7-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds to Harrogate, Ambleside, and Chester
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Experience the freedom of the open road in England as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Leeds, York, Harrogate, Windermere, Ambleside, Rydal, Keswick, Chester, Bakewell, and Edensor.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in England takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Leeds, 1 night in Harrogate, 2 nights in Ambleside, and 1 night in Chester. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in England. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Leeds, 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. Chester Zoo and Lake District National Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Chatsworth House, learn more about the unique York Minster, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Shambles Market.
As you hit the open road and drive through Leeds, York, Harrogate, Windermere, Ambleside, Rydal, Keswick, Chester, Bakewell, 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, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in England fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in England today!
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Day 1
- Leeds - Arrival day
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- Park Square
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Welcome to Leeds, the perfect starting point for your road trip in England! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Leeds's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Leeds 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 Park Square, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in 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.
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 Leeds, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at HOME, a highly-rated dining destination in Leeds. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Leeds City Centre (Leeds Arena) hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Leeds this evening.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pixel Bar Leeds. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Wax Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook North Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Leeds
- Harrogate
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Drive 85 km, 1 hour 57 min
- York Minster
- Shambles Market
- Jorvik Viking Centre
- York Dungeon
- York Castle Museum
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - York. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Harrogate. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Immerse yourself in Leeds’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at York Minster. This breathtaking church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the photogenic features of Shambles Market, a must-visit market 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 Jorvik Viking Centre, a popular museum. For a change of scene, check out York Dungeon, known for its eye-catching features. We also recommend visiting York Castle Museum. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Harrogate, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Harrogate. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Hales Bar, an iconic dining spot in Harrogate. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Fat Badger, a popular restaurant in Harrogate. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RHS Garden Harlow Carr, a hidden gem nestled in Harrogate. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Ivory Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, North Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Disappearing Chin. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.
Day 3
- Harrogate
- Ambleside
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Drive 164 km, 3 hours 27 min
- The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
- Windermere
- Stock Ghyll Force
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Windermere and Ambleside, 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 Ambleside. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Harrogate on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout museum before continuing your journey. Windermere is your next stop. This underrated lake is one of the best-rated sights in Harrogate.
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 Stock Ghyll Force. This instagrammable waterfall is a sight to behold.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Ambleside. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you explore more of Ambleside, 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 Lake Road Kitchen, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Lily Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 4
- Ambleside
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Drive 87 km, 2 hours 8 min
- National Trust - Tarn Hows
- Lake District National Park
- Rydal Cave
- Castlerigg stone circle
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Ambleside 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 Rydal and Keswick.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is National Trust - Tarn Hows. This beloved lake is a mesmerizing place to see in Ambleside. Continue your discovery at Lake District National Park, an instagrammable national park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Ambleside, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Rydal Cave. This increasingly popular cave offers a gorgeous encounter with Ambleside. Next, make your way to Castlerigg Stone Circle to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Ambleside.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Ambleside.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Ambleside. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at The Old Stamp House Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kysty boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 5
- Ambleside
- Cheshire West and Chester
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Drive 184 km, 2 hours 31 min
- Chester Zoo
- Chester Cathedral
- Chester City Walls
- Eastgate and Eastgate Clock
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Chester. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Chester, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Ambleside. Begin your sightseeing with Chester Zoo. This popular zoo is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Chester Cathedral, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Ambleside, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Chester City Walls. This frequently visited historical landmark is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Eastgate And Eastgate Clock, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Chester. Chester offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Chester. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at 1539 Restaurant and Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at BarLounge - Chester. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Chester tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Prohibition, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Liquor And Co provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Craft & Company offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in England!
Day 6
- Cheshire West and Chester
- Leeds
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Drive 209 km, 3 hours 19 min
- Magpie Mine
- Bakewell Bridge
- Chatsworth House
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On day 6 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 Sheldon, Bakewell, and Edensor. In the evening, you’ll end up in Leeds, where you will stay for 1 night.
A blend of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Chester on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile archeological site, Magpie Mine. Afterward, continue to Bakewell Bridge, a historical landmark every traveler should visit.
As you explore Chester’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the hamlet. Next, make your way to Chatsworth House. This locally renowned palace is an essential stop.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Leeds, 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 Leeds's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Cosy Club, a highly-rated dining destination in Leeds. If you're eager to try something different, consider Clayton Hotel Leeds, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Leeds this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Power, Corruption & Lies, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Brudenell Social Club, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Say good night to Leeds and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 7
- Leeds - Departure day
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- Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms
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Day 7 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Leeds before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Leeds.
You’ll then say farewell to Leeds. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in England!
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