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10 EPIC UK Winter Road Trips You NEED to Drive

Planning a winter road trip in the UK? Wondering whether you should head for the Northern Lights in Scotland, the snow-capped peaks in Wales, or use the time to visit popular locations like Cornwall or the Lake District? We’ve covered the best routes to help you choose your perfect UK winter road trip.

Don’t forget to grab your FREE road trip planner below to help keep you organised.

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Why do a winter road trip in the UK?

Most people assume that you can’t go winter motorhoming or enjoy a road trip during a UK winter. But it’s actually one of the best times to explore the British Isles- quieter roads, incredible scenery and easy access to many of the beautiful National Parks we have on our doorstep.

Even better, many motorhome sites or camp grounds have reduced prices, as do many top attractions, so it really is a great time to explore.

All you need to do is make sure your vehicle is suitable for winter road trips, dress up warmly and then head out on your winter adventure!

The best UK winter road trip routes you can’t miss

We all have different priorities. That’s one of the things I love so much about road trips- the freedom to enjoy the things you like.

Even better, the UK has LOADS to enjoy during winter, including world-class Christmas markets, winter festivals, food festivals, snow sports and fantastic walking over moors and hills.

We’ve selected a variety of winter road trip ideas to help you choose the perfect option for you. Of course, you can pick and choose or combine ones to create your perfect winter getaway.

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Tips for driving in winter

If you’re planning a winter road trip, there’s not much difference from planning a UK road trip at any other time of the year, but you do need to make sure of a few things.

• Make sure your vehicle has been checked/ serviced and is capable of dealing with colder weather
• If you’re travelling in a van, make sure your motorhome heating is working.
• Make sure your tyres are safe and suitable for the roads. Even if there’s no snow, you can expect to drive in heavy rain at some point on your trip
• Check windscreen wipers and screenwash levels
• Carry drink and snacks with you
• If you’re not planning a motorhome trip , be sure to carry a thermos of hot drink or a stove and kettle, just in case you get stuck somewhere cold. Also, have a couple of blankets with you too.
• Make sure your phones are charged and ideally use a proper sat-nav with traffic updates so you can see if a road becomes blocked or closed.

The best winter road trip to see the Northern Lights

One of the best-kept secrets in northern UK is that you can often see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) from up there.

Sure, they’re not as consistent as some of the other best places in Europe to see the Northern Lights , but if they’re on your bucket list, it’s time to head north during winter.

Scotland Northern Lights Winter Road Trip

Total Distance: 516 miles

Recommended No. of Days: 4-5 days

Best time to visit: December, January, February

For the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights in Scotland, you’ll want to go as far north as possible. The further north you can get on your winter road trip, the better.

If you’re driving a motorhome or campervan, you may want to combine this with a NC500 motorhome tour which goes along the northern coast.

Stop at places like Sango Sands or Dunnet Bay near John o’Groats, but ideally you’ll want to get even further north. Orkney is easily accessible on a road trip, even if you just visit for a couple of days.

The best time to see the Northern Lights is between October and March. If you’re hoping to see them from Scotland or some of the northern Isles, November to February is your best bet. Just make sure to wrap up warmly- the best nights to see them are clear and cold!

If you’re in a motorhome or campervan, these are the North Coast 500 campsites open all year.

If you’d like to explore more , here’s the only NC500 itinerary and route planner you need.

If you’re up in Scotland, you can also visit the Cairngorms, home to Aviemore- the UK’s best ski and snowboarding resort

The best UK winter road trip ideas for Christmas Markets

We’re lucky that there is a decent Christmas Market in almost every big UK town or city.

Rather than visit your local one again, why not make a weekend of it and visit some further afield?

Nearly all have a campsite open all year nearby for motorhome holidays or campervan tours, or there are bed and breakfasts in every place for you to stay on your road trip.

Most UK Christmas Markets are open from last November, but some don’t open until mid-December, so be sure to check before you start your winter road trip.

Three UK road trip routes to see Christmas Markets

SOUTH CENTRAL

• Start in Winchester (the Winchester Christmas Market is one of the best in England) and enjoy exploring the city.
• Then head to Salisbury, where you’ll find another fantastic Christmas Market
• From here, you can head to the Cotswolds, which are some of the most picturesque villages in the UK, or you can visit Bath, which is glorious at any time but especially good at Christmas.
• Start at the Christmas Market in Birmingham, which is one of the biggest Christmas markets in the UK and the biggest authentic German market outside of Austria or Germany. Don’t forget your skates so you can ice skate on one of the rinks in the city.
• From here, continue your England road trip and head to Stratford upon Avon, Warwick or Royal Leamington Spa for more traditional Christmas celebrations, or head to Lincoln, home of the oldest Christmas Market in the UK.
• Edinburgh is one of the best cities to visit around Christmas time- the markets here are legendary.
• Although this is a great place to stop on a Scotland road trip , you could also use it as the northern point of your winter road trip route, and head south to Newcastle or Durham.
• After exploring these wonderful cities, head to Leeds, Manchester or Liverpool for more huge festivities.

Of course, you could easily spend a weekend road trip just in London, exploring the Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park and all the smaller Christmas Markets around the city.

Best Winter road trips for hiking and outdoors

The UK has some fabulous National Parks, which are open all year. During summer months, they can get very crowded, but during winter you can often have places all to yourself!

If you’re living in a van over winter , don’t forget that many National Parks have overnight parking restrictions, so be sure to follow those. Here’s how to find places to stay overnight.

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland Winter Road Trip

Total Distance: 220 miles

Recommended No. of Days: 2-3 days

Best time to visit: November, December, January, February, March

The Causeway Coastal Route is one of the best winter road trips in Northern Ireland. Highlights include:

• Giants Causeway
• Carrick-a-rede rope bridge
• Dunluce Castle
• Dark Hedges

Winter road trip route idea

• Start your Ireland road trip by visiting the famous Giants Causeway. It’s about a 90-minute drive from Belfast and try to get there as early as possible.
• Visit nearby Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. In summer the queues can be lengthy, but in winter you shouldn’t have to wait long.
• Another unique stop is the clifftop ruins of Dunluce Castle which hang above the sea below.
• Don’t miss the Dark Hedges. This road features in Game of Thrones and is one of the most beautiful roads in Ireland.  It was surprisingly badly signposted when we visited, so don’t miss it. If you’re motorhoming in Ireland you can’t drive down it- I’m not even sure you’ll make it in a campervan!

How long does it take to drive the Causeway coastal route?

You can comfortably drive the whole route in one weekend as it’s quite a short route- only 200 miles. You can actually do it in a day if you really push. Don’t miss the Titanic museum in Belfast- it’s incredible.

Want to visit southern Ireland? See ideas for the best winter road trips in Europe

Yorkshire Moors

Yorkshire is the perfect winter road trip destination. The moors look magical covered in snow but there are still plenty of places open all year.

Highlights of a Yorkshire road trip include :

• Hardraw Force- England’s highest single-drop waterfall
• The longest show cave in England- White scar
• Ribblehead Viaduct
• Hogsmeade station (or at least the station which played it in Harry Potter!)
• Numerous castles and ruins

Yorkshire Road Trip Itinerary ideas

Start your road trip in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Visit the 11th century Skipton Castle or go underground to see the formations in White Scar Caves, the longest show cave in England.

Visit the waterfalls of Ingleton, Aysgarth Falls or Hardraw Force- England’s highest single-drop waterfall. These are even more impressive in winter with the increased rainfall.

Before leaving the Dales, visit the incredible monastic ruins and landscaped gardens of Fountains Abbey.

Next, head to the city of York. You can visit Viking, Roman, Georgian and Victorian sites all in one day! Don’t miss a stroll along the cobbled Shambles, which has often been voted the ‘Best Street in Britain.’

Lastly, head out onto the moors. Stop at Goathland train station (Hogsmeade station in the Harry Potter movies.)

Alternatively, stretch your legs with a hike at the Hole of Horcum, a huge ancient natural amphitheatre.

If you’re looking for a weekend UK road trip idea, head to one of the prettiest National Parks in the UK- Snowdonia in Wales.

Snowdonia is actually part of two of the Wales Way driving routes – North and Cambrian and it’s easy to see why.

Pretty much everything in Snowdonia involves being outdoors, so make sure you bring appropriate clothing for the time of year. In winter, you’re likely to get rain, cold and very possibly snow.

There are plenty of great roads with spectacular scenery and the stars at night are unreal, especially on a crisp Winter night.

Planning a trip to Wales?

Grab your FREE guide to the Wales Way road trip routes, including:

• suggested routes around Wales
• best places to see on your trip
• campsites to stay at along the way
• and other tips for touring Wales

The best winter road trip routes for popular UK destinations

Winter is the perfect time to visit places which are usually crazy busy.

Places like Cornwall, Devon, the Lake District and the Cotswolds are much quieter and easier to explore on the road trip.

Here are our favourite road trip ideas:

Cornwall is one of our favourite places to road trip in England. I spent 2 years living there whilst I was in the Navy, and have been back many times since. There are plenty of things to do in Cornwall , but there are some important tips you need to know before you arrive!

Why is Cornwall one of the best England road trips?

If you want cute villages, incredible beaches and more history than you can shake a stick at, Cornwall is perfect. Although some places do close in winter, many of the main attractions remain open all year, and the lack of crowds makes it even better.

How long should you spend roadtripping Cornwall?

How long is a piece of string!! But, as you can see on our Cornish road trip itinerary , we recommend 7-10 days minimum to see all the best places.

Where are the best places to visit in Cornwall on a road trip?

Some of my absolute favourite places in Cornwall include:

• Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave – home of King Arthur!
• Land’s End
• Boscastle- the village of the witches!
• Minack Theatre
• St Michael’s Mount
• Newquay for surfing and general coolness
• St Nectan’s glen- one of the best and most beautiful waterfalls in Europe

For a full list of the best places to visit on a Cornwall road trip, visit our Cornwall Road Trip Itinerary & Guide

Even in Winter, Devon is a fantastic road trip destination. It’s still full of cute villages, beautiful hills and beaches and plenty of cafes!

Highlights and best places to visit in Devon

My parents live here, so I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the county. Some of my favourite include:

• Dartmouth- one of the best towns in the county. Hire a boat and explore the river.
• Paignton- the beach with the red sand
• Exmouth with its beautiful painted houses
• Saunton Sands
• Fish and Chips from Squires in Braunton
• Salcombe Harbour
• Dulverton- head to the Copper Kettle tea room; you won’t regret it!

See the full list of my favourite Devon road trip ideas here.

Lake District

The Lake District National Park is a perfect UK winter road trip idea. It has some of the worlds best scenic drives and a trip along the Honister Pass and Kirkstone Pass are a must- although if it’s snowed heavily they may be closed.

The Castlerigg stone circle is also worth a stop, as are the pretty towns of Keswick and Cockermouth.

In the South Lakes, Grasmere (home of William Wordsworth) is worth visiting and if you love Beatrix Potter, you can visit her home in Hawkshead. There is also Beatrix Potter World in Bowness- on- Windermere. 

Some other highlights for winter road trips include:

• The largest natural lake in the UK, Lake Windermere. Some boat tours run all year but wrap up warmly
• The Punch Bowl Inn in Crosthwaite.
• Aira Force Waterfall
• The views at Derwentwater

Cotswolds – a magical UK winter road trip

The Cotswolds is the largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in England and Wales and it looks SPECTACULAR in winter.

Highlights & Best places to visit in the Cotswolds and surrounding area

• The beautiful stone villages of the Cotswolds (Bourton-on-the-Water is one of my personal favourites)
• visit the historic city of Bath
• marvel at the mysterious ancient stones of Stonehenge
• stop at the magnificent Salisbury Cathedral.

Wiltshire & Cotswolds winter road trip itinerary

• Ideally, spend 3-4 days exploring as many lovely little towns and villages of the Cotswolds as you wish to. Some of the prettiest villages include Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold, Lower Slaughter, Bourton-on-the-Water and Castle Combe.
• The historic city of Bath is only a 30-minute drive from the village of Castle Combe- well worth a visit. Don’t miss visiting the Roman baths and having a cream tea in the tea rooms there.
• If you have time, head East to Stonehenge. If you’re in a motorhome or camper, you can camp overnight at Stonehenge (This is where we saw the most INCREDIBLE sunrise we’ve EVER seen. (Seriously, watch the video. It’s breathtaking)
• From Stonehenge, it’s only a 20-minute drive into the medieval town of Salisbury, where you can explore Salisbury Cathedral which has the tallest spire in all of Britain!

If you’re planning a UK road trip, you might find these posts helpful:

• How to plan a UK road trip
• The BEST UK road trips
• 17 incredible motorhome destinations in the UK
• One week in England- awesome itinerary ideas

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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I have been thinking of taking a road trip for a long time but wasn’t able to finalize it. This blog has made it easy for me. The Dales and The Lakes have impressed me a lot and I will start my journey from here.

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11 Fantastic UK Winter Road Trip Itineraries

Are you dreaming of a UK winter road trip? The moody skies, the snowcapped peaks , the dreamy Christmas markets…if these things are making you itch to hit the open road, then these itineraries will be perfect for you!

Whether you want to see the northern lights, hit up as many Christmas markets as you can, or crave some castles , I’ve got you covered! Here are 11 of the best road trip itineraries for exploring the United Kingdom in the winter!

11 UK winter road trip itineraries

1. Northern Scotland

Suggested length: 5-6 days Perfect for: northern lights and adventurous travelers

For those who are itching to see the northern lights, you’ll want to head as far north as you can, which means taking a road trip along the NC500 is a perfect choice.

The NC500 is a spectacular route, traversing along the A9 from Inverness and then hugging the coast all the way around the top part of the country. You can visit places like Tain , Ebenezer Place (the world’s shortest street), John O’Groats (the most northern tip of mainland UK), various castles, and breathtaking views around every turn.

If you’re even more adventurous, you could head even further north to the Orkneys or the Shetland Islands and experience an even more remote part of the country.

The best time to see the northern lights is from November to February , so if this is on your bucket list, make sure you plan this trip during these months. While there’s definitely no guarantee they will make an appearance, you’ll have a much better chance the further north you can get.

2. Scotland Highlands

Suggested length: 7+ days Perfect for: breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities

The Scottish Highlands are a perfect UK winter road trip destination in every season. From stunning Glencoe to the otherworldly Isle of Skye , to the depths of Loch Ness and the mountains of the Cairngorms , there’s is so much to do that you’ll never experience it all in one trip.

I have two fantastic itinerary options below for you that include the Scottish Highlands. We did our Scotland trip in November and December and we thought it was the perfect time of year to experience this part of the country.

The Best 7-Day Scotland Road Trip For First-Timers The Ultimate 10-Day Scotland Highlands Road Trip Itinerary

If you are interested in skiing, there are also some great locations in the Highlands. Two options are Glencoe Mountain Resort & Nevis Range .

3. Scotland Cities & Lowlands

Suggested length: 5+ days Perfect for: Christmas markets and city vibes

If Christmas markets are a big item on your winter wish list, exploring the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow might be a great choice for you.

The cities are only a little over an hour away from each other, making them easy to reach no matter where you want to base yourself. This road trip is best completed in late November through mid-December when the Christmas markets are open.

The Edinburgh Christmas Market is absolutely fantastic, and the city is beyond charming. In fact, Edinburgh is probably my favorite city! You definitely want to spend several days here to get a good feel of the place. Some can’t-miss places include Edinburgh Castle , the Royal Mile , National Museum of Scotland , and Holyrood Park .

You can also head to Glasgow and check out their Christmas market as well. Make some time to visit some other sites as well if you have the time, like Glasgow Cathedral & Necropolis and the Gallery of Modern Art .

If you want to spend some time outside the cities, check out some attractions to the south, such as Melrose Abbey , Tantallon Castle , and Rosslyn Chapel .

You can also do day trips into the Highlands if desired. In this case, I’d recommend booking a tour so you can see as much as possible in one day. Here’s a great option , or you can check out all the choices on Viator .

4. Southcentral England

Suggested length: 4-5 days Perfect for: history buffs and architecture lovers

England is an amazing place to take a UK winter road trip. There are so many fantastic places to visit that narrowing down the options is difficult! However, if you really enjoy history and architecture, this southcentral England road trip will be a solid choice.

The Winchester Christmas Market is considered one of the best in the entire country, so if you are visiting from late November to mid-December, you should definitely make a stop here! From there you can head to Salisbury Cathedral , a stunning church that has an original copy of the 1215 Magna Carta.

The Cotswolds are also a great place to spend a few days. Explore the charming villages and just slow down and enjoy the small-town life. You can also take a trip to Bath , and if it’s your thing, enjoy a few hours at the Thermae Bath Spa and take the chill away!

For Downton Abbey fans, Highclere Castle is a must. However, there are limited Christmas and wintertime tours and events, so if this is something you really want to do, check into this ahead of time. And you also can’t forget Stonehenge , one of the most famous English attractions of all time.

5. Cornwall, England

Suggested length: 6+ days Perfect for: ocean views and unique attractions

Ah, Cornwall. This part of England is definitely one of my favorites, although it really is hard to choose! I spent about 6 days exploring this region and I would have loved to have had more time!

There is so much to do here so you definitely won’t run out of choices. Explore Tintagel Castle , marvel at St. Nectans Glen , wander around the Bodmin Moor , discover the fantastic Eden Project , gaze in awe at St Michael’s Mount , take a hike around Lizard Point , and take a tour around Minack Theatre . There is definitely a little something for everyone in this part of the country.

A fantastic drive to take to/from this area is the Atlantic Highway , which goes from Cornwall to Devon. It hugs the western coastline of the county and offers spectacular views.

6. Jurassic Coast, England

Suggested length: 3-4 days Perfect for: ocean views and walks

If you love to take walks with spectacular ocean views and scenery, then the Jurassic Coast is the place for you. This whole area is connected by the South West Coast Path , a 630-mile trail across the coast of England. While you probably won’t have time to do the entire path, there are plenty of great areas to section hike and see some of the highlights.

Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are two such landmarks that are definitely worth the hike. Other popular ones include Butter Rock , Mupe Bay Beach , and Tyneham Cap and Village .

If you want to do more than just hiking, there are lots of choices. Corfe Castle is really neat to see, and the train station reminds me so much of Hogsmeade Station from Harry Potter! If you’ve got a few rainy days, there are a couple of museums in Dorchester that are worth visiting, including The Tutankhamun Exhibition and the Terracotta Warrior Museum .

7. Lake District, England

Suggested length: 3-4 days Perfect for: landscape views and small villages

The Lake District is one of the most beautiful places in England. Whether you’d rather spend your time relaxing in the various towns and eating all the good pub grub, or if hiking and being outside as much as possible is your cup of tea, the Lake District is a great choice.

Make sure you drive around Windermere , England’s largest lake. Experience all the scenery, take a hike or two in the national park, and just enjoy. You should also spend some time exploring the villages and eating all the good food.

8. Central England

Suggested length: 7+ days Perfect for: cities & Christmas markets

You could spend months in just the central part of England and not even scratch the surface, but if you want to see as many Christmas markets as possible and would rather experience city life, then Central England is for you.

If there’s one city you cannot miss, it’s Birmingham for their Frankfurt Christmas Market . It’s the biggest German Christmas market outside Germany or Austria, and if you’re traveling in the winter months, this is a bucket list item for sure. While you’re there, you can also check out Symphony Hall , Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery , and Cadbury World .

From there, some other cities you can consider include Lincoln , Leeds , York , Manchester , and Liverpool . Each city has its own feel and claim to fame. If you make it all the way up to York, take a day trip out to North York Moors National Park . On the way, check out Castle Howard . They put on a tremendous Christmas display for the holidays that is worth seeing if you’re visiting at the right time of year.

Suggested length: 4+ days Perfect for: city lovers

Wait, a road trip in London? OK, so maybe London isn’t the best city to explore by car, especially since the public transportation system will get you everywhere you need to go. But even if you want to do a road trip, a few days in London before or after is still worth it, especially if you are flying in and out of the city.

You can also base yourself in the London area and do day trips from there if you feel the need to get out of the city. Places like Brighton , Oxford , Cambridge , Canterbury , or Dover would all be good options if you’re itching to hit the road.

While you’re in the city, there are so many things to see! Some can’t-miss places include the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey , St. Paul’s Cathedral , Big Ben , and Buckingham Palace . There are also so many museums! Plus if you’re there during Christmastime, the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is supposed to be spectacular!

10. Northern Ireland

Suggested length: 4-5 days Perfect for: photographers and movie buffs

Northern Ireland is a perfect UK winter road trip destination. The Causeway Coastal Route , which is a 120-mile drive from Belfast to Derry, is a prime road trip route. It’s well maintained in the winter months and has so much to see in such a short distance, including some sites featured in popular movies and TV shows.

Start in Belfast , where you can’t miss the Titanic Museum . Other notable attractions include City Hall , St. Anne’s Cathedral , and Belfast Castle .

As you make your way along the coastal route, there are dozens of places you can stop depending on your interests. Some of the highlights are the Giant’s Causeway , the Dark Hedges (made famous from “Game of Thrones”), Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge , Old Bushmills Distillery , and Gobbins Cliff Path .

You can easily drive the entire route in 2 days, but take your time and see as many of the sights as you can. This whole area of Northern Ireland is jaw-dropping, and once you’re here, you’ll have a hard time leaving!

Suggested length: 5+ days Perfect for: hiking and fun driving roads

Wales is a country that often gets overlooked for its bigger siblings, Scotland and England. But Wales has SO much to offer, and even though you’ll only get a taste of it on this 5+ day road trip, it will leave you wanting to come back ASAP!

For outdoor lovers, Snowdonia is a paradise. With so many hiking trails and stunning views of Snowdon practically everywhere you go, you could spend days here and never get bored.

If you’re a driving enthusiast, Black Mountain Road in Brecon Beacons National Park is perfect for you. This road was featured in “Top Gear” and is full of twists, turns, and dips. Its official name is A4069, but how boring is that? Just be extra careful in the winter in case there is snow or ice on the road.

Other places in Wales that are worth visiting include Cardiff , St Davids , Tenby , and Portmeirion .

Why should I take a UK winter road trip?

If you’re wondering why you should even consider taking a road trip in the UK during the cold, rainy winter months, I think there are plenty of reasons! My husband and I have visited the UK during the off-season several times, and every trip has been fantastic and well worth it.

Less traffic and fewer tourists

One of the biggest selling points for me is the fact that there are way fewer tourists around. Oftentimes, I would get an entire attraction to myself, or at least only have a few other people around. You’ll experience a much quieter, authentic experience and have very few people in your photos.

Plus, if you aren’t used to driving on the narrow lanes and on the other side of the car and road, having fewer vehicles on the road will be a lot less stressful too.

Cheaper prices

The off-season also means cheaper prices. If you’re on a tighter budget, your money will go a heck of a lot farther in the winter than in the busy summer months. This includes accommodations, food, ticket prices, and even airfare.

The only exception to this is the holidays – prices over Christmas and New Year can be pretty expensive, so keep that in mind when deciding when you want to visit.

Stunning snow-covered scenery

While snow isn’t always guaranteed, how beautiful does everything look under a coating of white? To me, it makes everything seem just a bit more magical, and if you’re looking for a way to get into the Christmas spirit, what better way than a drive through a magical winter wonderland?

Christmas markets

And of course, who can resist a good Christmas market? These markets usually only run from late November up through Christmas and sometimes into January, but every one is different. So if you plan to visit the UK in the winter but after Christmas, you may miss these events. Do some research before you plan your trip if this is something you really want to experience.

How long should my UK winter road trip be?

The short answer: however long you’d like!

Just like with any road trip, there are a few factors when considering how long your road trip should be . But ultimately, you can do any of these road trips in any time frame you’d like as long as you make a good plan and know how much you can really see in that amount of time.

You could even string several of these road trips together to create your perfect itinerary if you’ve got a longer period of time. I mean, that’s the dream, right?

How do you plan a UK winter road trip?

Planning any road trip takes a bit of time, but here are the basics you’ll need to consider.

• Pick an area or the type of road trip you’d like to do. Would you rather spend more time outside, or does seeing the city sights excite you more? Have you been dying to see a particular part of the UK? Check out all the options above to find the road trip that appeals to you.
• Figure out your desired length of time. Do you have an entire week at your disposal, or can you only manage 4-5 days? Know exactly how many days you’ll have to explore so you can continue planning.
• Determine your budget. You can’t continue planning your road trip if you don’t know how much money you have to spend. This will help you figure out the rest of your plans, like where you can stay and how many attraction tickets you can realistically afford.
• Research, research, research! I personally think this is the best part of the trip-planning phase. You get to figure out what you want to see and it will get you really excited to actually experience these places for yourself! This is also where you will find out what places are open at the time of year you are visiting. However, if researching all the things to do is too overwhelming for you, have someone else do it!
• Pick your major points of interest. Once you’ve figured out your options, now you can narrow down and determine what your top choices are. You probably can’t fit everything in, so decide what are the top priorities and filter down from there.
• Plan your route. Once you know what you want to see, determine the route you’ll take to get to each place. I’m not saying you have to plan everything out to a T, but knowing the approximate route can help you see as much as possible in the time frame you have. This will also help you with the next step in finding places to stay .
• Start booking! Accommodations, car rental , flights, you name it – this is the time when you’ll start committing to your plan. Also, see if it’s worth buying certain attraction tickets ahead of time as the prices are sometimes cheaper if you book in advance.
• Pack appropriately. Winters in the UK are pretty cold and rainy, so make sure you’ve got everything you need, including warm clothing, lots of layers, rain gear, and waterproof shoes. Here’s a list of everything to consider packing for a road trip!
• Have a fantastic trip! Enjoy every minute of it and take lots of photos!

What will the weather be like on my UK winter road trip?

Just like most of the year, winter weather in the UK will be unpredictable. However, you can expect it to be cold, cloudy, and rainy most days. You may experience some snow, with it being more likely in the higher elevations and the further north you go.

Ultimately, plan for everything and you’ll be set!

UK winter road trip tips & tricks

• Make sure the vehicle’s tires are in good condition and suitable for winter driving. If you are renting the car, give them a good inspection before leaving.
• Make sure the windshield wipers are in good shape.
• Have blankets, extra warm clothing, food, and water with you in case you get stuck somewhere. It’s better to be extra prepared than not prepared enough!
• Consider upgrading to a 4WD vehicle if your budget allows – if not, make sure you have some experience driving in winter conditions with a 2WD vehicle. The majority of the time, any car should be fine to drive in the winter in the UK, but if you are uncomfortable with winter driving, a 4WD will give you better piece of mind.
• Check the weather and be flexible if you need to adjust your plans. Safety should be the #1 priority. Don’t continue your trip if the roads are dangerous.
• There will be some attractions and restaurants that are closed this time of year. Make sure you do your research so you aren’t disappointed.
• The days will be shorter than you may be used to if you live further south in the hemisphere. You may only get about 7-8 hours of daylight depending on when and where you are visiting ( you can check sunrise and sunset times for your destination here ). Keep this in mind for outdoor activities and make sure you are mindful of when the sun goes down if you plan to be out hiking and exploring.

UK winter road trip car rentals

If you are not local and are coming into the UK from another country, you’ll need to rent a vehicle. I highly recommend using Discovercars.com to book your car rental.

It’s very easy to use and search for what you want, the customer service is fantastic and available 24/7, and you’ll always get free cancellations. Plus, they have the best prices, so you really can’t go wrong.

Conclusion: UK winter road trip itineraries

A UK winter road trip will be a vacation you won’t soon forget. I hope these 11 itinerary options were helpful in helping you decide and plan your next road trip!

Your turn: which of these road trips do you plan on taking next? Let me know in the comments!

Stefanie Henne is an experienced road trip travel blogger who specializes in helping others plan their dream vacation, no matter their budget or time restraints. Go here to read more about Stef's story. If you want to send Stef a message, visit her contact page here.

Do you have any itinerary to do a winter road trip across all the UK? We will be there next January for 3 weeks.

Hi Sergio, I don’t have a particular itinerary for that, but if you’re interested, please email me at stef [at] openroadodysseys.com and I can get you more information on my itinerary planning services that are launching this winter.

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The best winter road trips in the UK

By Discover More UK

Published: 26 August 2022

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Love it or hate it, winter in the UK can make travelling difficult. With shorter days, biting weather and a whole load of rain (or maybe even snow!) winter road trips in the Uk might not be the first thing that comes to mind.

But thanks to the UK’s great infrastructure, some of the best road trips UK has to offer can also be completed in the winter months too.

Whether you’re looking for winter day trips from London, the best places to drive in UK winters, or just some UK in winter travel inspiration, we’ve asked travel bloggers to contribute their best winter road trips in the UK to help you decide.

A quick safety note: Being properly prepared is essential for any winter driving. You should always have your recovery and breakdown details to hand should you become stranded. Carry snow chains if necessary. Always carry extra layers, food and water. Always let someone know where you’re going and make sure your car is in good condition to travel.

Read on to discover the best road trips for winter travel in the UK.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. While clicking these links won’t cost you anything, they will help us to keep this site up and running! See the full disclosure policy for more details.

Winter road trips in England

North yorkshire road trip.

North Yorkshire is a seriously underrated option if you’re looking for fun winter road trips in the UK.

With well-maintained roads connecting major towns and the A171 connecting the coast from Scarborough to Whitby and beyond, this is a great option for seeing the delights of the North Yorkshire Coast and Moors without the summer crowds!

Start in Scarborough where you can enjoy this traditional seaside town. Although it’s a bit too cold for the beach and swimming in the sea, the coast is still beautiful and there’s plenty of family friendly indoor activities like arcades, Luna Park and Scarborough Castle.

Head up the coast and stop by the famous smuggler’s village, Robin Hoods Bay. Enjoy hot tea and scones in a cafe, or brave some fresh fish and chips by the beach which is great for a stroll when the tide is low.

From here, it’s just a short drive to Whitby, the famous inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula! The ruins of Whitby Abbey are open all year round but even if you don’t pay to go inside, the eerie silhouette at the top of the hill is spooky to see in the short winter days! Don’t miss the 199 steps, colourful beach huts and fantastic array of shops and restaurants in Whitby too.

Further up the coast you’ll also find the charming coastal town of Staithes. Or you can choose to head inland and drive through the dramatic Yorkshire Moors. Although roads are generally kept clear here, please take precautions, have car recovery options and take extra food, drinks and layers!

In the Moors you could visit Goathland Station, famous as the station from the Harry Potter movies. Or explore the charming villages in North Yorkshire too.

If you’re looking for a city base to explore the area more, or if you’re planning another stop on your journey, consider Leeds, York or Harrogate. Alternatively Durham is a beautiful stop if you continue your journey north.

Helena of Discover More UK

Dorset Jurassic Coast road trip

Known to be one of the best winter road trips in Europe thanks to its easy accessibility, dramatic coastline and variety of attractions, the Jurassic Coast is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in England in winter.

The beauty of Dorset for UK winter road trips is how easy it is to explore. Choose a base such as Swanage, Wareham, West Lulworth, Dorchester or Weymouth, and discover the many amazing Dorset day trips you can take.

Explore the Isle of Portland, enjoy fresh crab at the Crab House cafe and head to Portland Bill. Or enjoy famous spots like Durdle Door, Man O’War Beach, Lulworth Cove or Old Harry Rocks without the summer crowds.

Take shelter in the charming coastal towns of Weymouth or Swanage to enjoy great restaurants, bars or cafes.

Or if the weather is too bad, head to the world famous Tank Museum for a day out the whole family can enjoy. With spectacular displays, interactive exhibitions and plenty of history.

Helena from Discover More UK

Bath to Glastonbury road trip and the Somerset Levels

This road trip starts in the Georgian city of Bath and takes you across the stunning Mendip Hills and down Cheddar Gorge.

The route then follows the edge of the Somerset Levels to the smallest city in England of Wells before ending in Glastonbury.

It is then possible to return to Bath or continue to explore Somerset and further west. 

The route can be completed in a day but is much better spread over two days with a night in Wells.

It is ideal for a winter road trip as it starts in an easily accessible city and while the Mendip Hills are wild and remote it is easy to adjust the route to miss any difficult road conditions. 

The Mendips can be very icy in the winter and very foggy, but there are main roads to Cheddar, Wells and Glastonbury from Bath.

Along the route you will drive down Cheddar Gorge with its high cliffs and deep caves. Just a little further along from Cheddar is the Wookey Hole caves complex which is deeper than the caves at Cheddar.

Wells is a beautiful small city with the Cathedral and adjacent Bishop’s Palace. Even in the winter months the Palace gardens are worth exploring.

Glastonbury has an eclectic mix of shops and cafes as well as the well known Tor which is a good walk whatever the weather although it can be windy at the tower in the winter.

Glastonbury also has haunting abbey ruins which are believed to be the resting place of King Arthur and Guinevere.

Suzanne from Meandering Wild

Brighton winter day trip

If you’re eager to plan a winter day trip from London, then look no further than Brighton. Which is just a short, easy drive by car or easily reached by train in just 1 hour, definitely one of the best day trips from London in winter.

With plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to suit whatever the weather, don’t miss the Brighton Pier, fish & chips on the beach (a must for any time of year!), the Royal Pavilion and the independent shops and boutiques in Brighton Lanes.

For indoor activities, don’t miss Sealife, the i360 tower’s epic views, Brighton Museum and Art Gallery and the House of Illusions.

Speaking of illusions, don’t forget to look out for the famous Brighton Upsidedown house!

If you do plan to stay in Brighton longer, it’s also a great base to see other beautiful areas of the south coast, including the Seven Sisters Cliffs, South Downs National Park, Arundel Castle, Hastings or Camber Sands.

Winter road trips in Wales

North wales expressway road trip.

If you are looking for an amazing coastal road trip in winter, there is no better option than driving North Wales Expressway. It connects Cheshire with North Wales and offers incredible views of the beaches and surrounding mountains.

The North Wales Expressway stretches for over 80 miles and the final destination at Holy Island will take your breath away. The impressive lighthouse Goleudy Ynys Lawd looks so dramatic during winter on the Welsh coast.

This road trip is abundant not only in many natural attractions but also in historic buildings. You can visit the historic castle in Conwy or explore medieval Conwy Town Walls. There are also many other amazing castles nearby such as Penrhyn Castle & Garden.

However, a road trip in Wales without stopping at one of the most beautiful waterfalls cannot be complete. Aber Falls is just a short drive from North Wales Expressway. It is also a perfect place to visit during winter due to the easy and flat walk.

Driving this route from Chester takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, but with so many areas to explore, it is recommended to plan a longer trip. One of the best places to stay is in Conwy or Llandudno. The next day, head off to Anglesey Island where you can find cheaper accommodations during the off-season. It is a very popular destination in summer, so a UK winter road trip will allow you to save money and avoid the crowds.

If you fancy, on your way back stop at one of the beaches to admire beautiful sunsets. Whether it is Conwy Morfa Beach or Colwyn Bay Beach, both of them are set in beautiful scenery.  

Paulina from UK Every Day

Pembrokeshire Coast road trip

While your instinct might be to say that this is a summer road trip, the dramatic and beautiful coastline of Pembrokeshire is just as beautiful all year round, plus it remains accessible throughout the year.

An added bonus is that you can see famous spots like St Davids, Tenby or Saundersfoot without the crowds.

Enjoy the colourful town of Tenby with its beautiful beaches and array of restaurants and independent shops and boutiques. Discover South Wales hidden gems such as St Govans Chapel or the Blue Lagoon, both easily accessible from car parks off the coastal roads.

You could choose to start in Cardiff for a longer route and include the stunning Gower Peninsula,  or base yourself in Tenby to take a few day trips in the area.

Although roads in Pembrokeshire are narrow and windy, most are well-maintained for local access throughout the year.

The Wales coast path is a brilliant easy option for winter walks in Wales and the winter weather means it’s the perfect opportunity to stop by a cosy country pub for a warm meal and a drink by the fire.

Snowdonia road trip

Snowdonia National Park in North Wales is an inspiring UK destination that attracts adventure lovers, hikers and those who generally just enjoy the outdoors.

If you’re planning a Wales winter road trip around Snowdonia then choosing the right base is essential. While there are many places to choose from, one of the most popular areas is Betws-y-Coed. This start/finish point is a small village but it has trendy and traditional restaurants, bars and boutiques with ample accommodation.

A short drive away is Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales offering several challenging hiking trails. If you tackle this in winter, then you must be prepared. Take the edge of the hike with the Mountain train from Clogwyn station which will take you ¾ of the distance to the summit. Even if you don’t make it to the top, you still have stunning landscapes and viewpoints, and you can explore one of the 100 lakes or hidden waterfalls.

Next up on your road trip is the Italian-inspired village of Portmeirion. Entrance is not free but the architecture and uniqueness of this location is worth the small fee. Expect scenic walks, a visit to the estuary and lots of quirky shops. A short drive north and you can also stop in Porthmadog, a beautiful coastal town.

However, if you want a big dose of adrenaline, then enjoy the thrills of the Snowdonia Zip Wire or mountain go-karts located in Penrhyn Quarry in Bethesda. Or if conditions aren’t the best then head to Blaeneufestiniag to experience the underground Zip World Slate Caverns or ‘bounce below’ in an underground cave. If you have your family with you, the Zip Forest has other adventurous activities that are suitable for all ages. Best of all, they’re all within 30 minutes or so of your base. 

Give yourself at least 3 days to do this road trip and enjoy what Wales has to offer.

Kerry Hanson from Adrenaline Junkiez

South Wales road trip

If you are looking for a safe and scenic road trip to do in the Winter in the UK, South Wales is a fantastic option.

Thanks to the M4 corridor connecting the whole of  South Wales, you can see so many places, in only a few hours. To see the very best of South Wales, the Cardiff to Carmathern road trip is the best. From ancient castles to rustic pubs to escape the cold, this winter road trip offers something for everyone. 

Taking a road trip in Winter can be overwhelming, especially in the harsher icy and darker conditions. This is why driving this route is great for all driving abilities. Not only is this road well maintained and well lit throughout the year but is one of the easiest routes to drive in all winter conditions. 

The best way to complete this South Wales road trip is to start in Cardiff and drive along the M4 until you reach Carmarthen. There are lots of stops along the way so you can pick as many or as little as you like.

There are some great things to do on this road trip to get a taste of Wales. Cardiff itself is full of amazing things to do for every type of visitor. One great thing to do here is visit the Castle in the city centre. 

As you drive from Cardiff you will have plenty of options to visit some incredible landscapes. For great beaches, you should stop off at Bridgend. If you want to see waterfalls surrounded by snow, Neath has plenty of options. Not far from Neath you will find the Black Mountain road which offers the most amazing views when it has been snowing. And for bespoke gifts and great food options, you have to visit Carmarthen town centre. 

 If you are looking to do a road trip in little time, this is one of the best in Wales. You could do this Wales road trip in one day or over a few if you choose to spend the night in a few places. No matter your time and budget, this UK Winter road trip is for everyone.

Lowri from Many Other Roads

Winter road trips in Scotland

Scottish highlands road trip.

The Scottish highlands are beautiful all year round. But in winter, the low sun, snow-capped peaks and chill in the air really add a magical touch. 

For those of you who love to make the most of your annual leave allowance, travelling around the new year is a great way to maximise leave. With the possibility of snow, Scotland is the best road trip for Christmas in the UK. And, nowhere celebrates harder than Scotland for Hogmanay (or New Year’s Eve to most of us). It’s then that these sleepy villages in the highlands come alive with street parties. Think live music, dancing, drinking and a heart-warming atmosphere.

And, for most of us Brits, the best way to get to Scotland is a good ol’ road trip. While technically this roughly 1-week Scotland road trip route starts wherever you are, Stirling and Falkirk are good first stops for history and unique sights, such as the Kelpies and Wallace Monument.

From there, continue north into the Cairngorms National Park to bear witness to the best of natural Scottish beauty. Pristine lochs, endless countryside and beautiful views.

Grantown-on-Spey is a good base here and hosts a street party on the main road for Hogmanay, although nearby Aviemore is also popular with more shops, hotels and restaurants (and tourists). Be sure to visit Loch Garten just after sunrise for a majestic view over the still water and snow-capped mountains.

When returning south, Glenfinnan is quite out of the way but is worth the visit, especially for fans of Harry Potter. Alternatively, a night or two in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is worthwhile for the cool walks, natural beauty and slow pace of life.

Even with the limited hours of daylight, you can still see and experience so much. The roads are well maintained making for easy driving even in less than ideal conditions, although breakdown cover should be considered an essential just in case!

Zoe from Zoe Goes Places

Isle of Skye road trip

One of the best road trips in December has got to be to Scotland and the Scottish islands. With the magical landscape even more transformed by the good chance of snow.

Although bad weather means unreliable (or even unreachable!) crossing conditions to reach the islands, the Isle of Skye is fortunate enough to be the only island connected to the mainland in Scotland by a bridge, making it perfect for road trips in winter.

Take the Skye Bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh and explore this stunning island without the summer crowds.

Don’t miss colourful Portree, drive the Trotternish Loop, see the Fairy Glen and the famous Old Man of Storr (although don’t attempt to climb it in poor weather conditions unless you’re very well-prepared).

While it is possible to do an Isle of Skye day trip in the summer when the days are longer, in the winter it’s suggested that you stay overnight on the Isle of Skye and make the most of the quieter and cheaper accommodation!

Winter road trips in Northern Ireland

Causeway coast road trip.

The Causeway Coast driving route is one of the best road trips for winter, whether you’re planning for the best road trips in February or November, this popular road is well-maintained and well-travelled throughout the year.

Being well connected to Belfast, Londonderry and many other coastal towns and villages in between, this is the perfect easygoing winter road trip UK countries have to offer!

Of course you can’t miss Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO Heritage site, the Giant’s Causeway, there’s also plenty more North Ireland attractions. Don’t miss Downhill Beach, Mussenden Temple, Portrush, Dunluce Castle ruins and the famous Dark Hedges.

You need at least a couple of days on the Causeway route, depending on how many stops you do. There are plenty of places to stay along the way, or you could base yourself in Belfast and take day trips to some of the main coastal attractions.

Summary: Winter road trips in UK

As you can see, there are plenty of good winter road trips in the UK and hopefully this guide has given you some inspiration for your UK winter trips this year as well as some ideas for places to visit in the UK in winter.

Despite the shorter days, travelling in the winter also comes with cheaper accommodation prices, less crowds and an opportunity to see landscapes in a completely new way – maybe even with snow!

Of course being properly prepared is essential for any winter driving. Make sure you have your recovery details to hand should you breakdown, always carry extra layers, food and water. Always let someone know where you’re going, carry snow chains if necessary and make sure your car is in good condition to travel.

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5 Best Winter Road Trips in the UK

Can you go campervanning in britain’s winter months of course with so many varied landscapes, coastal regions and national parks are beautiful at any time of year, opting for a winter road trip in the uk makes exploring them extra special. with fewer people on the road and low season accommodation prices, winter is the perfect time to take a trip. all you need to do is choose a suitable vehicle from our campervan hire in the uk listings, wrap up warm, and hit the road, 5 best winter road trips in the uk: routes you can’t miss, 1. the northern lights, 2. christmas markets.

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The UK's best winter road trips

'tis the season… for a road trip fill your tank and grab your a to z as we explore three unmissable routes through britain's winter wonderland..

Winter is coming to a close and spring is on the horizon. You may be waiting for the weather to warm up before you start thinking about 2023 holiday plans. However, February can be an excellent time of year to travel – especially in the UK – and can provide a much-needed respite from those winter blues. 

Think about it. Fewer crowds, beautiful sunsets, and – if you're lucky – snowfall. It's a romantic time of year – the days are short, the nights are long and the promise of spring is calling. It's the perfect time of year to explore the countries' rich heritage and engross yourself in local culture. We're all for it!

(There's even talk in the news that a winter vacation could be cheaper than heating your house! Just saying…)

So pack your woollies and grab a flask of coffee.  We've put together three memorable excursions to make before the season draws to a close.

Trust us – you'll be warming to the idea in no time. 

1. North Yorkshire – from Pickering to Whitby

Yorkshire is home to some of the most memorable landscapes in the UK. And while you might be tempted to hibernate through the winter, it's a fantastic time of year to visit this beautiful part of the UK.

This trip begins at the southern perimeter of the North York Moors and the North Riding Forest Park in a town called Pickering. This quaint market town boasts some impressive mediaeval history.

Examples include the 12th-century Parish Church decorated with 15th-century wall paintings, as well as Pickering Castle, which was built to fend off the Scots and the Danish Vikings. 

Next, head up towards Dalby Forest via Thornton Dale on the A170 to view its picturesque thatched cottage the Beck Isle. Once in Dalby Forest (part of the broader North Riding Forest Park) you can explore thousands of acres of thicket packed with walking trails and activities.

Providing you don't get lost in the arboreal expanse, head north towards Goathland – the set for Aidensfield in the TV show Heartbeat – and its eccentric railway station where Harry Potter's Hogwarts Express completes its journey from Platform 9¾.

Finally, make your way towards Whitby beach at the mouth of the River Esk. After all that walking and driving, treat yourself to some fish and chips and a donkey ride. Relax and soak in the views of the lighthouses – as well as Whitby Abbey, which was famously visited by Dracula in Bram Stoker's classic horror novel.

2. Brighton and Sussex

Brighton is a top destination for weekend trips in the sun, but it's an underrated winter wonder too. We suggest you combine it with a mini road trip around Sussex to catch the natural beauty of the south.

In Brighton, you'll find plenty to do, from walking along the beach to exploring the north and south lanes and the Royal Pavilion. There's a range of excellent cafes and restaurants to rival any major city, hence the slogan "London by the sea".

Travel east along the coastline to Saltdean which sits on the crest of the South Downs. Walk down to the shingle beach for breathtaking views of the salt cliffs overhanging the promenade. 

From there, drive up to Lewes and visit Lewes castle and Barbican House Museum. Make sure to take a camera as the views from the castle are amazing. Finally, stop at the Pelham Arms for a locally sourced burger and a pint of their locally brewed ale, Abyss. Heaven!

To top it all off, strap on your walking boots and ramble through the South Downs. The Sussex Downs is listed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and it's easy to see why.

On your walk you may come across the Devil's Dyke, a dry valley formation shrouded in folklore but – in reality – caused by extremely cold temperatures 14,000 years ago!

3. The west coast of Scotland – from Glasgow to the Isle of Skye

Let's be honest, it's practically winter all year round in Scotland. Anytime is a good time to visit this beautiful part of the UK and the world. 

If you're the adventurous type and enjoy camping, this dramatic trip along the west coast of Scotland will no doubt take your fancy. 

The trip begins in Glasgow, from where you head towards Glencoe. Glencoe is recognised as the beginning of the highlands, so if you're into hiking it's a great place to stop off and really appreciate the jaw-dropping views.

Next, head northwest towards Arisaig via Fort William on the A830 – the "Road to the Isles". 

Arisaig is a small settlement with a population of 300. There's very little to do (in a good way), except take in the sea air and greet the locals. Why not take a walk around the idyllic village? It's spotted with pretty white houses set upon white sand.

Next, continue on the A830 past Morar and head to Mallaig, a commercial fishing port. From there you can catch a ferry (with or without your car) over to the Isle of Skye.

Once on the Isle of Skye, you'll be spoiled with stunning scenery and a rich local culture.

You might want to sample their whisky, go kayaking or spot some sea eagles. Or you could take a visit to the Dunvegan castle, the home of the Clan Macleod. Or scale the northeast of the island and visit the Old Man of Storr – a large pillar of rock that affords spectacular views of the island.

Setting off in the winter months might be cold, but Skye is very popular in the summer months, so you'll benefit from smaller crowds and easier access to sites. 

Thinking of bracing the cold this month and taking a trip away? We don't blame you. If you don't own a car – or want to give it a break – you could consider renting a car . Metro Vehicle Hire is situated in the northeast and offers a friendly and professional service. Why not contact us for a quick q uote ?

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5 Best UK Destinations for Memorable Winter Road Trips from London

• November 16, 2023
• Published at 8:55 am

As winter blankets the city in a crisp chill, it can be a great opportunity to get out of the city and explore some other areas on the open road. Embarking on winter road trips from London opens up a lot of options. In the UK we’re blessed with everything from charming countryside villages to epic coastal spots. Join us as we explore the top five winter destinations that promise an unforgettable journey from the heart of London.

Need to hire a car for the journey? CitiRental provides flexible, affordable car rental services, straight from our premises in Swiss Cottage, North London. Learn more here.

Our 5 Picks for a UK winter road trip from London

1. Oxford: A Scholarly Winter Haven

Nestled just northwest of London, Oxford transforms into a bit of a winter haven during the colder months. The historical streets and rich history make for charming walks around the city.  If you take a short winter road trip from London to Oxford, then one thing that you must do is check out the charming colleges, each with its unique character. The Bodleian Library and the Radcliffe Camera take on a different allure against the winter backdrop.

Tip: Plan your visit during the Oxford Christmas Market for a festive touch to your winter adventure.

2. The Cotswolds: Classic Countryside Winter Charm

Escape the urban chaos of London and take your car northwest to the Cotswolds, where honey-coloured cottages and rolling hills await! The Cotswolds are full of picturesque villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury, offering the quintessential charm of a winter retreat. The Cotswolds, being only a couple of hours from London, is well equipped to deal with tourists throughout the year. You’ll find no shortage of traditional pubs, restaurants and entertainment options.

Tip: Visit the city of Bath and take in a tour of the Roman Baths

3. The Lake District: Rolling hills & Walking Trials

Head north from London to the Lake District, where winter can (if you’re lucky) change the already serene landscapes into a bit of white snowy haven. 

Being the UK, snow is never guaranteed unfortunately. However, head to the lakes during the Winter months and there is a fair chance you’ll come across some snow capped mountains. A winter road trip from London to the Lake District allows you to really ‘get away from it all’. Yes it will be cold, but it’s a beautiful part of the country and a great place to escape to. 

Tip: Take a scenic drive along Lake Windermere and visit Ambleside for a taste of Lakeland charm.

4. Edinburgh: Scotland’s Capital

Edinburgh, just north of the Scottish border, is a bit further than the other options on this list of winter road trip destinations. That said, it’s more than worthy of it’s place here. 

The Scottish capital, with its historic charm and stunning architecture, is one of the best places to go in Winter for several reasons. Firstly, the Castle, the Christmas Markets and the surroundings create a really cosy, festive atmosphere. Secondly, if you are a keen adventurer, you can take your hire car only a short drive from the city and you’ll be in the highlands, where you can really ‘get lost’. 

One other idea would be to take a walk up to Arthur’s Seat. Choose a clear, crisp winters day and you’ll be rewarded at the top with fantastic, long reaching views of the city and it’s surroundings.

Tip: Don’t miss the Edinburgh Christmas Market for festive treats and handmade crafts.

5. Snowdonia National Park: A Classic Winter Road Trip from London!

When it comes to ‘adventure’, Snowdonia National Park probably wins out. 

North West from London, you’ll be driving for a good 4 or 5 hours to get here, so ideally you’ll want to plan a winter road trip from London that lasts for at least a few nights. Once you’re there, you’ll be in arguably the UK’s best adventure destination.

Snowdonia has been well adapted to tourism, particularly from road users, for a long time now. The most popular mountains to climb (such as Snowdon) all have clearly marked trials, tourist buses and dedicated hotels & hostels. Check out Visit Snowdonia for up to date information on the area.

When you’re in the car, you’ll find some of the best driving roads in the country. Long, sweeping bends through valleys and over mountains (just be careful in the snow)!

Tip: Consider a winter hike or take the Snowdon Mountain Railway for panoramic views.

Conclusion:

From the historic charm of Oxford to the winter adventures of Snowdonia, these five destinations give you a good foundation for planning your next winter road trip from London. So, fuel up, pack your winter essentials, and set out on a journey that combines the thrill of the open road with the magic of the winter season. 

Safe travels on your winter road adventures!

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10 Best Places to Visit in the UK in Winter

For too long, we’ve mainly thought of travel in terms of summer. But the UK is filled with incredible places to visit, too many to fit into just the summer months. Additionally, travelling in winter is often more budget-friendly and ensures you avoid the crowds and traffic jams. So if you can travel outside of summer, then we strongly urge you to consider it! 

1. Lewes, England

Winter in the UK usually peeks around the corner properly for the first time in November. That’s why the charming town of Lewes is first on the list of best places to visit in the UK in November. The town in East Sussex is known mostly for its beautifully preserved medieval streets, historic architecture and rich cultural heritage. The latter is exactly the reason why you should pay this spot a visit in November, as Lewes is mostly famous for its unique and elaborate Bonfire Night celebrations, which are the most renowned in all of the UK. 

The town of Lewes is home to multiple Sussex Bonfire Societies, each with its own parade, bonfire and firework display. It's a place with a vibrant and slightly eccentric atmosphere. The people of Lewes take great pride in Bonfire Night and are great at making it quite the spectacle without the event losing its authenticity. So if you’ve always wanted to take part in a deeply rooted British tradition, Bonfire Night in Lewes is the time and the place. 

2. The Cotswolds, England

Once Bonfire Night is done and quite literally dusted, pretty much the whole of the UK leaps into the Christmas countdown. That’s why you’re probably looking for the best places to visit in the UK in December next, so you can start soaking up the Christmas atmosphere as soon as possible. You’ve come to the right place! Trying to figure out where to go in winter in the UK, especially in December? The answer is The Cotswolds. 

You’re probably familiar with the classic Christmas film ‘The Holiday’, which — let’s be honest — you likely watch each year. This year, why not take a real-life winter stroll past cottages to the likes of the cosy one in which Cameron Diaz bunks up with Jude Law? England doesn’t get cuter than the Cotswolds. Imagine rolling hills, picturesque villages and traditional English pubs, all covered by a little layer of winter frost. There’s nothing quite like warming in front of a roaring log fire with a cup of tea or pint in hand, but doing it in the Cotswolds just adds a little extra charm to the experience. 

3. Birmingham, England 

Gluhwein, pretzels, flammkuchen and cinnamon sprinkled on literally everything… German Christmas markets really are the best. Here’s a sentence we’d never think we’d write, but you may well find the best Christmas bratwurst in… Birmingham. That’s right, the biggest German Christmas market outside Germany and Austria is found on Victoria Square: the  Frankfurt Christmas Market . 

4. Bath, England 

Can’t get enough of the Christmas glee? Head to the next city that starts with a b! If you’d like to behold the city of Bath in all its glory, then December is the month. If only to catch a glimpse of the enormous Christmas tree right next to the beautifully lit abbey. But the whole city is quite a feast for the eyes, and its golden limestone buildings take on an extra warm glow in the winter light. We highly recommend a little trip to the Thermae Bath Spa in particular. It has an open-air rooftop pool that’s been heated to a lush temperature with thermal springs straight from the earth. Warm up your cold bones in natural warmth, and take in the winter night sky, and the stunning city below. 

If soaking under the stars has left you with quite the appetite, move straight from the spa to the grub! Bath is home to numerous cosy tea rooms, cafes and traditional English pubs that form an inviting refuge from the winter chill. Our personal favourite is the classic pie and mash, for which you won't have to look far.  

5. Cairngorms National Park, Scotland  

We wouldn’t dare leave Cairngorms National Park off a list of best places to visit in the UK in winter. It’s also on our list of the best places to visit in the UK in autumn , so if you’re up to date on those then we’re sorry to repeat ourselves, but boy do we love this place! Cairngorms National Park is a stunning destination throughout the whole year, but it holds a particular charm during the winter months.

The quaint village of Braemar is the heart of the park and a wonderful base from which to embark on winter activities such as winter hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Warm right back up in the village’s cosy pubs, in which you can enjoy traditional Scottish cuisine and locally brewed ales in front of the fire. 

Check out our itinerary for driving the snow roads scenic route whilst in the Cairngorms. As the name of this itinerary suggests, winter is the best time to get the best views on this drive. It’s then that the park's peaks are mostly likely to be covered in a thin layer of snow, making the contrast with the dark rock formations of the surroundings truly striking. If you’re on a road trip, you’ll also find ample options for pitching your motorhome here. Especially as we’ve rounded up the best campsites in the Cairngorms for you. 

Photo by  Jonatan Pie  on  Unsplash

6. Cambridge, England 

Speaking of light shows, the beauty of the darker months is that in Britain, we love lighting them right back up again. In many cities, this is done in quite an artful way, such as light shows or even light festivals. One we’d like to highlight, pun intended, in particular, is Cambridge Botanical Lights . 

7. The Isle of Skye, Scotland 

That the Isle of Skye is beautiful isn’t up for debate. But if you haven’t seen it in winter, you have seen nothing yet. The Isle of Skye is one of the best places to visit in the UK in December, as its natural beauty is amplified in the winter. Rugged mountains, dramatic cliffs and serene lochs really do look even more stunning against a backdrop of snow and frost. If you’re into winter photography, then this is the place for you. There’s something magical and enchanting about Scottish landscapes in winter light — but do plan your trip well, as there’s not a lot of it in wintertime. 

Photo by  K B  on  Unsplash

8. Dartmoor National Park, England 

The only place in England that officially allows wild camping, that’s what Dartmoor National Park was long known as. Wild camping in Dartmoor has always been a key driver for lovers of the outdoors to visit the area, until a wealthy local landowner won a court case on the quest to ban it earlier this year. Luckily the national park authority won a widely supported court appeal which allowed wild camping in Dartmoor once again . 

9. Isle of Wight, England 

The Isle of Wight is a captivating destination for many, and a long-time favourite for those seeking a relaxed retreat to escape the bustle of the British mainland. But even on the diamond-shaped isle, the crowds can add up in the summertime, which can result in quite the opposite experience. In winter, however, the thinning crowds make way for one specific kind of visitor: wildlife enthusiasts. 

And with good reason. The island is a haven for birdwatchers in winter, as many migratory birds flock to the island in search of a milder climate. The island experiences a gentler winter than many other parts of the UK due to several geographical and meteorological factors, making it a comfortable place to visit in wintertime for people as well. Thanks to its sunny, warmer-than-average weather the island’s also home to plenty of exotic plants, which is why it is often nicknamed the ‘Garden Isle’. Winter is also the best time to spot seals, dolphins and other marine life from the shores, or from the water on a guided boat tour. 

Photo by  Annie Spratt  on  Unsplash

10. Pembrokeshire, Wales

The UK coastline spans more than 11,000 miles, so it wouldn’t be right to conclude this list of best places to visit in the UK in winter without mentioning another proper coastal destination. If we had to choose one of our favourite coastal destinations to visit in wintertime specifically, it would have to be Pembrokeshire. This wild stretch of Welsh land is dotted with some of the most charming villages.  They have a completely different feel to them when they’re not overflowing with summer crowds, and the same goes for some of the most noteworthy historic sites in the country. The region is especially known for its warm and welcoming hospitality, and it’s very unlikely you’ll meet a local who isn’t eager to share their love for the region. 

Photo by  Carl Jorgensen  on  Unsplash

Travel shouldn’t be restricted to summer, and with these 10 best destinations to visit in the UK in winter, it doesn’t have to be. Experience the joy of travelling outside of peak season, and we promise, you’ll never look back. Don’t let the cold hold you back. On Goboony you can hire plenty of vehicles that are winter-proof, complete with a heater and hot water.   

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Maayke Thompson

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19 Best Road Trips in the UK for Scenic Drives

March 19, 2024

The UK is home to some of the world’s best road trips , with lots of (both official and unofficial) routes zig-zagging across the entirety of the region.

So in this four-wheeled guide, we’ve brought you the 19 best road trips in the UK . I’ve covered routes in all parts of the region, and I’ve included short rides, long rides, coastal journeys, mountainous meanders, and everything in between.

Rev up that engine and come join the fun!

1. The North Coast 500

2. the northumberland coastal route, 3. the north pennines, 4. the arran ring road, 5. the a4069 black mountain pass, 6. the heart 200, 7. the trotternish loop, 8. the snow roads scenic route, 9. the causeway coastal route, 10. the central sperrins route, 11. the cambrian way, 12. the welsh coastal way, 13. the borders historic route, 14. the lake district loop, 15. the atlantic highway, 16. the south west coastal 300, 17. the high mournes scenic loop, 18. the norfolk and suffolk coasts, 19. belleek to teemore, before you go.

I’m starting with my favorite road trip in the whole of the UK.

A 500-mile (800km) loop around the most northern parts of mainland Scotland, the North Coast 500 is iconic and unmissable—and if you’re only going to attempt one ride on this list, you should definitely make it this one. I’ve done this loop twice, and I’ll definitely be doing it again.

People genuinely have no idea how beautiful or remote this part of Scotland is. Along the route, you get fishing villages, charming towns, massive mountains, some of the best beaches you’ve ever seen, and lots of the planet’s best landscapes. Some stretches are unbelievably otherworldly, and totally unlike any other part of the UK.

If you like hiking, you’ll love this ride—it takes you to some of the best, most rugged and most underrated walking spots in the UK, and you could spend years exploring new treks and trails in this area. For walks, I recommend Stac Pollaidh, Torridon, and the shoreside strolls on the west coast (but there are also way more).

For sheer variety and beauty, road trips really don’t get much better than this… and this is one of the best road trips in the UK.

• Location: Scotland
• Distance: 500 miles/800km
• Itinerary: Signposted loop beginning and ending in Inverness (or Applecross), and following the coast for the majority of the way
• Recommended Time: 5-21 days
• Highlights: Ullapool, Torridon, the Bealach na Bà, the tiny villages, the meandering roads, and the beautiful beaches

For me, the Northumberland Coastal Route is the very best road trip in England.

That might be because I’m from the area and I’m very very biased and I absolutely love the place I’m from… but it just might also be because it’s actually true.

If you like remote beaches, isolated shorelines, friendly fishing villages, massive castles, or gigantic portions of heavily-salted fish and chips, you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with this ride.

You start in Tynemouth, just east of the city of Newcastle . From here, you follow the coast all the way to Berwick-upon-Tweed, the last significant settlement before England becomes Scotland.

Along the way, you’ll pass some of my favorite places in the world, including Cresswell, Alnmouth, Amble, Seahouses, Bamburgh, Craster, Bamburgh Castle, Dunstanburgh Castle, and plenty more. If you want history and beaches without countless crowds, it doesn’t get better than this.

Though this is an incredible road trip, it’s actually most famous as the route for the ultra-beautiful Coast and Castles bike ride .

• Location: England
• Distance: Around 75 miles/120km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Tynemouth to Berwick-upon-Tweed, following the coast the entire way
• Recommended Time : 3-5 days
• Highlights: Tynemouth, Cresswell, Alnmouth, Craster, Bamburgh Castle, Dunstanburgh Castle, lots of friendly faces, lots of fish and chips, and a whole load of quiet towns and beaches

If you’re looking for underrated and under-the-radar, this is the best English road trip on our list.

I love the North Pennines. A bleak, barren and boggy range of peaks in northern England, this is the best mountainous area if you’re looking for remote, rural hikes without lots of other people.

It’s a very unique area. While most hilly regions are green and verdant, this place is sort of apocalyptic and empty, but in a strangely attractive way.

It’s also a great choice if you want a short trip—the route I’m recommending measures only 40 miles (65km).

Start in Lambley, a village famous for its massive viaduct. From here, head south to lovely Alston, my favorite town in the area. Keep heading south and you’ll hit Garrigill, Ashgill Force waterfall, and the ever-popular town of pretty Barnard Castle.

If you want to add a detour, I recommend hiking up Cross Fell , the tallest peak in the North Pennines. The highest point in England outside the Lake District, it sits at a lofty 893 meters (2,930 feet).

• Distance: Around 40 miles/65km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Lambley to Barnard Castle
• Recommended Time : 1-3 days
• Highlights: Lambley Viaduct, Alston, Ashgill Force, Barnard Castle, the optional detour to Cross Fell, and exploring a barren-but-beautiful area

Another circular Scottish route, this is one of the best road trips in the UK for completionists who like feeling as if they’ve seen the entirety of one particular place.

Off the west coast of mainland Scotland, you have the Isle of Arran… which is famously known as ‘Scotland in miniature.’

It comes with that reputation because it offers most of the same things as mainland Scotland. You get great beaches , excellent hikes , multi-day walking and cycling trails, fantastic food, friendly faces, varied wildlife , and some of the cutest coastal settlements you’ve probably ever seen.

If you want to see pretty much the entirety of the island, you can drive around its whole perimeter by riding the Arran ring road. It measures in at only 56 miles (90km), but it brings you close to everything you could want to see .

Make sure you hike up Goatfell, walk some stretches of the Arran Coastal Way , and spend some time exploring towns and villages.

• Distance: 56 miles/90km
• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Brodick, following Arran’s entire coast in a big circle
• Recommended Time : 2-7 days
• Highlights: Seeing all of Arran’s highlights, some of the best beaches you’ve ever seen, the Arran Coastal Way, an ascent up Goatfell, and the settlements of Brodick, Lochranza and Blackwaterfoot

The A4069 Black Mountain Pass is only a short journey, but it’s the most famous road trip in Wales by a long way, and it’s absolutely incredible.

Sitting in the western side of the Brecon Beacons (a massive range of mountains in the south of Wales) , rides this short don’t normally have views this good. Famous for appearing on British TV show Top Gear, the route offers jagged peaks, massive passes, and some of the best panoramas that Wales has to offer.

Notorious for its tight bends, hairpin turns, suddenly-there sheep, and stomach-churning scenery, this is an adrenaline junkie’s dream. That said, it’s not as dangerous as some people like to pretend… so as long as you’re a competent driver, you’ll definitely be comfortable.

If you like mountains, or if you’re looking for a short but brilliant ride, this is one of the best road trips in the UK. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to stop for photographs (there are lots of laybys where you can pull in to get your camera out) .

• Location: Wales
• Distance: 20 miles/32km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Llandovery to Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen, across the A4069 road in the Brecon Beacons
• Recommended Time : 1 hour
• Highlights: A short ride, an exhilarating adventure, hitting the most famous road in Wales, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery that the UK has to offer

The Heart 200 is one of the newest official road trips in Scotland. And unlike the North Coast 500, it takes you in a loop through the center of the nation, instead of on a tour around the outskirts.

The idea behind this ride is that it journeys through the heart of the nation, hitting lots of the most popular tourist spots. It runs between two excellent national parks: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, and the Cairngorms National Park (which is the biggest national park in the UK).

In between those parks, you also hit Perth, Stirling, Pitlochry, Callander, Bridge of Allan, Loch Tay, Loch Earn, Loch Leven, and loads more great stuff. The whole route is signposted… which is useful, because the ride meanders a maze-like route through this part of the nation.

For lots of people, the highlights here are all the cute towns and villages, and there are dozens of tiny places dotted around the route. If you like exploring small settlements, this is one of the best road trips in the UK.

• Distance: 158 miles/320km
• Itinerary: Loop starting and ending in Perth or Stirling, following the official signposts all the way
• Recommended Time : 3-7 days
• Highlights: Perth, Stirling, Pitlochry, Bridge of Allan, Loch Tay, Loch Leven, and exploring the outskirts of two of the UK’s best national parks

Sort of similar to the Arran route I’ve outlined above, the Trotternish Loop takes you around an island. But this time, it’s the much-more-famous Isle of Skye —and you don’t see the entirety of the place.

Instead, you see the whole of the Trotternish Peninsula, where you’ll find lots of Skye’s most famous attractions. The most northern part of the Isle of Skye, the Trotternish Peninsula is a finger-shaped area full of attractions and adventures. The most famous parts of this place include the Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, Mealt Falls, and the island’s capital of Portree.

But you’ll also see Staffin, Uig, Rubha Hunish, the Fairy Glen, the dinosaur footprints of An Corran Beach, and plenty more.

Even if you don’t make any en-route stops, the drive itself is still phenomenal, offering some of the most dramatic landscapes in all of Scotland. If you’re visiting Skye, you should absolutely drive along the Trotternish Loop.

• Distance: 50 miles/80km
• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Portree, following the coast for pretty much the entire ride
• Recommended Time : 2-4 days
• Highlights: The Quiraing, the Old Man of Storr, Mealt Falls, Rubha Hunish, the Fairy Glen, Portree, the dramatic drive itself, and seeing lots of Skye’s highlights in one big trip

If you want a real adventure, this is one of the best road trips in the UK. It takes you through some of the highest parts of the Cairngorms, the biggest (and arguably most impressive) national park in the UK.

Riding through some of the most mountainous parts of Scotland, the Snow Roads Scenic Route climbs through the highest public road in Britain (and, consequently, typically the first road to be hit by seasonal snowfall, which gives the route its name).

Because it’s so high, this is the best ride on our list for panoramic views—along the way, you’ll see lots of peaks and passes. The highest point is Cairnwell Pass, which sits at a loftily-impressive height of 670 meters (2,200 feet).

Full of tight turns and hair-raising switchbacks, you need to be fairly confident to drive this one. But the roads are well-surfaced, and the infrastructure is great (with lots of designated photo-grabbing opportunities along the way, which are purposely placed in the most scenic spots).

By road, there’s no better way to explore the Cairngorms… and this ride is a mountain-lover’s dream.

• Distance: 90 miles/144km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Blairgowrie to Grantown-On-Spey, following the signposts all the way
• Highlights: Cairnwell Pass, Tomintoul, Corgarff Castle , the photo opportunities, the winding roads, and seeing many Cairngorms highlights without ever needing to leave your car

The most famous road trip in Northern Ireland by a long way, The Causeway Coastal Route runs from Derry to Belfast along the northern and eastern coasts of the nation.

It’s most well-known for passing the Devil’s Causeway (the only UNESCO site in Northern Ireland, and the location that gives the route its name). Make sure you stop to see it—it’s one of the strangest geological oddities in this part of the planet.

But the highlights run way beyond that… you get beaches, coastal walks, some surprisingly good inland hikes, Dunluce Castle , Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge , and super-friendly towns and villages.

If you’re only going to tackle one road trip in Northern Ireland, you should probably make it this one. It’s a particularly good choice if you’re a big fan of detours — there are nine official side-trip loops along the route, and they all make your journey bigger, better, much more scenic, and a lot more adventurous.

You should also give yourself enough time to explore both Derry and Belfast, two excellent cities. Tiny Derry in particular is super charming, and it’s one of my favorite settlements in the UK.

• Location: Northern Ireland
• Distance: 130 miles/212km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Derry to Belfast, running all the way along the coast
• Highlights: The Devil’s Causeway, Derry and Belfast themselves, lots of excellent detours, endless coastal walks, Dunluce Castle, Carrickfergus Castle, seeing a massive chunk of Northern Ireland, and riding around the nation’s most famous road trip

In the northwest of Northern Ireland, you have the Sperrins, a mountainous area that takes up almost a quarter of the nation. They’re not the tallest or most well-known mountains in the area, but they’re brimming with hikes, drives, cycling routes, lakes, valleys, historical sites, and some of Northern Ireland’s most overlooked adventures.

In and around the entirety of the Sperrins, there are four official driving routes , taking you to various parts of the area. Of them all, the Central Sperrins Route is the longest, the most comprehensive, and (arguably) the best.

This particular route takes you very close to the summit of Sawel, the highest peak in the area. It’s not massive (measuring in at only 678 meters/2,224 feet), but it’s a great hike.

Other highlights along the way include Baronscourt Forest, Gortinglen Forest, Glenelly Valley, the climb up Mullaghcarn, the villages of Donemana and Sion Mills, and the medieval Aghascrebagh Ogham Stone.

And of course, if you want to add even more action and adventure to your ride, you can add an extra Sperrin road trip or two to your route (all four are joined to one another).

• Distance: 90 miles/145km
• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in various possible places, but the best choice is Strabane
• Highlights: Strabane, Baronscourt Forest, Gortinglen Forest, Glenelly Valley, the ascents up Sawel and Mullaghcarn, exploring an underrated part of Northern Ireland, and the exciting option of adding extra road trips

If you want to see lots of Wales and lots of mountains, The Cambrian Way is one of the best road trips in the UK.

The longest Welsh ride we’ve featured on our list, it’s an official route, and it’s probably the most popular road trip in the nation. It runs from the Welsh capital of Cardiff (right in the south of the nation) through to Conwy, a castled resort town on the nation’s northern coast.

But though it begins and ends in coastal territory, the route mainly passes over mountains. It runs through the Brecon Beacons, Elan Valley, the Cambrian Mountains, and parts of Snowdonia National Park.

If you want to take some hilly hiking detours, you have endless options. Snowdon is of course the most popular choice, but there are also lots of wanders in and around nearby Beddgelert. But don’t overlook the southern mountain ranges, which are quieter and arguably more interesting.

Non-hiking highlights include the narrow-gauge Brecon Mountain Railway , Gwydir Castle , and Adventure Parc Snowdonia , but there’s plenty more fun.

• Distance: 240 miles/386km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Cardiff to Conwy via the Brecon Beacons, Elan Valley, the Cambrian Mountains, and parts of Snowdonia National Park
• Recommended Time : 2-10 days
• Highlights: Endless hiking side-trips, Snowdonia National Park, Elan Valley, Conwy, Cardiff, and tackling the longest Welsh road trip on our list

Another official Welsh road trip, the Coastal Way is another south-to-north odyssey through Wales.

But instead of cutting inland through peaks and passes, it instead runs along the coast, taking riders along some of the nation’s best beaches and coastal settlements. The route meanders from St Davids to Aberdaron, following the coast pretty much all the way.

If you like seas, sands and shores, this is one of the best road trips in the UK. Some of the best beaches along the route include Whitesands Bay, Tywyn Beach, and Llangrannog Beach, but there are many more. Make sure you also stop off at the lovely seaside settlements of Abersoch, Cardigan, Aberaeron, and Llangrannog.

All of that said, this ride isn’t all beaches and bays—you also get some good inland hiking opportunities. The northern part of the ride runs west of Snowdonia National Park, while the southern Preseli Hills are great for low-level wanders.

Last of all, make sure you also spend some time in both St Davids and Aberdaron. While St Davids is the pilgrimage-famed smallest city in Britain, Aberdaron is a quaint former fishing village.

• Distance: 180 miles/290km
• Itinerary: Linear route from St Davids to Aberdaron, following the coast all the way
• Recommended Time : 3-10 days
• Highlights: Whitesands Bay, Tywyn Beach, Llangrannog Beach, Abersoch, Cardigan, Aberaeron, St Davids, the Preseli Hills, and seeing countless hidden highlights of the beautiful Welsh coast

The Borders Historic Route is the most underrated Scottish road trip we’ve featured on this list.

Starting from just inside England, the ride then runs all the way to Edinburgh, passing through some of the most history-stuffed parts of southern Scotland.

If you’re interested in history and heritage, make sure you check out Gilnockie Tower , Abbotsford House , and the National Mining Museum of Scotland . And of course, when you reach Scotland’s capital of Edinburgh , there’s plenty of historic stuff to explore there too.

Along the route, you’ll also pass some serene towns and villages, including Langholm, Hawick, Selkirk and Galashiels.

Broadly speaking, this route is very rural and quiet, with lots of rarely-visited settlements and attractions. If you’re interested in Scottish history, lowland Scotland, or being surrounded by few other tourists, you’ll definitely love this ride. It’s not the most dramatic or scenic route in Scotland, but it’s endlessly charming.

• Location: Scotland (and a tiny bit of England)
• Distance: 89 miles/143 km
• Itinerary: Linear waymarked route from Scots Dyke to Edinburgh
• Recommended Time : 3-4 days
• Highlights: Exploring an underrated part of Scotland, the settlements of Hawick, Selkirk and Galashiels, the borderland lowlands, the history and heritage, and an excellent finale in Edinburgh

For seeing very-famous places, this is definitely one of the best road trips in the UK.

The Lake District National Park is the most well-known hiking hub in the entirety of England, and masses of locals travel here for hiking, cycling, swimming, and various other outdoor adventures.

There are endless beautiful drives in and around the region, but for seeing lots of the highlights, here’s what I recommend…

Start in Ambleside, right in the middle of the park. Head east (via the shores of Ullswater) to Pooley Bridge, then cut west to Keswick and Cockermouth. From Cockermouth, head south to Broughton-in-Furness, then back to Ambleside to complete your route.

If you take no detours (though you probably will!), this ride clocks in at 110 miles (177km).

It’s impossible to squeeze all of the Lake District highlights into one drive, but this route does a pretty good job of doing exactly that. It offers Helvellyn, Coniston Water, Keswick, Windermere, Ullswater, all the places we’ve already mentioned, and some of the best panoramas of the park’s various areas.

If you have time, I recommend hiking up Helvellyn, and walking along the entire southern shore of Ullswater.

• Distance: 110 miles/177km
• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Ambleside, via Ullswater, Pooley Bridge, Keswick, Cockermouth, and Broughton-in-Furness
• Highlights: Ambleside, Coniston Water, Keswick, Windermere, seeing the most famous national park in the UK, hiking up Helvellyn, and walking along the shores of Ullswater

Probably the most well-known driving route in England, The Atlantic Highway runs across some of the most famous beaches in the UK.

The ‘Atlantic Highway’, in truth, is just a better-sounding name for the A39 road, a beautiful drive that runs through a western part of southern England.

Though most people only drive from Bridgwater to Bude (which is around 100 miles/160km), I think it’s best to take the route a little further, traveling all the way from Bath to Newquay. If you take the longer route, it measures in at around 210 miles (338km).

Along the way, you’ll pass some of the best parts of the Devon and Cornwall coasts, which many people think are the best shorelines in the whole of the UK. And as another big perk, this is one of the warmest parts of the region, perfect if you’re trying to dodge shoddy weather.

One of the best road trips in the UK for seas and sands, it’s phenomenal. But be warned: it gets outrageously busy in summer… so you should expect lots of crowds and traffic, and you should try to tackle it outside of peak season.

• Distance: Around 210 miles/338km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Bath to Newquay, following the coastline all the way
• Recommended Time : 5-10 days
• Highlights: Bath, Bude, Porlock, Ilfracombe, Woolacombe, lots of beaches, cliffs and sands, and enjoying the warm climes of the hottest part of the UK

The South West Coastal 300 takes you to some of the most overlooked parts of Scotland’s brilliant coastline.

Most people have heard about the northern and northwestern coastlines of Scotland… but way fewer know about all the treats and treasures on Scotland’s southwestern coast.

Some of the highlights include Ayr, Stranraer, Newton Stewart, the Mull of Galloway lighthouse, Girvan, Portpatrick, Moffat and Whithorn. Portpatrick in particular is a big local hotspot, and it’s one of my favorite seaside villages in Scotland.

You also get great seafood, rolling hills, mini lochs, and some underrated hiking opportunities. The entire route circles around Galloway Forest Park , which I think is the best walking region in southern Scotland. Best of all, because this area isn’t yet overrun by tourists, locals are super friendly and welcoming, and love chatting with visitors.

If you want beaches, hikes and villages without crowds, this is one of the best road trips in the UK.

• Distance: 300 miles/482km
• Itinerary: Signposted loop starting and ending in many potential places (but Dumfries is best)
• Recommended Time : 7-14 days
• Highlights: Newton Stewart, Girvan, Portpatrick, the stretch of coast between Ayr and Stranraer, Galloway Forest Park, great seafood, and enjoying coasts without crowds

The High Mournes Scenic Loop takes you through the most impressive part of the Mournes mountains, in the southern part of Northern Ireland.

If you’re looking for short but impressive, this is one of the best road trips in the UK, and it’s crammed with peaks, panoramas and passes at every twist, turn, and hairpin bend.

In and around the area, there are mountains, lakes, seaside views, and forests—so although the route only clocks in at 32 miles (51km), there’s a huge amount of variety. Best of all, the route skirts around Slieve Donard, the highest mountain in Northern Ireland (with a highest point of 850 meters/2790 feet).

Start in the beautiful seaside town of Newcastle, then follow the B180 and the B27 roads, which will lead you to the village of Attica. From Attica, head east, and you’ll hit Annalong, a tiny marina-fronted village where most people end their trip. But I recommend not stopping here—instead, you should turn this trip into a loop by riding along the coast back to Newcastle.

It’s almost unbelievable how much beauty, variety and awe you can cram into a trip this small. If you’re short on time, I 100% recommend it.

• Distance: 32 miles/51km
• Itinerary: Loop beginning and ending in Newcastle
• Recommended Time : 1-3 hours
• Highlights: Newcastle, Annalong, climbing up Slieve Donard, pretty coastal views, the tucked-away lakes, and seeing what might just be the most dramatic mountains in Northern Ireland

Though they’re famous, the Norfolk and Suffolk Coasts (in the southeast of England) are often overlooked in favor of the coastlines in the southwest of England (where you find the Atlantic Highway, which we’ve already outlined).

But this region is absolutely beautiful, and it’s definitely worth exploring.

Because it’s such a big area, there are of course lots of routes you can attempt in the region. But I’m going to recommend driving from Felixstowe to Huntstanton, which is a pretty lengthy drive of around 180 miles (290km).

If you ride the whole route, you’ll hit the three best parts of the region: the Norfolk Coast Area of Natural Beauty, The Norfolk Broads, and The Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Natural Beauty.

The coastlines are the most famous part of this ride, but this part of the nation also has some pretty good low-level hills and hiking… if you want a compromise between shorelines and mountains, you won’t find any better than this.

If you’re interested in birds, this is one of the best road trips in the UK—there are many RSPB reserves in this part of the region.

• Distance: Around 180 miles/290km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Felixstowe to Huntstanton, following the coast all the way
• Recommended Time : 5-8 days
• Highlights: Hunstanton, Blakeney Point (where you’ll find the largest seal colony in England), Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, and the three officially-designated areas of natural beauty

Another great option for a short ride, the route from Belleek to Teemore is in an underrated part of Northern Ireland, and it’s brimming with endless lakeside views.

It’s not an official drive, but it’s one of my favorites… and it’s absolutely beautiful. But here’s the important part: when you tackle it, don’t take the direct route. Instead, follow the A46 out of Belleek, which will bring you along the southwestern shores of Lower Lough Erne.

One of the prettiest lakes in Northern Ireland, it’s full of great views, excellent picnic spots, and lots of tiny islands. Other highlights along this part of the route include the Cliffs of Magho , Blackslee Waterfall , and Tully Castle .

Eventually, you’ll hit the town of Enniskillen, which is great for an overnight stay. From here, pass both Lisnaskea and Teemore on a pretty ride which takes you over the shores of Upper Lough Erne.

During this part of the ride, make sure you check out the oddly-situated Hare Krishna Temple, which sits on a small island inside the lake.

When you get to Teemore, you’re super close to the Republic of Ireland border. I recommend crossing the border for even more adventures!

• Distance: 38 miles/61km
• Itinerary: Linear route from Belleek to Teemore, via Enniskillen
• Recommended Time : 1-2 days
• Highlights: The Cliffs of Magho, Blackslee Waterfall, Teemore, Enniskillen, the strange Hare Kirishna temple, lots of tiny islands, and endless lakeside views

And that brings us to the end of our guide to the 19 best road trips in the UK . Thanks for reading!

We compiled this list from our collections of the best road trips in England , the best road trips in Scotland , the best road trips in Wales and the best road trips in Northern Ireland . So for even more detail, rev on over to those.

And if you’re curious, here’s the answer to the popular question: How Long Does it Take To Travel Across Great Britain?

About the author

Senior Travel Reporter

Paul is a handsome and hilarious travel writer and travel journalist from the UK. He's hiked, hitchhiked and laughed his way through more than fifty countries, and he's always looking for a new place to call home. Originally from Newcastle, he's lived all over the UK, spent more than three years in Asia, and most recently lived in Vietnam and then in Georgia.

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10 of the best road trips in the UK and Ireland

By Sarah James

There’s no need to fly to the USA’s Route 66 or the Australian Outback for an epic road trip – the UK offers some of the most picturesque, otherworldly drives anywhere in the world. In Scotland , hardy travellers take on the wind-battered Highlands to be rewarded with some of the country’s most incredible scenery, while a jaunt along the coastal roads of the West Country allows for stops in salty beach towns and vast national parks. These are the nine best road trips in the UK, ranging from full-on adventurous to a more peaceful experience.

1. The Peak District

When to go: in spring, to see the wildflowers from the back windows. 

How long to go for: four days should do it. 

People go to the Peaks to walk. But the roads are worth the odd meandering drive too. The most famous course is Snake Pass, aptly named for the route it carves through the Pennines, at points a vertigo-inducing 1679 feet above sea level. The river Ashop runs alongside, giving life to fields of wildflowers in spring and summer. Elsewhere, seek out the best views in the Peaks at Site of Special Scientific Interest Winnats Pass, a limestone valley known for its fossils and ancient rocks. 

The caramel-hued façade of Chatsworth House is the movie star of the area (spot it in the 2005 adaptation of  Pride and Prejudice,   Peaky Blinders , and another Keira Knightley flick  The Duchess.  Pretty village Edale, plonked at the start of the Pennine Way, is a bunch of cottages and farms backed by rolling hills to stop in for lunch or a cup of tea. 

Where to stay: Check out the prettiest Airbnbs in the Peak District for a base of your own. 

2. North Coast 500, Scotland

When to go: winter, when the countryside is at its most dramatic and you can warm up next to log fires in pubs and inns.

How long to go for: at least five days – more if you want to visit the Hebrides too.

This route through the vast and imposing Scottish Highlands stretches for 500 miles on a round trip from Inverness. Driving clockwise through the wild and raw landscape, the road first hits Loch Ness, which is well worth a stop to take in its inky, broad waters – monster or no monster. Driving west to Kyle of Lochalsh takes another two hours. From here, you can reach the Isle of Skye via the land bridge. Although this part of the Hebrides isn’t technically part of the route, it’s worthy of a detour – the dramatic Cuillin mountains back the mist-shrouded castles and expanses of countryside. 

Back on the mainland and continuing northbound, the North Coast 500 winds through Ullapool – in our opinion, one of the most beautiful villages in the UK – a port where the whitewashed fishermen’s cottages dot the harbour jutting right into Loch Broom. Hugging the northwest coastline, next stop for the night in Sutherland. John O’Groats, another 60 miles north-east, is the other Land’s End, connecting the 837-mile pilgrimage from Cornwall (from here you can take passenger ferries to the Orkney islands, too). Freewheel back down the eastern coast to end once again in Inverness.

Where to stay: Book a night at Kinloch Lodge , a historic family hotel perched on the edge of sea loch na Dal. In Sutherland, stay at Lundies House – run by Danish couple Anne and Anders Holch Povlsen, this is one of the smartest hideouts in the Highlands to check into.

3. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

When to go: in spring, when the wildflower meadows and pastures are at their prettiest.

How long to go for: Take a couple of weeks to properly explore.

1,500 miles of coastal highway makes up Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way . The craggy cliffs hug the western shoreline from Donegal in the north, all the way down to the south coast and County Cork. The route twists past some of the most beautiful places in Ireland . It’s a long road, so this is a trip to take some time over, rather than a quick weekend jaunt. Start in Donegal, which has some of Ireland’s best beaches (Port Arthur near Derrybeg is one of the most glorious, while Bundoran is the area’s surfing capital).

Driving down the coast, the road winds through Sligo, the country which most inspired Yeats (and more recently, of Normal People fame), and into Connemara. It’s a rocky stretch of countryside and national park that sits right on the Atlantic, dotted with waterside castles and traditional pubs that hum with live music. Next, Galway – possibly Ireland’s most creative city right now, known for its quirky tone and innovative food scene – before driving past the towering Cliffs of Moher, which have some of the best views on the route. The Wild Atlantic Way finishes in the pretty fishing town of Kinsale in County Cork.

Where to stay: Built as a sporting retreat in the mid 1830s by the Marquis of Sligo, Delphi Lodge is a lovely old pile at the top of a deep, remote valley just north of Killary Harbour.

For more options, see our pick of the best road trips in Ireland.

When to go: in summer, when the beach towns are at their finest.

How long to go for: you can explore pretty thoroughly on a long weekend.

This is big-sky country, dominated by sweeping beaches and flat-as-a-pancake farmlands. Back in the 19th century, some of Norfolk ’s beach towns were a draw for the well-to-do to take to the water, and there’s a sense of faded Victoriana to many of the old-school seaside locations dotted along the coast. Start a good, old-fashioned road trip in Norwich, which in 2012 became England's first Unesco City of Literature and is packed out with old buildings turned into antique shops and restaurants serving Cromer crab (we like Benedicts). Wind into the Norfolk Broads, made up of more than 125 miles of waterways, before skipping northbound along the seaside towns that dot the coast.

The entire stretch of the north Norfolk shoreline is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – seek out Wells-next-the-Sea, a pretty seaside town with candy-coloured beach huts and classic bucket-and-spade charm, or vast and wild Holkham Beach for four miles of wind-whipped golden sands backed by pine dunes. The beach is part of the grand Holkham Estate, also home to The Victoria Inn – a red-brick, ivy-covered 19th-century inn with smart rooms. Driving away from the coast, the heath-like landscape of south Norfolk is brilliant for tramping across in any weather. Thetford Forest and nearby Breckland are Special Protection Areas where wildlife wanders freely – golden pheasant, roe deer and hare can all be found.

Where to stay: the area is home to one of the loveliest log cabins in the UK , Settle , a Scandi-inspired hideout set beside a lake with a wood-burning fire, candles and plenty of blankets. Or rustic inn The Chequers Inn in Thornham has a gorgeous restaurant.  

5. Cotswolds

When to go: in spring or autumn, when there are less visitors.

How long to go for: a weekend should be long enough to see lots of the Cotswolds’ nicest villages.

It’s the favourite weekend escape of Londoners whizzing out of the city and tourists hot-footing it to the buttery stone towns in search of a quintessential British hamlet. A clever route stitches together the prettiest Cotswolds villages – start in Wiltshire’s Castle Combe, where the streets wind around a low-lying stream, before driving north to sweet Bibury (described by William Morris as England’s most beautiful village) for a brisk walk along the River Coln. Thatched-roof pub with rooms Artist Residence was taken over by the team responsible for smart, art-filled hotels in Brighton, London and Cornwall, and is now packed with neon signs, tin baths and cosy wood burners.

The next morning, fuel up in Kingham, where the Daylesford farm shop sells just-picked fruit and vegetables that will remedy any hangover, before driving on through the closely connected towns of Bourton-on-the-Water, Lower and Upper Slaughter and Stow on the Wold. End up in Broadway, the north Cotswolds’ biggest hitter for all the right reasons, where there’s top-notch antique-seeking and plenty of spots for a proper pub lunch.

Where to stay: Spend the night at Artist Residence Oxfordshire in sleepy South Leigh. 

6. Atlantic Highway

When to go: in summer for a jaunt along this sunny coastal route.

How long to go for: at least a week.

Taking in a string of south-west England’s salty beach towns, the Atlantic Highway knots together a course through Somerset , Devon and Cornwall. Pick up a car in honey-stoned, genteel Bath or eclectic, graffitied Bristol and drive through Somerset’s rolling farmlands towards the Devonshire border. We recommend nipping away from the route to work in a stop in Bruton, arguably the West Country’s most creative town. Hauser & Wirth opened an outpost here in 2014, putting the area firmly on the art world’s radar, and a clutch of smart hotels and farm-to-fork restaurants followed.

Hop back on the Atlantic Highway – also known, rather less romantically, as the A39 – and into lush Exmoor National Park. Stop for the night at The Nap , a log cabin with a wood-fired hot tub about 30 minutes away. The next morning, the drive continues into north-east Cornwall – through Bude, whose bustling surf spot Summerleaze is one of the best Cornwall beaches , and south along the coast to foodie neighbours Port Isaac and Padstow. Finish at Land’s End, where the Atlantic crashes into the jagged shoreline at the most westerly point of mainland England .

Where to stay: Book a night at Number One Bruton , a Grade-II listed Georgian house that's a mix of colour and comfort. In Cornwall, stay at the Idle Rocks in St Mawes for a classic seaside escape. 

7. Yorkshire

When to go: in autumn, when the moorland is tawny and walks along the beach are brisk and wind-whipped.

How long to go for: four or five days should do it.

The windswept North York Moors contains one of the largest heather moorlands in England. It's a stark landscape, which makes it all the more beautiful. Walking routes are plotted throughout, dotted with vibrant wildflowers, and there are boundless views of the seemingly never-ending surrounding countryside. Driving through the national park towards the coast leads to a string of nostalgic Victorian and Edwardian seaside towns running along the shoreline. Fishing port Whitby Harbour is dominated by the ruins of a seventh-century castle which sits on a cliff overlooking the village, while Scarborough is a seriously old-school spot for fish and chips on the South Bay promenade.

Driving inland once more, a stop in Malton reveals a Yorkshire market town undergoing an artisanal regeneration, with independent bakeries, cheese makers and coffee roasteries cropping up throughout its cobbled streets. 

Where to stay: Stay overnight at The Talbot , a coaching inn that had a bohemian makeover in 2019 that turned it into a smart hotel with river views and a brilliant restaurant. Finish up in York, the historic centre of the region.

CNT Editors

Charley Ward

Olivia Morelli

Arati Menon

8. Lake District

When to go: in spring or autumn, when the changing seasons make the landscapes shift daily.

How long to go for: a long weekend.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Lake District is also England’s most-visited national park. Start at Windermere, a huge natural lake (the largest in England, in fact), before driving to smaller but more peaceful Wastwater. The spot, surrounded by barren, imposing fells, has been voted Britain's favourite view and the nearby village Nether Wasdale is a brilliant stopping-off point for a pint at one of the handful of microbreweries in town. Just north is Ennerdale Water, the most remote lake in the national park and therefore one of the quietest, which has a seven-mile walking route around its inky shoreline.

Driving further north still, the Lakes Distillery near Bassenthwaite Lake does tours of the renovated Victorian farm, where the team makes everything from whiskies to pink-grapefruit gins. Stay the night at Sharrow Bay, which sits right on the water at Ullswater and has pretty views. Plus, this is where the sticky-toffee pudding was invented, making it worthy of a pit-stop if only for a taste of the original sweet treat.

Where to stay: At Another Place , a low-key country-house hotel sitting plum overlooking Ullswater. 

When to go: in the summer you can join in with the watersports offered along the coast.

How long to go for: a weekend will be long enough to nip between these scenic stop-offs.

Darting through some of the prettiest places in Wales on a road trip is a brilliant way to see the country. Head to the Brecon Beacons as a first port of call – this national park’s mountains and valleys start near the border with England and continue for 45 miles into the Welsh countryside. Hike Pen y Fan, the highest peak in the area, for serious views of the surrounding summits and rivers. On the drive west from the Brecon Beacons to the coast, make sure to drop into Carmarthen, a cute market town which is about half an hour from Ginst Point, one of the best beaches in Wales . 

Continue up the shoreline with a pit-stop in St David’s, the smallest city by population in Britain, and Solva Harbour, where the little sweeping inlet is surrounded by colourful houses that give it an Italian fishing-village feel. Next, head to Aberaeron, another port town that peaked as a holiday spot around the same time as Brighton. Take a stroll around Cardigan Bay harbour, followed by oyster happy hour at the Harbourmaster hotel in Aberaeron. 

Where to stay: Stop for a night at the Grove of Narberth , a rural Pembrokeshire hotel. Set in a 17th-century manor house, it also has cottages to take over as your own. The Harbourmaster has 13 very cosy bedrooms for those who have their fill of Welsh craft beer in the pub downstairs. 

10. Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

When to go: in summer, when the days are at their longest

How long to go for: take your time over four or five days.

This road trip covers more than 200 miles between Belfast and Derry, starting in the buzzing capital. Less visited by travellers until recently, Belfast has gained ever-increasing popularity as a city break in Europe . There’s an attraction named after the Titanic to explore, and a grand nightlife scene to get stuck into. About an hour’s drive north of Belfast is Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 40,000 basalt columns that make up this massive, nature-made monument were formed 50 to 60 million years ago.

About 25 minutes inland, an avenue of beech trees known as the Dark Hedges is worth a detour. The eerie road was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones – there’s actually a clutch more spots from the HBO show on this route, including Sallagh Braes, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the dramatic Cushendun Caves. The trip finishes in Derry, Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, where the brilliant Channel 4 sitcom Derry Girls is set.

Where to stay: The Merchant Hotel is a monument to Mammon, gilded and tasselled within an inch of its life.

UK Road Trip – 18 Unmissable Routes

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Top United Kingdom Road Trip Ideas

If you want to escape day-to-day life, explore new destinations and enjoy travel freedom, then plan a UK road trip. And where better than in the glorious isles of the United Kingdom, where landscapes vary from the gentle to the dramatic, and roads thread through the patchwork countryside between quaint villages and historic towns?

Whether you’re looking for an epic Scottish adventure through highlands and glens, a gentle potter along one of England’s beautiful coastlines, a fast-paced action-packed Welsh road trip, or you like Northern Ireland’s road less travelled, you’ll find it here, amongst our collection of the eighteen best road trips in the United Kingdom.

If you’ve got wheels, we’ve got the best UK road trip ideas for you!

Getting to the UK

The UK has over 40 airports meaning there will be one which is perfectly located for the start point of your road trip. We recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

• London Heathrow, Gatwick and Stanstead, Manchester, Newcastle and Birmingham are best for English road trips .
• Fly into Belfast City and Belfast International for Northern Irish road trips .
• Head for Edinburgh and Glasgow International for Scottish road trips .
• Cardiff, Bristol or Birmingham Airport are best for Welsh road trips .

You can hire a car  at any of these airports and be on your chosen UK driving route within an hour of landing. Book your rental car well in advance and use a car hire booker like Rentalcars.com  who will provide the best deals from all the top car hire companies.  How?  Because they have such a large market share, they’ve got way more buying power than individuals and can negotiate much harder on price.

For a real adventure , hire a motorhome or campervan in the UK. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Best Time to Take a UK Road Trip

December to february.

The winter months in the UK are often cold and wet, more so if you head to Scotland or Northern Ireland. Although other visitors will be thinner on the ground, the weather may hinder you from seeing everything you want to, accommodation options may be limited and the driving experience will be a lot less enjoyable.

March to May

Late spring is a wonderful time to visit the UK, as the cold and wet retreats and gives way to kinder weather. Wildflowers appear, baby animals abound and life picks up a lively pace again. But, remember that the country is so lush because it rains frequently, so always be prepared for a downpour, or a few drizzly days when you plan a UK road trip.

June to August

Summer brings sunshine to all of the UK, with south Wales and the western coast of Scotland getting the best of the Gulf Stream. This is the perfect time to visit for outdoor adventures such as hiking and coasteering and ideal if you’re in a tent or motorhome wild camping.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time to explore the UK . The coasts will be quieter but still warm and the glorious colours of fall bring vibrancy to the countryside. Don’t leave it too late, it will be cold and wet again by mid-October.

Is this your first time visiting the UK? Get all the information you need in our United Kingdom Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

UK Road Trip Planner

The United Kingdom is a small but diverse country and it can be hard to decide where to take a road trip. Whatever type of road trip you enjoy, and whether you’ve got one week or one month for your UK trip, you’ll find an itinerary here that’s right for you!

UK Road Trip Map

England Road Trips

Devon & cornwall, barnstable – rock – padstow – newquay – st ives – sennen – porthcurno – penzance.

The most south-westerly county in England has some of the best beaches the country has to offer. You’ll also find plenty of quaint seaside towns, stunning landscapes and lots of fantastic days out, which make Cornwall one of the best UK road trips for families.

The drive down the M5 or A303 can be long and slow, especially at the weekends when lots of self-catering accommodation providers have their change-over days. Try and head down mid-week and break up the journey before you get to the A30, the main arterial road through the county.

Visit the  Eden Project on the way, an amazing place to explore, and not to be missed when you’re driving so close by.

Alternatively, take the Atlantic Highway from Barnstable, just south of the glorious Exmoor National Park, to Newquay. This route takes you into Cornwall on the A39 road, passing some of the  best beaches in north Devon  on the way. As you head south, enjoy the walking and cycling trails on North Devon’s aptly named Adventure Coast.

The Camel Estuary

With pretty Padstow on one side of the estuary and trendy Rock on the other, this is a fantastic family destination with lots to do. Try your hand at surfing or body-boarding in Rock or just have fun in the waves. Eat delicious, locally caught fish in Padstow restaurants and enjoy strolling the charming harbour and town. 

The most famous of all Cornish holiday and seaside towns, St Ives is graced with a couple of superb beaches and a lively ambience in the busy and picturesque town and harbour and is a must-stop on any  Cornwall road trip .

With shops, restaurants and bars open long into the evening in summer, and several world-renowned galleries, St Ives has a cosmopolitan feel and is perfectly placed for day trips around the south of Cornwall. It can get very busy here in the high season, if you’re travelling as a couple, visit before UK schools break up for summer if you possibly can. 

Porthcurno & Around

The tip of the Cornish peninsula has some amazing coves and beaches. Porthcurno is one of our all-time favourite beaches and is overlooked by the Minack Theatre, which you should visit, if only for the spectacular views. Get to the beach early in the summer months, the car park fills quickly.

Elsewhere on the peninsula, Sennen Cove and the  tin mines at Botallack  provide a fascinating insight into Cornish history.

Head east for charming Mousehole (pronounced Mowzle), one of Cornwall’s hidden gems (as much as anything in this part of the world can be!).

Penzance, of pirate fame, and the splendid  St. Michael’s Mount , accessible on foot when the tide is out, are all within a few miles of each other and well worth a visit.

RELATED POSTS: Cornwall Road Trip: The Best Itinerary, Map & Tips | Atlantic Highway: An Epic Devon & Cornwall Road Trip

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting the United Kingdom . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices and excellent service.

The Cotswolds

Burford – cheltenham – painswick – bath.

Is there anywhere more perfectly English than the Cotswolds? The lush and rolling countryside of southwest England is dotted with honeyed picture-perfect villages set around duck ponds and greens, and the winding country lanes are lined with stone walls and hedgerows.

The region is recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offers close encounters with wildlife and birdwatching opportunities at the  Slimbridge Wetland Centre .

If you prefer a bit more activity, paddle boarding, kayaking and archery are all available at the  Cotswold Water Park , and there are lots of great cycling and hiking routes in the area. If you’re looking for a gentle escape and a slow pace, this is a perfect 1 week road trip in the UK.

The medieval town of Burford, just 30 minutes west of historic Oxford and an hour and 45 minutes by car from  London , is on the edge of the so-called ‘Golden Triangle’, bordered by the A40, A44 and A429.

The triangle is home to some of the most idyllic chocolate box villages of the Cotswolds, including Kingham, Churchill, Broadwell, Bledington and Oddington, and a perfect place to start a Cotswolds road trip.

Burford itself has changed little over the centuries, other than becoming one of the most popular tourist spots in the area. Stroll down the famous High Street, lined with half-timbered houses and Georgian architecture, as it descends to the River Windrush.

Dip in and out of the side streets and alleys for hidden treasures, more historic buildings and great places to stop for lunch. 

Painswick, known as ‘The Queen of the Cotswolds’, is a beautiful and historic wool town. One of the best-preserved settlements in the Cotswolds, built from locally quarried stone, Painswick is a great starting point to travel around the area.

Close enough to Cheltenham to make exploring easy, there are many small country roads and tiny villages between Painswick and Cheltenham to discover.

Sitting halfway along the  Cotswold Way National Trail , Painswick is surrounded by fabulous hiking country and is a great base to start from. Painswick Beacon has spectacular views across the Severn Valley to the mountains of Wales.

End your road trip in the historic Roman and Georgian spa city of Bath. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bath is famous for its hot springs, Roman baths, Medieval heritage and elegant Georgian architecture.

Visit the fascinating  Roman Baths  which date from AD43, to see how the Romans liked to relax. At the more modern end of the scale, take a dip in the contemporary  Thermae Bath Spa , which houses the only natural thermal hot springs in Britain.

Make time to admire the iconic Royal Crescent and the majestic Circus to see the fine period architecture which epitomises the city that was home to the author, Jane Austen.

Bournemouth – Swanage – Corfe Castle – Kimmeridge – Lulworth – Weymouth – Portland – Abbotsbury

This stunning  coastal road trip in England  takes you through the county of Dorset, which boasts a rugged UNESCO World Heritage Site coastline, traditional villages and some great bucket-and-spade resorts.

The cliffs of the 95 mile long ancient Jurassic Coast contain millions of fossils and there is even a forest of fossilised trees.

With Bournemouth, Swanage and Weymouth providing good old-fashioned seaside entertainment, there’s a lot to recommend on this England road trip itinerary.

Swanage & Around

Swanage is a traditional English sea-side resort that was ‘discovered’ by the Victorians when sea bathing became fashionable.

At the far eastern end of the Jurassic Coast and Isle of Purbeck, Swanage boasts a safe sandy beach, steam train, nearby  Corfe Castle , great wreck diving and  Durlston Country Park , so there’s a great deal to keep you busy and entertained.

Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door

At the other end of the Isle of Purbeck, Lulworth Cove is an almost perfect circle and is considered one of the best examples in Europe of this type of marine erosion.

Whatever the reason for Lulworth Cove, it really is a wonderful holiday spot, perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddling or just messing about in the water.

Literally next door is Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch in the sea, caused by millions of years of erosion. Durdle Door is backed by a beautiful pebble beach and the imposing limestone cliffs that the Jurassic Coast is famous for.

Both places are on the glorious  South West Coast Path , which starts in Minehead in Somerset and ends in Poole harbour. The longest long-distance footpath in the UK, it snakes along the coast for 630 miles. Follow the path west from Lulworth for wild clifftop views free of people, and the geological wonder that is Kimmeridge Bay.

Chesil Beach & Around

An eighteen mile long shingle barrier beach made up of 180 billion pebbles, the iconic Chesil Beach stretches from West Bay to Portland, on the western side of Dorset.

Head for  Abbotsbury Gardens  for one of the best views of Chesil Beach from above, stretching miles in either direction. Pop in to see the mute swan colony at the Abbotsbury Swannery, also a little-known filming location for the Harry Potter movies.

Energy levels permitting, drive south to the instantly recognisable  Portland Bill  lighthouse at the tip of Portland, for more wild seascapes.

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Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts and road trip songs for the journey!

The Lake District

Ullswater – keswick – grasmere – ambleside – windermere.

The rugged Lake District in Cumbria is known as ‘Wordsworth country’ and is home to some of the most scenic roads in UK. This English road trip has something for everyone, whether escape or adventure is on the agenda, and is one of the best road routes in the UK for active families and experience days for couples .

Head for the busy towns of Ambleside and Keswick or find peace and quiet by one of the sixteen beautiful bodies of water in this stunning national park.

Enjoy great hiking, biking and outdoor activities in the warmer months, or spend time on the water, with boat hires, kayaking and SUP all on offer. 

Start your Lake District road trip at Ullswater, the second largest of the national parks lakes. Ullswater is nestled amongst some of the best fells the area has to offer and is home to the stunning Aira Force waterfall.

With hiking and water sports on your doorstep, this is a perfect spot for road trippers to enjoy nature and outdoor activity, and some of the best Lake District hikes.

To the west of Ullswater, Keswick is a busy market town that lies between the natural beauty of Derwentwater and the imposing Skiddaw mountains.

Hike up to the prehistoric Castelrigg stone circle, literally surrounded by fells and sky in every direction, or try an easy trail like Catbells, which also has the added benefit of  incredible Lake District views  of the rugged and far-reaching landscape.

Honister Slate Mine

At the southern end of Derwentwater is the valley of Borrowdale, leading to the Honister Pass and the home of the Honister Slate Mine, the last working slate mine in England.

The mine has a visitor centre which provides underground guided mine tours and a range of adventure activities including a Via Ferrata (by ropes) course, a ropes course in the mine and a daring infinity bridge – kids big and small will love it here!

The New Forest

Fordingbridge – lyndhurst – brockenhurst – lymington.

The historic New Forest in Hampshire, planted in 1079 by William the Conquerer, retains a strong sense of tradition. Home to New Forest wild ponies, roaming pigs, Highland cattle and deer, the forest is a haven for wildlife and offers peace and tranquillity to all who visit.

It is a particularly special place to visit in autumn , when the crowds have gone, and the fall colours are spectacular. You might also spot rutting deer if you visit at this time of year.

Also a hub for outdoor activity, including water sports, cycling and hiking, you can find the top  New Forest outdoor activities here . 

Just a few hours from the capital, the New Forest is one of the best road trips from London and perfect for an activity focussed long weekend.

Brockenhurst

A charming village to the south of the forest and an excellent base for cycling and walking, Brockenhurst has a few good pubs and a seriously good  takeaway fish and chip shop . An excellent hub from which to explore, you can hire bikes in the village or bring your own – download this helpful map for routes.

New Forest Water Park

On the western fringes of the forest, the New Forest Water Park offers wakeboarding and a giant inflatable aqua park, the best fun you can have in a wet suit and a perfect family day out. Try your hand at wakeboarding, kayaking and stand-up paddle before running the gauntlet on the aqua park course …its a lot, lot harder than it looks!

Right on the southwestern edge of the New Forest, Lymington is a traditional bustling market town. With a busy modern harbour and easy access to the Solent, this is a haven for sailors.

From your base in Lymington, take a trip to  Hurst Castle , built by Henry VIII and situated on a shingle spit stretching into the Solent.

On hot days, take a dip in the seawater swimming baths on the edge of Lymington town.

Lymington also makes a great base to visit the Isle of Wight. Sitting guard in the Solent, at the entrance to one of the UK’s busiest freight ports, the island is famous for being the one-time home of Queen Victoria and having the sunniest beach in the UK, amongst lots of other things.

You can get the  car ferry  there and back in a day, making it a road trip within a road trip!

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Norwich – Wroxham – Hemsby – Cromer – Blakeney – Hunstanton – Kings Lynn

One of the most beautiful counties in England, Norfolk enjoys an incredible and unspoilt heritage coastline and the famous Norfolk Broads, where you will find huge skies and mesmerising landscapes, making it one of the best road trip destinations around the UK.

A national park and a haven for birds and wildlife, the Broads are a nature lover’s paradise and can be explored on foot or by boat, with a traditional Norfolk wherry being the ultimate Broads experience.

The historic city of Norwich is a hidden gem and a must-visit if you’re in Norfolk. Considered the UK’s best preserved medieval city, Norwich delivers a fine Norman cathedral with the second highest spire in England, a lively and well-respected bar and restaurant scene, and the Norwich Lanes, a muddle of pedestrian alleys full of independent shops and boutiques.

As you follow the coast north from the Broads, you’ll come to the North Norfolk coast and Blakeney . This pretty coastal village lies in an area of outstanding natural beauty which boasts a nature reserve of spacious landscapes with salt marshes, sand dunes and horizons stretching far out to sea.

Practice your crabbing skills in the harbour, or take a trip out to Blakeney Point to see the Common and Grey seals that breed here in winter. 

Sandringham

South of the Wash lies the royal estate of Sandringham. Set in beautiful woodlands, perfect for walking, you can also visit the house, gardens and transport museum before heading to see the St Mary Magdalene church where the Queen attends services when she is staying at Sandringham.

There are often events here too, such as farmer’s markets and craft fairs, check the Sandringham Estate website for details and dates.

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Northumberland Coast Route

Alnmouth – craster – embleton – beadnell – seahouses – bamburgh – holy island of lindisfarne – alnwick.

This drive takes you along the stunning Northumberland coast, passing through the beautiful landscapes and seaside fishing villages of the county.

Northumberland is home to some of England’s most dramatic castles, an iconic holy island and Hadrian’s Wall, on the border with Scotland. There is fantastic coastal walking in the region, huge sandy beaches that seem endless and warm hospitality for visitors.

Alnwick Castle

Alnwick Castle is a spectacular castle and country house, and the seat of The 12th Duke of Northumberland. It was built following the Norman conquest and renovated and remodelled a number of times, into the castle you see today.

Film and TV fans shouldn’t miss a visit here – the castle has been featured in Transformers: The Last Knight, Elizabeth, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, as the magnificent Brancaster Castle in Downton Abbey, and probably most famously, as Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films.

Coastal Villages

As you head north, spend a night in one of the fishing villages such as Craster or Beadnell, and enjoy a bracing beach walk from your accommodation, and a traditional fish and chip supper from the local chippie!

Lindisfarne Holy Island

The tidal island of Lindisfarne , also known as Holy Island, is one of the most important centres of early English Christianity. Irish monks settled there in 635CE and the monastery became the centre of a major saint’s cult celebrating its bishop, Cuthbert.

In 793CE the Vikings attacked Lindisfarne, looting the monastery and killing or enslaving many of the monks. It was the first time the Vikings had attacked a monastic site in Britain, and the attack came as a major shock for medieval Christians.

The historic island lies just off the extreme Northeast corner of England near Berwick-upon-Tweed, and is reachable across a paved causeway, but only when the North Sea tides permit! Safe times to cross are predictable and can be found here , and the route takes around two hours to walk.

The Peak District

Chesterfield – bakewell – buxton – castleton – glossop.

Nestled between the cities of Manchester and Sheffield is the glorious Peak District. Straddling the Pennines’ southernmost hills lie ancient stone villages, hillsides dotted with grand stately homes and rocky outcrops in every direction, but no peaks, despite the name.

To the north, the Dark Peak area is dominated by exposed moorland and gritstone ‘edges’, while to the south, the White Peak is made up of rolling limestone dales. The diverse and soaring landscapes of the Peak District mean some seriously good drives, making for one of the best road trips in England.

Chatsworth House

Known as the ‘Palace of the Peak’, this huge stately home three miles northeast of Bakewell has been the family seat of sixteen generations of earls and dukes of Devonshire. Inside, the lavish apartments and mural-painted staterooms are filled with priceless paintings and period furniture.

Head outside for 25 square miles of grounds and ornamental gardens, including water features, a maze, sculptures, and splendid Victorian glass houses. Some of the grounds were landscaped by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.

Full of history,  Chatsworth House  was founded in 1552 by the formidable Bess of Hardwick, who came from modest beginnings to become the second most powerful woman in Elizabethan England after the Queen. It was with Bess’ second husband, Sir William Cavendish, that the Cavendish line, which continues today, was established.

Finish your Chatsworth House visit with lunch or dinner a few miles up the road, at the highly-rated Prince of Wales in Baslow, one of the best fine dining pubs in the Peak District .

Caves and Caverns

The Peak District is littered with caves and caverns, some entirely natural and some created as a result of historic mining activity.

Peak Cavern  at Castleton is the largest cave system in the Peak District and is almost all entirely natural. Known as the ‘devil’s arse’, the cave was inhabited by rope-making cave dwellers until the early 20th century and 40 families lived in two rows of cottages in the cave entrance, along with stables, a pub and a few small shops! You will also find Speedwell Cavern, Blue John Cavern and Treak Cliff Cavern in Castleton.

The  Heights of Abraham  opened in 1780 and is one of the oldest tourist attractions in England. Alongside the cable car ride and parkland with lots of attractions are two 350 million-year-old caves, Rutland Caverns and Great Masson, where you can experience what lead mining in the 17th century was like.

In the heart of the rugged North Peak area of the Peak District, lies Snake Pass. Winding its way through the valley connecting Sheffield and Glossop, this is one of the best roads to drive in Europe . Following the river Ashop, Snake Pass crosses the Pennines at Ashopton and reaches a high point of 512 metres above sea level.

With stunning views in every direction and surrounded by heather-carpeted moorland, deep valleys, reservoirs and lush woodland, the scenic Snake Pass makes for a truly memorable drive. With its sharp twisted roads, moulded around the rugged landscape, Snake Pass really is a drive to be celebrated by road trippers. 

Just a word of warning though, this road is considered one of the most dangerous in the UK, so take it slowly, stop for photos, and savour the drive.  

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Yorkshire Dales

Harrogate – malham – hawes – richmond.

In ‘God’s own country’ of Yorkshire , the roads ribbon between glacial valleys, patchwork fields, flat-topped hills and rocky outcrops, punctuated by pretty villages with quaint pubs, and windswept hiking trails.

There’s history aplenty too, in this land that was once host to the War of the Roses, the bloody struggle between the royal houses of Lancaster and York.

Be aware that the Yorkshire Dales National Park is a mecca for tour buses which cause major headaches both on the roads and in car parks at the most popular spots. Avoid the summer months if you possibly can.

Start in the well-heeled and elegant Georgian town of Harrogate, known then as ‘The English Spa’. On the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, this is a great starting point for your Yorkshire road trip.

Malhamdale is in the Pennines, at the southern end of the Yorkshire Dales. Malham itself is a pretty village, surrounded by the limestone buildings and the dry-stone walls so common in the Dales, with a stream bubbling through the centre of the village. 

Malham is best known though for the glacial lake, Malham Tarn, and the majestic Malham Cove, a vast curving amphitheatre-shaped cliff formation of limestone rock. 

The vertical cliff face is about 80 metres high. If you’re lucky, you may see Malham Cove waterfall, which appears in the centre of the cliff face in spring and after heavy rain.

Wensleydale

The lush sweeping valley of Wensleydale is distinct for its wooded hillocks and rushing waterfalls, the most famous being the triple flight Aysgarth Falls and Hardraw Force, England’s largest single-drop waterfall.

The capital of Upper Wensleydale, Hawes, is a lively market town with many hotels and tearooms. Local craft and artisan industries thrive making pottery, wooden toys and the famous Wensleydale cheese, Wallace and Gromit’s favourite.

The  Dales Countryside Museum is an essential visit for anyone interested in traditional countryside life in Yorkshire.

One of the northernmost dales in the national park is Swaledale, a deep and winding valley that is home to the pretty cobbled market town of Richmond, which boasts a rich and vivid history.

Sitting high above the town,  Richmond Castle  dominates the skyline. The views from the top of the massive keep are far-reaching between the hills of Swaledale to the west, the Vale of York to the south and in the far distance to the east, the stunning North York Moors.

Famous for its hardy breed of horned sheep, Swaledale also puts on a spectacular wildflower display in its meadows, which are a riot of wildlife and colour in June and early July.

Spring comes late to this part of England, but you’ll find it an excellent time of year to hike the trails crisscrossing the rugged countryside.

Northern Ireland Road Trips

The causeway coastal route, ballycastle – bushmills – portrush – portstewart – castlerock – londonderry.

This picturesque and unspoilt country of the United Kingdom may require a ferry crossing if you don’t live there, but it is a coastal road trip in the UK that’s worth making the effort for.

From the breathtaking natural beauty of the  Giant’s Causeway  to the huge Benone Beach, the coastline is studded with Game of Thrones locations and pretty seaside towns.

End your trip in the walled city of Londonderry, a popular tourist destination in its own right, or continue onto the Wild Atlantic Way just over the border, for more big seas, idyllic beaches and dramatic landcscapes.

If you don’t live in Northern Ireland, why not start your road trip in the fun city of Dublin – we even have the perfect one day Dublin itinerary for you!

It’s easy to fly in and rent a car in Ireland before heading north across the border to Belfast and making your way up the coast – if you have to take a ferry or plane, you might as well make the most of it and cover two countries in one trip!

The Giants Causeway & Around

Forged by volcanic nature some 50 to 60 million years ago, these 40,000 columns of basalt spilling into the wild North Atlantic are simply unmissable.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Northern Ireland’s most famous historic and natural landmarks, as well as being an awe-inspiring place that really gets you thinking about man’s insignificance in the grand scheme of things.

Climb the Shepherd’s Steps to hike along the clifftop trail for an aerial view of the dramatic sea views, or take the road less travelled on a five mile hike along the stunning cliff-top path for uninterrupted views.

Don’t miss the tiny harbour at Ballintoy (also a Game of Thrones location) before heading along the coast to the  Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge  and testing your courage as you cross between the mainland and the island.

Portstewart & Portrush

Literally next to each other, both Portstewart and Portrush are pretty seaside holiday towns.

With souvenir shops, restaurants and bars, Portrush is livelier and has a nightclub and amusements.

Portstewart has a more laid-back vibe with some interesting independent shops along the prom which sell local crafts and a few great places to eat.

Both have superb beaches and excellent golf courses. If you like motorbikes, head here in May for the infamous  North West 200 , when bikes race along the roads you are driving, but at twice the speed.

Benone Beach & Around

A favourite of surfers, kite flyers and walkers, the vast beach stretches from Magilligan Point in the west to Castlerock in the east.

From here you can see, and then visit the  Mussenden Temple  on the headland and the Downhill Demesne.

The mighty Binevenagh mountain sits to the south and is excellent for hiking, with stunning views of the coast, Loch Foyle and Donegal from the summit, if you pick a clear day. 

Make time to pop into the  Sea Shed Cafe  for their legendary Spanish hot chocolate and home made cake right on the beach!

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Mourne Coastal Route

Belfast – bangor – ards peninsula – downpatrick – newcastle – mourne mountains.

The Mourne Coastal Route follows the lesser travelled eastern route of the Northern Ireland coast.   This area is known for its traditional fishing villages and picturesque seaside towns, only surpassed by the stunning scenery and coastal landscapes of the region.

As you drive, you’ll get many glimpses into the past, from ancient tower houses to stately homes and gardens. You’ll also be able to spot many birds including geese and duck, oystercatchers and curlew, and in the summer nesting tern are in abundance.

Strangford Lough

Strangford Lough is a Marine Nature Reserve, meaning the marine life is worth exploring. Wandering along the shore reveals starfish, urchins, shellfish and even glimpses of seals basking on the rocks. If you stop for a walk along the coast, you’ll be sure to see beautiful wildflowers and a huge variety of butterflies.

With Northern Ireland’s three main fishing ports on the Mourne Coastal Route, you have to sample the fresh seafood. It features on many menus, whether you’re looking for fine dining, or just to grab some fish and chips and watch the boat activity in the harbours.

Artisan food producers are plentiful in this area which is home to Comber potatoes, Portavogie prawns, Dundrum Bay oysters, local honey, Finnebrogue venison and many local brews and beverages. 

Stately Homes

The National Trust sites in this area all offer beautiful views and glorious nature. Neo-classical Mount Stewart has exceptional gardens and walks, as well as a house tour. Castle Ward estate extends right to the edge of Strangford Lough, with its unique mansion, gardens and trails, and you can experience archery and a medieval banquet on the original set of Winterfell from Game of Thrones.

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Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or check out our top road trips in Europe for ideas and inspiration.

Scotland Road Trips

The argyll coastal route, loch lomond – inverary – lochgilphead – oban – glen coe – fort william – glenfinnan.

Starting at the tip of Loch Lomond and following the coast from Inveraray to Fort William, this west coast of Scotland road trip is for seafood gourmets, sunset lovers and those that want to get under the skin of Scotland and feel its turbulent history in the air and glens of the incredible landscapes. 

We’ve added an extra stop to the official route at Glenfinnan – you’re so close to this historic village at the end of the trip, we just couldn’t resist.

Cultural Glasgow and historic Edinburgh are also both within striking distance at the start or end of your road trip if you fancy a few days of city life.

Easdale Island

Spend a fantastic car-free day wildlife watching from Easdale Island. Make the five minute passenger ferry crossing to this tranquil part of Scotland, where you can take a whale spotting trip, an excursion to the Corryvreckan Whirlpool or a tour of a local seal colony. 

Other areas of interest include the historical remains of what was once the centre of the Scottish slate mining industry.

The still pools, which are a defining feature of Easdale, were once active slate quarries, and together with the wide variety of flora and bird life make Easdale unique.

With magnificent views of towering mountains and glens, Glen Coe is a landscape full of natural wonders. Explore the  Glen Coe Geotrail  to learn more about the ancient volcanic history of this other-worldly place which was shaped by glaciers and fiery volcanic explosions millions of years ago.

In the picturesque village of Glencoe, you can learn about local history, including the Massacre of Glencoe in 1692, when members of the Campbell clan murdered members of the MacDonald clan on the orders of the English Crown.

At the top of this road trip lies Glenfinnan, the historic spot in which Bonnie Prince Charlie called for the local clansmen to assemble in 1745, proclaiming the throne of Great Britain to be denounced and rightfully returned to his family, the Stuarts.

His actions and the subsequent Battle of Culloden led to a seismic change in the Highland way of life and caused a long rift between Scotland and England. 

You’ll also find the magical Glenfinnan Viaduct here, made famous by the Harry Potter films. This railway viaduct has carried trains on the West Highland Line since 1897. 

For the best views, take the Glenfinnan Trail to the viewpoint, where you’ll see the steam train crossing the famous viaduct. Turn around for a magnificent view of Loch Shiel and the Glenfinnan Monument which commemorates the Jacobite uprising.

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The North Coast 500

Inverness – john o’groats – durness – lochinver – ullapool – inverness.

This ultimate Scottish route and one of the great British road trips is a 516 mile spectacular circular trip around the north coast of Scotland, starting and ending at Inverness Castle and passing through some of the most beautiful places in Scotland.

Do a bit of it or tackle the whole iconic route, for which you’ll need at least two if not three or four, weeks to do the trip justice. You’ll find incredible landscapes, myths and legends, welcoming Scottish hospitality and the thrill of the open road. 

The NC500 is one of Europe’s best-known road trips and it will be busy in the summer months – head there in late spring or autumn for quieter roads and better deals on accommodation.

Both the start and finish point of your driving holiday in Scotland, this ancient cathedral city is full of history and interest. Go hunting for monsters on Loch Ness, take a trip to the haunting and emotive  battlefield at Culloden  and visit  Inverness Castle .

Home to John O’Groats and Dunnet Head, the most northerly village and northerly point of mainland UK respectively, Caithness is right at the top of Great Britain.

It is so far north that in favourable conditions, it’s possible to see the northern lights from here. The coastline features soaring sea stacks and towering headlands, home to puffins and other sea birds.  

One of the last great wilderness of Europe, quite a few miles of the NC500 pass through Sutherland’s raw and naturally beautiful.

The coast of this part of the route is unspoilt and diverse, from huge sandy beaches in the west to the rugged and aptly named Cape Wrath cliffs, the most north-westerly point of mainland UK and only accessible by boat or special transport.

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Kyle of Lochalsh – Portree – Duntulm – Dunvegan – Armadale

The Isle of Skye is Scotland’s second-largest island, a 50 mile long stretch of heather-carpeted moors, jagged mountains, sparkling lochs and dramatic sea cliffs.

This incredible landscape is the main attraction, but there is plenty to do when the mist descends, including castles, museums, craft studios and even fairy pools.

Follow this popular UK road trip route out of season for real solitude and remoteness, some of the best hiking in Scotland, and to breath the clear air and remind yourself of why life is good. 

Dunvegan Castle

In a beautiful position at the edge of Loch Dunvegan, Skye’s most famous historic building,  Dunvegan Castle , is the seat of the chief of Clan MacLeod and has been so for over 800 years.

The castle itself is fascinating and the formal gardens make a wonderful contrast to the stark beauty of the surrounding landscape. It’s a busy tourist attraction though, and best visited outside of the peak months of July and August.

The Sleat Peninsula

Commonly referred to as ‘the garden of Skye’, the Sleat peninsula is home to verdant gardens and thick forests, surrounded by glorious beaches and sparking seas.

This eclectic corner of Skye not only has nature on its doorstep, it also has some of the best restaurants on the island and of course, a  whisky distillery , for that wee dram you must have when visiting.

The Trotternish Peninsula

Trotternish is the most northerly peninsula and enjoys Skye’s most striking and dramatic landscapes. As you drive north your attention will be captured by The Storr and The Old Man of Storr, a 50m high lance of rock that sits at the foot of the cliffs. 

Head to The Quiraing for some fantastic hiking and to see the best of these ancient landscapes in this remote, stunning part of the island.

The South West Coastal 300

Prestwick – ballantrae – cairngaan – isle of whithorn – kirkudbright – dumfries – lockerbie – moffat – dalmellington – prestwick.

The South West Coastal 300 is a road trip for nature lovers and history buffs. With stunning coastlines, lush forests which stretch over rolling hills and dramatic moorlands, this quiet corner of Scotland will woo you until you fall in love with its gentle charms.

This is a well-located road trip in Scotland for those driving north from the rest of the UK and can be joined at Lockerbie, within a 20 minute drive of the Scottish border. 

Dunure Beach

Our favourite beach on this road trip, the small but perfectly formed Dunure Beach has dark sand and shingle with great rock pooling and stunning views of Ailsa Craig from the ragged ruins of Dunure Castle.

Dip into  Galloway Forest Park , the only Dark Sky Park in Scotland and a top spot to see the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, or visit the  Scottish Dark Sky Observatory  at Dalmellington to use their powerful telescopes to observe the night skies – stargazing without light pollution is an incredible experience.

Kirkudbright

Spend a day in lively Kirkudbright (pronounced kir–coo–bree) and follow the Arts and Crafts Trail. Home to generations of creatives, ‘the artist’s town’ has a flourishing community of painters and craftworkers. You might also hear bagpipes here as they have lots of parades.

Wales Road Trips

Brecon beacons, hay-on-wye – brecon – libanus – llandovery – gwaun-cae-curwen.

Undulating dramatically across the landscape, the Brecon Beacons National Park (Parc Cenedlaethol Bannau Brycheiniog) encompasses some of the most spectacular scenery in southern Wales.

High mountain plateaus and glacial hollows rise above forested valleys, hidden waterfalls and gorgeous rural landscapes that echo to the sound of rushing waterfalls, making this a varied and exciting Wales road trip.

The relatively short distance from London to Wales, just three hours and 40 minutes driving makes this one of the best weekend road trips from London.

Starting at the northernmost tip of the national park, Hay-on-Wye is famous the world over for books and the annual  Hay Festival of Literature and Arts , a reputation that belies its small size.

Known as Hay by locals, this charming town in Wales sits on the gently flowing river Wye and abuts the Wales-England border. 

The town centre is made up of skinny sloping lanes characterised by a shabby elegance that suits the quirky bookshops and antiques emporia that thrive in Wye’s independent and cosmopolitan vibe. 

Known as ‘the Beacons’ to hikers, there are many trails to choose from in these mountains. Pen-y-Fan, which just misses out on ‘Furth’ status (the equivalent of a Munro in Scotland), is a favourite of many.

The route is a challenging ten mile slog through forest and moorland to the steep ridge of Pen-y-Fan. The views from the top, at 886m, are superb, especially in the winter when the landscape is dusted with frost and snow.

But there is more hiking here than just Pen-y-Fan; an online search will reward you with many options, including Sugar Loaf in Monmouthshire and the four waterfalls walk which starts in Porth yr Ogof.

The Black Mountain Pass

One of the most scenic drives in Wales, this epic mountain road of Top Gear fame gives unrivalled views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, and enough hairpin bends and switchbacks to satisfy any dangerous road enthusiast.

For the best experience, drive the A4069 road from north to south. Starting in Llandovery, the pass snakes between breathtaking viewpoints as you cross the twin humps of Pont Aber and Herbert’s Pass, before descending to the village of Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen. 

Be aware that sheep will cross the road indiscriminately – not uncommon for roads in Wales! It is known that mobile speed cameras are sometimes along the route in objects such as horseboxes or small trucks.

Since its exposure by Jeremy Clarkson, the route has become incredibly popular – save this one for a weekday if you can.

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Pembrokeshire

Fishguard – st davids – marloes – pembroke – tenby.

Famous for its rough cliffs, huge beaches and remote islands, the coast of Pembrokeshire offers limitless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, and is one of the most beautiful places in the UK.

From the Victorian seaside town of Tenby to the puffins of Skomer Island, this road trip in Wales has something to suit everyone, outdoor adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Coasteering

Pembrokeshire boasts that it invented coasteering, so how could we leave it off the list? The sport of jumping from land to sea, cliff scrambling and swimming between rocks will stretch you mentally and physically but give you hours of fun.

You can find a pace to suit you, there are guided expeditions and courses for beginners of all ages, some of which include marine biology education along the way.

Skomer Island

The wild island of Skomer is a haven for migrant birds such as puffins, razorbills and guillemots. You may also see seals here, which come to moult in April, along with owls, buzzards and peregrine falcons.

In the spring, wildflowers cover the island, making it a truly beautiful and fascinating place to visit.

Working on a first-come, first-served basis, numbers and tickets are limited so make sure you get to Lockley Lodge visitor centre early.

Tenby is one of the most iconic seaside towns in Wales, steeped in history and surrounded by an imposing medieval stone wall. With several excellent sandy beaches, a colourful harbour and narrow cobbled streets with a fantastic selection of gift shops, cafes and pubs, this charming town is perfect for a day out. 

If you base yourself here for a few days, you’re within striking distance of two of the best castles in Wales,  Pembroke Castle  and  Carew Castle , both well worth a visit.

Snowdonia & Anglesey

Betws-y-coed – bangor – newborough – holyhead – benllech.

Head for spectacular Snowdonia in north Wales for drama, huge skies and outdoor adventures.

Cross the iconic Menai suspension bridge to reach the beautiful Isle of Anglesey, home to some of the best beaches in Wales, and fantastic coastal hiking and cycling paths.

With a good dose of remoteness, this is one of the best travel routes in the UK to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Betws-y-Coed

Set in a beautiful valley, Betws-y-Coed is a typical mountain town, full of companies offering outdoor adventures and shops selling outdoor gear. Pubs are full of hikers talking about the day’s adventures.

The town is a great base for outdoor sports and activities such as climbing, hiking, abseiling, zip-lining and mountain biking.

You’ll also find natural beauty spots such as Fairy Glen and Swallow Falls to visit in the nearby area.

Snowdonia National Park

Test yourself by climbing to the peak of Snowden, the highest mountain in England and Wales, some 1,085m above sea level.

If you still want to enjoy the views but don’t fancy the hike, take the train up and hike down!  

Newborough Beach & Llanddwyn Island

Newborough beach is our favourite beach on Anglesey, backed by the tranquil Newborough Forest, where you might see red squirrels.

Take a walk through the forest and dunes to the peninsula of Llanddwyn Island to see the fascinating lighthouse and pilot’s cottages. 

UK Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in the UK.

• Search for affordable flights to the UK with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in the UK with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in the UK with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in the UK with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Information About Driving in England

Whether you’re road tripping the UK in a car, camper or motorbike, make sure you’ve got all your documents handy and your spare tyre is in good condition. If your UK road trip itinerary is longer than a few weeks , you may want to consider a vehicle service before you go, and breakdown cover is probably a good idea.

• Drivers from non-EU countries may require an International Driving Permit. The general rule is that if your licence is not in Latin script, then an IDP will be required. Check with your hire company or embassy if you’re in doubt.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Your car must be considered roadworthy in the country in which it is registered.
• Your headlights must be adapted for driving on the left if your vehicle is registered outside the UK.
• Unlike France, the UK does not have laws that require you to carry certain equipment in your car, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t. Being prepared in the event of an accident or a breakdown is invaluable. Ideally, you should carry a reflective jacket, a warning triangle, a first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher.
• Understand insurance options, mileage limits and fuel policies before booking a rental car.
• Check the car for damage on collection and make sure anything you spot is noted, and the same again when you drop it off.
• Remember to drive on the left during your trip to the UK!

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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Love it pin it.

9 most beautiful road trips in the UK for 2023 revealed

Get off the beaten path and explore natural wonders

"With so many incredible routes in the UK, it's no wonder the popularity of road trips and touring holidays is on the up. We are thrilled to reveal the most popular road trip destinations for 2023," Martin Smith, founder of Campsites.co.uk , says.

Searching for some inspiration? Take a look at the most beautiful road trips in the UK for 2023...

The NC500 route

Bringing together 516 miles of stunning coastal scenery in the far north of Scotland, we're not surprised the NC500 route made the list. From the magnificent Dunrobin Castle and Scotland's largest cave, Smoo Cave, there is plenty to see and enjoy on your road trip.

READ MORE : The ultimate guide to North Coast 500 accommodation

The Atlantic Way

Running from the outskirts of Newquay, Cornwall to Barnstaple in North Devon, the Atlantic Way is perfect for adventure seekers who want to surf frothy waves, hike along cliffs and explore iconic landmarks.

Wild Wales: Snowdonia to Anglesey

This incredible Wales road trip itinerary starts with the mountains in Snowdonia, journeying on to the Anglesey coast. Stop off at castles, nature reserves and picnic spots on your ride.

The Lake District Loop

This drive around the Lake District allows people to get up close to Cumbria's spectacular landscapes.

Martin says: "Kayak along Lake Windermere before seeing the Rydal Caves in Grasmere and venturing to the more remote western lakes."

READ MORE : Lakes and mountains holidays: 8 incredible adventures for 2022

The Yorkshire Circuit

Rated the best road trip in the North of England, this pretty route encompasses the North York Moors, Yorkshire Dales and the Yorkshire Coast. Add this one to your bucket list.

The Norfolk Coast

Over in Norfolk, this road trip route spans almost 100 miles of scenic coastal views. From the beaches at Hunstanton through the Broads, to seal spotting in Great Yarmouth, it has something for every passenger to enjoy.

Cotswolds Villages

Meander through the glorious Cotswolds villages on this countryside road trip (and check into one of these best Cotswolds hotels ). You'll drive through the idyllic Bourton-on-the-water, Broadway and Castle Combe. Stop off on your way to stroll along the cobbled streets and canals.

Passes and Peaks: Snake Pass and the Peak District

"Travel along the Snake Pass with stunning views stretching into the Pennines," says Martin. "Finish the route by exploring more of the Peaks."

The Cambrian Way

Taking the final spot is The Cambrian Way — a scenic road trip which journeys through the Brecon Beacons up to Snowdonia and ends on the North Wales Coast. Taking you up the mountainous spine of Wales, it's also a pretty hiking route to explore by foot.

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