5-Day England Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Leeds traveling north to Windermere

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Explore the best of England on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Leeds, York, Malham, Windermere, and Craven. 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 and 1 night in Windermere. 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. National Railway Museum and York Minster are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Yorkshire Dales National Park, learn more about the unique Shambles Market, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jorvik Viking Centre.

As you hit the open road and drive through Leeds, York, Malham, Windermere, and Craven, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Park Square
Jorvik Viking CentreShambles MarketYork MinsterNational Railway Museum York
Janet's FossGordale ScarWhite Scar CavesRibblehead ViaductYorkshire Dales National Park
National Trust - Tarn HowsThe World of Beatrix Potter AttractionSkipton MarketSkipton Boat TripsSkipton Castle
Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms

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Day 1

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.

Find your way to your hotel in Leeds. 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 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Pixel Bar Leeds stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Wax Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. North Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in England!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Leeds
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Drive 83 km, 2 hours 5 min

  • Jorvik Viking Centre
  • Shambles Market
  • York Minster
  • National Railway Museum York
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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!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Leeds on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Jorvik Viking Centre is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich museum before continuing your journey. Shambles Market is your next stop. This popular market is one of the best-rated sights in Leeds.

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 Minster. This monumental church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit National Railway Museum.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Leeds's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at Cosy Club, a top-rated dining destination in Leeds. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Clayton Hotel Leeds, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Leeds this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Power, Corruption & Lies, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Brudenell Social Club offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Whitelock's First City Luncheon Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in England!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Leeds
  • Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 185 km, 4 hours 4 min

  • Janet's Foss
  • Gordale Scar
  • White Scar Caves
  • Ribblehead Viaduct
  • Yorkshire Dales National Park
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in England. Today you will explore Malham, 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 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Leeds, including a waterfall, a canyon, a cave, a monument, a national park and much more! Start your day at Janet's Foss. This eye-catching waterfall is a beloved place to see in Leeds. Then, wander over to Gordale Scar. If enchanting sites excite you, this canyon will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find White Scar Caves. This picturesque cave 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, Ribblehead Viaduct is an up-and-coming spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the monument, don’t forget to check out the majestic Yorkshire Dales National Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this captivating national park.

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 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.

Head back to your accommodation in Windermere and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in England!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
  • Leeds
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Drive 163 km, 3 hours 31 min

  • National Trust - Tarn Hows
  • The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction
  • Skipton Market
  • Skipton Boat Trips
  • Skipton Castle
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On day 4 of your road trip in England, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Windermere and Craven. In the evening, you’ll end up in Leeds, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting National Trust - Tarn Hows, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching lake is sure to impress. Next on your list is The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction, another must-visit landmark and beloved museum renowned for its heritage-rich features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Windermere by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Skipton Market. This instagrammable market is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Windermere experience. We also recommend visiting Skipton Boat Trips, a worthwhile point of interest. Nearby, you'll also find Skipton Castle, ready to add charm to your journey.

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 lovely meal at Gaucho Leeds, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bill's Leeds Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Aire Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Leeds tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Roland's Leeds, known for its lively atmosphere. The Lost & Found Leeds Club is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Distrikt offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in England!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Leeds - Departure day
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  • Tick Tock Unlock - Leeds Live Escape Rooms
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Day 5 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 worthwhile escape room is a popular place to see in the city.

On your last day in England, take time to indulge in shopping at Leeds’s popular marketplace, The Corn Exchange. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces. Wrap up your shopping with a drink and some pastries at a cozy cafe.

Before you conclude your road trip in England, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Leeds.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Premier Inn Leeds City (Elland Road) hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Leeds Dock is another top choice with a popular menu.

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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