Best UK summer road trip destinations
The Lake District has some of the best roads in the country
Forget Route 66 and other far flung driving destinations, some of the best places to hit the road can be found much closer to home.
Norfolk Coast, England
Norfolk has some of the most stunning views in the county, it’s perfect for a summer road trip. Drive the country roads through the Broads and take in the scenic waterways and wild variety of wildlife. Or you can take the coastal roads towards Cromer and catch the UK’s only end-of-the-pier variety show.
North Norfolk has more Blue Flag beaches than any other region in the UK. There’s forty miles of beach for you to explore and, if you’re lucky, you may see some seals at Blakeney Point, the home of England’s largest grey seal colony.
Check out this Norfolk road trip route
Snowdonia, Wales
If you’re looking for natural beauty, North Wales is the place to find it. Home to Snowdonia, the region has some of the best road trip routes in the UK. Start in Betws-y-Coed and head to the heart of Snowdonia. You’ll be surrounded by majestic mountains on all sides as you head deeper into the rugged terrain.
After you’ve visited Snowdonia, you can head up to the Menai Strait and check out the wonderful island of Anglesey. There are some gorgeous sites in this part of the world, so you’d best pick your favourites before you set off.
Check out these routes through Snowdonia
North Coast 500, Scotland
Did you know the UK has its very own Route 66? Head up to North Scotland and experience the Highlands in all their glory. Officially the route starts and ends in Inverness, but if a certain road catches your eye, there’s no reason why you can’t follow your heart and forget your sat nav.
Along the route you’ll be able to go mountaineering, diving, take part in water sports and many other activities. Northern Scotland is also a great place to see the Northern Lights if you go at the right time of year.
Lake District, England
There are few places as picturesque as the Lake District National Park.
Written about extensively by the Romantic poets, you can see why they were so inspired as you drive through the Lake District National Park. One of the best ways to see it is by car, or by bike if you want to get some exercise in at the same time.
There’s plenty to see and do while you’re on your road trip. Some of the best wild swimming spots in the UK are in the Lake District, and there’s lots of other outdoor activities to do as well. You’ll find picnic spots with a view at almost every turn and may struggle to decide where to stop for a rest.
Pick from one of these Lake District road trip routes
Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route is made up of nine smaller scenic drives, perfect for breaking up your road trip. The route also connects to the Wild Atlantic Way, the Republic of Ireland’s windswept dramatic drive is one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world.
Keep an eye out for some of Northern Ireland’s best landmarks along the way including the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle and the Glens of Antrim. You can also make the ferry trip to Rathlin Island to tour its famous upside– down lighthouse.
Plan your trip along the Causeway Coastal Route
Some things to remember:
- Plan your stops: You’ve got your route, but have you planned where you’ll be stopping? You’ll need to know where the closest petrol stations are and where to stop for food and to use the bathroom.
- Accommodation: If you’re on a multiple day road trip, make sure you book a hotel or Airbnb in advance. A lot of places on these road trips are remote and may not have accommodation available at short notice.
- While you’re there: If you’re planning on visiting pubs and restaurants, remember that driving or cycling after you’ve been drinking is illegal. Make sure you’re within walking distance of your accommodation or prebook a taxi.
If you’re going on a family road trip, check out our tips for road trips with kids to make your journey as easy as possible.
