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

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip in England, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Manchester and visit amazing attractions in Urmston and Manchester, just outside the city. You still have 2 nights left in Manchester, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Make time for Manchester Art Gallery, an underrated art gallery that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Manchester Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its standout appeal. Continue your exploration at Heaton Park. This park is one of the town’s most popular spots.

When you’ve had your share of Urmston, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Manchester. Your travel time is around 21 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Trafford Palazzo.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Manchester by securing a reservation at El Gato Negro. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of spanish cuisine. For another dining delight, visit mana, celebrated for its delectable creative british and modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Higher Ground, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern british menu. With a Bib Gourmand recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Manchester. The bars in Manchester make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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.

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

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across England, you’ll explore the area around Manchester, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. 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.

Whether you decide to explore Wigan on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Castlefield, a popular neighborhood in Wigan. 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.

Your adventure in Manchester is only getting started when you visit Science And Industry Museum, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Manchester Museum. This locally appreciated museum is known for its photogenic appeal.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Manchester and set your GPS to Wigan. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 40 min. Upon reaching Wigan, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Haigh Woodland Park. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Wigan and set your GPS to Salford. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 35 min. Upon reaching Salford, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready for some sights, head to The Lowry, an often recommended performing arts theater in Salford. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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 Manchester, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Browns Manchester, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Teppanyaki Chinatown. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Manchester.

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

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.

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

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in England offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. You’ll stay in Birmingham for 3 nights.

Walsall’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Manchester behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 41 min. Walsall welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Walsall is Walsall Arboretum, a frequently visited park that draws attention for its serene features.

Set your GPS to Birmingham and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 20 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Birmingham beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit National Sea Life Centre, a popular aquarium that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Birmingham Museum And Art Gallery and admire its instagrammable features.

Continue your laid-back road trip in England as you make your way to Birmingham. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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 Birmingham, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Birmingham by reserving a table at Purnell's. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Simpsons, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Opheem, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite indian menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss.

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.

Keep the evening going at Equator Bar Birmingham, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bacchus Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Your relaxed road trip in England continues on day 5 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know England better by exploring the top attractions of Birmingham and beyond. With 2 nights left in Birmingham, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

After soaking in Birmingham’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sutton Coldfield. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 28 min. When you arrive in Sutton Coldfield, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Sutton Park, an underrated park in Sutton Coldfield. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Balsall Heath. This car ride takes around 35 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Cannon Hill Park, a well-known park that everyone visiting Balsall Heath should see.

When you’ve had your share of Balsall Heath, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Coventry. Your travel time is around 43 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to War Memorial Park, a beloved park that everyone visiting Coventry should see. Next, head to Coventry Cathedral. This historic church is one of the most often recommended attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Coventry Transport Museum, a history-steeped museum popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

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 Birmingham, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre, an IHG Hotel, a popular restaurant in Birmingham. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Birmingham at Tiger Bites Pig, 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 Restaurant Folium. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Birmingham tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Birmingham and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in England!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip in England, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Birmingham and visit amazing attractions in West Bromwich, Tividale, and Dudley, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Birmingham, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Set your GPS to West Bromwich and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. West Bromwich beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Sandwell Valley Country Park and explore the peaceful features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to West Bromwich, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tividale. This drive usually takes around 16 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Shri Venkateswara (balaji) Temple, Tividale, a worthwhile hindu temple that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Dudley, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Tividale to Dudley may take around 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dudley, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Dudley Zoo And Castle, an interesting zoo known for its respected features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Black Country Living Museum, a notable museum.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at La Galleria, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Ivy Temple Row offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Malmaison Birmingham is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Birmingham.

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

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

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across England offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Alrewas and drive in the direction of Crich for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Manchester, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Alrewas may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Alrewas, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is National Memorial Arboretum. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the war memorial before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Alrewas’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Crich. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 46 min. When you arrive in Crich, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to National Tramway Museum, an increasingly popular tramway museum in Crich.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Manchester. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in England.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try 63 Degrees? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Vincenzo Trattoria as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Manchester.

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Circus Tavern, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Temple (temple Of Convenience) offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Dusk Til Pawn provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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