9-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester traveling north to Windermere and York
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through England. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 Windermere, and 3 nights in York. 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. National Railway Museum and Chatsworth House 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 Heaton Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Manchester, Windermere, Troutbeck Bridge, Buttermere, Keswick, Grange, York, Kirkham, Malham, Craven, Edensor, Bakewell, and Castleton, 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.
Find your way to your hotel in Manchester. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in England. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Manchester, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, an iconic dining spot in Manchester. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fazenda Manchester, a popular restaurant in Manchester. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Peaky Blinders Manchester, a hidden gem nestled in Manchester. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Kimpton Clocktower Hotel after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Corbieres Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Directors Box is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in England!
Day 2
- Manchester
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 12 min
- Science and Industry Museum
- John Rylands Library Research Institute and Library
- Manchester Art Gallery
- Heaton Park
- Castlefield
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Manchester for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Make sure to visit Castlefield, a popular neighborhood in Manchester. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Manchester. Your adventure starts at Science And Industry Museum, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is John Rylands Research Institute And Library. This intriguing library is known for its standout appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Manchester's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Manchester Art Gallery. This instagrammable art gallery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Heaton Park is also worth visiting.
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 Manchester's best restaurants.
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.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Arcane, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Liquor Store. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Atlas Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!
Day 3
- Manchester
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 184 km, 3 hours 9 min
- Windermere
- Holehird Gardens
- Blackwell
- Queen Adelaide's Hill
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in England. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Windermere, Troutbeck Bridge, and Storrs. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Windermere, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Immerse yourself in Manchester’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Windermere. This mesmerizing lake is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the instagrammable features of Holehird Gardens, a must-visit botanical garden in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Blackwell, a beloved museum.
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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in England and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 123 km, 2 hours 58 min
- Moss Force Waterfall
- Keswick Museum
- Castlerigg stone circle
- Friars Crag
- Ashness Bridge
- Bowder Stone
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Windermere, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Windermere on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Moss Force Waterfall is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing waterfall before continuing your journey. Keswick Museum is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing museum is one of the best-rated sights in Windermere.
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 Castlerigg Stone Circle. This culturally significant archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Friars Crag and Ashness Bridge. If time allows, end your day with National Trust - Bowder Stone, an eye-catching rock formation that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Windermere and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Windermere. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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
- York
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Drive 184 km, 3 hours 9 min
- National Railway Museum York
- Museum Gardens
- York city walls
- Rowntree Park
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore York, 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 York. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Windermere. Your adventure starts at National Railway Museum, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is York Museum Gardens. This increasingly popular botanical garden is known for its photogenic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Windermere's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to York City Walls. This culturally significant historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Rowntree Park is also worth visiting.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in York. 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 York. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Yakamoz, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, House Of The Trembling Madness offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Turtle Bay York is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in York.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Habit Cafe Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Shambles Tavern provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Pivní York offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
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
- York
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Drive 2 km, 37 min
- York Minster
- Shambles Market
- Merchant Adventurers' Hall
- Jorvik Viking Centre
- York Dungeon
- Clifford's Tower, York
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore York. You’ll stay in York for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is York Minster. This interesting church is a culturally significant place to see in York. Continue your discovery at Shambles Market, an instagrammable market with stories to tell.
As you stroll around York, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Merchant Adventurers' Hall. This worthwhile museum offers a standout encounter with York. Next, make your way to Jorvik Viking Centre to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit York Dungeon, an often recommended haunted house that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Clifford's Tower, York, a worthwhile castle in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in York.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in York. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen, a top-rated dining destination in York. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Plonkers, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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 a perfect choice to enhance your stay in York this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Dusk, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Fossgate Tap offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in York.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in England!
Day 7
- York
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Drive 225 km, 4 hours 10 min
- Kirkham Priory
- Janet's Foss
- Skipton Market
- Skipton Castle
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On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in York, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming village of York. Your adventure starts at Kirkham Priory, an underrated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Janet's Foss. This frequently visited waterfall is known for its monumental appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander York's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Skipton Market. This instagrammable market offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Skipton Castle is also worth visiting.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in York.
As you explore more of York, 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.
Savor the flavors at Little Italy, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Cut & Craft beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Wildes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in York tonight.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in England.
Day 8
- York
- Manchester
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Drive 193 km, 3 hours 30 min
- Chatsworth House
- Bakewell Bridge
- Peak Cavern
- Peveril Castle
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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 - Edensor, Bakewell, and Castleton. 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.
Today's adventure in York promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Chatsworth House. This visually striking palace is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Bakewell Bridge, another stunning attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Peak Cavern, one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its idyllic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Peveril Castle. This grand castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Browns Manchester, 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 Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant, 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 Teppanyaki Chinatown. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Manchester tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Port Street Beer House. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar Fringe, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Mary D's Beamish Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in England!
Day 9
- Manchester - Departure day
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- Northern Quarter
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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.
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.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Manchester.
Have a fantastic dining experience at TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, 63 Degrees 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!
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