Driving Tours - North West England

Enjoy the freedom of the road whilst soaking up the wonderful British countryside with Europcar. And with over 120 collection points across Britain hiring a car from Europcar is so simple that you have lots more time to enjoy your touring holiday!

We show you how to experience this for real with the second in our series of three touring itineraries specifically designed to take in the cream of Britain’s landscapes.

This itinerary takes in the very best of the North West including 3 National Parks, film locations and stylish cities. So hop in, and enjoy the drive across some of Britain’s most glorious countryside..

Up and Down Dale

From Manchester Airport leave the motorway far behind as you enter the hauntingly beautiful Peak District National Park. The road winds through awe-inspiring countryside up towards Holmfirth in Yorkshire, setting for the ever-green television series ‘Last of the Summer Wine’.

Discover a treasure trove of Victorian architecture and wide, green open spaces in Leeds. Take to the waters in the splendid surroundings of the recently restored Bramley Baths, or marvel at the extensive collection of armour and live jousting demonstrations (Summer only) at the Royal Armouries Museum.

Nearby Harewood House, home to the Queen’s cousin the Earl of Harewood, boasts impressive exteriors and exquisite interiors. The 1,000 acres of parkland are home to lakeside and woodland walks plus a collection of rare birds.

Journey northwards to the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The route of the B6160 takes visitors across the sweeping heartland of this wonderful countryside, featured widely in the James Herriot books and television series.

View the romantic ruins at Bolton Abbey or relax beside the River Wharfe. A short drive away is Skipton Castle, one of the best preserved castles in Britain and home to a spooky dungeon! Further north are the famous Aysgarth Falls. Covering almost one mile of the River Ure, the falls offer a spectacular site as thousands of gallons of water cascade over rock ledges.

Go back in time in Richmond, a unique market town that has changed little since its founding by the Normans in 1071. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the medieval castle.

The Lakes

Cross from Yorkshire into Cumbria, a land of stunning contrasts with mountain vistas and lakeland views. The setting for the television adaptation of ‘Jane Eyre’, Dalemain at Penrith is a fascinating mix of medieval, Tudor and Georgian architecture. With colourful gardens, a historic nursery filled with toys from all generations, and collections of fine china and furniture there is something for all the family.

Past through Pooley Bridge as you enter the picturesque Lake District National Park. Cumbria is famed for its lakes and as you travel southwards you will pass Ullswater and Windermere – two of the most remarkable. Nestling within the reaches of Windermere is Blackwell, now restored as an art gallery it is an example of the survival of the arts and crafts movemement.

Kendal offers more surprises. Discover more about lakeland life, and see a wonderful selection of art at Abbot Hall Art Gallery – one of the finest small art galleries. Nearby Levens Hall offers a feast for the eyes with its world famous Topiary Gardens, first laid out in 1694.

Seaside Fun

Follow the coastline down towards Carnforth and Morecambe. You may recognise the station in Carnforth, it was the setting for the tearful farewell in the 1945 classic ‘Brief Encounter’. Always a popular seaside resort, Morecambe extends a warm welcome to both day-trippers and those staying longer – don’t forget to visit the life size statue of comedian Eric Morecambe.

For more seaside fun go to Blackpool. This lively yet traditional resort is packed with celebrated attractions including the Blackpool Tower and North, Central and South piers, or why not promenade along the Pleasure Beach. If you visit between late August and early November don’t miss the fabulous illuminations.

The Home of The Beatles

Continue southwards past pretty Rufford Old Hall near Ormskirk. Legend says that William Shakespeare once performed in the magnificent Great Hall.

Liverpool is famed as being the home of the Beatles but there is a lot more to see and do in this amazing city. Find out more about the history behind the city and tradition of sporting excellence in the Museum of Liverpool Life. If art is more your thing then visit Tate Liverpool with its collection of modern art, or for lovers of fine portraits don’t miss the elegant Walker Art Gallery.

Music fans should take a trip on the Mersey Ferry, made famous in the song sung by Gerry and the Pacemakers. For Beatles fans a visit to the Cavern Club is a must, or why not take a tour around The Beatles Story, complete with Yellow Submarine!

Homeward Bound

The tour is almost complete as you cross Merseyside and travel back towards Manchester.

However before you leave don’t miss the wonderful Tatton Park. This splendid estate has been occupied since 8000 BC, the present house dates from the 18th century. Renowned for its glorious gardens, Tatton Park also boasts a stunning mansion and Tudor Old hall, as well as hosting a wide variety of events. Why not take a guided tour of the Japanese gardens – a new addition for 2003?

Finish your journey at nearby Knutsford packed with wonderful tea shops. This pretty town takes its name from King Canute, famed for failing to halt the incoming tide when sitting on his throne on the beach!