Experience England's Best: 7-Day Road Trip to London, Nottingham, Liverpool, and Birmingham

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1 Welcome to London!

   

   Welcome to London! Begin your English adventure by arriving in London and picking up your rental car at the airport. Drive to your accommodation in the city. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax after your journey. 

   Suggestion for the day: 

   • Depending on the time of your arrival you might have some time to start your exploration of London with a visit to the Tower of London, where you can learn about the city’s medieval history and see the Crown Jewels. From there, take a short walk to Tower Bridge, an iconic symbol of London, and enjoy the stunning views from the high-level walkways.
   • You can walk along the South Bank of the River Thames, exploring attractions such as the Tate Modern, a contemporary art museum housed in a former power station, and the Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, a reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse. After, head to Covent Garden, a vibrant district known for its street performers, boutique shops, and bustling market.
   • Enjoy dinner at one of the many renowned restaurants in Covent Garden, savoring the diverse flavors of London’s culinary scene. After dinner, experience the vibrant nightlife of London by visiting one of its famous bars or theaters. 
2. Day 2 London

   

   Suggestion for the day: 

   • Begin your second day in London with a breakfast at your hotel before setting out to explore more of the city's rich history and cultural landmarks. Start your morning with a visit to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, and try to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony. From there, stroll through the picturesque St. James's Park, taking in the beautiful landscapes and views of the palace. Next, head to Westminster Abbey, a Gothic masterpiece and the traditional site of coronations and royal weddings. Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history and see the final resting places of numerous monarchs and famous figures. Nearby, you can also visit the iconic Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, capturing some classic London photographs.
   • For lunch, venture to the vibrant Borough Market, one of the oldest and largest food markets in London, where you can sample a variety of delicious street foods and local delicacies. After lunch, make your way to the British Museum, home to an incredible collection of art and antiquities from around the world. Spend your afternoon exploring its vast galleries and marveling at treasures such as the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.
   • As evening approaches, head to the lively West End district, known for its world-class theaters and bustling nightlife. Enjoy dinner at one of the area's many excellent restaurants, offering a range of cuisines to suit all tastes. After dinner, catch a show at one of the famous West End theaters, experiencing the best of London's performing arts scene. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along the Thames, taking in the stunning views of the city skyline illuminated at night. Return to your hotel for a good night's rest, ready for the next day's journey to Nottingham.
3. Day 3 Drive to Nottingham

   

   Suggestion for the day: 

   • After enjoying breakfast at your London hotel, check out and drive north to the historic city of Nottingham (approximately 3 hours drive), known for its rich history and legendary connection to Robin Hood. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and take some time to relax before starting your exploration of the city. Begin your Nottingham adventure with a visit to Nottingham Castle, a historic fortress offering stunning views over the city. The castle now houses a museum and art gallery where you can learn about the history of Nottingham and see various exhibitions.
   • After exploring the castle, take a walk through the adjacent Brewhouse Yard Museum, which showcases the social history of the region. Next, head to the heart of the city to explore the City of Caves, a network of sandstone caves beneath Nottingham that have been used over the centuries for various purposes, including as dwellings and air raid shelters during World War II. This fascinating underground tour offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past.
   • For lunch, visit one of the many restaurants in Nottingham’s vibrant Lace Market district, known for its trendy cafes and eateries. After lunch, walk through the historic Old Market Square, the largest public square in the UK, where you can admire the impressive Council House and enjoy the lively atmosphere. In the afternoon, delve into the legend of Robin Hood with a visit to the Robin Hood Experience, an interactive museum that brings the famous outlaw’s story to life through exhibits and live reenactments.
   • Then, take a scenic drive to Sherwood Forest, the legendary home of Robin Hood. Explore the ancient woodland, visit the famous Major Oak tree, and enjoy a peaceful walk through this beautiful natural setting. As evening approaches, return to Nottingham and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. After dinner, you might want to explore Nottingham’s vibrant nightlife, with its numerous pubs, bars, and live music venues.
4. Day 4 Drive to Liverpool

   

    Suggestion for the day: Discovering Liverpool’s Rich Heritage

   • Today,  check out and drive to the lively city of Liverpool. The drive will take you approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and take some time to relax before diving into the city's rich cultural and musical heritage. Begin your exploration with a visit to the iconic Albert Dock, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring beautifully restored dock buildings that now house museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants. Start with the Merseyside Maritime Museum to learn about Liverpool’s seafaring history, including its pivotal role in the transatlantic slave trade and the story of the Titanic. Next, head to The Beatles Story, an immersive museum dedicated to the life and times of the Fab Four. Explore exhibits that chronicle the band's journey from their early days in Liverpool to global superstardom, complete with memorabilia, interactive displays, and insightful stories. For lunch, choose from the variety of dining options around Albert Dock, offering everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine.
   • After lunch, take a scenic walk along the waterfront to the Royal Liver Building and the Museum of Liverpool, where you can delve into the city’s history, culture, and people through engaging exhibits and artifacts. In the afternoon, make your way to the vibrant Cavern Quarter, home to the legendary Cavern Club where The Beatles played many of their early gigs. Spend some time exploring the area’s music venues, shops, and cafes, and maybe even catch some live music at the Cavern Club itself. As evening approaches, visit the historic Philharmonic Dining Rooms, a beautifully ornate pub known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Enjoy a delicious dinner here or at one of the nearby restaurants, sampling local specialties and soaking in the lively atmosphere.
5. Day 5 Liverpool

   

   Suggestion for the day: More of Liverpool

   • On day 5 of your road trip, head out to further explore the city’s diverse attractions. Start your morning at the Walker Art Gallery, often referred to as the "National Gallery of the North." The gallery boasts an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative art spanning centuries, featuring works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Turner, and Hockney.
   • Next, visit St. George's Hall, an architectural gem known for its stunning neoclassical design. Explore the grand hall, courtrooms, and the heritage center to learn about the building’s history and significance. Afterward, take a short walk to the nearby World Museum, where you can delve into natural history, archaeology, and world cultures through its extensive exhibits and interactive displays.
   • For lunch, head to the lively Bold Street, known for its eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, and independent shops. Choose a cozy spot to enjoy a meal and perhaps indulge in some shopping or people-watching in this vibrant area. In the afternoon, take a short drive to Sefton Park, a beautiful green space perfect for a relaxing stroll or a peaceful picnic. Explore the Palm House, a Victorian glasshouse filled with exotic plants, and enjoy the park's serene lakes, statues, and gardens.
   • As the day winds down, make your way back to the city center and visit the famous Baltic Triangle, a former industrial area now transformed into a hub of creativity and innovation. Wander through the district’s street art, trendy bars, and unique venues, soaking in the artistic atmosphere. For dinner, choose from one of the many restaurants in the Baltic Triangle or return to the Albert Dock for a waterside dining experience.
   • After your meal, consider enjoying some live music or a show at one of Liverpool's renowned venues, such as the Echo Arena or the Philharmonic Hall.
6. Day 6 Drive to Birmingham

   

   Suggestion for the day: Exploring Birmingham

   • Today, leave Liverpool and drive to the bustling city of Birmingham (2 hours drive). Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and take a moment to relax. Begin your Birmingham adventure with a visit to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, located in the city center. The museum houses an extensive collection of fine art, ceramics, metalwork, and ancient artifacts. Spend your morning admiring the works of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and exploring the diverse exhibits that showcase Birmingham's rich industrial heritage.
   • Next, take a short walk to Victoria Square, the heart of Birmingham’s civic life. There, you can see the impressive Council House and the Town Hall, both fine examples of Victorian architecture. Enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafes while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the square.
   • For lunch, head to the bustling Bullring & Grand Central, one of the UK’s largest shopping centers. Choose from a wide variety of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, and perhaps indulge in some shopping at the many retail stores. In the afternoon, explore the historic Jewellery Quarter, home to over 500 jewelry businesses and steeped in history. Visit the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter to learn about the area's fascinating past and witness traditional jewelry-making techniques. Wander through the quaint streets, browse the unique boutiques, and maybe even pick up a special souvenir.
   • As evening approaches, take a stroll along the picturesque canals of Brindleyplace, an area known for its vibrant nightlife and dining scene. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants overlooking the water, offering a range of cuisines to suit all tastes. After dinner, consider visiting the Symphony Hall, one of the world’s finest concert venues, to experience a live performance or simply take in the beautiful architecture. 
7. Day 7 Farewell England!

   

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Begin your final day in England with a hearty breakfast at your Birmingham hotel before checking out and driving back to London (2 hour and 30-minute drive). Upon arrival, if time allows, make the most of your remaining hours by exploring a few more of London’s iconic attractions. Start your morning with a visit to the British Library, home to a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and historical documents. Don’t miss the chance to see the Magna Carta, Shakespeare’s First Folio, and original Beatles lyrics.
   • After soaking in some literary history, head to nearby King's Cross Station and take a photo at the famous Platform 9¾, a must-visit for Harry Potter fans. For lunch, explore the vibrant Camden Market, known for its eclectic mix of food stalls, vintage shops, and unique boutiques. Enjoy a meal from one of the many international food vendors while soaking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps picking up a last-minute souvenir.
   • As your departure time approaches, make your way back to central London for any last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time to revisit favorite spots such as Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden, or the iconic London Eye for a final panoramic view of the city. Finally, drive to the airport, return your rental car, and check-in for your flight. Reflect on the incredible journey through England, filled with rich history, cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments. Safe travels and see you on your next adventure!