One-Week Relaxed England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to Birmingham

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Description

Explore England and discover its unique charm on this 8-day relaxed road trip through Manchester, Urmston, Wigan, Salford, Walsall, Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, Balsall Heath, Coventry, West Bromwich, Tividale, Dudley, Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.

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 Manchester, Urmston, Wigan, Salford, Walsall, Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, Balsall Heath, Coventry, West Bromwich, Tividale, Dudley, Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Manchester and 3 nights in Birmingham. 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 Manchester, 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 Peak District National Park. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Chatsworth House.

Traveling leisurely through England means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Science And Industry Museum. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Heaton Park. Get close to the spectacular National Memorial Arboretum and the wonderful National Sea Life Centre. 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Northern Quarter
National Trust - Dunham MasseyTrafford PalazzoManchester Art GalleryManchester CathedralHeaton Park
Haigh Woodland ParkThe LowryScience and Industry MuseumManchester MuseumCastlefield
Walsall ArboretumNational SEA LIFE Centre BirminghamBirmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Sutton ParkCannon Hill ParkWar Memorial ParkCoventry CathedralCoventry Transport Museum
Sandwell Valley Country ParkShri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, TividaleDudley Zoo and CastleBlack Country Living Museum
Chasewater Country Park - Staffordshire County CouncilNational Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)National Tramway MuseumChatsworth HousePeak District National Park
Sackville Garden

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Manchester - Arrival day
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  • Northern Quarter
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Manchester, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Manchester and begin your adventure in England.

Manchester 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 Northern Quarter, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Manchester. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in England. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 Manchester, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Fazenda Manchester offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Peaky Blinders Manchester. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Manchester.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Manchester and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Corbieres Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Directors Box also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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 Manchester as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Manchester
  • More

Drive 68 km, 2 hours 16 min

  • National Trust - Dunham Massey
  • Trafford Palazzo
  • Manchester Art Gallery
  • Manchester Cathedral
  • Heaton Park
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 2, 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 Manchester and beyond. With 2 nights left in Manchester, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Manchester. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await. National Trust - Dunham Massey is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Manchester.

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 Manchester Art Gallery. This historic art gallery offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Manchester Cathedral adds its own distinct charm to your journey. Finish your day with a visit to Heaton Park, a remarkable park in Manchester.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of England. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Manchester, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at El Gato Negro, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional spanish menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, mana, known for its delicious creative british and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Manchester is Higher Ground, a renowned Bib Gourmand restaurant and a delicious modern british menu.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Manchester
  • More

Drive 75 km, 1 hour 47 min

  • Haigh Woodland Park
  • The Lowry
  • Science and Industry Museum
  • Manchester Museum
  • Castlefield
  • More

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Manchester, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Manchester will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Castlefield, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Wigan. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Manchester is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a performing arts theater, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Haigh Woodland Park. Just a short distance away is The Lowry, a visually striking performing arts theater that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Science And Industry Museum, one of the town’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Manchester Museum.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Manchester and your accommodation.

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 Manchester, 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 Browns Manchester, a top-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Teppanyaki Chinatown. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Manchester.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Port Street Beer House, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Fringe offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Mary D's Beamish Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Manchester
  • Birmingham
  • More

Drive 146 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Walsall Arboretum
  • National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
  • Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
  • More

On day 4 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in England. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in England.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming town of Manchester. Your adventure starts at Walsall Arboretum, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is National Sea Life Centre. This locally renowned aquarium is known for its eye-catching appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Manchester's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Birmingham Museum And Art Gallery. This photogenic museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Birmingham in this laid-back road trip in England. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

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 Birmingham, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Purnell's, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Simpsons is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Birmingham. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Opheem. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for indian cuisine in the city.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Birmingham. The bars in Birmingham make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Equator Bar Birmingham, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bacchus Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Birmingham. Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Birmingham
  • More

Drive 109 km, 2 hours 48 min

  • Sutton Park
  • Cannon Hill Park
  • War Memorial Park
  • Coventry Cathedral
  • Coventry Transport Museum
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Birmingham and visit amazing attractions in Sutton Coldfield, Balsall Heath, and Coventry destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Birmingham. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Immerse yourself in Birmingham’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Sutton Park. This romantic park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the mesmerizing features of Cannon Hill Park, a must-visit park 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 War Memorial Park, a frequently visited park. For a change of scene, check out Coventry Cathedral, known for its symbolic features.

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

Exploring the food culture in Birmingham 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre, an IHG Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Birmingham. If you're in the mood for something new, try Tiger Bites Pig, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restaurant Folium. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Birmingham.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in England.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Birmingham
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Drive 56 km, 1 hour 36 min

  • Sandwell Valley Country Park
  • Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, Tividale
  • Dudley Zoo and Castle
  • Black Country Living Museum
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 6, 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 Birmingham and beyond. With 1 night left in Birmingham, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Birmingham, including a park, a hindu temple, a zoo, a museum and much more! Start your day at Sandwell Valley Country Park. This picturesque park is a locally appreciated place to see in Birmingham. Then, wander over to Shri Venkateswara (balaji) Temple, Tividale. If culturally significant sites excite you, this hindu temple will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Dudley Zoo And Castle. This historic zoo is a favorite among visitors.

Birmingham offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Black Country Living Museum is a well-known spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Birmingham and your accommodation.

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 Birmingham.

Enjoy a lovely meal at La Galleria, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Ivy Temple Row is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Malmaison Birmingham. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Birmingham tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Birmingham and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Birmingham!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Birmingham
  • Manchester
  • More

Drive 211 km, 3 hours 59 min

  • Chasewater Country Park - Staffordshire County Council
  • National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
  • National Tramway Museum
  • Chatsworth House
  • Peak District National Park
  • More

Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through England gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Alrewas. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Manchester, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Start your day with a visit to Chasewater Country Park. This curiosity-inducing park is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to National Memorial Arboretum, which may be one of the most detailed places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Birmingham 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 National Tramway Museum, an increasingly popular tramway museum in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Chatsworth House and Peak District National Park.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in England at Manchester. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Manchester has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? 63 Degrees offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Vincenzo Trattoria. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Manchester.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Manchester and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Circus Tavern, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Temple (temple Of Convenience), a bar catering to every mood and preference. Dusk Til Pawn likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in England!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Manchester - Departure day
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  • Sackville Garden
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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 Manchester.

As your final day in England unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Manchester's best shopping area, Spinningfields. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to England. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Sackville Gardens. This intriguing park 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 Manchester or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Adam Reid at The French, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Manchester 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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