One-Week Relaxed England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds to York
Description
Included
Description
Explore England and discover its unique charm on this 8-day relaxed road trip through Leeds, West Bretton, Colton, Huddersfield, Halifax, Shipley, Saltaire, Whitby, Scarborough, York, and Elvington. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in England at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Leeds, West Bretton, Colton, Huddersfield, Halifax, Shipley, Saltaire, Whitby, Scarborough, York, and Elvington. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Leeds and 3 nights in York. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in England.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in England. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Leeds, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across England and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across England with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in England.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in England. This relaxed road trip features the stunning National Railway Museum. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating York Minster.
Traveling leisurely through England means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Roundhay Park. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Royal Armouries Museum. Get close to the spectacular Whitby Abbey and the wonderful North York Moors National Park. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through England's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in England.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in England. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through England's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the England.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through England. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in England. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in England and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in England today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Leeds - Arrival day
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- Park Square
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Leeds, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Leeds and begin your adventure in England.
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 Park Square, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Leeds. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading 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 Leeds, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at HOME, a top-rated dining destination in Leeds. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Leeds City Centre (Leeds Arena) hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Leeds this evening.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Leeds’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in England.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Pixel Bar Leeds, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Wax Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, North Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in England. Enjoy your first taste of Leeds as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Leeds
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Drive 82 km, 1 hour 39 min
- Yorkshire Sculpture Park
- Royal Armouries Leeds
- Temple Newsam
- Roundhay Park
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On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across England, you’ll go deep into West Bretton, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the village’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the village's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in West Bretton, and meet locals along the way!
Today’s itinerary in Leeds covers several incredible sights, including a sculpture garden, a museum, and a park. Start your adventure at Yorkshire Sculpture Park. This underrated sculpture garden is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Royal Armouries Museum, a must-see museum in the village.
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 Temple Newsam. This beloved museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Roundhay Park, where you can take in romantic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across England by joining a traveler-approved tour in West Bretton. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in West Bretton that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in England more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the village of West Bretton to find the best options for you!
Exploring the food culture in Leeds offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Cosy Club, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Clayton Hotel Leeds offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Leeds.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Power, Corruption & Lies after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Brudenell Social Club, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Leeds!
Day 3
- Leeds
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Drive 84 km, 2 hours 16 min
- Greenhead Park
- The Piece Hall
- Eureka! The National Children's Museum
- Lister Park
- Salts Mill
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On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Leeds and visit amazing attractions in Huddersfield, Halifax, Shipley, and Saltaire destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Leeds. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Leeds allows for both. Start by heading to Greenhead Park. This beloved park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover The Piece Hall, a history-steeped public square, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Eureka! The National Children's Museum, an increasingly popular museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Lister Park. Round off your day at Salts Mill, another gem in Leeds with respected features to discover.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Leeds and your accommodation.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of England. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Leeds, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Make sure to reserve a table at Gaucho Leeds, an iconic dining spot in Leeds. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bill's Leeds Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Leeds. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Aire Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Leeds. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Leeds’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in England.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Roland's Leeds, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Lost & Found Leeds Club offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Leeds. Distrikt is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Huddersfield can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in England!
Day 4
- Leeds
- York
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Drive 239 km, 4 hours 3 min
- North York Moors National Park
- Whitby Abbey
- Peasholm Park
- Scarborough Castle
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Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in England is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Whitby and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Scarborough and the city of York. You’ll stay in York for 3 nights.
Get ready for an exciting day in Leeds. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a national park, an archeological site, a park, a castle and much more! Begin your adventure at North York Moors National Park. This is a well-known national park you should not miss. Another must-see is Whitby Abbey, a well-known archeological site in Leeds.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Peasholm Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Scarborough Castle, another of the town’s up-and-coming attractions.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in England at York. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around York, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Begin your culinary exploration in York by securing a reservation at Skosh. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern british cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Roots, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night 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.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across England.
Day 5
- York
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Drive 1 km, 22 min
- Shambles Market
- Jorvik Viking Centre
- York Dungeon
- Clifford's Tower, York
- York Castle Museum
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Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in York, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.
Today's adventure in York promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Shambles Market. This instagrammable market is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Jorvik Viking Centre, another history-steeped attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to York Dungeon, one of the city’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its heritage-rich features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Clifford's Tower, York. This standout castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit York Castle Museum, a worthwhile museum, and take a stroll around the area.
England makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, England also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in York.
Make sure to reserve a table at Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen, an iconic dining spot in York. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Plonkers, a popular restaurant in York. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Ivy St Helen's Square York, a hidden gem nestled in York. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in York.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Dusk, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Fossgate Tap provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!
Day 6
- York
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Drive 26 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Yorkshire Air Museum and Allied Air Forces Memorial
- York city walls
- York Minster
- Rowntree Park
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 6, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of England and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of York and beyond. With 1 night left in York, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
Today's adventure in York promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Yorkshire Air Museum. This respected aviation museum is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy York City Walls, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to York Minster, one of the village’s most captivating attractions, known for its culturally significant features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Rowntree Park. This mesmerizing park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in York.
Exploring the food culture in York offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Little Italy, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Cut & Craft offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Wildes. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in York.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in England. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in England tomorrow with new energy.
Day 7
- York
- Leeds
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Drive 42 km, 1 hour 19 min
- Yorkshire Museum
- Museum Gardens
- York Art Gallery
- National Railway Museum York
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across England promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of York and drive in the direction of the city of Leeds for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Leeds, where you’ll stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in York, including a museum, a botanical garden, and an art gallery. Start your day at Yorkshire Museum. This instagrammable museum is a curiosity-inducing place to see in York. Then, wander over to York Museum Gardens. If standout sites excite you, this botanical garden will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find York Art Gallery. This standout art gallery is a favorite among visitors.
York offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, National Railway Museum is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Leeds in this laid-back road trip in England. You'll stay here for 1 night.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Leeds.
Make sure to reserve a table at Premier Inn Leeds City (Elland Road) hotel, an iconic dining spot in Leeds. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Leeds Dock, a popular restaurant in Leeds. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Park Plaza Leeds, a hidden gem nestled in Leeds. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Leeds. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Beckett's Bank - Jd Wetherspoon, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Smokestack offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in England!
Day 8
- Leeds - Departure day
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- Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in England is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Leeds.
Make the most of your final day in England by visiting Leeds’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing The Corn Exchange. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in England. You can also browse through boutiques for stylish fashion choices. Savor your final moments in England at a cozy cafe while relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms. This often recommended escape room is a popular place to see in the city.
Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Leeds or just grab something light to keep you going.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Leeds and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in England is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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