Ready to hit the open road and see the UK at its most jaw-dropping? Whether you’re into coastal cliffs, medieval castles, or dramatic mountains, the UK packs a lot of punch into its scenic drives. I’ve done the research (and quite a few of these trips myself) — so here are 10 of the best UK road trips, complete with Google Maps links, travel tips, and local highlights.
1. North Coast 500, Scotland – The Ultimate Highland Adventure
Length: ~516 miles (830 km)
Duration: 5–7 days
Start/End Point: Inverness
The North Coast 500 is often dubbed the UK’s answer to Route 66 — and for good reason. Starting in Inverness, this circular route winds through the rugged Scottish Highlands, passing fairy-tale castles, white-sand beaches, and dramatic coastal cliffs.
Highlights:
Bealach na Bà Pass – A thrilling alpine-style road.
Smoo Cave – A sea cave near Durness that looks like it belongs in a fantasy film.
Torridon & Ullapool – Charming Highland villages with incredible mountain backdrops.
Wild camping opportunities under dark, starry skies.
- Pro Tip: Go in late spring or early autumn to dodge both midges and summer crowds.
2. Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland – Where Legends Meet the Sea
Length: ~120 miles (193 km)
Duration: 2–3 days
Start/End Point: Belfast to Derry
This coastal drive is a feast for the senses, stretching from Belfast to Derry and hugging the rugged Atlantic coast. You’ll pass through Game of Thrones filming locations, UNESCO sites, and ancient castles.
Highlights:
Giant’s Causeway – 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns created by volcanic activity (or a giant, depending on who you ask).
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge – Not for the faint-hearted!
Dunluce Castle – A dramatic cliffside ruin.
Bushmills Distillery – The oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world.
- Pro Tip: Stay overnight in Ballycastle for charming pubs and easy access to Rathlin Island.
3. Cotswolds Romantic Road – Classic English Countryside
Length: ~45 miles (72 km)
Duration: 1–2 days
Start/End Point: Broadway to Burford (or reverse)
If you’re chasing rolling green hills, honey-colored cottages, and tearooms, the Cotswolds are pure road trip gold. The Romantic Road is a scenic route that winds through England’s prettiest villages.
Highlights:
Broadway Tower – A quirky hilltop castle.
Bibury – Often called the most beautiful village in England.
Lower Slaughter & Bourton-on-the-Water – Postcard-perfect riverside gems.
Burford High Street – Great for antique lovers and cozy cafes.
- Pro Tip: Pack a picnic and explore footpaths along the way — some villages are best enjoyed on foot.
4. Snowdonia to Anglesey, Wales – Mountains, Castles & Coastal Magic
Length: ~90 miles (145 km)
Duration: 2 days
Start/End Point: Betws-y-Coed to Holyhead
For a mix of mountain roads and dramatic coastlines, nothing beats this north Wales drive. You’ll start in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, climb winding passes, and end on the island of Anglesey.
Highlights:
Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) – Hike or take the scenic train.
Llanberis Pass – A narrow and incredibly scenic drive.
Caernarfon Castle – A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Newborough Beach – Sweeping sand dunes and pine forest.
- Pro Tip: Check the weather — Welsh mountain roads can be tricky in heavy rain or fog.
5. Atlantic Highway (A39), South West England – Coastal Charm Meets Surf Vibes
Length: ~125 miles (200 km)
Duration: 2–4 days
Start/End Point: Barnstaple to Newquay
This route along the Atlantic Highway (A39) is ideal for beach lovers and surf seekers. Winding along the Devon and Cornwall coast, it serves up everything from sea cliffs to surf towns.
Highlights:
Clovelly – A cobbled, car-free fishing village that feels frozen in time.
Bude & Widemouth Bay – Surf, sand, and beach walks.
Tintagel Castle – Linked to King Arthur legend.
Newquay – One of the UK’s top surfing hubs.
- Pro Tip: If you’re going in summer, book campsites or B&Bs early — this stretch is very popular.
6. The Lake District Loop, England – England’s Most Breathtaking Lakes & Passes
Length: ~100 miles (160 km)
Duration: 2–3 days
Start/End Point: Windermere or Keswick
If you love mountains, lakes, and winding roads, this Lake District circuit is a must-do. It loops through the heart of the national park, offering jaw-dropping views at every turn.
Highlights:
Hardknott & Wrynose Passes – Narrow, steep, and thrilling.
Derwentwater & Ullswater – Two of the most beautiful lakes in the region.
Grasmere Village – Don’t miss the famous gingerbread!
Aira Force Waterfall – A short scenic walk to a beautiful cascade.
- Pro Tip: Early mornings offer misty lakes and crowd-free roads. Avoid bank holidays.
7. The Yorkshire Dales Drive – Rolling Hills & Storybook Villages
Length: ~90 miles (145 km)
Duration: 1–2 days
Start/End Point: Skipton to Hawes via Settle and Aysgarth
Less famous than the Lake District but equally charming, the Yorkshire Dales are made for slow, scenic driving. The dry-stone walls, curvy roads, and quiet villages feel like something out of a Brontë novel.
Highlights:
Malham Cove – A dramatic limestone amphitheatre.
Aysgarth Falls – A series of gorgeous waterfalls.
Bolton Abbey – Ruined priory set along a riverside.
Wensleydale Creamery – Yes, the home of Wallace & Gromit’s favorite cheese.
- Pro Tip: Stop for cream tea at a countryside inn — many have been around for centuries.
8. The Pembrokeshire Coast 200, Wales – Epic Coastal Cliffs & Seaside Charm
Length: ~200 miles (320 km)
Duration: 3–4 days
Start/End Point: Cardigan to Amroth
Wales’s Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is the only coastal national park in the UK — and this route hugs the edge of it. Ideal for anyone craving ocean views, castles, and puffins.
Highlights:
St Davids – The UK’s smallest city with a majestic cathedral.
Barafundle Bay – Regularly named one of the world’s top beaches.
Tenby – A colorful seaside town full of charm.
Strumble Head Lighthouse – Great for sunset photography.
- Pro Tip: May to July is prime puffin-spotting season at Skomer Island (near Marloes).
9. Peak District Panoramic Drive, England – Dramatic Moorland Meets Historic Charm
Length: ~70 miles (113 km)
Duration: 1–2 days
Start/End Point: Castleton to Chatsworth House via Snake Pass
The Peak District is the UK’s first national park and still one of its best. This route winds through valleys, gritstone edges, and picture-perfect villages.
Highlights:
Snake Pass – One of the UK’s best driving roads.
Castleton Caves – Venture into caverns full of stalactites.
Mam Tor – Short hike with epic views.
Chatsworth House – Grand estate that starred in Pride & Prejudice.
- Pro Tip: Autumn adds golden heather to the already dramatic landscape.
10. Isle of Skye Road Trip, Scotland – Mystical Landscapes & Rugged Coastlines
Length: ~100 miles (160 km)
Duration: 2–3 days
Start/End Point: Kyle of Lochalsh to Portree and back
This isn’t just a road trip — it’s a mystical journey into another world. The Isle of Skye is where mountains meet the sea in a surreal mix of colours and cliffs.
Highlights:
The Quiraing – A landslip with otherworldly rock formations.
Fairy Pools – Crystal-clear blue pools perfect for wild swimming (if you dare!).
Neist Point Lighthouse – Iconic views and cliffside walking trails.
Dunvegan Castle – Historic seat of Clan MacLeod.
- Pro Tip: Book accommodation early — Skye gets busy in summer and has limited hotels.
Final Tips for a UK Road Trip in 2025
Drive on the left (and know your roundabout etiquette!).
Fuel prices are higher than many countries — apps like PetrolPrices can help.
Download offline maps if you’re going into remote areas.
Rental car tip: Compare prices at Rentalcars.com to get deals from top UK providers.
Bonus Resource:
National Trust Touring Pass – Great if you’re visiting multiple castles, gardens, and historic houses during your road trip.
FAQs – UK Road Trip Essentials
Is it easy to rent a car in the UK as a tourist?
Yes, but make sure you have a valid driver’s license (plus an International Driving Permit if required). Most companies require drivers to be 21+.
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Are toll roads common?
Very few. The M6 Toll near Birmingham is the main one — most scenic routes are toll-free.
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When’s the best time to take a road trip in the UK?
Late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September) offer the best combo of good weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful landscapes.
Final Thoughts
These five road trips show just how diverse and breathtaking the UK really is. Whether you’re after castles, coastlines, or countryside, there’s something unforgettable waiting around the next bend. Plug in your route, roll down the windows, and let the adventure begin.
If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it or saving it to your Google Maps!
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
