One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Birmingham traveling west to York, Manchester, Lancaster, Liverpool, and Bristol
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Explore the best of England on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Birmingham, Balsall Heath, Dudley, Sutton Coldfield, York, Edensor, Manchester, Greenholme, Lancaster, Blackpool, Chester, Liverpool, Stafford, Bristol, Bath, and Salisbury. 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 Birmingham, 1 night in York, 1 night in Manchester, 1 night in Lancaster, 1 night in Liverpool, and 1 night in Bristol. 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 Birmingham, 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. Stonehenge and Royal Albert Dock Liverpool are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Chester Zoo, learn more about the unique Lake District National Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Peak District National Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Birmingham, Balsall Heath, Dudley, Sutton Coldfield, York, Edensor, Manchester, Greenholme, Lancaster, Blackpool, Chester, Liverpool, Stafford, Bristol, Bath, and Salisbury, 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
- Birmingham - Arrival day
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- Queen Victoria
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Your road trip adventure in England begins as soon as you reach Birmingham and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Birmingham 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.
Birmingham 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 Queen Victoria or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Birmingham. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in England. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars 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 Birmingham, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Purecraft Bar & Kitchen, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Grand Central Kitchen boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (Waterloo Street) hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Birmingham.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Equator Bar Birmingham, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bacchus Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Birmingham
- Balsall Heath
- Metropolitan Borough of Dudley
- Sutton Coldfield
- York
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Drive 248 km, 3 hours 58 min
- Cannon Hill Park
- Dudley Zoo and Castle
- Black Country Living Museum
- Sutton Park
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Balsall Heath, Dudley, and Sutton Coldfield, 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 York. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Birmingham, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Balsall Heath. Your travel time is around 15 min.
Head to Cannon Hill Park, a popular park in Balsall Heath. Explore its idyllic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Dudley’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Balsall Heath behind. This drive usually takes around 36 min. Dudley welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Make your way to Dudley Zoo And Castle, a locally renowned zoo that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Black Country Living Museum, a photogenic museum that stands out in the village.
Set your GPS to Sutton Coldfield and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Sutton Coldfield beckons with new experiences!
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Sutton Park. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the park before you continue to your next stop.
At the end of the day, you will drive to York, 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 York's best restaurants.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in York by reserving a table at Skosh. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern british cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Roots, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in York.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Habit Cafe Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Shambles Tavern, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Pivní York. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Head back to your accommodation in York and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!
Day 3
- York
- Edensor
- Manchester
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Drive 190 km, 3 hours 52 min
- York Minster
- National Railway Museum York
- Chatsworth House
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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 2 vibrant destinations - York and Edensor. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Manchester. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of York. Your adventure starts at York Minster, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is National Railway Museum. This locally renowned museum is known for its picture-perfect appeal.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Edensor. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 45 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Chatsworth House. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the palace before you continue to your next stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Manchester. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Manchester, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Manchester by securing a table at El Gato Negro. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional spanish menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit mana, famous for its scrumptious creative british and modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Higher Ground, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern british cuisine in Manchester. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for modern british cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
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 your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 4
- Manchester
- Greenholme
- Lancaster
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Drive 262 km, 3 hours 57 min
- Manchester Art Gallery
- Science and Industry Museum
- Lake District National Park
- Tebay Services (Southbound)
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Manchester and Greenholme. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Lancaster, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Manchester promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Manchester Art Gallery. This history-steeped art gallery is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Science And Industry Museum, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Lake District National Park, a popular national park that draws visitors from near and far.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lancaster. This drive usually takes around 42 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Tebay Services (southbound), an interesting sightseeing destination 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 Lancaster. Lancaster 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 Lancaster's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Quarterhouse, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Golden Lion, known for its lively atmosphere.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 5
- Lancaster
- Blackpool
- Cheshire West and Chester
- Liverpool
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Drive 218 km, 3 hours 15 min
- Blackpool Tower
- North Pier
- Blackpool Zoo
- Chester Zoo
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Blackpool and Chester. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Liverpool, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lancaster and set your GPS to Blackpool. 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 46 min. Upon reaching Blackpool, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Blackpool Tower, a notable observation deck that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to North Pier, where you can soak in the awe-inspiring surroundings. Next, explore Blackpool Zoo, yet another interesting place to see in the area.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Blackpool and set your GPS to Chester. 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 1 hour 28 min. Upon reaching Chester, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Head to Chester Zoo, a well-known zoo in Chester. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Liverpool, 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 Liverpool. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at KURDINA RESTAURANT AND BAR, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Rudy's Pizza Napoletana - Castle Street beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Quarter. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Liverpool tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Brass Monkey, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sanctuary Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Underground Gin Society offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!
Day 6
- Liverpool
- Staffordshire
- Bristol
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Drive 300 km, 3 hours 58 min
- World Museum
- Museum of Liverpool
- Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
- Trentham Gardens
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On day 6 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 Liverpool and Stafford. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bristol, where you will stay for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Liverpool’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at World Museum. This visually striking museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the heritage-rich features of Museum Of Liverpool, a must-visit museum in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, a top-rated historical landmark.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Liverpool, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stafford may take around 1 hour 16 min. Upon your arrival in Stafford, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Trentham Gardens is an increasingly popular botanical garden we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bristol. 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 Bristol. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Bristol by reserving a table at COR. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern british menu. For a different taste experience, head to Bulrush, recognized for its delicious modern british dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Blaise Inn, a local favorite known for its delightful traditional cuisine in Bristol. Nestled in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand awardee is an ideal choice for discerning traditional foodies seeking culinary excellence.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Boardroom, known for its inviting atmosphere. Gin & Juice is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Watershed provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.
Day 7
- Bristol
- Bath
- Salisbury
- Birmingham
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Drive 282 km, 4 hours 18 min
- Thermae Bath Spa
- Roman Baths
- Stonehenge
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Bath and Salisbury, 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 Birmingham. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Set your GPS to Bath and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bath beckons with new experiences!
Your self-guided tour starts at Thermae Bath Spa, a worthwhile spa that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Roman Baths and admire its heritage-rich features.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bath, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Salisbury. This drive usually takes around 57 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Your self-guided tour starts at Stonehenge, a spectacular archeological site 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 Birmingham. Birmingham 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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Birmingham. 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.
Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Birmingham by booking a table at Purnell's, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Simpsons, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Opheem, a local gem known for its delightful indian cuisine in Birmingham. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 8
- Birmingham - Departure day
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- Handsworth Park
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Day 8 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Birmingham 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 Birmingham's best shopping area, The Mailbox. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to England. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Handsworth Park. This worthwhile park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Birmingham.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Ivy Temple Row, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Birmingham. 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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