One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds traveling south to York, Windermere, Liverpool, Chester, and Stratford-on-Avon
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Description
Explore the best of England on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Leeds, York, Keswick, Grasmere, Near Sawrey, Windermere, Liverpool, Chester, Stratford-on-Avon, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold. This road trip itinerary in England seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 York, 1 night in Windermere, 1 night in Liverpool, 1 night in Chester, and 1 night in Stratford-on-Avon. 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. Royal Albert Dock Liverpool and Chester Zoo are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable National Railway Museum, learn more about the unique York Minster, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Shakespeare's Birthplace.
As you hit the open road and drive through Leeds, York, Keswick, Grasmere, Near Sawrey, Windermere, Liverpool, Chester, Stratford-on-Avon, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold, 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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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 just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Leeds. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in England. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 delicious meal at HOME, a highly-rated dining destination in Leeds. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing 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 an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Leeds this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Pixel Bar Leeds, known for its inviting atmosphere. Wax Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, North Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Leeds
- York
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Drive 47 km, 1 hour 20 min
- National Railway Museum York
- York Minster
- Shambles Market
- Jorvik Viking Centre
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, York. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in York, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Leeds covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a church, and a market. Start your adventure at National Railway Museum. This locally renowned museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of York Minster, a must-see church 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 Shambles Market. This notable market offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Jorvik Viking Centre, where you can take in heritage-rich features. 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 York. York offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of York's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Yakamoz, an iconic dining spot in York. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of House Of The Trembling Madness, a popular restaurant in York. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Turtle Bay York, a hidden gem nestled in York. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Habit Cafe Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Shambles Tavern, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Pivní York also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- York
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 246 km, 4 hours 9 min
- Castlerigg stone circle
- National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
- National Trust - Hill Top
- Windermere
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Keswick, Grasmere, Near Sawrey, and Windermere, 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 Windermere. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Castlerigg Stone Circle is must-visit archeological site and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to National Trust - Allan Bank And Grasmere, an often recommended sightseeing destination, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to National Trust - Hill Top, a picture-perfect museum, also available for your discovery today.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Windermere, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Windermere. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Windermere.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!
Day 4
- Bowness-on-Windermere
- Liverpool
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Drive 144 km, 2 hours 17 min
- Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral
- The Beatles Story
- Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
- Museum of Liverpool
- The Liverpool Waterfront
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Liverpool. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Liverpool. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Windermere. Begin your sightseeing with Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. This worthwhile church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to The Beatles Story, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Windermere, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Royal Albert Dock Liverpool. This extraordinary historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Museum Of Liverpool, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. The Liverpool Waterfront is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Liverpool. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Liverpool. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at KURDINA RESTAURANT AND BAR, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Rudy's Pizza Napoletana - Castle Street boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Quarter. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Liverpool.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Brass Monkey after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Sanctuary Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Underground Gin Society is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 5
- Liverpool
- Cheshire West and Chester
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Drive 45 km, 1 hour 13 min
- Chester Zoo
- Chester Cathedral
- Escapism Chester
- Chester City Walls
- Eastgate and Eastgate Clock
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On day 5 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 Chester. In the evening, you’ll end up in Chester, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Liverpool. Your adventure starts at Chester Zoo, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Chester Cathedral. This increasingly popular church is known for its breathtaking appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Liverpool's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Escapism Chester. Chester City Walls is also worth visiting, along with Eastgate And Eastgate Clock. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Chester. Chester offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Chester's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at 1539 Restaurant and Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider BarLounge - Chester. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Chester tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Prohibition offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Liquor And Co is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Craft & Company is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 6
- Cheshire West and Chester
- Stratford-upon-Avon
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Drive 209 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Anne Hathaway's Cottage
- Holy Trinity Church
- Stratford Butterfly Farm
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Hall's Croft
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Stratford-on-Avon. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Stratford-on-Avon, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Chester’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Anne Hathaway's Cottage. This romantic historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Holy Trinity Church, a must-visit church in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Stratford Butterfly Farm, an underrated butterfly garden. For a change of scene, check out Shakespeare's Birthplace, known for its photogenic features. We also recommend visiting Hall's Croft. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Stratford-on-Avon, 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 Stratford-on-Avon, 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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Garrick, where the evening is just getting started.
Say good night to Stratford-on-Avon and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 7
- Stratford-upon-Avon
- Leeds
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Drive 339 km, 4 hours 45 min
- National Trust - Bibury
- Bourton-on-the-water
- Birdland Park & Gardens
- The Model Village
- St Edward's Church
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Leeds, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Stratford-on-Avon. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! National Trust - Bibury is the perfect place to start. This historical landmark is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Stratford-on-Avon.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Birdland Park And Gardens. This instagrammable zoo is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find The Model Village and St Edward's Church. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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.
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 Cosy Club, a top-rated dining destination in Leeds. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Clayton Hotel Leeds, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Leeds this evening.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Power, Corruption & Lies, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Brudenell Social Club, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
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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- Thackray Museum of Medicine
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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, we recommend visiting Thackray Museum Of Medicine, a respected museum before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. For those seeking luxury items, check out the area’s high-end stores.
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 to try something new, consider Bill's Leeds Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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