Relaxed 10-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds to Birmingham and London
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 10-day road trip in England with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in England at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Leeds, Halifax, Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, Walsall, Dudley, Coventry, Balsall Heath, Brentford, Kensington, London, Woolwich, Greenwich, Richmond, and Leavesden. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 2 nights in Leeds, 3 nights in Birmingham, and 4 nights in London. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in England.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in England. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Leeds, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 10-day journey across England and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across England with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in England.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in England. This relaxed road trip features the stunning London Eye. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Buckingham Palace.
Traveling leisurely through England means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Tower Bridge. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through England's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in England.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in England. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through England's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the England.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through England. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 9 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 10 days of your self-drive road trip in England. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 10-day vacation in England and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in England today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Leeds - arrival day
- Leeds - Arrival day
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Leeds, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Leeds and begin your adventure in England.
Leeds is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Leeds. 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.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Leeds.
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.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Leeds and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Pixel Bar Leeds, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wax Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, North Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in England. Enjoy your first taste of Leeds as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Leeds, Halifax, and Birmingham
- Leeds
- Halifax
- Birmingham
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Drive 240 km, 3 hours 29 min
- Roundhay Park
- Royal Armouries Leeds
- Eureka! The National Children's Museum
- The Piece Hall
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of England will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in England, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!
Today's adventure in Leeds promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Roundhay Park. This eye-catching park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Royal Armouries Museum, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.
Set your GPS to Halifax and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 35 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Halifax beckons with new experiences!
Begin your journey at Eureka! The National Children's Museum and explore the visually striking features. Next, make your way to The Piece Hall, another highlight in the city.
In the city of Birmingham, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in England.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Birmingham by reserving a table at Purnell's. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Opheem, recognized for its delicious indian dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Adam's, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Birmingham. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Equator Bar Birmingham. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bacchus Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham, another top-rated bar in the area.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Leeds can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in England!
Day 3 – Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, Walsall, Dudley, and Coventry
- Birmingham
- Sutton Coldfield
- Walsall
- Metropolitan Borough of Dudley
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Drive 132 km, 2 hours 57 min
- Sutton Park
- Walsall Arboretum
- Black Country Living Museum
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On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Birmingham, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Birmingham will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.
After soaking in Birmingham’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sutton Coldfield. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 28 min. When you arrive in Sutton Coldfield, it's time to take a break from the road.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Sutton Park, an increasingly popular park that draws visitors from near and far.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Walsall. This drive usually takes around 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Walsall Arboretum. 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, Dudley. This car ride takes around 25 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Black Country Living Museum, a popular museum known for its heritage-rich features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Birmingham.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of England. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Birmingham, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre, an IHG Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're eager to try something different, consider Tiger Bites Pig, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Folium. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Birmingham this evening.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Birmingham. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Birmingham!
Day 4 – Birmingham and Balsall Heath
- Birmingham
- Balsall Heath
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Drive 21 km, 53 min
- Cannon Hill Park
- National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
- Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
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On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Birmingham and visit amazing attractions in Balsall Heath and Birmingham destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Birmingham. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Birmingham is home to plenty of attractions that offer a picture-perfect and a heritage-rich! Start at National Sea Life Centre, a captivating aquarium that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Birmingham Museum And Art Gallery, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Balsall Heath. This car ride takes around 9 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Cannon Hill Park, a well-known park known for its romantic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Birmingham and your accommodation.
Exploring the food culture in Birmingham offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Have a fantastic dining experience at La Galleria, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Ivy Temple Row offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Malmaison Birmingham is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Birmingham.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Birmingham’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in England.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in England!
Day 5 – Birmingham, Brentford, Kensington, and London
- Birmingham
- Kensington
- London
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Drive 212 km, 2 hours 56 min
- Kew Gardens
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Green Park
- Buckingham Palace
- National Gallery
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Day 5 of your relaxed road trip across England promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Brentford and drive in the direction of the town of Kensington for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of London, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Brentford. This car ride takes around 2 hours 14 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a popular botanical garden that everyone visiting Brentford should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Kensington’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brentford behind. This drive usually takes around 20 min. Kensington welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Your self-guided tour starts at Victoria And Albert Museum, an extraordinary museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’ve had your share of Kensington, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of London. Your travel time is around 7 min.
Make your way to Green Park, a notable park that draws attention for its eye-catching features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Buckingham Palace, a breathtaking palace that stands out in the town. Next, visit National Gallery, a captivating art gallery that offers a unique experience.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in England at London. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, London has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The American Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cahoots London offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hawksmoor Borough. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.
Experience the amazing nightlife in London and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bar Américain offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Connaught Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Juno Rooms is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in England!
Day 6 – London, Woolwich, and Greenwich
- London
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Drive 37 km, 1 hour 41 min
- The Shard
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
- ExCeL London
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 6, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of England and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of London and beyond. With 3 nights left in London, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
London is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the iconic Tower Bridge. Just a short distance away is Tower Of London, a breathtaking castle that draws visitors from far and near.
Set your GPS to Woolwich and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Woolwich beckons with new experiences!
Make your way to The Shard, a well-known observation deck that draws attention for its romantic features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in London.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, London has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bill's Soho Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Estiatorio Milos. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in London and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Lyaness, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Polski offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in London. Buckingham Arms is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!
Day 7 – London and Richmond
- London
- Richmond
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Drive 45 km, 2 hours 13 min
- Richmond Park
- Westminster Abbey
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Borough Market
- London Bridge
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On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around London, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of London will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.
Today’s itinerary in London covers several incredible sights, including a church, an observation deck, a food market, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Westminster Abbey. This interesting church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the enchanting wonders of London Eye, a must-see observation deck 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 Borough Market. This famous food market offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to London Bridge, where you can take in its culturally significant features.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Richmond, you’ll hit the road in the direction of London. This drive usually takes around 41 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Take your self-guided tour to Richmond Park, a popular park that everyone visiting Richmond should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to London and your accommodation.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in London.
Dine in style at The Palomar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Berners Tavern boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Goodman City. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.
Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Merchant House London. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Artesian, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Jin Bo Law provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across England.
Day 8 – London and Kensington
- London
- Kensington
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Drive 15 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Regent's Park
- Madame Tussauds London
- Hyde Park
- Royal Albert Hall
- Science Museum
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On day 8 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in London and visit amazing attractions in London and Kensington destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in London. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Today’s route brings a charming, a peaceful, an enchanting, a photogenic, a detailed, and a respected. The first attraction of today is Regent's Park. This well-known park is a romantic place to see in London. Continue your discovery at Madame Tussauds London, a visually striking wax museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around London, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Hyde Park. This iconic park offers a standout encounter with London.
When you’ve had your share of London, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kensington. Your travel time is around 5 min.
Royal Albert Hall is a locally renowned concert hall we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour to Science Museum, a photogenic museum that’s well-regarded in the area.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in London.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Wiltons Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Rules. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in London.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in London.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at American Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Old Shades offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Scarfes Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!
Day 9 – London, Leavesden, and Leeds
- London
- Leavesden
- Leeds
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Drive 324 km, 4 hours 13 min
- Trafalgar Square
- Big Ben
- British Museum
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
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Day 9 of your easy and relaxed road trip through England gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of London. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Leeds, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in London, featuring a mesmerizing, an eye-catching, a historic, a symbolic, and a noteworthy. Start at Trafalgar Square, a timeless public square in the city. Then, head to Big Ben and soak in the ambiance of this awe-inspiring monument.
There are many interesting places to see in London and when you are ready for more, go to British Museum. This is one of the city’s most wondrous spots.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Leavesden. This car ride takes around 50 min.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Leeds. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Leeds, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Prashad in Leeds by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Prashad offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious indian vegetarian menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Clayton Hotel Leeds offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Leeds.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Power, Corruption & Lies is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Brudenell Social Club, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in England!
Day 10 – Leeds - departure day
- Leeds - Departure day
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- Royal Armouries Leeds
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Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in England is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Leeds.
As your final day in England unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Leeds's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to England.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Leeds or just grab something light to keep you going.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gaucho Leeds, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bill's Leeds Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Aire Bar.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Leeds and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in England is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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