One-Week Relaxed England Road Trip from Leeds to London

Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Leeds, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Leeds and begin your adventure in England.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Leeds. 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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Leeds.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at HOME, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cosy Club offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Leeds.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Leeds. The bars in Leeds make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pixel Bar Leeds, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. North Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Brudenell Social Club is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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.

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Leeds and visit amazing attractions in Huddersfield, Halifax, Shipley, and Leeds 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Royal Armouries Museum. This extraordinary military museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,545 visitors.

Next, make your way to Roundhay Park. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,737 reviews.

Huddersfield’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Leeds behind. This drive usually takes around 32 min. Huddersfield welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Greenhead Park. This urban park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Huddersfield, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,939 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Halifax, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Huddersfield to Halifax may take around 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Halifax, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at The Piece Hall, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable shopping mall has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,344 reviews.

Set your GPS to Shipley and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Shipley beckons with new experiences!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Lister Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,749 reviews.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Leeds has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Have a memorable dining experience in Leeds by booking a table at Prashad, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional indian vegetarian menu. 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.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Leeds and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Lost & Found Leeds Club, known for its lively atmosphere. Smokestack is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in England!

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through England gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of St Albans. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of London, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Leeds, you’ll hit the road in the direction of St Albans. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 58 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Verulamium Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in St Albans, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,814 visitors.

St Albans Cathedral is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,429 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

After soaking in St Albans’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Leavesden. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 20 min. When you arrive in Leavesden, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. This much-appreciated exhibition room is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 84,358 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Watford. This car ride takes around 11 min.

Make Cassiobury Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,463 reviews.

In the city of London, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in England.

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 London.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The American Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cahoots London, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bill's Soho Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Américain, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Connaught Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar Polski. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across England, you’ll go deep into London, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in London, and meet locals along the way!

Drop by the renowned Regent's Park. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 44,964 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Madame Tussauds London. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 73,606 visitors, this wax museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to British Museum. Hosting around 5,906,716 visitors every year, the fascinating British Museum is one of the best places to visit in London. This national museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 151,665 reviews.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about England. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in England and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Estiatorio Milos, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Palomar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berners Tavern. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in London. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Artesian, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, American Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in London. Old Shades is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 5, 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 Westminster and beyond. With 2 nights left in London, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

After soaking in Westminster’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kensington. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 7 min. When you arrive in Kensington, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Hyde Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 128,167 visitors.

Buckingham Palace is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This royal palace has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,513 travelers.

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Science Museum. This extraordinary science museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 66,659 visitors. Each year, around 2,989,000 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Victoria and Albert Museum. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 56,963 visitors. Victoria and Albert Museum welcomes 3,932,738 yearly visitors.

Upon your arrival in Richmond, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. This non-departmental public body is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Richmond, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 46,237 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to London 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 London, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider Wiltons Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rules. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in London.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Scarfes Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Heliot Cocktail Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, BFI IMAX also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of London as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through England with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in England!

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in London, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.

Make Trafalgar Square your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 123,506 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at National Gallery. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 49,550 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this art museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 6,011,007 annual visitors.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across England. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in England.

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 London, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dine in style at The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hawksmoor Seven Dials boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Simpson's in the Strand. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in London.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Old Bank of England, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Ship & Shovell is another popular option for a drink or two.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in England!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across England promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Whipsnade and drive in the direction of the village of Ridgmont for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Leeds, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ridgmont. This drive usually takes around 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Whipsnade Zoo. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 14,757 reviews.

National Trust - Dunstable Downs and Whipsnade Estate is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,361 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Whipsnade, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ridgmont. Your travel time is around 26 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Woburn Safari Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,495 visitors.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Leeds. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in England by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Leeds has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Oxford Place, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Ivy Victoria Quarter Leeds is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Miller & Carter Leeds Light. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Leeds tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Leeds.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Leeds as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through England with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in England!

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.

Maximize your last day in England and go on a shopping spree in Leeds’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in England.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Ox Club, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Restaurant Bar & Grill Leeds offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Queens Hotel.

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.