20 Best Road Trips In UK

In today's technologically advanced society,  Travelling long roads surrounded by thickets of flora and fauna is a necessity. We all need a scenic brake once in a while. With friends and loved ones, road vacations are always enjoyable. It is a fantastic method to escape from day-to-day stressors and spend your time as you see fit. Just take a bike or a car and follow the route if you're feeling frustrated in life or just want a break from your routine, dull existence.
The hills in the UK are the best way to picture them since travelling through them feels so good but make sure of your safety first. Because of the vast expanse of this area, you could visit many different UK roads as you never know what you'll find or where the roads will take you. On a UK road trip, there are many sites to discover and explore. This nation's rich heritage enables us to travel to various landscapes, including the plains, hills, and fields. So here’s a list of the 20 best road trips in the UK.

20 Best Road Trips in UK

The United Kingdom is a great place for road trips, with its diverse landscapes and rich culture. From the rolling hills of the Lake District to the dramatic coastline of Cornwall, there are so many scenic routes to explore. So here is a list of 20 the best road trips in UK:

1. Snake Pass, Peak District

Starting point: Glossop, Derbyshire
End: Glossop, Derbyshire
Length:  6.2-mile loop
Recommended duration: 3h 31 min
Take the A57 between Sheffield and Manchester
A well-known route in Derbyshire called Snake Pass passes over the Pennines via many small towns and comes to a stop at Ladybower Reservoir halfway through. Stop for some time to admire the view from Bamford Edge. As you enter Glossop town on your way to Manchester in the north, you'll be greeted with breathtaking scenery.
The weather up here makes driving somewhat dangerous; it's lovely in the summer but frequently closed in the winter due to heavy snow. Although driving Snake Pass might be challenging because of its sharp dips and hairpin twists, it is also a lot of fun.  

2. Snowdonia to Anglesey

Starting point:  Trevor, the Llangollen Canal
End: Anglesey
Length:   A 26-mile drive to the west coast of Wales
Recommended duration:2-3 hours
The North York Moors include the most significant concentration of heather moorland globally, a rugged, windswept environment with a forgotten, timeless character. You may discover wide-open spaces bursting with wildflowers in the summer. There are various ways to explore the moors, but this 50-mile one features some exceptionally rocky terrain and intriguing scenery.
Take the B1257 north, passing by broad fields and stone farmhouses, Starting at Helmsley village.
Think of making a pit break at Rievaulx Abbey, a ruin from the 11th century. You will arrive in the market town of Stokesley after travelling 20 kilometres. Towards the shore, turn east from here. On the Cleveland Way hiking route, you could decide to pause at the Captain Cooks memorial. The final 30 miles via moorland will bring you to Whitby. While sitting on the harbour wall, savour some of the country's most fabulous fish & chips with your feet dangling down the wall.

3. Scottish North Coast, Scotland

Starting point:  Inverness Castle
End: Inverness Castle
Length: 516 miles
Recommended duration: 2-3 days
This is UK's northernmost road trip. The Scottish North Coast journey begins and ends with the storied Inverness Castle and is the ideal circle route across Scotland. The more than 800 km circuit includes the northernmost continental coast of the UK. Visit the settlement of John o' Groats, renowned for being one of the mainland locations from the Land's Finishing line at the opposite extreme of the nation.
Six unique encounters are included in the voyage around the Scottish North Coast. In Easter Ross, you may try whiskies and look for seals off the coast. Off Black Isle, where the local cuisine and craft beer culture are worth checking out, you could also encounter dolphins. And that's without even mentioning Wester Ross's mysterious lochs and breath taking white-sand beaches. 

4. Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

Starting point: Cheddar
End: Civil parish
Length: 14 miles
Recommended duration: 1 hour
The 14 cliff-hanging miles of the award-winning Cheddar Gorge road are winding and turn-filled. Popular southwest tourist destinations, including Bath, Bristol, and Weston-Super-Mare, are easily accessible.
Due to its reputation, this gorge route is trendy, so if you visit over the week finishing line during the busiest summer months, prepare to deal with heavy traffic. It is better to leave early in the morning when you will have the most of this tortuous trip to yourself. 

5. The Black Mountain Pass

Starting point: The junction with the A474 at north of Gwaun-Cae-Curwen
End: Felindre near Llangadog.
Length: 20 miles 
Recommended duration: 1 hour 
The Black Mountain Pass is a thrilling 20-mile journey wind through Brecon Beacons National Park in south Wales through a remote and desolate area. This route climbs the edge of an abandoned quarry to a height of 1,600 feet and features several hairpin curves to challenge your driving skills.
This section of highway connects the towns of Llangadog and Brynamman. The landscape begins with fields before climbing into bleak moorland. However, the sight from the top of the pass is breathtaking. Keep an eye out for stray sheep that may wander into the road. 

6. Welsh Coast

Recommended by: Abi, Inside the Travel Lab
Starting point: Cardiff
End: Liverpool
Length: 870 miles 
Recommended duration: 10-14 days
Starting at Cardiff the capital of Europe's youngest member state, and then trading in the city sites for some of the continent's most incredible beaches, untamed plains, and towering cliffs.
Highlights include the National Parks of the ominous Brecon Beacons and the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, dotted with puffins. And, of course, Snowdonia, home of Wales' highest mountain at 1024 metres.
Dylan Thomas's previous residence in Swansea and his secret writing retreat in Laugharne may be visited by following his literary trail.
Then test your mettle (and your linguistic skills) against the dizzying heights of the UNESCO World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct near Llangollen. And, of course, there's the traditional British seaside experience in Llandudno. 

7. Causeway Coastal Route

Starting point: Belfast City
End: Derry
Length:  195-mile route
Recommended duration: 3-5 days
The Causeway Coastal Route is a 130-mile drive that connects Belfast and Derry, the two main cities in Northern Ireland. You will pass several well-known monuments along this route, one of the most popular beach roads in the UK, so plan to stop frequently.
The halfway point of the journey is the town of Ballycastle, which is only a few kilometres from Northern Ireland's most well-known tourist destination, the Giant's Causeway. Include some time to pause and take in this geological oddity, but be prepared for some intense weather. The Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and Dunluce Castle are two additional stops along the route.

8. Ben Nevis to the Isle of Skye Village

Starting point: Gloucester
End: Gloucester
Length: 100 miles 
Recommended duration: 3-4  days
One of the roughest journeys is the drive from Ben Nevis to the Isle of Skye. You'll be rewarded with vistas of lovely lochs, monolithic rocks, and magnificent landscapes all along the trip from Scotland's highest peak to the most oversized island of the Inner Hebrides archipelago. In excellent weather, the 100-mile journey takes around 2 hours, but it's a good idea to stop often because there are numerous breath-taking sights to take in.
Neist Point on the island of Skye's extreme western shore is the best place to catch the setting sun. This rocky outcrop, which lies close to the community of Glendale, is bathed in golden hues as the sun sets over the horizon.
Broadway not only has one of the most beautiful high streets in the UK, but it also has Broadway Tower, from which you can overlook a whopping 16 counties.

9. Atlantic Highway (A39), South West England

Starting point: Bath in Somerset 
End: Falmouth in Cornwall
Length: 70-mile 
Recommended duration: 2-3 hours
The Atlantic Highways is a 70-mile stretch of the A39 that connects the seaside towns of Newquay in Cornwall with Barnstaple in North Devon. This 1.5-hour trek features rugged terrain and some beautiful coastline panoramas on one side.
The numerous beautiful beaches along the Atlantic Highway, such as Westward Ho in Devon and Summerleaze Beach near Bude on Cornwall's northern shore, are among the highway's attractions. Take the toll road to the lighthouse at Trevose Head, near Padstow, if you have the time.

10. The Cambrian Way, Wales

Starting point: Cardiff
End: Llandudno
Length: 180 miles 
Recommended duration: 4 to 5 days(longer if you wish to climb Snowdon)
Driving through the breath-taking mountain beauty of the Brecon Beacons National Park, travel through central Wales's lowlands and Lakelands. Before veering past the spectacular landscape of Snowdonia National Park and ascending to the north coast.
You could travel the entire distance on the same route, But occasionally it's worthwhile to detour in quest of picturesque places and meandering mountain routes. 

11. Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland

Starting point: Belfast
End: Derry       
Length: 190 km
Recommended duration: 7 days
The Causeway coastal road spans 200 miles of breathtaking shoreline from Belfast to Derry (Londonderry). Unquestionably, this is among the top road trips in the UK. Starting point: point: in Belfast and go east toward Islandmagee to complete the well-known Gobbins Cliff Walk.
To reach Cushenden, the Glens' centre, go north via the Glens of Antrim. Ruined castles, recognisable Irish villages, Game of Thrones filming spots, and jaw-dropping landscape may all be found along this stretch of your road journey.
Continue to Ballycastle to visit Robert Bruce's hiding place, Rathlin Island. A short drive takes you to the Dark Hedges, then back up the coast to Bushmills for a whiskey tasting and tour.
Go to the Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge from Bushmills. Your next stop is Downhill Strand and the famous Mussenden Temple, after which you go to Derry (Londonderry), where you can learn more about Irish history by seeing the Bloody Sunday memorial and the murals of Derry.

12. Durdle Door, Dorset

Starting point: Bournemouth
End: Exmouth
Length: 95 miles 
Recommended duration: 3 days
The 95-mile-long Jurassic Coast in southern England, which has a 185 million-year history, is without a doubt one of the most well-known spots in the region. It's a beautiful place for a road trip because of its gorgeous beaches, breathtaking cliffs, quaint seaside towns, and abundance of fossils. To visit Old Harry Rocks, take the chain ferry from Bournemouth to Studland across Poole Harbour. The easternmost point of the Jurassic Coast is marked by these chalk stacks off the Isle of Purbeck. Drive to Lulworth Cove from there by following the shoreline. Visit the beautiful beach and hike over the cliffs to the Durdle Door.
Visit Weymouth, its vibrant fishing harbour, and Lyme Regis, where Victorian fossil collector Mary Anning called home. In Devon, explore the Beer white chalk cliffs before continuing to Exmouth, passing through a few more beautiful seaside villages

13. The Kintyre 66 

Starting point: Kintyre
End: Kintyre
Length:  66 mile
Recommended duration: 2-3 hours
The Kintyre 66 (K66) is a brand-new route that circles the Scottish peninsula of Kintyre. It is frequently referred to as Scotland's sole "mainland island" and is entirely encircled by water. It is connected to the mainland by a little sliver of land.
Kintyre is home to stunning beaches, secluded bays, picturesque towns, and wildlife refuges. It would be unfortunate to not thoroughly examine the area. You could quickly drive the K66 daily or fill a week with activities and places to see.
The area is brimming with activities for nature enthusiasts, whiskey connoisseurs, and foodies. The boat voyage to the Isle of Gigha, where visitors may kayak in the clear seas and explore the gorgeous Twin Beaches, is a highlight. The remains of Skipness and Tarbert castles complete the ideal excursion, and the golf course in Machrihanish is reputed to be one of Scotland's most picturesque courses.

14. Atlantic Highway, England

Starting point: Bath
End: Newquay
Length: 200 miles 
Recommended duration: 7-8 days
The Atlantic Highway is a portion of the A39 that runs from Barnstaple to Fraddon, close to Newquay, and is frequently hailed as one of the world's most picturesque drives. It's simple to understand why as you drop into the southwest and witness the lush woods, charming seaside towns, and rough coastline!
Although Barnstaple is where the Atlantic Highway technically begins, one of the finest UK road trips starts in Bath and travels down the A39 to Cornwall. On your trip, you'll pass through three counties and enjoy some breathtaking views.
Afterwards, continue to the breathtaking coves and beaches along the coast from Barnstaple to Bude after passing through the Exmoor National Park. Later, the A39 makes a minor diversion back to several locations along the shore.

15. Pembrokeshire, Wales

Starting point: Tenby
End: Fishguard
Length: 90 miles 
Recommended duration: 5-7 days
This Pembrokeshire road trip begins in the charming and colourful coastal town of Tenby and follows the coast very closely as it travels clockwise across the entire county. Along the route, you may visit two ancient castles, several breath-taking sandy beaches, and breath-taking coastal scenery, the UK's smallest city.
Road trips may include various activities, such as cold-water swimming, coasteering, or strolling the coast path. If all of the above seems like too much labour, take pleasure in all the quaint local taverns and cafés you pass.
All the attractions may be seen in five days, but a week may be required if you want to use the trekking options. Pembrokeshire is among the most beautiful regions in the UK, so you won't regret staying longer. Because everything is so close together, a road trip here is fantastic because you never have to do any driving. Wales offers a great deal of student accommodation options that students can choose from.

16. Scottish Highlands

Starting point: Edinburgh
End: Edinburgh
Length: 450 miles 
Recommended duration: 10 days
A car journey across the Scottish Highlands seems almost inevitable. There is a tonne to see and do with unique picturesque surroundings and hundreds of historic cities and villages.
Starting your journey in the city of Edinburgh, where you may see unique locations, including the magnificent Arthur's Seat and Edinburgh Castle. Before stopping at Stonehaven, a little coastal town that takes pride in serving Scottland's best fish and chips, go north and stop at more points of interest, such as Dundee and St Andrews.
You can also visit the magnificent Dunnottar Castle, perched on a rock above the water. Before travelling west to Fort William through the fabulous Cairngorms National Park, you may stop at the city of Aberdeen and several of its beautiful beaches if you have time. Lastly, return to Edinburgh through Glencoe and Loch Lomond's stunning scenery!

17. Northumberland Coastal Route

Starting point: Cresswell 
End: Berwick-upon-tweed
Length: 62 miles
Recommended duration:2 to 3 hours
This scenic route follows the Northumberland Coast, passing through beautiful scenery and seashore fishing communities. It has some of England's most stunning castles, Europe's largest used book store, and a tidal island where the Lindisfarne Gospels were once written.
Visit Bamburgh Castle on day two before proceeding to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne and the abandoned Priory. When making plans, consider the tides!
Alnwick Castle, which was featured as a filming site in the Harry Potter films, should not be missed by fans of the series. 

18. Lake District, England

Starting point: Windermere
End: Ambleside
Length: 95 miles 
Recommended duration: 3-5 days
North West England's Lake District is the ideal destination for a road vacation. Windermere and Keswick are the two most popular tourist destinations in the Lakes, but there are countless more fantastic locations to add to your lake. I would tour Bowness-on-Windermere, a bustling community with many stores and eateries, beginning at Lake Windermere. From there, as finishing line to Ullswater is considered the most beautiful lake in England.
Next, visit the market town of Keswick, a fantastic starting point for exploring the entire North Lakes region. From there, proceed via Buttermere, a wonderfully picturesque lake that is ideal for some alone swimming.
Eskdale, a place known for its magnificent treks, waterfalls, and swimming holes, maybe the next visit. After that, travel to Ambleside, located on Lake Windermere's northern coast, for one more night of rest.

19. South West Coastal 300

Starting point: Dumfries
Finish: Dumfries
Length: 300 miles 
Recommended duration: 2-3 days
Travelling along the South West Coastal 300 is the ideal way to experience all Scotland offers. This road trip allows you to fit a lot into just a few days, including breathtaking scenery, unspoiled coasts, thrilling experiences, mouth-watering cuisine, and exciting history.
A treasure trove of breathtaking highlands and gorgeous lochs may be found in South West Scottland. There is so much to learn, including famous landmarks and historical locations. The magnificent Caerlaverock Castle and Culzean Castle are only a few highlights.
The SWC300 is a 300-mile loop that begins and ends in the charming town of Dumfries; however, you can Starting point: point: and Finishing line the trip anywhere. It travels through areas like Stranraer, Ayrshire, and Wanlockhead before reaching Mull of Galloway, the southernmost tip of Scottland.
The route is appropriate for automobiles and campervans because it consists primarily of quiet country roads. The ideal time to utilise the SWC300 is three days and two nights. It is one of the best UK road trips.

20. Norfolk Coast Road Trip 

Starting point: Norwich
End: Kings Lynn
Length: 110 miles 
Recommended duration: 5 days
Starting point: pointing in the ancient city of Norwich, this Norfolk road trip will take you through the magnificent Norfolk Broads and down one of the UK's most pristine coasts. There is a tonne to see and do along the way, including a few excellent country pubs, some great country inns, and plenty of possibilities for going on the water, making it ideal for a car or RV road trip.
Highlights include:
-Eating fresh Cromer crab on the pier in this traditional coastal town.
-Going crabbing from Blakeney's harbour.
-Taking a boat excursion to see the local seal population.
You may also go sailing along one of the stunning and serene broads.
From Norwich, go east to Wroxham, the Broads' administrative centre, then head north along the coast, stopping at whatever beach or charming village catches your eye. 

21. Yorkshire

Starting point: Ingleton, Yorkshire Dales
End: Whitby, Yorkshire Coast
Length: 117 miles 
Recommended duration: 5-6 days
Yorkshire is one of the most significant regions in the UK for road vacations. There are so many different types of landscapes to explore!
Before going to Malham Cove, explore the nearby caves, waterfalls, and hiking trails. This 230-foot-tall natural stone amphitheatre was a backdrop for the Harry Potter films.
Give yourself a day to explore the breath-taking circular route in Malham. Visit the ancient city of York to see York Minster, stroll along the city's mediaeval walls, or look around a museum.
Drive through the windswept Yorkshire Moors, stopping to walk into the 400-foot-deep and 1-mile-long Hole of Horcum. Take a detour to the car-free community of Robin Hoods Bay to explore its cobblestone streets and go beach fossil hunting.
Visit Whitby on the Yorkshire Coast to round out your road journey. Take the 199 stone stairs up to Whitby Abbey's clifftop ruins or savour a world-famous fish and chip meal. 

The country's modest but mighty network of highways, along with the lush countryside, adorable seaside villages, and fantasy forests, make it the ideal location for a multi-day car journey. One of the most liberating ways to experience the diverse landscapes of Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and England is by meandering around on four wheels. So what are you waiting for? Grab your car keys and drive away!