Did you know that some of the world’s most spectacular road trips are on your doorstep in the UK? From the rugged coastal scenery of Scotland’s northern coastline to the quintessential countryside of the Cotswolds, these epic journeys guarantee glorious views at every turn and feature places loaded with character and things to do.
Preparing for the journey
Before you head off, ensure your vehicle is ready to hit the road. Call your local garage or go online to book your MOT and arrange a full service to ensure everything is in good working order so you’re safe on the road. Check your car insurance is valid, and pack an emergency kit to cover you for all eventualities.
Top 4 UK car holidays
Scottish Highlands
Exploring the Scottish Highlands by road is a well-driven route – but with good reason.
The 500-mile circular trip starting and finishing at Inverness has international renown, praised for its striking seascapes with cliffs topped by crumbling castles, varied hiking trails and unique wildlife experiences from birdwatching to dolphin spotting. Consider it the UK’s answer to America’s Route 66.
The Lake District
See natural landscapes at their most awe-inspiring on a weaving tour through the Lake District. England’s largest national park is a mountainous area of tall peaks – including England’s highest, Scafell Pike – and deep valleys, dotted with waterfalls and the glacial ribbon lakes that earned the region its name.
Your route will take you between small market towns with oodles of charm, such as Kendal with its traditional sweet mint snack and Windermere where opportunities for water sports abound.
The Cotswolds
For calmer countryside scenes, look no further than the Cotswolds just west of Oxford. It is classified as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and you can expect traditional rural views of farmland, lavender fields and softly rolling hills.
Architecture is a highlight of the Cotswolds, from preserved villages like Castle Combe to grand country houses like Blenheim Palace and the heritage buildings of pretty cities such as Bath and Oxford. Whether you’re in a remote location or wandering busy streets, you can’t escape the beauty of this region.
Cornwall
Discover coastal scenery in total contrast to the rugged and remote Scottish Highlands on a drive around the Cornish peninsula. Here beaches are wide and golden with high waves suitable for surfing, backed by small sandy dunes or high cliffs providing the perfect vantage point for picturesque views.
The UK’s southwest corner has a culture all its own, with a proud fishing heritage and a unique language (now largely unused). Listen out for tales of smuggling in the concealed coves when you’re wandering the pretty villages, and stop to enjoy a classic Cornish cream tea or the English seaside staple fish and chips.