One-Week Relaxed England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to London

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Description

Discover England stress-free with this 8-day relaxed road trip, winding through Manchester, Castleton, Leavesden, London, Kensington, Eton, and Alrewas. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.

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 Manchester, Castleton, Leavesden, London, Kensington, Eton, and Alrewas. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Manchester 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 Manchester, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-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 7 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 8 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 8-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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Cathedral Gardens
Alexandra ParkScience and Industry MuseumManchester Art GalleryHeaton Park
Peak Cavern
lastminute.com London EyeBorough MarketLondon BridgeTower of LondonTower Bridge
Hyde ParkScience MuseumVictoria and Albert MuseumBuckingham PalaceSt James's Park
Trafalgar SquareNational GalleryBritish MuseumMadame Tussauds LondonRegent's Park
Windsor CastleNational Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
Alan Turing Memorial

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Day 1

Day 1 – Manchester - arrival day

  • Manchester - Arrival day
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  • Cathedral Gardens
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Manchester, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Manchester and begin your adventure in England.

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 or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Manchester. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in England. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 Manchester.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Fazenda Manchester offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Peaky Blinders Manchester. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Manchester.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Manchester’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in England.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Corbieres Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Directors Box provides an excellent alternative for a fun 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 Manchester as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Manchester

  • Manchester
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Drive 69 km, 2 hours 2 min

  • Alexandra Park
  • Science and Industry Museum
  • Manchester Art Gallery
  • Heaton Park
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On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across England, you’ll go deep into Manchester, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Manchester, and meet locals along the way!

Today’s agenda in Manchester includes a park, a museum, and an art gallery. Alexandra Park is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Science And Industry Museum, a notable museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Manchester Art Gallery, a history-steeped art gallery, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Manchester. If you’re looking for more, Heaton Park is also a locally renowned attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

England makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, England also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Manchester 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 MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sam's Chop House offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Annies. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Manchester.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Manchester’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in England.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Arcane, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Liquor Store is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Atlas Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across England.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Manchester, Castleton, Leavesden, and London

  • Manchester
  • Castleton
  • London
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Drive 329 km, 5 hours 11 min

  • Peak Cavern
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Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across England promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the village of Castleton and drive in the direction of the village of Leavesden for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of London, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Immerse yourself in Castleton’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.

National Trust - Dark Peak is an often recommended nature reserve we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Set your GPS to Castleton and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Castleton beckons with new experiences!

Make your way to Peak Cavern, an intriguing cave that draws attention for its picturesque features.

In the city of London, 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.

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.

Savor the flavors at The American Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cahoots London beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hawksmoor Borough. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in London.

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

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical London!

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Day 4

Day 4 – London

  • London
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Drive 14 km, 58 min

  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • Borough Market
  • London Bridge
  • Tower of London
  • Tower Bridge
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Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through England means 24 hours of making the best memories in London. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in London. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by London!

Today’s route brings a romantic, a breathtaking, a visually striking, a heritage-rich, a majestic, and an UNESCO world heritage-designated. The first attraction of today is London Eye. This globally renowned observation deck is an awe-inspiring place to see in London. Continue your discovery at Borough Market, a heritage-rich food market 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 London Bridge. This astonishing historical landmark offers a culturally significant encounter with London. Tower Of London is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in London.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in England more special is by joining unique tours and activities. London offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in London 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.

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, 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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Lyaness, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar Polski is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Buckingham Arms is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in England!

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Day 5

Day 5 – London and Kensington

  • London
  • Kensington
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Drive 11 km, 42 min

  • Hyde Park
  • Science Museum
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
  • Buckingham Palace
  • St James's Park
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 5, 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 2 nights left in London, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in London today. One of the most world-famous attractions included on the itinerary is Hyde Park. This romantic park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Buckingham Palace and learn what makes this breathtaking palace unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the impressive St James's Park.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kensington. This drive usually takes around 7 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to Science Museum, a widely recognized museum in Kensington. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Victoria And Albert Museum. This spectacular museum is a top recommendation 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.

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

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in London. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Merchant House London, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Artesian, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Jin Bo Law provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!

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Day 6

Day 6 – London

  • London
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Drive 9 km, 44 min

  • Trafalgar Square
  • National Gallery
  • British Museum
  • Madame Tussauds London
  • Regent's Park
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Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in London, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in London, including a public square, an art gallery, a museum, a wax museum, a park and much more! Start your day at Trafalgar Square. This awe-inspiring public square is a world-famous place to see in London. Then, wander over to National Gallery. If standout sites excite you, this art gallery will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find British Museum. This instagrammable museum is a favorite among visitors.

London offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Madame Tussauds London is a spectacular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the wax museum, don’t forget to check out the serene Regent's Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular park in London.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about England. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in England and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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 London, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, 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 Wiltons Restaurant, a popular restaurant in London. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Rules, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in England.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at American Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Old Shades, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Scarfes Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of London as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through England with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in England!

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Day 7

Day 7 – London, Eton, Alrewas, and Manchester

  • London
  • Eton
  • Alrewas
  • Manchester
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Drive 375 km, 4 hours 50 min

  • Windsor Castle
  • National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
  • More

Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in England is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Eton and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Alrewas and the city of Manchester. You’ll stay in Manchester for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Alrewas. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering St George's Chapel, Windsor, a frequently visited church known for its picture-perfect features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Windsor Castle, an extraordinary castle that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

Alrewas’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Eton behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 12 min. Alrewas welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take your self-guided tour to National Memorial Arboretum, a locally renowned war memorial that everyone visiting Alrewas should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Manchester in this laid-back road trip in England. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 Manchester, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Don’t miss out on dining at Browns Manchester, a top-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Teppanyaki Chinatown. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Manchester. The bars in Manchester make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Port Street Beer House, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bar Fringe offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Manchester. Mary D's Beamish Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in England!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Manchester - departure day

  • Manchester - Departure day
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  • Alan Turing Memorial
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Day 8 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 Manchester.

On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at Manchester’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Manchester is the remarkable Alan Turing Memorial. This monument and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,462 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Manchester or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Manchester and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in England is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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