UK road trips are an excellent way to explore this beautiful country and its rich history. Whether you are looking for scenic mountain roads or winding coastal routes, there is no shortage of exciting options when it comes to planning your adventure.
There are many different types of scenic routes available for those planning a UK road trip. Some popular choices include mountainous regions such as the Scottish Highlands, which offer stunning views of rolling hills and lochs, or coastal areas such as Cornwall and the Isle of Skye, where you can admire the dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches along the rugged coastline. Other options include rural areas such as the Cotswolds or the Lake District, which offer picturesque landscapes and quaint towns to explore.
If you’re looking for the best scenic routes for a UK road trip, look no further! In this post, I will share some of my top picks for scenic drives across the UK, including some tips on how to plan your trip and minimize your environmental impact along the way. Whether you’re an experienced traveller or a first-time adventurer, these routes are sure to offer up plenty of stunning scenery and exciting adventures. So what are you waiting for? Let’s hit the road!
The North Coast 500
A road trip to the north coast of Scotland is a must-do for any UK traveller. The route is known as the North Coast 500 and takes in some of the most scenic and rugged landscapes in the country. The route starts in Inverness and winds its way along the coast, past dramatic cliffs, rolling hills and lochs galore. There are plenty of places to stop and explore, including Dunrobin Castle, John O’Groats and the stunning Applecross Peninsula.
The best way to enjoy the North Coast 500 is by hiring a car and taking your time to explore all that the route has to offer. This is definitely not a journey to be rushed, so make sure you have plenty of time set aside to enjoy the scenery and all the amazing things that Scotland has to offer. Some of the highlights along the way include Inverness Castle, the picturesque village of Plockton, and Duncansby Head lighthouse.
The best place to eat along the North Coast 500 is The Grill Room. This local’s favourite offers a delicious menu of Scottish favourites, all made from fresh, local ingredients. People love the rich colours and comfortable elegance of The Grill Room and are further impressed by the fabulous cooking.
The Cotswolds, UK
The Cotswolds is a region of south-central England that is known for its stunning countryside and charming villages. The area is perfect for a road trip, with plenty of scenic routes to explore and interesting places to stop.
One of the best ways to explore the Cotswolds is by car and taking your time to wander around at your own pace. The roads are quiet and well-maintained, making for a relaxed and enjoyable journey. There are lots of lovely villages to explore, each with its unique character. Some of the highlights include Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold and Moreton-in-Marsh.
The best place to eat in the Cotswolds is The Wild Pig. This gastro pub offers a seasonal menu of British favourites, all made with fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is cosy and relaxed, and the food is delicious – perfect for a winter’s day out in the Cotswolds.
The Cotswolds is a must-visit destination for any UK road tripper. With its beautiful countryside and charming villages, it’s sure to leave you with lasting memories of your trip.
Hadrian’s Wall, UK
Hadrian’s Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Northumberland, England. The wall was built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian in 122 AD and stretches for 73 miles across the country.
The best way to experience Hadrian’s Wall is by taking a road trip along the scenic routes that surround it. It takes approximately 5 hours to drive from London to Hadrian’s Wall. The route is scenic and well-maintained, making for a relaxed and enjoyable journey. There are plenty of quiet country roads to explore, and the scenery is simply stunning. The wall is available from several different towns and villages. Some of the towns and villages that offer access to Hadrian’s Wall include Hexham, Corbridge, Heddon-on-the-Wall and Birdoswald. Each of these villages has its unique character and offers a different perspective on this fascinating historic site. Make sure you read about them so you can tailor your journey to suit your interests.
The best place to eat near Hadrian’s Wall is The Fox & Hounds. This charming pub offers a delicious menu of British classics, all made with fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is cosy and relaxed, and the food is mouth-wateringly good – perfect for an afternoon out in Northumberland.
Hadrian’s Wall is a must-visit destination for any UK road tripper. With its fascinating history and stunning scenery, it’s sure to leave you with lasting memories of your trip.
Final thoughts
As one of the most scenic and exciting ways to explore the UK, road trips offer up endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. We recently talked about the staycation and this is a great way to travel and explore new areas without jumping on a plane.
Whether you are looking for coastal routes, mountainous areas, or charming rural towns, there is something for everyone when it comes to planning your UK road trip. So what are you waiting for? Hit the road and start exploring this beautiful country today!
