The Best Scenic Road Trips Through the British Countryside

Start a journey through the UK’s beautiful lanes and byways. You’ll find routes with amazing views, old landmarks, and lovely rural towns. It’s perfect for those who love calm landscapes and adventures. These road trips let you see the UK’s culture and nature in a special way. Whether on a car trip in England or exploring Scotland’s wild lands, these UK road trips will give you memories to cherish.

Key Takeaways

• The North Coast 500 in Scotland covers 516 miles of scenic route with rugged Munros, castles, and sandy beaches.
• Cheddar Gorge in Somerset features limestone cliffs sliced 400m deep by glaciers, creating dramatic rock formations.
• The Atlantic Highway in Devon/Cornwall spans 170 miles, showcasing diverse landscapes from Exmoor to Padstow.
• The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland includes the Giant’s Causeway and Dunluce Castle along its 80-mile stretch.
• The Tourist Trophy route on the Isle of Man offers splendid scenic drives and is known for the annual TT motorcycle race.

North Coast 500 – Scotland

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is a thrilling Scotland road trip spanning 516 miles. It offers travelers beautiful landscapes, historic places, and coastal views. Since its start in 2015, it’s meant to boost Highland communities, showcasing the Scottish Highlands beautifully.

Route Highlights

The trip begins at Inverness Castle, covering areas like Inverness-shire, Black Isle, and Wester Ross. Each area has special attractions:

• Inverness to Thurso: Here, you can see castles and distilleries. The drive is about two and a half hours without stops.
• Kylesku to Ullapool: This leg lets you find caves, beaches, and sea life, taking roughly three hours.
• Ullapool to Torridon: This part features lovely waterfalls and gardens. It’s a two and a half hour drive.

Highlights include the beautiful Applecross Peninsula and Sandwood Bay’s 4-mile hike. Inverewe Garden is a must-see, with wildlife like red deer and otters.

Accommodation Tips

With the NC500’s popularity, booking early is key, especially from June to August. You can choose from cozy B&Bs to luxurious hotels like Forss House. For a quieter visit, consider going in the autumn.

The North Coast 500 takes you on a grand tour of Highland landscapes. It’s a memorable drive through Scotland’s scenery.

Cheddar Gorge – Somerset

Driving through Cheddar Gorge is an experience you won’t forget. It’s in the British countryside, 10 miles from Bristol. The area is known for its tall limestone cliffs and old rock shapes. People often compare it to a unique, green version of the Grand Canyon.

Driving Challenges

The B3135 road through Cheddar Gorge stretches for 14 miles and has 22 turns. This makes for an exciting but tough drive. It usually takes 30 to 40 minutes if you don’t stop. You need to be careful because of the sharp turns and steep hills. Some parts are really steep, with inclines of up to 16%.

This route is famous in Somerset and is especially busy in the summer. Then, it’s full of tourists and cyclists. So, you have to drive cautiously.

Best Viewpoints

If you want to see Cheddar Gorge’s real beauty, don’t miss the top spots. The Clifftop Walk is one. It’s a 4-mile loop that takes about 3.5 hours to finish. From there, the views of the gorge and further are stunning. Jacob’s Ladder is another spot you should visit. It has 274 steps and leads to wide views of the Mendip Hills and the gorge itself.

These spots are easy to get to by public footpaths. They offer a quiet way to enjoy the British countryside. Don’t forget your camera and good walking shoes for the best experience.

Atlantic Highway – Devon/Cornwall

The Atlantic Highway, known as the A39, is known for being one of the best road trips in Cornwall. It runs from Barnstaple to Newquay, covering 70 miles. You’ll see amazing landscapes in Devon and Cornwall along the way. It’s a top choice for scenic drives in Devon.

Historical Background

The Atlantic Highway used to follow a coastal train line, full of history. It starts in Bath, Somerset, and goes through Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall. Tintagel Castle, linked to the legend of King Arthur, adds magic to the trip.

Must-Visit Stops

Many spots along the Atlantic Highway make it one of the best road trips in Cornwall. Highlights include:

• Bude – Cornwall’s first beach resort town, with award-winning beaches and shops.
• Widemouth Bay – Next to Bude, it has relaxed beaches like Widemouth Bay and Black Rock.
• Boscastle – A beautiful village in Valency Valley, with great pubs, cafes, and shops.
• Tintagel – Known for the legend of King Arthur and Tintagel Castle.
• Port Isaac – Made famous by Doc Martin, this village has lovely cottages and history.
• Padstow – A fishing town famous for its harbor and seafood.
• Mawgan Porth – Just off the Highway, it offers stunning beach views.
• Newquay – Known for surfing, coastal walks, and various dining places.

The Atlantic Highway is perfect for history buffs or nature lovers. It gives you a classic British countryside experience. This route ensures a trip filled with memories.

Causeway Coastal Route – Northern Ireland

The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland spans 80 miles from Londonderry to Belfast. It showcases amazing landscapes, history, and iconic sights. It is essential for anyone who loves road trips.

Iconic Landmarks

Northern Ireland’s landmarks along this route reveal its rich past and stunning nature. The Giant’s Causeway, with its 40,000 basalt columns, is a natural wonder. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site too. For those into history, Carrickfergus Castle, made in 1177, is a treasure. Glenarm Castle, from 1636, is perfect for architecture enthusiasts.

There’s more to see, like Slemish Mountain, connected to Saint Patrick. The small village of Ballintoy is famous for its Game of Thrones scenes.

Scenic Detours

There are many hidden spots to discover off the Causeway Coastal Route. Carnfunnock Country Park has 191 hectares of woods and coastlines. The path from Whitehead Coastal Pass to Blackhead Lighthouse spans 5km, with incredible views. The Gobbins Cliff Path offers an adventurous walk with its bridges and tunnels.

Rathlin Island is another must-visit, housing 250,000 seabirds. Glenariff Forest Park provides a peaceful 8.9km trail. Torr Head Road offers striking views. These detours enrich your journey with Northern Ireland’s beauty and history.

The Best Scenic Road Trips Through the British Countryside

Traveling through the British countryside by car is a special experience. Every road trip, from Yorkshire’s hills to Cornwall’s coasts, is filled with magic. You can enjoy the scenery and learn about history and culture at the same time.

• Jurassic Coast: This UNESCO World Heritage Site spans a 95-mile stretch from Exmouth to Studland Bay. Its dramatic coastal views and significant geological formations make it a must-visit.
• Atlantic Highway: Covering 76 miles from Barnstaple to Newquay, this route offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a quintessential British countryside drive.
• Peak District: A 60-mile drive from Holmfirth to Buxton takes you through historical sites, stately manors, and breathtaking landscapes.
• Lake District: Known for its numerous lakes and often hailed as the most beautiful place in England, this destination offers a variety of picturesque road trips.
• Yorkshire Dales: Covering 840 square miles, the National Park features iconic drives like the Buttertubs Pass with its challenging ascent and tight corners.

Driving in the British countryside means diverse experiences. For example, the Hadrian’s Wall trip from Newcastle to Carlisle is 79 miles of England’s ancient history. The historic south road from London to Oxford is 450 miles of combined urban and country scenes, which can take 7 to 10 days.

Every trip offers something special, whether it’s a short 18-mile drive from Lindisfarne Castle to Alnwick. Or a longer 207-mile journey along the coast from Bude to Fowey. Each one brings its own unique beauty and cultural stories.

Exploring the British countryside through these road trips uncovers hidden beauties. Each turn shows more of Britain’s amazing landscapes and rich history. The freedom of driving makes every trip unique and memorable, just like the places you visit.

Tourist Trophy Route – Isle of Man

The Tourist Trophy Route on the Isle of Man is truly special for those seeking scenic routes UK. It’s famous worldwide for the thrilling Isle of Man TT motorcycle races. This 37-mile loop mixes breathtaking views and exciting driving experiences perfectly.

Driving the Tourist Trophy Route lets travelers walk in the steps of skilled motorcyclists. Unlike the races, this drive focuses on enjoying the Isle of Man’s majestic landscapes.

The route showcases diverse attractions. Every part of this loop is unique, offering memorable adventures. From mountain passes to coastal views, it’s all striking.

The journey starts in Douglas, the island’s capital. From there, you cover 37 miles, heading towards the mountain section. The landscape changes dramatically, revealing rugged terrain and beautiful valleys.

Driving in the Isle of Man also means exploring technological achievements. The Snaefell Mountain section offers thrilling climbs and descents. Plus, it features some of the UK’s most stunning views.

For a peaceful experience, the Tourist Trophy Route is unmatched. Drive slowly to take in the island’s splendid beauty. Along the way, quaint villages and historic sites add to the experience.

The drive spans six days, offering plenty of time to discover the island’s culture and beauty. Each day brings something new, from secret coves to wide views. It’s the perfect trip for those wanting to see the British countryside’s diversity.

In conclusion, the Tourist Trophy Route on the Isle of Man is essential for any driver. Whether you love racing history or just want a serene drive, it promises an unforgettable journey along one of the most scenic routes in the UK.

Snake Pass – Peak District

Driving through Snake Pass in the Peak District is unforgettable. Designed by Thomas Telford and opened in 1821, it snakes through stunning views, towering 1,679 feet above the sea. Auto Trader magazine once rated it among the top roads to drive on in 2009.

Starting just outside Glossop, the route offers incredible views of valleys and heather-dotted moors. The narrow, twisty roads reveal why it’s tagged as a top scenic drive in the UK. The views from the High Peak Estate, whether at dawn or dusk, are truly mesmerizing.

The route is also known for the Derwent Dams, including Ladybower and Howden reservoirs. These dams cover nearly 8 miles and feature a neo-Gothic Dam from 1916. The area was even used to train Lancaster bombers in World War II. On weekends and holidays, only hikers and bikers can access the road, making it peaceful.

The drive from Monsal Head to Longstone Edge showcases vast fields and local farm animals, becoming a memorable journey. Plus, the Winnats Pass, a special limestone valley, displays fossils, adding to the drive’s charm.

Returning to Manchester from the Peak District changes the scene with busier towns, but the drive remains pleasant. Using GPS can make navigating easier, ensuring a smooth trip. Snake Pass is an adventure for all, from regular drivers to casual visitors.

Buttertubs Pass – Yorkshire

Buttertubs Pass is a famous route in the Yorkshire Dales. It runs 5.5 miles between Simonside and Thwaite.
Reaching 525 meters at its highest point, it’s known for dramatic views and deep limestone pits called Buttertubs.
Jeremy Clarkson called it “England’s only truly spectacular road” for its challenges and beauty.

Route History

Buttertubs Pass is important in history, especially for cyclists and tourists.
In the 2014 Tour de France, it was the second climb, making it popular with road cyclists.
It’s known for deep sinkholes and offers stunning views, making it a must-see in Yorkshire.

Driving Tips

Driving Buttertubs Pass needs careful planning. It has steep inclines and sharp turns.
Be careful, especially in winter, when ice and snow increase risks.

• Be aware of road defects such as potholes and uneven surfaces, common in high-altitude areas.
• Watch out for livestock like sheep and cattle, as well as cyclists, who frequent the pass.
• Prepare for sudden weather changes—carry appropriate clothing and supplies for potential breakdowns.
• Consider travel times: Buttertubs Pass is reachable within 1–2 hours from major cities like Manchester, Leeds, and York.
• Enjoy the journey: Allocate 10–15 minutes for the drive itself, plus extra time to stop and take in the panoramic views.

Enjoy the adventure of driving through Buttertubs Pass. It’s one of the most picturesque roads Yorkshire offers.

The Road to the Isles – Scotland

Start a memorable trip on the Road to the Isles, stretching 43 miles from Fort William to Mallaig. This route showcases the best of Scotland’s scenic drives. You’ll see amazing views of lochs and mountains, along with unique local sights.

Loch and Mountain Views

Experiencing Scotland’s beauty is a must on this drive. The Road to the Isles boasts views of Loch Morar, Scotland’s deepest loch. You’ll also see Ben Nevis in Fort William, the UK’s tallest mountain. The route is filled with breathtaking scenes.

Local Attractions

The journey includes many great stops. One highlight is the iconic Jacobite Steam Train, famous from Harry Potter, crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct. You’ll find many historical sites, like Glen Shiel and the “Five Sisters of Kintail.” Mallaig’s fishing history is fascinating too. It was once the top European herring port. Now, it’s a lively hub for the Small Isles of Eigg, Muck, Rum, and Canna.

For those who love drives or discovering local attractions, the Road to the Isles has it all. It’s one of the most thrilling Scotland scenic drives, offering varied experiences.

Okehampton to Exeter – Devon

Embarking on a Devon road trip from Okehampton to Exeter brings you through Dartmoor’s amazing landscape. You’ll find historic landmarks, stunning natural beauty, and true English charm along this route.

Scenic Stops

The journey includes the impressive Castle Drogo, located in the Teign Gorge. This National Trust property offers amazing views and history. Then, there’s Becky Falls, an incredible natural waterfall within ancient woodlands. These places are great for relaxing and exploring.

Recommended Pubs

Experiencing Devon’s best pubs is a must. In Exeter, the Old Firehouse is known for its warm atmosphere and great ale. The Rusty Bike also stands out for its local meals and Devon ciders, offering a real taste of the area.

The Nobody Inn in Doddiscombsleigh is a traditional English pub. It’s set against beautiful hills and landscapes, making it the perfect spot to relax at the end of your trip.

Bourton-on-the-Water to Chipping Campden – The Cotswolds

Driving through the Cotswolds is like stepping into a storybook. It starts in Bourton-on-the-Water, often called one of the Cotswolds’ prettiest towns. This area is a huge part of England’s beauty, covering 787 square miles across six counties.

The journey from Bourton-on-the-Water to Chipping Campden is full of history. These places, with buildings from the 14th to 17th centuries, are close together. Every stop, like Snowshill, is unique and beautiful. This spot was even used in “Bridget Jones’s Diary”!

The Cotswolds are filled with historical treasures like the wool churches. These churches show the area’s rich past. Also, Go Cotswolds offers eco-friendly tours in a 16-seater mini bus. They focus on keeping the community vibrant.

You can visit Kiftsgate Court Gardens, a place run by the same family for almost 100 years. Don’t miss Bilbury, called “the most beautiful village in England” by William Morris. In Stow-on-the-Wold, ancient pubs and unique shops await you.

The Cotswolds is becoming a popular place to live, leading to higher real estate prices. The area is strict about new buildings. They must use local stone, and there are apprentice programs to keep traditional skills alive.

Alnwick Castle to Lindesfarne Castle – Northumberland

Begin your journey at Alnwick Castle, then head to Lindesfarne Castle. You’ll see stunning coastal views and explore England’s history.

Castles to Explore

Alnwick Castle is home to the Duke of Northumberland. It’s famed for its role in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey. Visitors can see the state rooms, art, and gardens.

Next, drive to Lindesfarne Castle on Holy Island. Accessible at low tide, it offers a peaceful getaway. The castle sits high, giving views of the sea and land.

Historical Sites

Explore more between these castles with Timberbush Tours. They run from Edinburgh to Coldstream, Alnwick Castle, and Holy Island. Tours are from April to October.

Don’t miss Lindisfarne Priory, attacked by Vikings in 793. This started the Viking Age. The Northumberland 250 route takes you through 250 miles of beautiful landscapes.

Shropshire Hills Road Trip

If you’re dreaming of an enchanting countryside trip in England, head to the Shropshire Hills. This route is full of beautiful landscapes and peaceful stops. It’s great for those who love to move slowly, soaking in nature’s wonders.

Begin in Shrewsbury, a town known for history and culture. You’ll find Shrewsbury Castle and Shrewsbury Prison here. The town has good bus and train links. Your first destination outside the town should be Carding Mill Valley in Church Stretton. It offers a beautiful waterfall walk and opportunities for nature exploration.

Next, drive to the Stiperstones. It’s known for unique stone formations and great hiking paths. This spot really shows the beauty of the Shropshire Hills. You’ll enjoy stunning views and the chance to connect with nature.

Then, go to Ludlow, another beautiful town. Though smaller than Shrewsbury, Ludlow has its own charm. With independent shops and an interesting castle, it’s worth exploring.

• The A488 from Bishops Castle to Shrewsbury is calm. It goes through Hope Valley with pretty villages and a nice downhill run.
• The A528 between Ellesmere to Harmer Hill is narrow and lively, similar to a wild version of the A488.
• The A4169 from Jiggers Roundabout to Buildwas is exciting. It has twists and turns like in a James Bond movie.
• The B4378 from Much Wenlock to the B4368 junction is adventurous, with fun dips and rises, ending at a tough junction.

If you love dramatic views, try the A5 from M54 Junction 6 to Preston Brook Island. It has great views of Mid-Wales, Haughmond Hill, and the Wrekin. The B4380 from Wroxeter to Buildwas offers beautiful River Severn views and history. This makes the trip feel like traveling through time.

Other amazing drives include the A458 from Cross Houses to Much Wenlock with its beautiful hills, the A41 from Tern Hill to Sandford with sharp curves, and the interesting B5062 from Newport to Crudgington full of driving surprises. Lastly, the A4117 from Clee Hill to Ludlow shows the stunning landscapes of Shropshire, ending your scenic road trip on a high note.

Jurassic Coast – South England

The Jurassic Coast stretches 96 miles from Exmouth to Studland Bay. It’s famous for its stunning coastline and history of 185 million years shown in rocks and fossils. This UNESCO site is a mix of geological wonders and beautiful beaches.

Start a three-day road trip to Weymouth for an unforgettable experience. Here, marvel at Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door’s beauty. The drive from London is about 105 miles and takes less than two hours. This trip offers both amazing geology and relaxing beach time.

Geological Wonders

The Jurassic Coast is filled with sites from Earth’s past. The Old Harry Rocks are impressive chalk formations at the coast’s eastern end. Fossil seekers will love Charmouth Beach near Lyme Regis, known for its fossils.

Beaches and Bays

Lyme Regis, the “Pearl of Dorset,” is famous for its fossil-filled shores. The beaches here are perfect for sunny days or exploring coves. Durdle Door, with its natural arch, is iconic. It’s a key highlight for anyone visiting this area.

Exploring the Jurassic Coast offers a connection to natural history and beautiful scenery. The journey through this area is rewarding with every mile.

Lakeside Drives – Lake District

The Lake District is known for its beautiful drives and lovely views. It’s perfect for those who love nature. It has calm lakes, big mountains, and cute villages. It gives you a special kind of escape.

Top Lakes to Visit

When you explore the Lake District, you find amazing lakes. Windermere, the biggest natural lake in England, is a top pick. Ullswater is super pretty and great for sailing. Buttermere is peaceful, with a path around it that takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to walk.

• Crummock Water: Perfect for those who want a quiet place.
• Coniston Water: Known for Donald Campbell’s speed records on water.

Hiking Spots

The Lake District has incredible spots for hiking. Honister Pass, very steep in parts, is a big challenge for hikers.

1. Keswick-Buttermere-Keswick Route: This route, between 30-35 miles, is great for both driving and hiking.
2. Whinlatter Pass: It’s not as impressive as Honister, but still has beautiful hikes.

There are 16 scenic drives and many places to hike in the Lake District. It’s a great adventure whether you’re walking or driving. This area has some of the best lakes in the UK.

Norfolk Coastline Adventure

Start an amazing trip along Norfolk’s coast, home to some of the best scenic drives in the UK. The trip starts in Norwich, noted for its recognition as a UNESCO City of Literature. You’ll see beautiful places in North Norfolk, famous for its lovely beach towns and huge sandy beaches.

The adventure kicks off in Norwich’s lively atmosphere. From there, you head to small villages and calm beaches. Holkham Beach is a spot for peaceful walks or swims. The town of Wells-next-the-Sea offers a traditional seaside feel. You can enjoy the local cafes, shop in unique stores, and eat classic fish and chips at the quay.

Traveling further, you come across places like Burnham Overy Staithe, great for bird watching and swimming. Don’t skip the Salthouse saltmarshes, with their abundant wildlife, or Cley-next-the-Sea, featuring lovely flint cottages and a windmill. Horsey Gap is ideal for seal watching, promising unforgettable wildlife sightings.

Norfolk’s coast isn’t just about natural beauty. It’s rich in history and local culture too. Exploring beach towns, trying local foods, or enjoying the peaceful views, this coastal trip offers lasting memories. It’s among the UK’s most scenic drives.