Two-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to Windermere, York, Whitby, Durham, Bakewell, and Stratford-on-Avon

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Manchester, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Don’t miss Castlefield in Manchester today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Get ready for an exciting day in Manchester. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a museum, an art gallery, a church, a library, a performing arts theater and much more! Begin your adventure at Manchester Museum. This is an often recommended museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Manchester Art Gallery, a worthwhile art gallery in Manchester.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Manchester Cathedral. From there, take a leisurely stroll to John Rylands Research Institute And Library, another of the city’s frequently visited attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at The Lowry, a stunning place of interest in the city.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Manchester. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE, a top-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sam's Chop House, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Annies. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

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.

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

On day 3 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 Windermere, Clappersgate, Rydal, and Hawkshead. In the evening, you’ll end up in Windermere, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Windermere. This curiosity-inducing lake is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Ambleside Roman Fort, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Rydal Cave, one of the most worthwhile places to see in Manchester. This cave is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Latterbarrow. Wander around and soak in the serene atmosphere this hiking area offers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Windermere, 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 Windermere's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Windermere.

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

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 1 night left in Windermere, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Lake District National Park. This well-known national park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rydal Mount, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Aira Force, one of the most beloved places to see in Windermere. This waterfall is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Castlerigg Stone Circle. Wander around and soak in the culturally significant atmosphere this archeological site offers.

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

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

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

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, York. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in York, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Today's adventure in Windermere promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Clifford's Tower, York. This picture-perfect castle is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy York Castle Museum, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Jorvik Viking Centre, one of the city’s most interesting attractions, known for its visually striking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Shambles Market. This picture-perfect market is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Yakamoz, a popular restaurant in York. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of York at House Of The Trembling Madness, 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 Turtle Bay York. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in York tonight.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in York for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in York. Begin your sightseeing with York City Walls. This frequently visited historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to York Minster, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of York, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to York Museum Gardens. This intriguing botanical garden is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find National Railway Museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Plonkers offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Ivy St Helen's Square York is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in York.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Dusk offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Fossgate Tap is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Whitby. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Whitby, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in York. Begin your sightseeing with Whitby Abbey. This captivating archeological site is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to St Mary's Church, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of York, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to 199 Steps. This up-and-coming historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Rnli Whitby Museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Whalebone Arch is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Whitby. 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 Whitby. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Whitby Endeavour, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight.

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.

Greet day 8 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Whitby 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 Low Dalby, Pickering, and Helmsley.

Start by visiting Dalby Forest Courtyard, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picturesque visitor center is sure to impress. Next on your list is North Yorkshire Moors Railway, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated heritage railway renowned for its breathtaking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Whitby by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Helmsley Castle. This picture-perfect castle is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Whitby experience.

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

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

With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Whitby.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Durham, 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 Durham. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Whitby is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Finchale Priory, an up-and-coming monastery that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Wharton Park, enchanting visitors with its enchanting appeal. Continue your exploration at National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens. This botanical garden is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Durham, 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 Durham's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at Spice Lounge, a top-rated dining destination in Durham. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Gussto Tapas Bar - Durham, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Durham this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Station House, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Shakespeare is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Angel is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Durham, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Durham is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a botanical garden, a museum, a historical landmark, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular Botanic Garden and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Durham University Oriental Museum, a visually striking museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Prebends Bridge, one of the hamlet’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Durham Cathedral.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Tango Durham, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cosy Club offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tia’s is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Durham.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Holy Grale offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Whisky River provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Durham and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Edensor, Bakewell, and Grindleford. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bakewell. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting Chatsworth House, a prime spot to begin your journey. This history-steeped palace is sure to impress. Next on your list is Bakewell Old House Museum, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile museum renowned for its standout features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Durham by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Bakewell Bridge. This visually striking historical landmark is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Durham experience. We also recommend visiting National Trust - Padley Gorge, an increasingly popular hiking area.

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

As you explore more of Bakewell, 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 Haddon Hall, a top recommendation for dinner tonight.

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

On day 12 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Bakewell, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Castleton. You still have 1 night left in Bakewell.

Bakewell is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Peak District National Park, an interesting national park that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Blue John Cavern, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Peveril Castle. This castle is one of the village’s most underrated spots.

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

As you explore more of Bakewell, 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!

On day 13 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 Stratford-on-Avon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Stratford-on-Avon, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming town of Bakewell. Your adventure starts at Anne Hathaway's Cottage, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Holy Trinity Church. This increasingly popular church is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bakewell's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Shakespeare's Funerary Monument. This symbolic monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Stratford Butterfly Farm is also worth visiting, along with Shakespeare's Birthplace. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Stratford-on-Avon. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Stratford-on-Avon. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Garrick. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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

On day 14 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Warwick. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Manchester, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Stratford-on-Avon on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. St. Nicholas' Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this visually striking park before continuing your journey. Warwick Castle Main Entrance is your next stop. This increasingly popular castle is one of the best-rated sights in Stratford-on-Avon.

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 Warwick Castle. This culturally significant castle is a sight to behold.

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.

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

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Port Street Beer House, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar Fringe, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Mary D's Beamish Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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