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The best UK road trip ideas for your holiday
If you're looking for some of the best UK road trip ideas for your next break away, you’re in luck – because this beautiful country is blessed with plenty of fantastic spots to hit the road on. Our fantastic guide lets you explore the stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture of this island nation.
From the rugged coastlines of Cornwall and Scotland to the gorgeous rolling hills of Yorkshire, you’ll be spoiled for choice in terms of road trip ideas in the UK. With an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences to discover on your road trip, there’s something for everyone. Why not explore the Jurassic Coast, or maybe venture along the North Coast 500? In this guide, we'll take you through some of the top UK road trip ideas, as well as tips and frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help you plan the ultimate adventure. Let’s hit the pedal and get on our way…
The top road trip ideas in the UK
With so many options to choose from, you’ve got your pick of any location in the UK for your road trip. To help you out, we’ve picked the best road trip ideas in the UK that are sure to give you and the family the dream getaway you’ve been waiting for. Here are our favourite UK road trip ideas:
The Jurassic Coast
Stretching for 96 miles along the southern coast of England, one of the best road trip ideas to consider for your break is along the Jurassic Coast. This designated World Heritage Site is a must-visit destination for a memorable getaway filled with views, sun, and adventure.
Things to do in DorsetThis stunning stretch of coastline offers breathtaking natural scenery, including towering cliffs, secluded coves, and ancient rock formations dating back millions of years.
You can start your journey in the charming town of Swanage and then make your way westward, stopping at iconic landmarks like Durdle Door, Lulworth Cove, and Chesil Beach.
What’s more, Swanage Bay View Holiday Park is only around 35 minutes away from these landmarks, so you can stay in a great spot whilst on your road trip.
Cornwall
If we’re talking about the best UK road trip ideas, then Cornwall definitely has to be on the list.
Things to do in CornwallLocated in the southwestern corner of England, Cornwall is a road tripper's paradise. With its gorgeous coastlines, quaint fishing villages, and rich Celtic heritage, this region offers a unique experience, whether you want great beaches, cultural trips, or village visits.
Start your drive from the picturesque town of St. Ives, famous for its artistic community and stunning beaches. Then, make your way along the winding coastal roads, stopping at brilliant destinations like Land's End, the Eden Project, and the charming harbour town of Fowey.
Yorkshire
Yorkshire, in northern England, is a splendid region steeped in history and natural beauty.
This makes it an excellent choice for UK road trip ideas. Start your journey in the vibrant city of York, where you can explore the iconic York Minster, the Shambles and the city's Viking heritage.
Things to do in YorkshireFrom there, drive into the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park, where you'll be greeted by rolling hills, quaint villages, and some of the best hiking trails in the country. So, make sure you pack your walking boots if you want to trade the road for a footpath for the day!
Snowdonia, North Wales
Snowdonia, located in North Wales, is a true outdoor enthusiast's paradise, and perfect for your top road trip ideas in the UK.
Things to do in North WalesOffering some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK, this region is home to the highest mountain in Wales – Snowdon. To even just drive past this landmark is an experience in itself, let alone if you wanted to park up and brave the hike!
On your route, you’ll also see numerous lakes, waterfalls, and ancient castles. Start your road trip in the charming town of Betws-y-Coed, often referred to as the "Gateway to Snowdonia". From there, explore the winding roads through the park, stopping at destinations like Llanberis, Beddgelert, and the picturesque village of Portmeirion.
If you want a base to rest, recharge, and find new adventures, you can always stay at the Golden Sands Holiday Park, only around 45 minutes away from Snowdon.
North Coast 500, Scotland
You may have already heard of the North Coast 500, since it’s one of the most epic UK road trip destinations, and has been for some time.
Things to do in ScotlandThis road trip will take you on a stunning journey through the Scottish Highlands. The 516-mile route starts and ends in Inverness and winds its way along the northern coast of Scotland. This means stunning views of lochs, mountains, and historic castles – like Dunrobin Castle.
To add further excitement to your adventure, make sure to stop at iconic destinations like the Cairngorms National Park, the Isle of Skye, and the charming fishing villages of the East Coast.
The East coast
Heading back to England now, the East Coast offers a unique and diverse road trip experience for the whole family. Some of these locations showcase a mix of historic cities, picturesque villages, and stunning coastal scenery.
Things to do in LincolnshireThere are many different options for which route you can take. The best ones will ensure you hit some great spots like Lincolnshire, Essex, Hampshire, and more.
Start your journey in the vibrant city of Lincolnshire, where you can explore iconic landmarks like the great Lincoln Cathedral. From there, head down to Essex, where you can explore the enchanting Mersea Island. After that, a drive down to Hampshire is perfect, where you can rejuvenate and recharge in the beautiful New Forest.
Hampshire
Whilst this can be part of your East Coast route, UK road trips in Hampshire alone can be an unforgettable experience.
Things to do in HampshireLocated in southern England, this region is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, especially when it comes to the famous New Forest.
But first, start your journey in the historic city of Winchester, where you can explore the magnificent Winchester Cathedral and the Great Hall, home to the iconic King Arthur's Round Table. From there, make your way through the picturesque New Forest National Park, where you can experience the wonders of wildlife first-hand.
Also, Sandy Balls Holiday Park is only around a 15-minute walk or a five-minute drive from the New Forest, so it’s ideal to be the base for your UK road trip.
Wales
We’ve covered North Wales, but Wales as a whole is a stunning country within the UK. It offers a wealth of opportunities for road trippers of all ages.
Start your journey in the vibrant capital city of Cardiff, where you can explore the iconic Cardiff Castle and the Welsh National Museum. Of course, you can still combine this with a North Wales road trip and head into the beautiful region of Snowdonia if you wish!
If you want to explore the whole country, you can even head all the way up to Llandudno, where there are plenty of great landmarks and experiences to try – as well as a splendid beach or two!
Road trip UK ideas for having the best time away
Road trip ideas don’t just have to be the route! You can start planning different ideas for how you can have the best time on your trip. Here are some of our top picks to get you started:
Choose the best type of road trip
When planning your UK road trip ideas, it's essential you choose a type of road trip that’s right for you and your fellow travellers. This means finding a route that suits your interests and preferences. Do you prefer exploring bustling cities and historic sites or immersing yourself in the great outdoors? Is it coastal bliss you seek, or a peaceful trip among nature? Determine your priorities and tailor your road trip accordingly.
Pack all the necessary gear
Proper preparation is key, and some of the best UK road trip ideas should centre around what you bring. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable road trip, make sure to pack essential items like a physical map or GPS device – of course, in today’s modern world, a phone can suffice – a first-aid kit, snacks and water. Also, some other handy things could be a car charger for your devices, and comfortable clothing that’s suitable for the weather and activities you plan to undertake.
Plan out your top activities beforehand
While spontaneity can be part of the fun, it's also wise to plan out your top activities and attractions beforehand. Research the must-see destinations and top things to do along your route, and be sure to book any necessary tickets or reservations. Also, try and allocate enough time to explore each location without feeling rushed, since there’s so much to see on UK road trips.
Keep things interesting while on the road
Long drives can become monotonous. But fear not, because we’ve got some road trip ideas for your UK journeys that should keep things interesting. You can:
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Create a playlist of your favourite tunes (a nominated DJ is a good idea!)
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Listen to audiobooks or podcasts
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Play road trip games to keep the little ones entertained
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Take breaks to stretch your legs and explore interesting roadside attractions.
Road trip ideas in the UK – FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding UK road trip ideas:
What is the best road trip in the UK?
The best road trip in the UK depends on your personal preferences, but some of the most popular and highly regarded road trips include the North Coast 500 in Scotland, the Jurassic Coast in southern England, and the scenic routes through the Scottish Highlands and the Lake District.
How do I plan a road trip around the UK?
To plan a road trip around the UK, start by determining your starting and ending points. Then, find the regions or destinations you want to visit along this route. Research the best spots, attractions, and accommodations along the way. Create a rough itinerary, but leave room for flexibility and spontaneity.
What is the longest road trip in the UK?
The longest continuous road trip in the UK is the North Coast 500 in Scotland, spanning approximately 516 miles.
Put your UK road trip ideas into action!
With this guide to the best UK road trip ideas, you now have the inspiration and information you need to plan an unforgettable holiday. Whether you choose to explore the rugged coastlines, historic cities, or stunning national parks, the UK offers a wealth of experiences for road trippers.
So, pack your bags, hit the open road, and get ready to create lasting memories on your UK road trip!