Five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Carlisle, England and Leicester, England
If you are looking for an adventure-filled road trip in England, look no further than the scenic drive from Carlisle to Leicester. This route spans over 215 miles and approximately five hours of driving time. From expansive national parks and quaint market towns to historical landmarks and gorgeous cityscapes, there's no shortage of remarkable attractions along the way.
The journey kicks off in Carlisle, Cumbria, and heads south via the M6 motorway towards Leicester, East Midlands. The drive is a beautiful mix of lush forests, rolling hills, and wide open spaces. With a few pit stops along the way, this drive offers something for everyone. At the halfway point, we have Wigan, XGM, a bustling town with a rich industrial history worth taking a break for.
1. Trentham Gardens, Stoke-on-Trent
Just outside Stoke-on-Trent in Staffordshire lies the beautiful Trentham Gardens. It's a must-visit attraction filled with a variety of green spaces, including a vast lake and stunning Italian gardens. The Italian Garden is considered the highlight of the gardens, with intricate fountains, floral displays, and garden structures. After a long drive, visitors can unwind and indulge in some tea and cakes at the many cafes and restaurants located in the park.
Food recommendation: Cream tea at The Italian Garden Tearooms.
2. The Anderton Boat Lift, Cheshire
Dating back to 1875, The Anderton Boat Lift is a fascinating feat of Victorian Engineering. It's located just outside Northwich in Cheshire and is the world's first successful water-filled lift. This boat lift elevates boats from the River Weaver to the Trent and Mersey canal and is still operational today. Visitors can enjoy a boat trip on the lift and learn about its history and significance.
Food recommendation: Classic fish and chips at Lock 57 Cafe Bar.
3. Derby Silk Mill, Derby
Derby Silk Mill is the first silk mill in the United Kingdom and the earliest factory building. It's also known as Derby Industrial Museum and is located in the city center. The museum showcases Derby's impactful industrial past and features exhibits on railways, Rolls-Royce, and much more. The modern factory cafe has a delightful selection of comforting dishes to enjoy while basking in the historic ambiance of the Mill.
Food recommendation: Hot chicken tikka no wrap in wholemeal bread at The Mill Cafe.
4. Beacon Hill Country Park, Loughborough
Located just outside Loughborough, Beacon Hill Country Park offers stunning views of the city skyline. Beacon Hill at 248 meters sits high above the parkland, providing breath-taking views for miles around. A mecca for hikers, many trails offer beautiful scenic vistas of the outdoors. After a leisurely hike, enjoy some coffee and cake at the Hilltop Cafe.
Food recommendation: Coffee and a homemade cake at The Hilltop Cafe.
5. National Space Center, Leicester
The National Space Center in Leicester is great fun for adults and kids alike. It's a museum packed with exciting exhibits and interactive displays, from a huge rocket tower to a space flight simulator. Visitors can also enjoy the unique astronaut experience and see the massive 42-meter rocket tower, the Sir Patrick Moore Planetarium.
Food recommendation: Pizza from Newton's Cafe & Bistro.
While England has remarkable landmarks and scenic drives, exploring the classic beauty of the roads less travelled can be an even more rewarding experience. The route from Carlisle to Leicester takes drivers through some of England's most beautiful landscapes — all dotted with historical landmarks and pleasing pit stops. Why not embark on this adventurous journey, filled with great food, exciting stops, and dramatically changing scenery? Trust us when we say your Instagram will never look better!