7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester traveling south to Leicester, London, and Birmingham

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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, Leicester, London, Kensington, Birmingham, Balsall Heath, Dudley, and Sutton Coldfield.

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 Leicester, 2 nights in London, and 1 night in Birmingham. 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. London Eye and Buckingham Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Manchester, Leicester, London, Kensington, Birmingham, Balsall Heath, Dudley, and Sutton Coldfield, 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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  • Cathedral Gardens
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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. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Cathedral Gardens. 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fazenda Manchester, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Peaky Blinders Manchester. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Corbieres Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Directors Box, another top-rated place in the area.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Manchester
  • Leicester
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Drive 208 km, 3 hours 11 min

  • Manchester Art Gallery
  • Science and Industry Museum
  • Heaton Park
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Manchester. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Leicester, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

No visit to Manchester is complete without Manchester Art Gallery. This worthwhile art gallery is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Science And Industry Museum, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Manchester, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Heaton Park. This well-known park is a traveler-favorite.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Leicester. Leicester 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 Leicester's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Dine in style at James' Cafe Bistro, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Casa Romana boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Turtle Bay Leicester. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Leicester.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting 33cankstreet, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Exchange Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, 45 West Bottle Shop & Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Leicester
  • London
  • Kensington
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Drive 178 km, 3 hours 9 min

  • Hyde Park
  • Science Museum
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
  • Big Ben
  • lastminute.com London Eye
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including London and Kensington. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in London, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Kensington’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of London behind. This drive usually takes around 7 min. Kensington welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Hyde Park, a timeless park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Big Ben, where you can soak in the respected surroundings.

Next, explore London Eye, yet another iconic place to see in the area.

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

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Science Museum and explore the respected features. Next, make your way to Victoria And Albert Museum, another highlight in Kensington.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library, a 3-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern french menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester is one of the best restaurants for french cuisine in London. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Hélène Darroze at The Connaught. As a top-rated establishment with 3 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Américain. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Connaught Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Juno Rooms, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • London
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Drive 12 km, 1 hour 8 min

  • Tower Bridge
  • Tower of London
  • London Bridge
  • Borough Market
  • British Museum
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Day 4 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Manchester. You’ll stay in London for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Tower Bridge is must-visit monument and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Tower Of London, an iconic castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to London Bridge, a breathtaking historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for London. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the spectacular Borough Market. If you’re looking for more, British Museum is also a timeless attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in England. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

London 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 London.

Savor the flavors at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bill's Soho Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Estiatorio Milos. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Lyaness after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Polski for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Buckingham Arms is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day5

Day 5

  • London
  • Birmingham
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Drive 206 km, 3 hours 1 min

  • Trafalgar Square
  • National Gallery
  • St James's Park
  • Buckingham Palace
  • Madame Tussauds London
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Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in England includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of London. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Birmingham, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Trafalgar Square, a world-famous public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find National Gallery, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at St James's Park. This park is one of the city’s most spectacular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring London at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Buckingham Palace. After exploring the palace, head to the top-rated Madame Tussauds London.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Birmingham, 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 Birmingham's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in Birmingham by booking a table at Purnell's, a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Birmingham, Simpsons shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee consistently earns high praises, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Opheem is known as a top local spot in Birmingham for its delicious indian cuisine. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Equator Bar Birmingham, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bacchus Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Birmingham. Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Birmingham
  • Balsall Heath
  • Metropolitan Borough of Dudley
  • Manchester
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Drive 186 km, 3 hours 24 min

  • National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
  • Cannon Hill Park
  • Black Country Living Museum
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 places, which are Birmingham, Balsall Heath, Dudley, and Sutton Coldfield. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Manchester, where will spend 1 night.

National Sea Life Centre leaves a lasting impression. This aquarium is one of the most interesting places to visit in Birmingham.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Balsall Heath may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Balsall Heath, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Balsall Heath is Cannon Hill Park, an interesting park that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Balsall Heath and set your GPS to Dudley. 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 Dudley, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Black Country Living Museum is a well-known museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic 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 Manchester. Manchester 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 Manchester. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE, a highly-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sam's Chop House, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Annies. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

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

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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  • Sackville Garden
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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 Sackville Gardens, a photogenic park before you head out.

For a shopping spree in Manchester, we recommend the lively Afflecks. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

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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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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