One-Week England Road Trip from Leeds traveling east to Cambridge, London, and Nottingham

Welcome to Leeds, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Leeds's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 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 in Leeds. 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at HOME, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Cosy Club? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Leeds.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Pixel Bar Leeds, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of North Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Brudenell Social Club likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 2 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 Leeds, Wakefield, and West Bretton. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cambridge, where you will stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Armouries Museum. This extraordinary military museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,545 visitors.

Next, make your way to Roundhay Park. This top attraction is an urban park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,737 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Leeds, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Wakefield may take around 40 min. Upon your arrival in Wakefield, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like The Hepworth Wakefield. This extraordinary art museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,582 visitors.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Midsummer House in Cambridge by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Midsummer House offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Restaurant Twenty-Two, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!

Dive into day 3 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 London. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

After soaking in Cambridge’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: London. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 29 min. When you arrive in London, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Borough Market. This building is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 99,307 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Tate Modern. This art gallery has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 74,768 reviews.

Set your GPS to London and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. London beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to British Museum. This much-appreciated national museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 151,665 reviews. Each year, 5,906,716 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Big Ben. This cultural icon has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 65,522 visitors.

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 London. London 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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in London. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in London by reserving a table at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library. Renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern french menu. For a different taste experience, head to Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 3-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal, a local favorite known for its delightful modern french cuisine in London. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern french foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Américain, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Connaught Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bar Polski offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to London, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

When you’ve had your share of London, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Westminster. Your travel time is around 15 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hyde Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 128,167 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kensington, 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 Westminster to Kensington may take around 7 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kensington, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Science Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this science museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 66,659 reviews. More than 2,989,000 people visit this place of interest every year.

Next up, make a stop at Victoria And Albert Museum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 56,963 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 3,932,738 annual visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to London, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Westminster. This drive usually takes around 15 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Tower Bridge one of your first sightseeing stops in London. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 156,250 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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.

Dine in style at Estiatorio Milos, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Palomar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Berners Tavern. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Trafalgar Square is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 123,506 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is National Gallery. This art museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 49,550 travelers. Every year, 6,011,007 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in London.

We also recommend a stop at Madame Tussauds London. The wax museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 73,606 visitors.

Your discoveries in Westminster do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Westminster on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Scarfes Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Heliot Cocktail Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bfi Imax provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Head back to your accommodation in London and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Eton, Leavesden, and Watford. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nottingham, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Eton and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Eton beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is St George's Chapel, Windsor. This castle chapel is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,505 reviews.

Continue your journey at Windsor Castle. This historic house museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 54,973 travelers from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Leavesden, 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 Eton to Leavesden may take around 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Leavesden, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this exhibition room an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 84,358 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Nottingham, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Nottingham. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Nottingham by booking a table at Kushi-Ya. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of japanese cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to alchemilla, celebrated for its delectable modern british menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Ibérico World Tapas, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing mediterranean, and asian influences menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Foremans Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Bodega Nottingham offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pepper Rocks is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Edensor, Castleton, and York. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leeds, which will be your home away from home 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 Edensor. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Chatsworth House, a remarkable english country house where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,516 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Castleton. This car ride takes around 30 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Peak District National Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 32,930 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Leeds, 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 Leeds, 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Leeds by reserving a table at Prashad. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of indian vegetarian cuisine. Looking for something different? Bill's Leeds Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Leeds.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Lost & Found Leeds Club, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Smokestack is another popular option for a drink or two.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!

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.

As your final day in England unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Leeds's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to England.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 415 reviews.

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 eager to try something different, consider The Ivy Victoria Quarter Leeds, another top spot with a tantalizing 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!