9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds traveling east to Cambridge, Colchester, London, and Nottingham

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Leeds and Nostell, 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 Cambridge. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with an eye-catching, a historically significant, a romantic, an idyllic, and a mesmerizing in Leeds. Begin your sightseeing with Leeds Art Gallery. This beloved art gallery is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Roundhay Park, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Leeds, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Royal Armouries Museum. This popular museum is a traveler-favorite.

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 Nostell may take around 33 min. Upon your arrival in Nostell, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at National Trust - Nostell and explore the eye-catching 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.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Cambridge by reserving a table at Midsummer House. Renowned as a 2-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional creative menu. For a different taste experience, head to Restaurant Twenty-Two, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Cambridge Tap after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Free Press for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Eagle is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Watford, Leavesden, Chelmsford, and Colchester. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Colchester. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Watford. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cambridge, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Watford may take around 1 hour 18 min. Upon your arrival in Watford, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cassiobury Park. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Leavesden. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter, a spectacular museum that everyone visiting Leavesden should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Chelmsford. This car ride takes around 54 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Hylands, a frequently visited park known for its serene features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Colchester. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Colchester's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Centurion, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bill's Colchester Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Green Room is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Colchester.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Castle Inn. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Queen St Brewhouse, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Foresters Arms Colchester provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Say good night to Colchester and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 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.

London’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Colchester behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 56 min. London welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Madame Tussauds London, an impressive wax museum known for its remarkable features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Borough Market, a famous food market that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Tate Modern and uncover the details of this gorgeous art gallery. Make sure to also explore London Eye, a wondrous observation deck that offers a unique experience. For your last stop, consider Big Ben, a picture-perfect monument that many travelers find worth the detour.

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.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in London by booking a table at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Keep the evening going at Bar Américain, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Connaught Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Juno Rooms, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions London has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in London by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A blend of a stunning, an instagrammable, a history-steeped, a culturally significant, a noteworthy, an UNESCO world heritage-listed, and a romantic await you in London on today’s itinerary. First up is the wondrous public square, Trafalgar Square. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to National Gallery. A visit to this art gallery is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore London’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to British Museum. This globally renowned museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Tower Of London, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Tower Bridge and learn why this monument is renowned as one of the city's most wondrous attractions.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hawksmoor Guildhall, an iconic dining spot in London. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bill's Soho Restaurant, a popular restaurant in London. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Estiatorio Milos, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Lyaness is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar Polski, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Buckingham Arms. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in London, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Kensington and London. You still have 1 night left in London.

Today’s agenda in London includes a park and a palace. St James's Park is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Buckingham Palace, a timeless palace, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Hyde Park, a respected park, also available for your discovery today.

Set your GPS to Kensington and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kensington beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Science Museum and explore the heritage-rich features. Next, make your way to Victoria And Albert Museum, another highlight in the town.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of London's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Palomar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Clermont London, Victoria? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Berners Tavern as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in London.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Merchant House London, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Artesian offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in London. Jin Bo Law is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Eton, Stratford-on-Avon, and Warwick. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Nottingham, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to London and set your GPS to Eton. 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 49 min. Upon reaching Eton, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to St George's Chapel, Windsor, an increasingly popular church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Windsor Castle, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Stratford-on-Avon, 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 Stratford-on-Avon may take around 1 hour 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stratford-on-Avon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Shakespeare's Birthplace. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

When you’ve had your share of Stratford-on-Avon, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Warwick. Your travel time is around 19 min.

Begin your journey at Warwick Castle and explore the romantic features.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Kushi-Ya, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible japanese menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, alchemilla is one of the best restaurants for modern british cuisine in Nottingham. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Ibérico World Tapas. As a top-rated establishment with a Bib Gourmand status, it is an ideal choice for mediterranean and asian influences cuisine in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Foremans Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Bodega Nottingham offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Pepper Rocks. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

On day 8 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 Alrewas, Edensor, and Yorkshire Bridge. In the evening, you’ll end up in Leeds, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Nottingham’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Alrewas. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 50 min. When you arrive in Alrewas, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to National Memorial Arboretum, an interesting war memorial that draws attention for its noteworthy features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Alrewas and set your GPS to Edensor. 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 1 hour 11 min. Upon reaching Edensor, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Chatsworth House, a notable palace in Edensor. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Leeds by securing a reservation at Prashad. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of indian vegetarian cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Clayton Hotel Leeds boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Power, Corruption & Lies, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Brudenell Social Club, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!