visit.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Habit Cafe Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Shambles Tavern is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Pivní York provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day3

Day 3

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

Drive 243 km, 4 hours 20 min

  • The Bridge House
  • Windermere
  • The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
  • Rydal Cave
  • 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 3 places, which are Ambleside, Windermere, and Rydal. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Ambleside, 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 Ambleside. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to The Bridge House, an often recommended historical landmark in Ambleside. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Ambleside and set your GPS to Windermere. 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 33 min. Upon reaching Windermere, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Windermere, a frequently visited lake known for its serene features. Next, continue your sightseeing at The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction, an intriguing museum.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Windermere 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 18 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 Cave, a worthwhile cave known for its stunning features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Ambleside, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Ambleside, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Lake Road Kitchen, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Lily Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Old Stamp House Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Ambleside tonight.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Ambleside
  • Liverpool
  • More

Drive 151 km, 2 hours 37 min

  • Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral
  • Museum of Liverpool
  • The Beatles Story
  • Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
  • The Liverpool Waterfront
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Liverpool. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Liverpool, where you'll spend 1 night.

After soaking in Ambleside’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Liverpool. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 57 min. When you arrive in Liverpool, it's time to take a break from the road.

Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral is a frequently visited church we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Museum Of Liverpool, a respected museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by The Beatles Story, a heritage-rich museum. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, an eye-catching and truly unique historical landmark. End your sightseeing at The Liverpool Waterfront, a locally appreciated public square that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at KURDINA RESTAURANT AND BAR, a highly-rated dining destination in Liverpool. If you're eager to try something different, consider Rudy's Pizza Napoletana - Castle Street, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Quarter. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Liverpool this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Brass Monkey stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Sanctuary Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Underground Gin Society is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Liverpool
  • Cheshire West and Chester
  • More

Drive 45 km, 1 hour 14 min

  • Chester Zoo
  • The Grosvenor Museum
  • Chester Cathedral
  • Chester City Walls
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Chester. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Chester, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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 Liverpool to Chester may take around 41 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 instagrammable features of the zoo before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to The Grosvenor Museum. This frequently visited museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Chester Cathedral. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the church. Next, take your journey to Chester City Walls, a locally appreciated historical landmark.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Chester's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at 1539 Restaurant and Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Chester. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at BarLounge - Chester. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Chester.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Prohibition, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Liquor And Co provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Craft & Company offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.

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Day6

Day 6

  • Cheshire West and Chester
  • Stanton-in-Peak
  • Castleton
  • Manchester
  • More

Drive 187 km, 3 hours 32 min

  • Nine Ladies Stone Circle
  • Peveril Castle
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in England includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Stanton-in-Peak and Castleton. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Manchester, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stanton-in-Peak, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Castleton. This drive usually takes around 37 min.

Nine Ladies Stone Circle is a curiosity-inducing archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its picturesque features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Castleton, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Stanton-in-Peak to Castleton may take around 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Castleton, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Peveril Castle, an intriguing castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Manchester, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE, an iconic dining spot in Manchester. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sam's Chop House, a popular restaurant in Manchester. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Annies, a hidden gem nestled in Manchester. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Manchester - Departure day
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  • Science and Industry Museum
  • More

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, begin at Science And Industry Museum. This locally renowned museum is a hotspot among locals.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Manchester’s popular marketplace, Spinningfields. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.

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 to try something new, consider Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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