Independent Self-Drive Holiday
Sample itinerary
DAY 1 – Arrive London
Transfer from the airport to the city centre, before spending the afternoon on a guided tour of the city’s highlights. Visit Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, The Churchill War Rooms. Take a walking tour of Royal St James Park and Horseguards Parade, and Parliament.
Overnight: The Chesterfield, Mayfield (or similar) – 4 Star hotel

DAY 2 – Explore London
Take the opportunity to go shopping in London’s famous Regent’s Street, Oxford Street or Marylebone village. Hop over to lesser-known London spots, such as Kenwood House, Hampton Court or Kew Gardens.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: The Chesterfield, Mayfield (or similar) – 4 Star hotel

DAY 3 – Transfer to York
This morning sit back and relax as you take the west coast train. Whizz through the English countryside to the Viking town of York. After lunch, delve into Harry Potter-like streets. Tour one of England’s most beautiful churches – York Minster, before shopping among the gothic cobbled streets.
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions: Rail ticket
Overnight: Gray’s Court Inn, York (or similar) – 4 Star hotel

DAY 4 – Castle Howard & Yorkshire Moors
Your car will be delivered to your hotel. You will leave York via one of England’s greatest country homes – Castle Howard. This manor house was used as a filming location for the period drama Bridgerton. Drive across heather-clad rolling Moors to visit the Cistercian Rievaulx Abbey, one of the greatest in Europe. End in the picturesque market town of Helmsley. Optional activities – game drives/shooting; off-roading – guided green lanes experiences.
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions: Land Rover hire
Overnight: The Pheasant Hotel, Harome (or similar) – 4 Star hotel

DAY 5 – Yorkshire Dales
The ruins of Fountains Abbey are extraordinary. The structure is part of a complex of buildings and water gardens, making the whole worthy of World Heritage Status. Nearby visit caves and waterfalls, small historic market towns, and taste local cheese at an artisan cheesery. Overnight at Yorebridge House or Swinton Estate, the perfect place for afternoon tea.
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions: Land Rover hire
Overnight: Yorebridge House or Swinton Estate – 4 Star hotel

DAY 6 – Lake District
Take a scenic drive through spectacular mountain passes, or explore the national park on foot. Start your exploring with a short walk up Cat Bells, or try a full-on all day hike up on the classic Wainwrights. Take a boat tour of Lake Windermere, or visit the Beatrice Potter museum in the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions: Land Rover hire
Overnight: Another Place, Lake District (or similar) – 3 Star hotel

DAY 7 – Lake District
Take a scenic drive through the Lake District’s winding country roads. Consider exploring the national park on foot with a stroll around Tarn Hows or a hike up the dramatic heights of Helvellyn. Uncover local history at Dove Cottage, the former home of poet William Wordsworth. Discover cosy pubs, artisanal shops, and the tranquil beauty of hidden valleys and glistening lakes.
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions: Land Rover hire
Overnight: Another Place, Lake District (or similar) – 3 Star hotel

DAY 8 – York/London
Return your vehicle to York before taking the train back to London for an overnight stop in the city. Alternatively travel via Chester, Manchester or Liverpool and take the train back to London from there.
Meals: Breakfast
Inclusions: Land Rover hire, Rail ticket
Overnight: London, Chester, Manchester or Liverpool
