One-Week Relaxed England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds to York
Description
Included
Description
Experience England like never before on this 8-day relaxed road trip, traversing through Leeds, West Bretton, Colton, Huddersfield, Halifax, Shipley, Saltaire, Whitby, Scarborough, York, and Elvington. This self-drive vacation offers a tranquil journey through the heart-stopping beauty found in England.
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.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Leeds.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Pixel Bar Leeds, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Wax Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, North Bar 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.
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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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through England means 24 hours of making the best memories in West Bretton. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in West Bretton. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the village. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by West Bretton!
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Leeds today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Yorkshire Sculpture Park. This breathtaking sculpture garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Royal Armouries Museum and learn what makes this history-steeped museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Temple Newsam. After exploring the museum, head to Roundhay Park. This interesting park is a highlight in Leeds.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in England more special is by joining unique tours and activities. West Bretton offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Cosy Club, 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 Clayton Hotel Leeds, 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 Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, 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.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Leeds and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Power, Corruption & Lies after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Brudenell Social Club for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in England!
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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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 3, 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 Leeds and beyond. With 1 night left in Leeds, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
Leeds is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views! Start at Greenhead Park, a worthwhile park that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find The Piece Hall, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Eureka! The National Children's Museum. This museum is one of the town’s most underrated spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Leeds at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Lister Park. After exploring the park, head to the up-and-coming Salts Mill. This art gallery will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the town.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Leeds and your accommodation.
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.
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.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Leeds and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Roland's Leeds, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Lost & Found Leeds Club, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Distrikt likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
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 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.
Leeds is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at North York Moors National Park, a well-known national park that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Whitby Abbey, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at Peasholm Park. This park is one of the town’s most worthwhile spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Leeds at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Scarborough Castle.
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.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, York has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Skosh, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional modern british menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Roots, known for its delicious modern cuisine.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in York and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Keep the evening going at The Habit Cafe Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Shambles Tavern, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Pivní York, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Whitby can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in 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 agenda in York includes a market, a museum, a haunted house, a castle and much more! Shambles Market is must-visit market and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Jorvik Viking Centre, a notable museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to York Dungeon, a history-steeped haunted house, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for York. If you’re looking for more, Clifford's Tower, York is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss York Castle Museum, a curiosity-inducing gem to see in the city.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across England by joining a traveler-approved tour in York. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in York 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 city of York to find the best options for you!
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Plonkers? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Ivy St Helen's Square York as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in York.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in York.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Dusk, known for its inviting atmosphere. Fossgate Tap is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of York 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
- 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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On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around York, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of York will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.
Get ready for an exciting day in York. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an aviation museum, a historical landmark, a church, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Yorkshire Air Museum. This is an often recommended aviation museum you should not miss. Another must-see is York City Walls, an increasingly popular historical landmark in York.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to York Minster. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rowntree Park, another of the village’s up-and-coming attractions.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in York.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Little Italy, a highly-rated dining destination in York. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Cut & Craft, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Wildes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in York this evening.
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.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across England.
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 self-drive tour in England is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Leeds for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in England.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Yorkshire Museum. This locally appreciated museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is York Museum Gardens, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out York Art Gallery, one of the most worthwhile places to see in York. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, National Railway Museum. Wander around and soak in the photogenic atmosphere this museum offers.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Leeds. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
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.
Dine in style at Premier Inn Leeds City (Elland Road) hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Leeds Dock boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Park Plaza Leeds. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Leeds.
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.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Beckett's Bank - Jd Wetherspoon, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Smokestack. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.
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 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 Victoria Leeds. 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. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms. This up-and-coming 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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