One-Week Relaxed England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Manchester to Birmingham

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Discover England stress-free with this 8-day relaxed road trip, winding through Manchester, Urmston, Wigan, Salford, Walsall, Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, Balsall Heath, Coventry, West Bromwich, Tividale, Dudley, Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in England at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Manchester, Urmston, Wigan, Salford, Walsall, Birmingham, Sutton Coldfield, Balsall Heath, Coventry, West Bromwich, Tividale, Dudley, Alrewas, Crich, and Edensor. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Manchester and 3 nights in Birmingham. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in England.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in England. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Manchester, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across England and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across England with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in England.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in England. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Peak District National Park. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Chatsworth House.

Traveling leisurely through England means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Science And Industry Museum. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Heaton Park. Get close to the spectacular National Memorial Arboretum and the wonderful National Sea Life Centre. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through England's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in England.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in England. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through England's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the England.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through England. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in England. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in England and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in England today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Northern Quarter
National Trust - Dunham MasseyTrafford PalazzoManchester Art GalleryManchester CathedralHeaton Park
Haigh Woodland ParkThe LowryScience and Industry MuseumManchester MuseumCastlefield
Walsall ArboretumNational SEA LIFE Centre BirminghamBirmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Sutton ParkCannon Hill ParkWar Memorial ParkCoventry CathedralCoventry Transport Museum
Sandwell Valley Country ParkShri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, TividaleDudley Zoo and CastleBlack Country Living Museum
Chasewater Country Park - Staffordshire County CouncilNational Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)National Tramway MuseumChatsworth HousePeak District National Park
Sackville Garden

Personalize your itinerary

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Manchester - Arrival day
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  • Northern Quarter
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Your relaxed road trip through England starts when you reach the incredible city of Manchester, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Manchester and begin your adventure in England.

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 Northern Quarter, a must-see neighborhood, and 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're eager to try something different, consider Fazenda Manchester, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Peaky Blinders Manchester. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Manchester and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in England. Enjoy your first taste of Manchester as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Manchester
  • More

Drive 68 km, 2 hours 16 min

  • National Trust - Dunham Massey
  • Trafford Palazzo
  • Manchester Art Gallery
  • Manchester Cathedral
  • Heaton Park
  • More

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Manchester, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Manchester will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.

Start by visiting National Trust - Dunham Massey, a prime spot to begin your journey. This mesmerizing park is sure to impress.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Manchester by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Manchester Art Gallery. This instagrammable art gallery is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Manchester experience. We also recommend visiting Manchester Cathedral, a beloved church. Nearby, you'll also find Heaton Park, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

Exploring the food culture in Manchester offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Manchester by booking a table at El Gato Negro, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional spanish menu. For a different flavor experience, head to mana, renowned for its delectable creative british and modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Higher Ground, a local gem known for its delightful modern british cuisine in Manchester. Nestled in the city's heart, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Manchester’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in England.

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

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in England. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in England tomorrow with new energy.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Manchester
  • More

Drive 75 km, 1 hour 47 min

  • Haigh Woodland Park
  • The Lowry
  • Science and Industry Museum
  • Manchester Museum
  • Castlefield
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in England continues on day 3, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of England and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Manchester and beyond. With 1 night left in Manchester, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Wigan is Castlefield. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at the often recommended Haigh Woodland Park, a visually striking park in Manchester. Next, go to The Lowry.

After visiting Haigh Woodland Park and The Lowry, have a stroll along Manchester's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Science And Industry Museum. This history-steeped museum offers a unique experience. Manchester Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Manchester.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Manchester has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Browns Manchester, a top-rated dining destination in Manchester. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Teppanyaki Chinatown. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Manchester this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in England.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Port Street Beer House after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar Fringe for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Mary D's Beamish Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Manchester as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through England with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in England!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Manchester
  • Birmingham
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Drive 146 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Walsall Arboretum
  • National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
  • Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
  • More

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of England will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in England, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Manchester today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Walsall Arboretum. This eye-catching park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Sea Life Centre and learn what makes this picture-perfect aquarium unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the underrated Birmingham Museum And Art Gallery.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in England at Birmingham. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Birmingham by booking a table at Purnell's. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Simpsons, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Opheem, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing indian menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Equator Bar Birmingham, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bacchus Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham, another top-rated place in the area.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Birmingham!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Birmingham
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Drive 109 km, 2 hours 48 min

  • Sutton Park
  • Cannon Hill Park
  • War Memorial Park
  • Coventry Cathedral
  • Coventry Transport Museum
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Birmingham and visit amazing attractions in Sutton Coldfield, Balsall Heath, and Coventry destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Birmingham. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Birmingham, including a park, a church, and a museum. Start your day at Sutton Park. This stunning park is a worthwhile place to see in Birmingham. Then, wander over to Cannon Hill Park. If serene sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find War Memorial Park. This visually striking park 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, Coventry Cathedral is an increasingly popular spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the church, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Coventry Transport Museum. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this underrated museum.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Birmingham, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre, an IHG Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Birmingham. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tiger Bites Pig, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Folium. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Birmingham this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Birmingham.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Birmingham
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Drive 56 km, 1 hour 36 min

  • Sandwell Valley Country Park
  • Shri Venkateswara (Balaji) Temple, Tividale
  • Dudley Zoo and Castle
  • Black Country Living Museum
  • More

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Birmingham, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Birmingham will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views in Birmingham. Begin your sightseeing with Sandwell Valley Country Park. This underrated park is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Shri Venkateswara (balaji) Temple, Tividale, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Birmingham, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Dudley Zoo And Castle. This popular zoo is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Black Country Living Museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Birmingham.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Dine in style at La Galleria, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Ivy Temple Row boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Malmaison Birmingham. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Birmingham.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Birmingham.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Birmingham
  • Manchester
  • More

Drive 211 km, 3 hours 59 min

  • Chasewater Country Park - Staffordshire County Council
  • National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
  • National Tramway Museum
  • Chatsworth House
  • Peak District National Park
  • More

Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in England is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Alrewas and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Crich and the village of Edensor. You’ll stay in Manchester for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Birmingham, featuring family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at Chasewater Country Park, an underrated park in the village. Then, head to National Memorial Arboretum and soak in the ambiance of this awe-inspiring war memorial.

After exploring the tramway museum, visit the notable Chatsworth House. Not far away, you'll also find Peak District National Park. This national park is an eye-catching highlight in Birmingham.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Manchester. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in England by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring the food culture in Manchester offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? 63 Degrees offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Vincenzo Trattoria. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Manchester.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Manchester.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Circus Tavern offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Temple (temple Of Convenience) is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Dusk Til Pawn is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in England!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Manchester - Departure day
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  • Sackville Garden
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in England is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Manchester.

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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Sackville Gardens. This beloved park is a popular place to see in the city.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Manchester or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Manchester and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in England is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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