Thinking of going on a London to Manchester roadtrip? It doesn’t have to be just any old car ride. We recommend taking advantage of the convenience of being near some of the country’s most popular attractions. From vibrant cities to quaint towns, you’ll find that the journey is just as interesting as the destination.
Before you leave London, make sure you’ve checked off all the interesting sights there. Haven’t filled out your itinerary yet? Find out everything you need to know about London’s must-see attractions, the best deals on passes, and the most convenient way to get tickets all on Klook.
Here are the top 10 places you can visit on your way from London to Manchester:
1. Windsor Castle
This is probably already on your itinerary if you’re visiting England. But just in case it isn’t, here are the main things you need to know: Windsor Castle was Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite residence among all royal residences. The original castle was built in the 11th century and has since been the home to several royals, like the Tudors and Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Tourists love to visit to witness the iconic changing of the guards ceremony, as well as visit St. George’s Chapel, the State Apartments, and Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House.
2. Oxford
Don’t forget to drop by one of the oldest cities in England: Oxford. It’s easy to get around the city of Oxford, and with its proximity to London, it’s a popular day trip that’s just a quick train or car ride away. Take a tour of University colleges, like Christ Church’s College and New College, which Harry Potter fans will easily recognize as filming locations from the movies.
3. The Cotswolds
Is it your first time hearing about the Cotswolds? The picturesque region is actually one of the most popular day trips when traveling from London to Manchester. Explore quaint villages with beautiful parks and gardens, as well as rustic architecture that you’ll just need to marvel at in person. Stroll down charming roads and rolling green hills, while learning about the Cotswolds’ wonderful history.
4. Leicester
Arts and culture flourish in the city of Leicester. It’s the perfect mix of English tradition and electrifying city life. The city boasts a ton of interactive exhibitions at the Attenborough Arts Centre and the award-winning National Space Centre. Walking through the city streets, visitors can learn about the city’s history with over 175 panels talking about significant buildings, people, and sites.
5. Stratford-upon-Avon
Visit the birthplace of one of the greatest writers of all time, Shakespeare. Shakespeare once called the town of Stratford home, and his final resting place is also located here. The town, as its name suggests, is located right along the River Avon. Enjoy a viewing of classic Shakespearean plays at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre — is there a more perfect place to experience the writer’s creations than in his hometown? This is a classic stop on the trip from London to Manchester you just can’t miss.
6. Birmingham
Picture a perfect time in the city of Birmingham with a trip to the Black Country Living Museum, one of the filming locations for the hit TV show, Peaky Blinders. Families will also love exploring their world-class museums and galleries, along with the ever-famous Cadbury World, which is a popular destination for learning all about how the famous chocolates are made. Whatever you’re in the mood for, Birmingham is brimming with opportunities to learn about the city through its history, its food, or its people.
7. Worcester
Worcester is a city rich with history, so if you have a curious mind, its many historic houses, heritage sites, and museums will be a feast. The Worcester Cathedral is a must-see attraction for its beautiful medieval architecture. It was first founded in 680 and has been a holy place of worship for fourteen centuries now. Need to take a break from sitting in a car? You’ll surely enjoy a lovely stroll along Britain’s longest river, River Severn, conveniently located next to the cathedral, for a breather on your way from London to Manchester.
8. Nottingham
Get to know the home of the legendary hero Robin Hood here at Nottingham. Nottingham has made a name for itself with its stunning sights, like the Old Market Square, which is the city’s focal point. There’s always something going on in the pulsing streets of Nottingham, even underground. You can set off on a one-of-a-kind adventure through their network of underground caves, which is the largest in the UK.
9. Sheffield
Formerly known as the “Steel City,” Sheffield is now a renowned city for adventures. You can look forward to outdoor activities, independent shops, contemporary galleries, and historical museums when you visit for the day. Keep an eye out for the Sheffield Winter Garden, which is Europe’s largest urban glasshouse and is home to over 2500 flora from around the world — the perfect backdrop for your photos.
10. Peak District National Park
Peak District National Park is one of the UK’s favorite national parks to visit. Outdoor enthusiasts will thrive in the vastness of the park’s greenery. There are several trails to walk or cycle on as you take in the fresh air and incredible scenery. Take advantage of their opportunities for air sports, water sports, and land activities, like horseback riding and climbing.
Have we convinced you to go on that London to Manchester roadtrip yet? Sounds like a fun car ride right? It’s the best way to knock out all the unmissable attractions off of your itinerary and bucket list. What else are you waiting for? Find the easiest way to travel from London to Manchester and book a rental on Klook.