9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds to Windermere and Cotswold and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Explore the best of England on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Leeds, York, Malham, Windermere, Keswick, Ambleside, Near Sawrey, Grasmere, Rydal, Stratford-on-Avon, Evesham, Bibury, Cotswold, Bourton-on-the-Water, Northleach, and Oxford. 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 3 nights in Leeds, 3 nights in Windermere, and 2 nights in Cotswold. 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. Lake District National Park and National Railway Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable York Minster, learn more about the unique Shakespeare's Birthplace, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Shambles Market.
As you hit the open road and drive through Leeds, York, Malham, Windermere, Keswick, Ambleside, Near Sawrey, Grasmere, Rydal, Stratford-on-Avon, Evesham, Bibury, Cotswold, Bourton-on-the-Water, Northleach, and Oxford, 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 2 nights 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at HOME, 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 The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar, 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 Premier Inn Leeds City Centre (Leeds Arena) hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Leeds. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pixel Bar Leeds, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Wax Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out North Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Leeds
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Drive 91 km, 2 hours 9 min
- National Railway Museum York
- Clifford's Tower, York
- Shambles Market
- York Minster
- York city walls
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Leeds, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in York. You still have 1 night left in Leeds.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Leeds. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! National Railway Museum is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most notable places to visit in Leeds. Next, head to Clifford's Tower, York, an often recommended castle, known for its historic features.
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 Shambles Market. This photogenic market is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find York Minster and York City Walls. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Leeds.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Leeds's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cosy Club, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Clayton Hotel Leeds? 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.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Power, Corruption & Lies, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Brudenell Social Club offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 3
- Leeds
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 181 km, 4 hours 6 min
- Janet's Foss
- Ribblehead Viaduct
- White Scar Caves
- Windermere
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Malham and Windermere. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Windermere, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Leeds on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated waterfall, Janet's Foss. Afterward, continue to Ribblehead Viaduct, a monument every traveler should visit.
As you explore Leeds’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to White Scar Caves. This frequently visited cave is an essential stop. Following that, head to Windermere, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Windermere. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Windermere. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 4
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 98 km, 2 hours 19 min
- Keswick Museum
- The Bridge House
- Stock Ghyll Force
- National Trust - Hill Top
- National Trust - Tarn Hows
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Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 2 nights left in Windermere, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Today’s itinerary in Windermere covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a historical landmark, a waterfall, a lake and much more! Start your adventure at Keswick Museum. This beloved museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of The Bridge House, a must-see historical landmark in the town.
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 Stock Ghyll Force. This beloved waterfall offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to National Trust - Hill Top, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to National Trust - Tarn Hows. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Windermere and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Windermere. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
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.
Day 5
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 100 km, 2 hours 23 min
- National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
- Lake District National Park
- Rydal Cave
- Castlerigg stone circle
- Ashness Bridge
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Greet day 5 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Windermere for your remaining 1 night in the town 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 Grasmere, Rydal, and Keswick.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is National Trust - Allan Bank And Grasmere. Continue your discovery at Lake District National Park, an instagrammable national park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Windermere, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Rydal Cave. This underrated cave offers an awe-inspiring encounter with Windermere. Next, make your way to Castlerigg Stone Circle to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Ashness Bridge, a beloved historical landmark that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Windermere.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Windermere.
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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Bowness-on-Windermere
- Cirencester
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Drive 396 km, 4 hours 57 min
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Abbey Park
- National Trust - Bibury
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Stratford-on-Avon, Evesham, and Bibury. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cotswold, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Today's adventure in Windermere promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Shakespeare's Birthplace. This heritage-rich museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Abbey Park, another awe-inspiring attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to National Trust - Bibury, one of the town’s most beloved attractions, known for its romantic features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cotswold. Cotswold offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cotswold. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!
Day 7
- Cirencester
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Drive 128 km, 2 hours 19 min
- Bourton-on-the-water
- Birdland Park & Gardens
- Church of St Peter and St Paul, Northleach
- National Trust - Hidcote
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On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cotswold, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Bourton-on-the-water is must-visit sightseeing destination and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Birdland Park And Gardens, an increasingly popular zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Church Of St Peter And St Paul, Northleach, a majestic church, also available for your discovery today.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cotswold and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Cotswold, 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.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 8
- Cirencester
- Leeds
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Drive 340 km, 4 hours 44 min
- Oxford Castle
- Carfax Tower
- Covered Market
- Radcliffe Camera
- Oxford University Museum of Natural History
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Oxford. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Leeds. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Cotswold. Begin your sightseeing with Oxford Castle. This intriguing castle is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Carfax Tower Tower Of The Church Of St Martin Carfax, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Cotswold, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Covered Market. This locally appreciated market is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Radcliffe Camera, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Oxford University Museum Of Natural History is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Gaucho Leeds, a top-rated dining spot in Leeds. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bill's Leeds Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Aire Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Leeds.
Keep the evening going at Roland's Leeds, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Lost & Found Leeds Club, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Distrikt, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 9
- Leeds - Departure day
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- Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms
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Day 9 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.
Maximize your last day in England and go on a shopping spree in Leeds’s shopping center, the lively Trinity Leeds. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in England.
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 Leeds Dock, 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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