9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds to Windermere and Cotswold and surrounding area
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Description
Explore the best of England on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Leeds, York, Malham, Windermere, Keswick, Ambleside, Near Sawrey, Grasmere, Rydal, Stratford-on-Avon, Evesham, Bibury, Cotswold, Bourton-on-the-Water, Northleach, and Oxford. 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 3 nights in Leeds, 3 nights in Windermere, and 2 nights in Cotswold. 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. Lake District National Park and National Railway Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable York Minster, learn more about the unique Shakespeare's Birthplace, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Shambles Market.
As you hit the open road and drive through Leeds, York, Malham, Windermere, Keswick, Ambleside, Near Sawrey, Grasmere, Rydal, Stratford-on-Avon, Evesham, Bibury, Cotswold, Bourton-on-the-Water, Northleach, and Oxford, 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 2 nights 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.
Dine in style at HOME, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Whitehall Restaurant & Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Premier Inn Leeds City Centre (Leeds Arena) hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Leeds.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Pixel Bar Leeds offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Wax Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. North Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Leeds
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Drive 91 km, 2 hours 9 min
- National Railway Museum York
- Clifford's Tower, York
- Shambles Market
- York Minster
- York city walls
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On day 2 of your road trip in England, you’ll start and end your day in Leeds, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Leeds for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience York to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Leeds, including a museum, a castle, a market, a church, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day at National Railway Museum. This photogenic museum is an interesting place to see in Leeds. Then, wander over to Clifford's Tower, York. If awe-inspiring sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Shambles Market. This eye-catching market is a favorite among visitors.
Leeds offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, York Minster is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the church, don’t forget to check out the historic York City Walls. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this often recommended historical landmark.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Leeds.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Leeds. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Cosy Club, an iconic dining spot in Leeds. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Clayton Hotel Leeds, a popular restaurant in Leeds. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds, a hidden gem nestled in Leeds. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Power, Corruption & Lies, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Brudenell Social Club is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in England!
Day 3
- Leeds
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 181 km, 4 hours 6 min
- Janet's Foss
- Ribblehead Viaduct
- White Scar Caves
- Windermere
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Malham and Windermere, 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 Windermere. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Leeds, including a waterfall, a monument, a cave, a lake and much more! Start your adventure at Janet's Foss. This locally appreciated waterfall is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Ribblehead Viaduct located in Leeds for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of White Scar Caves. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the cave, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Windermere. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this lake.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Windermere, 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 Windermere. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 4
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 98 km, 2 hours 19 min
- Keswick Museum
- The Bridge House
- Stock Ghyll Force
- National Trust - Hill Top
- National Trust - Tarn Hows
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Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 2 nights left in Windermere, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Today’s itinerary in Windermere covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a historical landmark, a waterfall, a lake and much more! Start your adventure at Keswick Museum. This frequently visited museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of The Bridge House, a must-see historical landmark 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 Stock Ghyll Force. This curiosity-inducing waterfall offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to National Trust - Hill Top, where you can take in breathtaking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to National Trust - Tarn Hows. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Windermere and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Windermere. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Head back to your accommodation in Windermere and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!
Day 5
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 100 km, 2 hours 23 min
- National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
- Lake District National Park
- Rydal Cave
- Castlerigg stone circle
- Ashness Bridge
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Greet day 5 of your road trip in England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Windermere 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 Grasmere, Rydal, and Keswick.
Start your adventure at National Trust - Allan Bank And Grasmere. This curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Lake District National Park located in Windermere for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Rydal Cave. Its gorgeous features will captivate you. After the cave, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Castlerigg Stone Circle. Visitors usually appreciate the breathtaking features of this archeological site. Next up is Ashness Bridge, a highly recommended historical landmark.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Windermere.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Windermere's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 6
- Bowness-on-Windermere
- Cirencester
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Drive 396 km, 4 hours 57 min
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
- Abbey Park
- National Trust - Bibury
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in England. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Stratford-on-Avon, Evesham, and Bibury. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cotswold. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Windermere, including a museum, a park, and a historical landmark. Start your day with a visit to Shakespeare's Birthplace. This notable museum is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Abbey Park, which may be one of the most serene places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Windermere 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 National Trust - Bibury, a frequently visited historical landmark in the town.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cotswold. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cotswold. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Say good night to Cotswold and look forward to another great day of your road trip in England!
Day 7
- Cirencester
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Drive 128 km, 2 hours 19 min
- Bourton-on-the-water
- Birdland Park & Gardens
- Church of St Peter and St Paul, Northleach
- National Trust - Hidcote
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On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cotswold, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bourton-on-the-Water, Northleach, and Hidcote Bartrim. You still have 1 night left in Cotswold.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views in Cotswold. Begin your sightseeing with Bourton-on-the-water. This increasingly popular point of interest is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Birdland Park And Gardens, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Cotswold, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Church Of St Peter And St Paul, Northleach. This often recommended church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find National Trust - Hidcote, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cotswold and your accommodation.
As you explore more of Cotswold, 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.
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 8
- Cirencester
- Leeds
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Drive 340 km, 4 hours 44 min
- Oxford Castle
- Carfax Tower
- Covered Market
- Radcliffe Camera
- Oxford University Museum of Natural History
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Oxford. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leeds, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Cotswold. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a monument, a market, a library, a museum and much more! Begin your adventure at Oxford Castle. This is a curiosity-inducing castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Carfax Tower Tower Of The Church Of St Martin Carfax, an intriguing monument in Cotswold.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Covered Market. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Radcliffe Camera, another of the city’s up-and-coming attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Oxford University Museum Of Natural History, a respected place of interest in the city.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Leeds. Leeds offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Leeds's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Gaucho Leeds, a highly-rated dining destination in Leeds. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bill's Leeds Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Aire Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Leeds this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Roland's Leeds offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Lost & Found Leeds Club is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Distrikt is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Head back to your accommodation in Leeds and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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 increasingly popular escape room is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in England and go on a shopping spree in Leeds’s shopping center, the lively Victoria Leeds. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in England. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe. You can also explore high-end shops for luxury items.
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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