When you think about the open road, the US and Australia are the countries you are likely to think of. But the good news is that there is no country on earth where you cannot enjoy fantastic road trips. The UK especially has many roads where you can drive and see breathtaking features such as waterfalls, mountains, lakes, coasts, and towns. These are some of the best road trips in the UK, including Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and England. Our removals specialist loves going on road trips in the UK. He says he doesn’t get to drive enough.
1. Causeway Coastal Route
This route is in Northern Ireland and will take you through several spectacular tourist attractions. It winds its way near the coast, starting from Belfast to Derry-Londonderry. Some sights you will see along the way are locations where Game of Thrones was shot, such as Ballintoy Harbour and Cushendun Caves, Giant’s Causeway, Titanic Museum, and Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. The trip can take between three and five days to complete.
2. Land of the lakes
If you love nature, this is the perfect road trip in the UK. It is a road trip in the Lake District, stretching 42 miles. On this road trip, you will see many incredible attractions, such as the Duddon Valley, which is famous for its beauty. The poet William Wordsworth even penned a poem about it in the 19th Century. You will also see the Dalegarth Station on the tiny Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway, Hardknott Roman Fort, and Stanley Force waterfalls. Take time to stop at any of the towns that you will like. You will also be spoilt for choice when you want to sample the pubs and coffee shops in the hamlets and villages along the road.
3. North York Moors National Park
This area is home to the biggest cluster of heather moorland in the whole wide world. The landscape looks rough, exotic, and unpolluted. This route is 50 miles long and contains unique sceneries and rugged lands. Your journey can begin at the Helmsley village, where you will drive through the B1257 north road. Some sights you will see on the way include Rievaulx Abbey, a ruin that has been around since the 11th Century. Further down the road, you will come across Stokesley, a market town. Go in the eastern direction to the coast, and you can check out the Captain Cooks monument if you want to. Drive into the moorland and arrive at Whitby. Eat some local delicacies like fish and take in the coastal surroundings.
4. Snowdonia to Anglesey
This exciting road trip in Wales begins at the Snowdonia Mountains and ends at the Anglesey coast. Some exciting places you can stop at during the journey are picnic locations, nature reserves like Snowdonia National Park, and castles like Penrhyn Castle. The town with the longest name in the world is also situated near Anglesey. You can take a photo there and create unforgettable memories. If you are travelling during summer, you can go up the South Stack Lighthouse in Holy Island and feast your eyes on the beautiful ocean views.
5. North Coast 500
This trip covers 516 miles, and it runs along a spectacular coastline. When you take this trip, be ready to see some of the mind-bogging sceneries UK offers like Smoo Cave, the biggest cave in Scotland, Loch Ness, Highland Liqour Company, and Dunrobin Castle. For food, you can visit The Ceilidh Place for delicious local seafood. If you are not the one driving, you can take part in tasting at the distillery. Book accommodation in advance to be on the safe side.
6. Atlantic Highway
This is a road trip in England that is 200 miles long. The route will start at Bath and go to Barnstaple, Bude, Tintagel, Padstow, and Newquay. This trip is considered the drive where you can see the most sights in the world such as a rugged coastline, villages, harbours, castles, and forests. Stop at any locations that will interest you and explore the areas.
7. Cotswolds
This is an ideal road trip for someone who is fascinated by ancient architecture because it will take you through a beautiful village. It is 100 miles long and can take 2 to 3 days to complete. Depending on your schedule, you can also take a whole week to go on the trip. Your journey will start at Gloucester, and along the way, you will pass through towns like Bourton-on-the-water, Broadway, Lower Slaughter, Painswick, and Cirencester. If you love history, consider exploring the historic towns of Cheltenham and Gloucester during the trip.
Wrapping Up
There you have it. These are seven of the best road trips in the UK. Whether you like the coast, lakes, mountains, or forest sights, you will find something to suit your preference. Some roads might have traffic, but the destination will be worth it. Remember to prepare adequately for the trips by carrying everything you need, such as a driver’s licence or enough money, and ensure the vehicle is ready for a long journey.
