9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to York, Windermere, and Chester 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 Manchester, Salford, York, Near Sawrey, Windermere, Keswick, Buttermere, Chester, Rendcomb, and Stratford-on-Avon. 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 Manchester, 2 nights in York, 2 nights in Windermere, 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 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. Chester Zoo 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 Science And Industry Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Shakespeare's Birthplace.
As you hit the open road and drive through Manchester, Salford, York, Near Sawrey, Windermere, Keswick, Buttermere, Chester, Rendcomb, and Stratford-on-Avon, 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
- Manchester - Arrival day
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- Cathedral Gardens
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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 2 nights 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.
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.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, a popular restaurant in Manchester. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Manchester at Fazenda Manchester, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Peaky Blinders Manchester. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Manchester tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Kimpton Clocktower Hotel. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Corbieres Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Directors Box, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Manchester
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Drive 28 km, 1 hour 28 min
- Heaton Park
- Science and Industry Museum
- Manchester Art Gallery
- The Lowry
- Northern Quarter
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Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in England. With 1 night left in Manchester, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
A visit to Northern Quarter in Manchester is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.
Today’s agenda in Manchester includes a park, a museum, an art gallery, a performing arts theater and much more! Heaton Park is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Science And Industry Museum, a well-known museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Manchester Art Gallery, a historic art gallery, also available for your discovery today.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Manchester and your accommodation.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Manchester. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE, a highly-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sam's Chop House, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Annies. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Arcane is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Liquor Store, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Atlas Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 3
- Manchester
- York
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Drive 120 km, 2 hours 18 min
- Rowntree Park
- National Railway Museum York
- York Minster
- Museum Gardens
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of York. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in York, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Manchester, including a park, a museum, a church, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Rowntree Park. This worthwhile park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to National Railway Museum located in Manchester for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of York Minster. Its historic features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the city with a visit to York Museum Gardens. Visitors usually appreciate the mesmerizing features of this botanical garden.
At the end of the day, you will drive to York, 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 York's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Yakamoz, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try House Of The Trembling Madness? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Turtle Bay York as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in York.
Continue your lively evening at The Habit Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Shambles Tavern is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Pivní York ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!
Day 4
- York
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Drive 1 km, 22 min
- Shambles Market
- Jorvik Viking Centre
- York Dungeon
- Clifford's Tower, York
- York Castle Museum
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Day 4 of your road trip across England promises a magnificent time exploring York. You have 1 night left in York. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and budget-friendly activities. Whether you decide to explore York on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Shambles Market is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect market before continuing your journey. Jorvik Viking Centre is your next stop. This notable museum is one of the best-rated sights in York.
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 York Dungeon. This heritage-rich haunted house is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Clifford's Tower, York and York Castle Museum.
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 York. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen, a highly-rated dining destination in York. If you're eager to try something different, consider Plonkers, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Ivy St Helen's Square York. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in York this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Dusk. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Fossgate Tap, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in England.
Day 5
- York
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 276 km, 4 hours 41 min
- National Trust - Hill Top
- The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
- Windermere
- Queen Adelaide's Hill
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Near Sawrey and Windermere. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Windermere, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore York on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. National Trust - Hill Top is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this historic museum before continuing your journey. The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction is your next stop. This up-and-coming museum is one of the best-rated sights in York.
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 Windermere. This mesmerizing lake is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Queen Adelaide's Hill.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Windermere. Windermere 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 Windermere's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 6
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 110 km, 2 hours 38 min
- Ashness Bridge
- Friars Crag
- Keswick Museum
- Castlerigg stone circle
- Moss Force Waterfall
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Windermere, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Keswick and Buttermere. You still have 1 night left in Windermere.
Start your day with a visit to Ashness Bridge. This up-and-coming historical landmark is a must-visit in the town.
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 Keswick Museum, a frequently visited museum in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Castlerigg Stone Circle and Moss Force Waterfall.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Windermere.
As you explore more of Windermere, 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.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 7
- Bowness-on-Windermere
- Cheshire West and Chester
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Drive 176 km, 2 hours 14 min
- Chester Zoo
- Chester City Walls
- Eastgate and Eastgate Clock
- Chester Cathedral
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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Chester, 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 Chester. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Windermere, including a zoo, a historical landmark, a monument, a church and much more! Start your day at Chester Zoo. This instagrammable zoo is a captivating place to see in Windermere. Then, wander over to Chester City Walls. If historic sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Eastgate And Eastgate Clock. This culturally significant monument is a favorite among visitors.
Windermere offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Chester Cathedral is an often recommended spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Chester. 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 Chester. 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at 1539 Restaurant and Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, BarLounge - Chester is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Chester.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Prohibition, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Liquor And Co, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Craft & Company provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Cheshire West and Chester
- Manchester
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Drive 506 km, 6 hours 8 min
- Cotswolds AONB
- Stratford Butterfly Farm
- Shakespeare's Birthplace
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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 2 vibrant destinations - Rendcomb and Stratford-on-Avon. 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.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Chester. Begin your sightseeing with Cotswolds Aonb. This interesting nature reserve is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Stratford Butterfly Farm, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Chester, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Shakespeare's Birthplace. This captivating museum is a traveler-favorite.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Manchester, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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.
Dine in style at Browns Manchester, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Teppanyaki Chinatown. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Manchester.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Port Street Beer House, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Fringe offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Mary D's Beamish Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 9
- Manchester - Departure day
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- Sackville Garden
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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 Manchester 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, we recommend visiting Sackville Gardens, an eye-catching park before you head out.
On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at Manchester’s popular marketplace, Manchester Arndale. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Manchester.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider 63 Degrees, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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!
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