Best Road Trip Destinations in the UK
British residents took over 76.32 million domestic overnight trips from January to September 2025 (84% in England, 10% Scotland, and 8% Wales), yet most stick to the same tired routes. You’re missing out on dramatic coastlines, hidden mountain passes, and villages that look straight out of a period drama.
I’ve tested these five routes across different seasons and budgets. Each one delivers proper scenery without the airport hassle or foreign exchange fees. You’ll find specific budget tips, family-friendly stops, and solo-travel recommendations based on real driving experience.
One practical note before you go: double-check your vehicle cover. Many standard policies don’t cover borrowed or hired cars, leaving you exposed. Quick comparison shopping for temporary car insurance takes five minutes and prevents expensive surprises.
The Scottish Highlands & North Coast 500
The North Coast 500 runs 516 miles around Scotland’s northern coast. This route earned its nickname as “Scotland’s Route 66” for good reason.
You’ll see rugged mountains, hidden lochs, and white sandy beaches along the way. The route starts and ends in Inverness, looping through some of Britain’s most remote landscapes. According to the New York Times, Scotland welcomed millions of inbound visitors in 2024 per VisitBritain IPS data, with the NC500 boosting Highlands tourism by ~30% at key sites in its early years and £22.8m economic impact per studies.
Budget tip: Wild camping is legal in Scotland under the right conditions. You’ll also find affordable B&Bs in villages along the route.
Best for: Solo travellers and families who enjoy outdoor adventures. The route works well from May to September when the weather is more reliable.
Must-see spots: Fairy Pools, Eilean Donan Castle, and the dramatic coastal views near Durness.
The Cotswolds Circular Route
The Cotswolds span across almost 800 square miles of honey-coloured villages and rolling hills. This area became an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1966 and remains England’s largest protected landscape.
The short distances between villages make this ideal for families. You can drive between Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold in under an hour, leaving plenty of time for exploring.
Budget tip: Village walks are free, and you’ll find affordable cream teas everywhere. The region sits close to London, making it accessible for weekend trips.
Best for: Weekend getaways with kids or older relatives who prefer gentler terrain.
Must-see villages: Bibury’s Arlington Row (Britain’s most photographed street), Broadway with its honey-coloured stone, and Castle Combe.
Wales’ Coastal Adventure: Pembrokeshire to Snowdonia
This Welsh route combines stunning coastline with mountain scenery. You’ll drive through Pembrokeshire’s dramatic cliffs before heading inland to Snowdonia’s peaks.
The Wales coastal path offers free hiking opportunities, whilst beaches like Blue Lagoon provide family-friendly swimming spots. Portmeirion village adds a quirky Italian-style detour to the journey.
If you’re planning a longer trip in a campervan or motorhome, check your motorhome insurance covers your intended route.
Budget-friendly: Free coastal paths, affordable campsites, and local markets selling Welsh produce.
Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts who want beaches, mountains, and castles in one trip.
The Lake District Loop
The Lake District packs dramatic scenery into a compact area. Windermere, England’s largest lake, sits at the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You’ll find activities for all fitness levels. Easy lakeside walks suit families with young children, whilst challenging hikes like Scafell Pike attract experienced walkers. The region welcomes over 15 million visitors yearly, making it one of Britain’s most popular destinations.
Budget tip: National Trust car parks offer free entry to members. Pack your own picnics to save on restaurant costs.
Must-do: Take a cruise on Windermere, visit Beatrix Potter’s house, and explore Keswick’s market town.
Best for: Families and anyone who enjoys lakes and mountains.
Cornwall’s Rugged Coast
Cornwall’s 400-mile coastline delivers beaches, surf spots, and fishing villages. The county sits at England’s southwestern tip, creating a distinct identity.
Watergate Bay attracts surfers, whilst Porthcurno’s turquoise waters feel Mediterranean. St Ives offers art galleries and independent shops, and Falmouth serves fresh seafood near its working harbour.
Planning a longer Cornwall adventure? If you’re borrowing a friend’s vehicle, short-term car insurance covers your safety and security for the duration of your trip without affecting the owner’s policy.
Budget wins: Free beaches, coastal path walks, and affordable fish and chips from local chippies.
Hidden gem: Kynance Cove on the Lizard Peninsula.
Best for: Beach lovers and solo travellers seeking artistic communities.
Quick Comparison: Which Route Suits You?
Not sure which road trip fits your schedule and budget? This table breaks down the essentials to help you decide.
| Route | Distance | Ideal Duration | Budget Range | Best Season | Difficulty Level |
| Scottish Highlands (NC500) | 516 miles | 5-7 days | ££-£££ | May-Sept | Moderate-Hard |
| Cotswolds Circular | 100 miles | 2-3 days | £-££ | Year-round | Easy |
| Wales Coast to Mountains | 250 miles | 4-5 days | £-££ | April-Oct | Moderate |
| Lake District Loop | 120 miles | 3-4 days | ££ | Year-round | Easy-Moderate |
| Cornwall Coast | 200 miles | 4-6 days | ££-£££ | May-Sept | Easy |
Budget key: £ = Under £50/day per person | ££ = £50-100/day | £££ = £100+/day
Top tip: The Cotswolds and Lake District work brilliantly for winter breaks when Scottish and coastal routes face unpredictable weather. Cornwall gets packed in summer, so visit in May or September for better deals and fewer crowds.
Getting Road-Ready
The UK rewards road trippers with an incredible variety. You can explore mountain passes, historic villages, and coastal cliffs without leaving the country.
Before you leave, check your vehicle’s condition. Tyre pressure, oil levels, and lights all need attention before long journeys. Make sure you have the right cover in place, too. Whether you’re hiring a vehicle, borrowing from family, or taking your own car on an extended trip, compare car insurance options to find the best deal for your adventure.
Pick a destination, plan your route, and start exploring. Each of these road trips works on various budgets with proper planning, and all deliver genuine British scenery worth the drive.