9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester traveling east to Birmingham, London, and Cheltenham

1 / 74
Photo of Manchester, New Hampshire, USA Skyline on the Merrimack River.
Photo of Manchester tallest building Beetham Tower, reflecting in Manchester Canal.
9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester traveling east to Birmingham, London, and Cheltenham
9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester traveling east to Birmingham, London, and Cheltenham
9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester traveling east to Birmingham, London, and Cheltenham
9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester traveling east to Birmingham, London, and Cheltenham
9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester traveling east to Birmingham, London, and Cheltenham
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Explore the best of England on a remarkable 9-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Manchester, Birmingham, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Leavesden, London, Eton, Salisbury, Cheltenham, Alrewas, and Edensor.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in England. You will spend 2 nights in Manchester, 1 night in Birmingham, 4 nights in London, and 1 night in Cheltenham. 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 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. London Eye and Buckingham Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Manchester, Birmingham, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Leavesden, London, Eton, Salisbury, Cheltenham, Alrewas, and Edensor, 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, accommodations, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Manchester

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in
Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

  • Manchester - Arrival day
  • More
  • Cathedral Gardens
  • More

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 discovering what to see in Manchester 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 Cathedral Gardens. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. 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.

Dine in style at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Fazenda Manchester boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Peaky Blinders Manchester. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Manchester.

Continue your lively evening at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Corbieres Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Directors Box ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • Manchester
  • Birmingham
  • More

Drive 141 km, 2 hours 4 min

  • Manchester Art Gallery
  • Science and Industry Museum
  • The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip in England, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Manchester are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Birmingham, where you will stay for 1 night.

Let Manchester Art Gallery set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich art gallery before continuing your journey. Science And Industry Museum is your next stop. This captivating museum is one of the best-rated sights in Manchester.

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 The Crystal Maze Live Experience.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Birmingham's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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.

Keep the evening going at Equator Bar Birmingham, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bacchus Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • Birmingham
  • Stratford-upon-Avon
  • Warwick
  • Leavesden
  • London
  • More

Drive 254 km, 3 hours 45 min

  • Stratford Butterfly Farm
  • Shakespeare's Birthplace
  • Warwick Castle
  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
  • More

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in England includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, and Leavesden. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in London, where you'll spend 4 nights.

Stratford-on-Avon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Birmingham behind. This drive usually takes around 51 min. Stratford-on-Avon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Stratford Butterfly Farm, an increasingly popular butterfly garden known for its eye-catching features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Shakespeare's Birthplace, a popular museum.

Warwick’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Stratford-on-Avon behind. This drive usually takes around 19 min. Warwick welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Warwick Castle, a well-known castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Warwick’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Leavesden. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 27 min. When you arrive in Leavesden, it's time to take a break from the road.

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

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in London. London 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 London. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The American Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cahoots London offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hawksmoor Borough is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in London.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Américain, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Connaught Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Juno Rooms ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Head back to your accommodation in London and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in England.

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • London
  • More

Drive 10 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Tate Modern
  • Borough Market
  • Tower Bridge
  • Tower of London
  • South Bank
  • More

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions London has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in London.

Set aside time today to explore South Bank, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Awaiting your discovery is the famous Tate Modern, a breathtaking art gallery in London. Next, go to Borough Market.

After visiting Tate Modern and Borough Market, have a stroll along London's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Tower Bridge. This enchanting monument offers a unique experience. Tower Of London is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in England. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hawksmoor Guildhall, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bill's Soho Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Estiatorio Milos. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Lyaness after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Polski for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Buckingham Arms is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • London
  • More

Drive 9 km, 1 hour 13 min

  • Hyde Park
  • Buckingham Palace
  • St James's Park
  • Big Ben
  • Oxford Street
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in London. You’ll stay in London for 2 nights.

A visit to Oxford Street is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Catch Hyde Park before the crowds roll in. This standout park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Buckingham Palace, a must-visit palace in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to St James's Park, an extraordinary park. For a change of scene, check out Big Ben, known for its picture-perfect features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in England. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Palomar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Clermont London, Victoria is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Berners Tavern. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in London tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Merchant House London, known for its inviting atmosphere. Artesian is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Jin Bo Law provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Read more
Day6

Day 6

  • London
  • More

Drive 5 km, 57 min

  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • Trafalgar Square
  • National Gallery
  • British Museum
  • Covent Garden
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip across England promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in London. You have 1 night left in London. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Covent Garden is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in London, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Visiting London Eye is always a good idea. This wondrous observation deck is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of Trafalgar Square, a must-see public square 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 National Gallery. This interesting art gallery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to British Museum, where you can take in visually striking features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in England. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Goodman City, 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 Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, 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 Wiltons Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting American Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Old Shades, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Scarfes Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

Read more
Day7

Day 7

  • London
  • Eton
  • Salisbury
  • Cheltenham
  • More

Drive 244 km, 3 hours 45 min

  • St George's Chapel
  • Windsor Castle
  • Stonehenge
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Eton and Salisbury. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cheltenham, where will spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Eton and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 49 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Eton beckons with new experiences!

Savor the day by heading to St George's Chapel, Windsor, an intriguing church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Windsor Castle, where you can soak in the breathtaking surroundings.

When you’ve had your share of Eton, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Salisbury. Your travel time is around 1 hour 18 min.

Savor the day by heading to Stonehenge, an astonishing archeological site that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cheltenham. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Cheltenham by securing a reservation at Le Champignon Sauvage. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Lumière, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.

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

Read more
Day8

Day 8

  • Cheltenham
  • Alrewas
  • Edensor
  • Manchester
  • More

Drive 280 km, 4 hours 25 min

  • National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
  • Chatsworth House
  • More

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Alrewas and Edensor. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Manchester, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Edensor, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Alrewas to Edensor may take around 1 hour 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Edensor, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Alrewas is National Memorial Arboretum, a well-known war memorial that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

Set your GPS to Edensor and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Edensor beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Chatsworth House, a locally renowned palace in Edensor. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Manchester is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Manchester.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Manchester by booking a table at El Gato Negro, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional spanish menu. For a different flavor experience, head to mana, renowned for its delectable creative british and modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Higher Ground, a local gem known for its delightful modern british cuisine in Manchester. Nestled in the city's heart, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!

Read more
Day9

Day 9

  • Manchester - Departure day
  • More
  • Northern Quarter
  • More

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.

One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Northern Quarter, a neighborhood that you shouldn't miss while in Manchester. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Make the most of your final day in England by visiting Manchester’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Manchester Arndale. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation.

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!

Read more

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

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.
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.

We guarantee

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

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.