Relaxed 12-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Newcastle upon Tyne to York and Windermere

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across England, you’ll go deep into Newcastle upon Tyne, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Newcastle upon Tyne, and meet locals along the way!

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Northumberland Street, a street that captures the true essence of Newcastle upon Tyne. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Newcastle upon Tyne, including an art gallery and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Laing Art Gallery. This often recommended art gallery is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Hancock Museum, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across England by joining a traveler-approved tour in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Newcastle upon Tyne that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in England more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Newcastle upon Tyne to find the best options for you!

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 Newcastle upon Tyne, 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 Zaap Thai Street Food Newcastle, a highly-rated dining destination in Newcastle upon Tyne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Portofino Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Miller & Carter Newcastle. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Newcastle upon Tyne this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Newcastle upon Tyne.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Dat Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Waiting Rooms Newcastle Upon Tyne is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Pumphreys Newcastle offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in England!

Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through England gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of York. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of York, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Newcastle upon Tyne, including a historical landmark, a market, a museum, a castle and much more! Start your day at York City Walls. This culturally significant historical landmark is an increasingly popular place to see in Newcastle upon Tyne. Then, wander over to Shambles Market. If instagrammable sites excite you, this market will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Merchant Adventurers' Hall. This eye-catching museum is a favorite among visitors.

Newcastle upon Tyne offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Jorvik Viking Centre is a captivating spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the breathtaking Clifford's Tower, York. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing castle.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of York in this laid-back road trip in England. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in York.

Savor the flavors at Yakamoz, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, House Of The Trembling Madness beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Turtle Bay York. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in York tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in York and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Habit Cafe Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Shambles Tavern offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Pivní York. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across England.

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around York, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of York will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of England.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is National Railway Museum. This interesting museum is a visually striking place to see in York. Continue your discovery at York Art Gallery, a heritage-rich art gallery 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 York Minster. This locally renowned church offers a historic encounter with York. Next, make your way to Kirkham Priory to add another highlight to your day. 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.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Fancy Hank's Bar & Kitchen, an iconic dining spot in York. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Plonkers, a popular restaurant in York. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Ivy St Helen's Square York, a hidden gem nestled in York. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in York. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Keep the evening going at Dusk, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Fossgate Tap, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across England promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Windermere and drive in the direction of the village of Troutbeck Bridge for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the town of Windermere, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in York allows for both. Start by heading to Windermere. This curiosity-inducing lake provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction, a history-steeped museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Holehird Gardens, a curiosity-inducing botanical garden.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Windermere. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular town.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of England. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Windermere, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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

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

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Windermere, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Windermere will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of England.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Windermere. Begin your sightseeing with National Trust - Hill Top. This curiosity-inducing museum is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Keswick Museum, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Windermere, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Castlerigg Stone Circle. This underrated archeological site is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Moss Force Waterfall, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in England, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Windermere.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!

Day 10 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Grasmere, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in England are extraordinary.

Today's adventure in Windermere promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Lake District National Park. This romantic national park is a highlight of any visit in the village. Next, head over to National Trust - Tarn Hows, one of the village’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about England. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in England and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in England!

Day 11 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!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Windermere, including an archeological site, a castle, and a monastery. Start your day with a visit to Housesteads Roman Fort - Vercovicium - English Heritage Site. This curiosity-inducing archeological site is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Milecastle 42 - Hadrian's Wall, which may be one of the most historic 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 Carlisle Castle, a beloved castle in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Lanercost Priory.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Newcastle upon Tyne. 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Alchemist Newcastle, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Billy Bootleggers? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Chaophraya as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Newcastle upon Tyne.

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

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