One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds traveling east to Cambridge, Colchester, London, and Nottingham

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through England. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

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 Leeds, 1 night in Cambridge, 1 night in Colchester, 2 nights in London, and 1 night in Nottingham. 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 Leeds, 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. Marvel at the remarkable Tower Bridge, learn more about the unique British Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hyde Park.

As you hit the open road and drive through Leeds, West Bretton, Cambridge, Leavesden, Eton, Cheapside, Colchester, London, Nottingham, Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Park Square
Leeds Art GalleryRoyal Armouries LeedsYorkshire Sculpture Park
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry PotterSt George's ChapelWindsor CastleWindsor Great Park
Madame Tussauds LondonBuckingham PalaceSt James's ParkBig Benlastminute.com London Eye
Tower of LondonTower BridgeBorough MarketTate ModernSouth Bank
Trafalgar SquareBritish MuseumHyde Park
National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)National Tramway MuseumChatsworth HousePeak District National Park
Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Leeds - Arrival day
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  • Park Square
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Say hello to Leeds! Your exciting road trip through England is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Leeds for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at HOME, a popular restaurant in Leeds. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Leeds at The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Premier Inn Leeds City Centre (Leeds Arena) hotel. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Leeds tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Pixel Bar Leeds, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Wax Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, North Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in England!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Leeds
  • Cambridge
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 22 min

  • Leeds Art Gallery
  • Royal Armouries Leeds
  • Yorkshire Sculpture Park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Leeds and West Bretton. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cambridge. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Leeds is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Leeds Art Gallery, a worthwhile art gallery that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Royal Armouries Museum, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at Yorkshire Sculpture Park. This sculpture garden is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cambridge. Cambridge 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 Cambridge. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Midsummer House, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible creative menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Twenty-Two is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Cambridge. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Cambridge Tap offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Free Press is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Eagle is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cambridge
  • Colchester
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Drive 291 km, 4 hours 14 min

  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
  • St George's Chapel
  • Windsor Castle
  • Windsor Great Park
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On day 3 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 Leavesden, Eton, and Cheapside. In the evening, you’ll end up in Colchester, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cambridge. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, a church, a castle, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter. This is a famous museum you should not miss. Another must-see is St George's Chapel, Windsor, a beloved church in Cambridge.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Windsor Castle. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Windsor Great Park, another of the village’s curiosity-inducing attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Colchester. 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 Colchester. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Centurion, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bill's Colchester Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Green Room as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Colchester.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Castle Inn, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Queen St Brewhouse offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Colchester. The Foresters Arms Colchester is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Colchester
  • London
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Drive 130 km, 2 hours 53 min

  • Madame Tussauds London
  • Buckingham Palace
  • St James's Park
  • Big Ben
  • lastminute.com London Eye
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of London. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in London, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Colchester, including a wax museum, a palace, a park, a monument, an observation deck and much more! Start your day with a visit to Madame Tussauds London. This impressive wax museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Buckingham Palace, which may be one of the most breathtaking places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Colchester on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to St James's Park, an astonishing park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Big Ben and London Eye.

At the end of the day, you will drive to London, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of London, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The American Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cahoots London offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hawksmoor Borough. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Américain, known for its lively atmosphere. The Connaught Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Juno Rooms offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in England.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • London
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Drive 10 km, 1 hour 3 min

  • Tower of London
  • Tower Bridge
  • Borough Market
  • Tate Modern
  • South Bank
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Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

South Bank is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in London, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in London, including a castle, a monument, a food market, an art gallery and much more! Start your day with a visit to Tower Of London. This timeless castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Tower Bridge, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring London on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Borough Market, an astonishing food market in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Tate Modern.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. England is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of London's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hawksmoor Guildhall, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bill's Soho Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Estiatorio Milos as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in London.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • London
  • Nottingham
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Drive 218 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Trafalgar Square
  • British Museum
  • Hyde Park
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore London, 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 Nottingham. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in London covers several incredible sights, including a public square, a museum, and a park. Start your adventure at Trafalgar Square. This iconic public square is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of British Museum, a must-see museum in the city.

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 Hyde Park. This globally renowned park offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Nottingham. Nottingham offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Nottingham. 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Nottingham by securing a reservation at Kushi-Ya. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of japanese cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try alchemilla, renowned for its delicious modern british dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Ibérico World Tapas, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering mediterranean and asian influences menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Nottingham
  • Leeds
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Drive 240 km, 3 hours 59 min

  • National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
  • National Tramway Museum
  • Chatsworth House
  • Peak District National Park
  • More

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Leeds, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your adventure at National Memorial Arboretum. This interesting war memorial is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to National Tramway Museum located in Nottingham for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Chatsworth House. Its respected features will captivate you. After the palace, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Peak District National Park. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this national park.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Leeds. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Leeds's best restaurants.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Power, Corruption & Lies, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Brudenell Social Club is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Leeds - Departure day
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  • Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms
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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 Leeds 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, begin at Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms. This increasingly popular escape room is a popular place to see in the city.

On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at Leeds’s popular marketplace, Trinity Leeds. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Leeds.

If you're in the mood for something new, try Bill's Leeds Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Leeds. 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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