9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to York, Windermere, Liverpool, and Chester

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Experience the freedom of the open road in England as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Manchester, York, Dockray, Keswick, Rydal, Windermere, Near Sawrey, Liverpool, Chester, and Bakewell.

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 Manchester, 2 nights in York, 2 nights in Windermere, 1 night in Liverpool, and 1 night in Chester. 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 Manchester, 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 Lake District National Park, learn more about the unique Peak District National Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of York Minster.

As you hit the open road and drive through Manchester, York, Dockray, Keswick, Rydal, Windermere, Near Sawrey, Liverpool, Chester, and Bakewell, 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!

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Manchester - Arrival day
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  • Northern Quarter
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Welcome to Manchester, 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 Manchester's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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.

Find your way to your hotel in Manchester. 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 Manchester, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Fazenda Manchester is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Peaky Blinders Manchester. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Manchester tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Corbieres Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Directors Box, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Manchester
  • York
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Drive 122 km, 2 hours 15 min

  • Manchester Art Gallery
  • Science and Industry Museum
  • Heaton Park
  • Red Tower
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On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Manchester and York. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in York, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the worthwhile Manchester Art Gallery, a standout art gallery in Manchester. Next, go to Science And Industry Museum.

After visiting Manchester Art Gallery and Science And Industry Museum, have a stroll along Manchester's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Heaton Park. This history-steeped park offers a unique experience. Red Tower is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Yakamoz, a top-rated dining destination in York. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider House Of The Trembling Madness, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turtle Bay York. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in York this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Habit Cafe Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Shambles Tavern, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Pivní York likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • York
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Drive 3 km, 42 min

  • Shambles Market
  • York Castle Museum
  • Jorvik Viking Centre
  • York Minster
  • York city walls
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Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in York for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and budget-friendly activities. Whether you decide to explore York on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Shambles Market is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable market before continuing your journey. York Castle Museum is your next stop. This underrated museum is one of the best-rated sights in York.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Jorvik Viking Centre. This heritage-rich museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit York Minster and York City Walls.

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 York, 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.

Dine in style at Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Plonkers boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Ivy St Helen's Square York. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in York.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Dusk, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Fossgate Tap. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • York
  • Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 258 km, 4 hours 17 min

  • Aira Force
  • Castlerigg stone circle
  • Rydal Cave
  • Windermere
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Dockray, Keswick, Rydal, and Windermere. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Windermere, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming village of York. Your adventure starts at Aira Force, a frequently visited local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Castlerigg Stone Circle. This up-and-coming archeological site is known for its serene appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander York's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Rydal Cave. This visually striking cave offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Windermere is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Windermere. Windermere offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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 sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 56 km, 1 hour 44 min

  • Lake District National Park
  • National Trust - Hill Top
  • National Trust - Tarn Hows
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Day 5 of your road trip across England promises a magnificent time exploring Near Sawrey. You have 1 night left in Windermere. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Windermere, including a national park, a museum, and a lake. Start your adventure at Lake District National Park. This locally renowned national park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to National Trust - Hill Top located in Windermere for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of National Trust - Tarn Hows. Its romantic features will captivate you.

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.

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.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
  • Liverpool
  • More

Drive 144 km, 2 hours 34 min

  • Walker Art Gallery
  • Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral
  • The Beatles Story
  • Royal Albert Dock Liverpool
  • The Liverpool Waterfront
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Windermere. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Walker Art Gallery is the perfect place to start. This art gallery is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Windermere. Next, head to Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, an often recommended church, 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 The Beatles Story. This history-steeped museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Royal Albert Dock Liverpool and The Liverpool Waterfront. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Liverpool, 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 Liverpool. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at KURDINA RESTAURANT AND BAR, a popular restaurant in Liverpool. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Liverpool at Rudy's Pizza Napoletana - Castle Street, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The Quarter. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Liverpool tonight.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Liverpool
  • Cheshire West and Chester
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Drive 44 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Chester Zoo
  • Chester City Walls
  • Chester Cathedral
  • Eastgate and Eastgate Clock
  • Chester Cross
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Chester, 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 Chester. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Liverpool covers several incredible sights, including a zoo, a historical landmark, a church, a monument, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Chester Zoo. This well-known zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Chester City Walls, a must-see historical landmark 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 Chester Cathedral. This locally appreciated church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Eastgate And Eastgate Clock, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Chester Cross. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

As you explore more of Chester, 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 delightful dinner at 1539 Restaurant and Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at BarLounge - Chester as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Chester.

Keep the evening going at Prohibition, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Liquor And Co, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Craft & Company, 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!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Cheshire West and Chester
  • Manchester
  • More

Drive 171 km, 3 hours 13 min

  • Bakewell Bridge
  • Bakewell Old House Museum
  • Peak District National Park
  • More

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 Bakewell. In the evening, you’ll end up in Manchester, where you will stay for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Chester allows for both. Start by heading to Bakewell Bridge. This up-and-coming historical landmark provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Bakewell Old House Museum, a visually striking museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Peak District National Park, a popular national park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Manchester. Manchester offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Manchester. 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE, a top-rated dining spot in Manchester. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sam's Chop House, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Annies. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Manchester.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Arcane, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Liquor Store provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Atlas Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Manchester - Departure day
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  • Manchester Cathedral
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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 Manchester 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 Manchester Cathedral, a standout church before you head out.

Maximize your last day in England and go on a shopping spree in Manchester’s shopping center, the lively Spinningfields. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in England. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.

Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Manchester.

Savor the flavors at Browns Manchester, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to Manchester. 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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