Discover some of the UK’s most stunning spots from the comfort of your car this year. From staggering coastal routes to journeys through quiet country lanes, these varied road trips are guaranteed to be memorable.
- The North Coast 500, Scotland
This legendary route is consistently ranked in lists of the best road trips in the world for its dramatic views. Brooding mountains and castle-topped cliffs give way to heather-covered hills, vast lochs and wild beaches where you can spot wildlife and traverse walking and cycling trails. It’s a wonderful blend of cultural heritage and adventure, suitable for all ages. Most authorities recommend taking at least a week to drive this route.
- Eryri National Park, Wales
You’ve got a choice of routes through Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, the largest in Wales spanning 823 square miles! The full Eryri 360 drive covers 360 miles, encompassing the mountains, Anglesey and the striking Llŷn Peninsula. A shorter three-day alternative prioritises the most scenic roads to Mount Snowdown (known locally as Yr Wyddfa), including the famous Llanberis Pass and Pen-y-Pass, and culminates with some coastline.
- The Lake District, England
England’s largest national park is the UNESCO-recognised Lake District, a gentle landscape of green fells, patches of forest and glittering glacial ribbon lakes. Walking is highly rewarding, with people travelling miles to bag Wainwrights, and you can do various water sports on the lakes from languid stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking to wind-battling sailing and kitesurfing. The best places to visit during your trip depends on your personal preferences.
- The Yorkshire Dales, England
Looking for quintessential English countryside? The Yorkshire Dales, England’s second-largest national park, should be on your radar, where you’ve got total flexibility with the route. Sheep are a salt-and-pepper scattering over the rugged landscape of grassy and bracken-covered peaks, and woodland trails via waterways lined by dry stone walls lead between the characterful villages. Expect twisting country roads and old-fashioned pubs as pitstops.
- The Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
Driving Northern Ireland’s spectacular Causeway Coastal Route feels like something out of a fairytale. The landscapes are imbued with myth and magic, like the 40,000 basalt columns said to be the stepping stones of an ancient giant. You can take boat trips out to lighthouse-protected islands which feel utterly isolated and explore centuries-old castles and gardens overflowing with local legend. This road trip takes anywhere from three to five days.
Preparing for your road trip
- Organise your insurance
Make sure you’re properly protected with car insurance that provides full cover for your trip, checking ‘leisure use’ is included as well as ‘business use’. All drivers should be insured on the vehicle.
- Conduct vehicle checks
Quick and simple tasks like checking your brakes, lights and tyres can help you avoid running into issues when on the road. Top up your tyre pressure and essential fluids too, including fuel, oil, screen wash and engine coolant.
- Create a rough itinerary
You don’t want to feel restricted during your trip, but having a rough itinerary will help you work out sensible legs and places to stop and give you peace of mind that you won’t miss out on any key highlights.
