One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds traveling east to Cambridge, London, and Nottingham
Description
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in England as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Leeds, Wakefield, West Bretton, Cambridge, London, Kensington, Eton, Leavesden, Watford, Nottingham, Edensor, and York.
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, 3 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.
As you hit the open road and drive through Leeds, Wakefield, West Bretton, Cambridge, London, Kensington, Eton, Leavesden, Watford, Nottingham, Edensor, and York, 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!
Itinerary summary
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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 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal 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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Pixel Bar Leeds, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Wax Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Leeds. North Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Leeds
- Wakefield
- West Bretton
- Cambridge
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Drive 270 km, 4 hours 10 min
- Royal Armouries Leeds
- Roundhay Park
- Hepworth Wakefield
- 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 3 vibrant destinations - Leeds, Wakefield, 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.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Leeds. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Royal Armouries Museum is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most captivating places to visit in Leeds. Next, head to Roundhay Park, an interesting park, known for its idyllic features.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Leeds, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Wakefield. This drive usually takes around 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Make your way to The Hepworth Wakefield, a beloved art gallery that draws attention for its eye-catching features.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Wakefield and set your GPS to West Bretton. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 14 min. Upon reaching West Bretton, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Make your way to Yorkshire Sculpture Park, an underrated sculpture garden that draws attention for its detailed features.
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 taste of local culinary excellence while in Cambridge by securing a table at Midsummer House. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional creative menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Restaurant Twenty-Two, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Cambridge Tap, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Free Press. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Eagle, another top-rated place in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 3
- Cambridge
- London
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Drive 110 km, 2 hours 33 min
- Borough Market
- Tate Modern
- British Museum
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Big Ben
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 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 3 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in London today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
When you’ve had your share of Cambridge, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of London. Your travel time is around 1 hour 29 min.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Borough Market. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the food market before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Tate Modern. This spectacular art gallery is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find British Museum. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the museum. Next, continue your journey to London Eye, an iconic observation deck. End your day at Big Ben, known for its historic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in London. 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 London. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Begin your culinary exploration in London by securing a reservation at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Américain, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Connaught Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Juno Rooms is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 4
- London
- Kensington
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Drive 21 km, 1 hour 22 min
- Hyde Park
- Science Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to London for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in London and Kensington.
Prepare for a day full of a charming, a majestic, a stunning, a visually striking, a historically significant, a symbolic, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Hyde Park. This globally renowned park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Tower Bridge, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Tower Of London, one of the most wondrous places to see in London. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
After soaking in London’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.
Begin your journey at Science Museum and explore the history-steeped features. Next, make your way to Victoria And Albert Museum, another highlight in the city.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to London and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of London's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hawksmoor Guildhall, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bill's Soho Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Estiatorio Milos. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Lyaness, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Polski, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Buckingham Arms provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Say good night to London and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 5
- London
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 13 min
- Buckingham Palace
- St James's Park
- Trafalgar Square
- National Gallery
- Madame Tussauds London
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Day 5 of your road trip across England promises a magnificent time exploring London. You have 1 night left in London. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today’s route brings a mesmerizing, an instagrammable, a respected, a romantic, a scenic, a grand, and a masterful. The first attraction of today is Buckingham Palace. This wondrous palace is an eye-catching place to see in London. Continue your discovery at St James's Park, a romantic park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around London, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Trafalgar Square. This globally renowned public square offers a picture-perfect encounter with London. National Gallery is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in London.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in London. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Palomar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Clermont London, Victoria is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Berners Tavern. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in London tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Merchant House London. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Artesian offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Jin Bo Law, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 6
- London
- Eton
- Leavesden
- Watford
- Nottingham
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Drive 258 km, 3 hours 40 min
- St George's Chapel
- Windsor Castle
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
- Cassiobury Park
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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!
Take your self-guided tour to St George's Chapel, Windsor, an intriguing church that everyone visiting Eton should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Windsor Castle. This historic castle is one of the most extraordinary attractions in the region.
After soaking in Eton’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 35 min. When you arrive in Leavesden, it's time to take a break from the road.
Take your self-guided tour to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, a widely recognized museum that everyone visiting Leavesden should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Set your GPS to Watford and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Watford beckons with new experiences!
Begin your journey at Cassiobury Park and explore the eye-catching features.
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 Nottingham. Nottingham 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Nottingham's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a memorable dining experience in Nottingham by booking a table at Kushi-Ya, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional japanese menu. For a different culinary experience in Nottingham, alchemilla shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern british cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Ibérico World Tapas is known as a top local spot for its delicious mediterranean and asian influences cuisine in Nottingham. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Foremans Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Bodega Nottingham is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Pepper Rocks provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Head back to your accommodation in Nottingham and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!
Day 7
- Nottingham
- Edensor
- York
- Leeds
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Drive 248 km, 4 hours 40 min
- Chatsworth House
- Shambles Market
- National Railway Museum York
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On day 7 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 Edensor and York. In the evening, you’ll end up in Leeds, where you will stay for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Nottingham, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Edensor. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Chatsworth House is an interesting palace we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.
After soaking in York’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Leeds. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 48 min. When you arrive in Leeds, it's time to take a break from the road.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Shambles Market. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the market before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to National Railway Museum. This popular museum is a traveler-favorite in the village.
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? Clayton Hotel Leeds 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 Power, Corruption & Lies, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Brudenell Social Club is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 8
- Leeds - Departure day
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- Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms
- Royal Armouries Leeds
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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.
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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Leeds today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Leeds.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gaucho Leeds, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bill's Leeds Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Aire Bar.
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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