One-Week England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester traveling east to Sheffield, London, and Birmingham

1 / 58
Photo of Manchester tallest building Beetham Tower, reflecting in Manchester Canal.
Photo of St Ann's Church in Manchester, England.
Photo of boats moored at Castlefield Manchester.
Photo of Albert Memorial, Albert Square in front of Manchester Town Hall,UK.
Photo of aerial shot of Manchester UK on a beautiful summer day.
Photo of the Manchester central Library, England.
Photo of fountains at Piccadilly garden in Manchester city center, England.
Photo of tourist girl walking in Manchester city on sunny day, England, United Kingdom.
Photo of Manchester Cathedral, England.
Photo of Panoramic view of Manchester, England, UK
photo  off view of Mancunian Footbridge over the Mancunian Way near Hulme, Manchester.
photo of view of The Lowry footbridge and Imperial War Museum North, Salford Quays, Salford, Manchester, England, United Kingdom, Europe
photo of view of Aerial drone view of Manchester city in UK on a beautiful sunny day.
photo of view of Aerial view of Manchester city in UK on a beautiful sunny day.
Sheffield Town Hall is a building in the City of Sheffield, England. The building is used by Sheffield City Council.
Panoramic view of Sheffield cathedral from Church Street, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK on 24 July 2023
Steps and gate house at the Sheffield Botanical Gardens, South Yokshire, England, UK
Sheffield city UK. River Don foot bridge. HDR photo.
Sheffield - city in South Yorkshire, UK. Canal waterway basin and autumn colours.
View of Sheffield City Council and Sheffield town hall in autumn, England, UK
Sheffield City Hall is a Grade II listed building in Sheffield, England, containing several venues, ranging from the Oval Concert Hall to a ballroom.
Damflask reservoir, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England, UK
Sheffield - city in South Yorkshire, UK. River Don and old factories.
Autumn Clothes Sheffield Park East Sussex England UK
aerial view of two blocks of flats in Sheffield, and new housing
City tram at Cathedral station in Sheffield - South Yorkshire, England
Aerial photo of a large shopping centre known as Meadowhall, it's an indoor shopping centre in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England UK
Aerial drone photo of the busy M1 motorway with three bridges crossing over the highway in the village of Barnsley in Sheffield UK in the summer time on a bright sunny summers day.
A beautiful shot of colors of light in a dense forest, Sheffield, UK
London icons: Double deck bus and Big Ben
Photo of Westminster palace (Houses of Parliament) and Big Ben, London, UK.
Photo of regent's canal, Little Venice in London, UK.
Photo of Cannons at the entrance of the Imperial War Museum in London, England.
Photo of Westminster Abbey viewed from Victoria tower gardens, London, UK.
Photo of London eye, County Hall, Westminster Bridge, Big Ben and Houses of Parliament.
Photo of beautiful landscape around Hyde Park, London, United Kingdom.
Photo of aerial view of Windsor castle, a royal residence at Windsor in the English country.
Photo of Buckingham Palace in London, United Kingdom.
Photo of colorful English houses facades, pastel pale colors in London.
Photo of Greenwich park, London.
Photo of Royal Albert Hall, London, England, UK, in late afternoon daylight
Photo of London, England - Panoramic skyline view of Bank and Canary Wharf, central London's leading financial districts with famous skyscrapers at golden hour sunset with blue sky and clouds.
Photo of Beautiful outdoor water fountain with dancing waters on a sunny day in Battersea park, London .
The quiet canals of Birmingham
Photo of sunset view of brick buildings alongside a water channel in the central Birmingham, England.
Photo of Cathedral of Saint Philip in Birmingham during sunset, England.
Photo of Birmingham, Alabama, USA downtown city skyline.
Photo of Birmingham water canal network ,famous Birmingham, England.
Photo of Hall of Memory, Library of Birmingham and Baskerville house, England.
Photo of Birmingham, Alabama, USA Downtown Skyline Panorama.
Photo of Birmingham, Alabama, USA downtown city skyline.
Photo of sunset view of brick buildings alongside a water channel in the central Birmingham, England.
Photo of  the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, England.
photo of view of Beautiful architecture of Birmingham city canal at dawn
photo of view of Methodist Central Hall and Victoria Law Courts, historic buildings in Birmingham, England.
photo of view of Aerial view of Birmingham, a major city in England’s West Midlands region, with multiple Industrial Revolution-era landmarks, UK
photo of view of Aerial view of Birmingham, a major city in England’s West Midlands region, with multiple Industrial Revolution-era landmarks, UK
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Explore the best of England on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Manchester, Sheffield, Leavesden, London, Kensington, Birmingham, Lichfield, Alrewas, and Edensor. This road trip itinerary in England seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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 Manchester, 1 night in Sheffield, 3 nights in London, and 1 night in Birmingham. 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 Manchester, 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 Manchester, Sheffield, Leavesden, London, Kensington, Birmingham, Lichfield, Alrewas, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Manchester

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Cathedral Gardens
Manchester Art GalleryJohn Rylands Library Research Institute and LibraryScience and Industry Museum
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry PotterMadame Tussauds LondonNational GalleryTrafalgar Square
Tate ModernBorough MarketTower BridgeTower of LondonSouth Bank
Buckingham PalaceHyde ParkVictoria and Albert MuseumScience MuseumOxford Street
St James's ParkBig Benlastminute.com London EyeBritish Museum
Beacon ParkLichfield CathedralNational Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)Chatsworth HousePeak District National Park
Northern Quarter

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Manchester - Arrival day
  • More
  • Cathedral Gardens
  • More

Say hello to Manchester! 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 Manchester for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Manchester. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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 Manchester, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Fazenda Manchester beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Peaky Blinders Manchester. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Manchester tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Corbieres Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Directors Box. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in England!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Manchester
  • Sheffield
  • More

Drive 64 km, 1 hour 47 min

  • Manchester Art Gallery
  • John Rylands Library Research Institute and Library
  • Science and Industry Museum
  • More

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

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at the curiosity-inducing Manchester Art Gallery, a heritage-rich art gallery in Manchester. Next, go to John Rylands Research Institute And Library.

After visiting Manchester Art Gallery and John Rylands Research Institute And Library, have a stroll along Manchester's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Science And Industry Museum. This heritage-rich museum offers a unique experience.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Sheffield. Sheffield 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 Sheffield, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Piccolo's, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Sheffield? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Wildcard Bar and Grill as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sheffield.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Bar Stewards, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Three Tuns, S1 is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Sheffield Tap provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Sheffield
  • London
  • More

Drive 275 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
  • Madame Tussauds London
  • National Gallery
  • Trafalgar Square
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in England, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Leavesden and London. In the evening, you’ll end up in London, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Sheffield covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a wax museum, an art gallery, a public square and much more! Start your adventure at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter. This famous museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the remarkable wonders of Madame Tussauds London, a must-see wax museum in the village.

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 National Gallery. This notable art gallery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Trafalgar Square, where you can take in historic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The American Bar, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cahoots London, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hawksmoor Borough. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Américain. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Connaught Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Juno Rooms provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • London
  • More

Drive 10 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Tate Modern
  • Borough Market
  • Tower Bridge
  • Tower of London
  • South Bank
  • More

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions London has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in London by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

South Bank is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in London. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in London, including an art gallery, a food market, a monument, a castle and much more! Start your day with a visit to Tate Modern. This famous art gallery is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Borough Market, which may be one of the most heritage-rich places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring London on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Tower Bridge, an iconic monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Tower Of 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in London. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bill's Soho Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Estiatorio Milos. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in London tonight.

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

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

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • London
  • More

Drive 10 km, 1 hour 14 min

  • Buckingham Palace
  • Hyde Park
  • Victoria and Albert Museum
  • Science Museum
  • Oxford Street
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in London, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to London for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience London and Kensington to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Oxford Street is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in London. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Buckingham Palace. This world-famous palace is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Hyde Park, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Victoria And Albert Museum, one of the most famous places to see in London. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Science Museum. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this museum offers.

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

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

Dine in style at The Palomar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Clermont London, Victoria boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Berners Tavern. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in London.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Merchant House London after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Artesian for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Jin Bo Law is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • London
  • Birmingham
  • More

Drive 207 km, 3 hours 7 min

  • St James's Park
  • Big Ben
  • lastminute.com London Eye
  • British Museum
  • More

On day 6 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 Birmingham, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in London, including a park, a monument, an observation deck, a museum and much more! Start your day with a visit to St James's Park. This famous park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Big Ben, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring London on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to London Eye, an iconic observation deck in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for British Museum.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Birmingham. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Birmingham. 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 an extraordinary dining experience at Purnell's, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Simpsons is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Birmingham. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Opheem. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for indian cuisine in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Equator Bar Birmingham stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Bacchus Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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.

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Birmingham
  • Manchester
  • More

Drive 195 km, 3 hours 56 min

  • Beacon Park
  • Lichfield Cathedral
  • National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
  • Chatsworth House
  • Peak District National Park
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Lichfield, Alrewas, and Edensor. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Manchester. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Birmingham, including a park, a church, a war memorial, a palace, a national park and much more! Start your day at Beacon Park. This enchanting park is a frequently visited place to see in Birmingham. Then, wander over to Lichfield Cathedral. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find National Memorial Arboretum. This picture-perfect war memorial is a favorite among visitors.

Birmingham offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Chatsworth House is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the palace, don’t forget to check out the serene Peak District National Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular national park.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Manchester. Manchester 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 Manchester. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your culinary exploration in Manchester by securing a reservation at El Gato Negro. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of spanish cuisine. For another dining delight, visit mana, celebrated for its delectable creative british and modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Higher Ground, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern british menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your lively evening at Arcane, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Liquor Store is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Atlas Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Read more
Day 8

Day 8

  • Manchester - Departure day
  • More
  • Northern Quarter
  • More

Day 8 of your road trip in England is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Manchester before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Northern Quarter, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Manchester. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at Manchester’s popular marketplace, Spinningfields. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.

Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Manchester.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Browns Manchester, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Manchester. 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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.