9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds traveling east to Cambridge, Colchester, London, and Nottingham
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Experience the freedom of the open road in England as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Leeds, Cambridge, Leavesden, South Weald, Maldon, Colchester, London, Kensington, Eton, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Nottingham, Alrewas, Crich, 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 Cambridge, 1 night in Colchester, 3 nights in London, and 1 night in Nottingham. 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. London Eye and Buckingham Palace are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Tower Bridge, learn more about the unique British Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Hyde Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Leeds, Cambridge, Leavesden, South Weald, Maldon, Colchester, London, Kensington, Eton, Stratford-on-Avon, Warwick, Nottingham, Alrewas, Crich, 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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Say hello to Leeds! Your exciting road trip through England is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Leeds for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Leeds. 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.
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.
Savor the flavors at HOME, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Premier Inn Leeds City Centre (Leeds Arena) hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Leeds tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Pixel Bar Leeds is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Wax Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is North Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Leeds
- Cambridge
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Drive 256 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Leeds Art Gallery
- Leeds City Museum
- Roundhay Park
- Royal Armouries Leeds
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On day 2 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 Leeds. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cambridge, where you will stay for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Leeds allows for both. Start by heading to Leeds Art Gallery. This curiosity-inducing art gallery provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Leeds City Museum, a photogenic museum, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Roundhay Park, a well-known park. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating Royal Armouries Museum.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cambridge. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cambridge. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Midsummer House, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Restaurant Twenty-Two, known for its delicious modern cuisine.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Cambridge Tap, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Free Press offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Eagle. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
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.
Day 3
- Cambridge
- Colchester
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Drive 211 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
- Weald Country Park
- Promenade Park
- Colchester Zoo
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Leavesden, South Weald, Maldon, and Colchester. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Colchester, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and natural wonders in Cambridge. Begin your sightseeing with Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter. This top-rated museum is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Weald Country Park, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Cambridge, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Promenade Park. This curiosity-inducing park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Colchester Zoo, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Colchester, 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 Colchester's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Centurion, a top-rated dining spot in Colchester. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bill's Colchester Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Green Room. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Colchester.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Castle Inn, known for its inviting atmosphere. Queen St Brewhouse is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Foresters Arms Colchester provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 4
- Colchester
- London
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Drive 114 km, 2 hours 17 min
- Borough Market
- Tate Modern
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Trafalgar Square
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, London. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in London, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Colchester, including a food market, an art gallery, an observation deck, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Borough Market. This famous food market is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Tate Modern located in Colchester for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of London Eye. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the observation deck, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Trafalgar Square. Visitors usually appreciate the detailed features of this public square.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in London. London offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of London, 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at The American Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cahoots London offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hawksmoor Borough is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in London.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Américain, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Connaught Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Juno Rooms, another top-rated place in the area.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- London
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 19 min
- Hyde Park
- British Museum
- Tower of London
- Tower Bridge
- Oxford Street
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Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in London for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
A top thing to do today is to explore Oxford Street, a must-see street in London. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Hyde Park. This timeless park is a mesmerizing place to see in London. Continue your discovery at British Museum, an instagrammable 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 Tower Of London. This world-famous castle offers a breathtaking encounter with London. Next, make your way to Tower Bridge 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 London.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of London's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hawksmoor Guildhall, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bill's Soho Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Estiatorio Milos as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in London.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Lyaness, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar Polski, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Buckingham Arms likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 6
- London
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Drive 9 km, 52 min
- Science Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Buckingham Palace
- St James's Park
- Covent Garden
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in London, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Kensington and London. You still have 1 night left in London.
Covent Garden is a fantastic place you can explore today in Kensington. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Kensington-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.
Start by visiting Science Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Victoria And Albert Museum, another must-visit landmark and impressive museum renowned for its photogenic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of London by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Buckingham Palace. This historic palace is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full London experience. We also recommend visiting St James's Park, an impressive park.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in London.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of London's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Palomar, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Clermont London, Victoria, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Berners Tavern. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Merchant House London, known for its inviting atmosphere. Artesian is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Jin Bo Law provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 7
- London
- Nottingham
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Drive 290 km, 4 hours
- St George's Chapel
- Windsor Castle
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Warwick Castle
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Eton, Stratford-on-Avon, and Warwick, 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 Nottingham. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in London covers several incredible sights, including a church, a castle, and a museum. Start your adventure at St George's Chapel, Windsor. This frequently visited church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Windsor Castle, a must-see castle 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 Shakespeare's Birthplace. This popular museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Warwick Castle, where you can take in visually striking features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Nottingham. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Nottingham. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a memorable dining experience in Nottingham by booking a table at Kushi-Ya, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional japanese menu. For a different culinary experience in Nottingham, alchemilla shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern british cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Ibérico World Tapas is known as a top local spot for its delicious mediterranean and asian influences cuisine in Nottingham. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Foremans Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Bodega Nottingham offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Pepper Rocks is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 8
- Nottingham
- Leeds
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Drive 240 km, 3 hours 59 min
- National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
- National Tramway Museum
- Chatsworth House
- Peak District National Park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Leeds. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
National Memorial Arboretum is must-visit war memorial and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to National Tramway Museum, a beloved tramway museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Chatsworth House, an enchanting palace, also available for your discovery today.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Leeds. 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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Cosy Club, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Clayton Hotel Leeds offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight 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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.
Day 9
- Leeds - Departure day
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- Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms
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Day 9 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms. This frequently visited escape room is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in England unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Leeds's best shopping area, The Corn Exchange. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to England. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home. When you need a break, visit a cafe and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Leeds.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Gaucho Leeds, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bill's Leeds Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.
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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