Scenic Drives in the UK: Stunning Routes for a Road Trip

The UK is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, with scenic drives that showcase everything from rugged coastlines and rolling hills to historic towns and picturesque countryside. Here are some of the best driving routes across the UK, perfect for car enthusiasts and road trip lovers looking to explore the beauty of Britain.


1. The North Coast 500 – Scotland

Route: Inverness to the Highlands
Distance: 516 miles
Highlights: Dramatic coastlines, castles, whisky distilleries, and quaint Highland villages.

The North Coast 500, often called “Scotland’s Route 66,” is a circular route starting and ending in Inverness that takes you around the scenic Highlands. This route is perfect for adventurers, with stunning views of rugged coastlines, white sandy beaches, and historic castles. Popular stops include the iconic Dunrobin Castle, Smoo Cave, and the white sands of Achmelvich Bay. Don’t miss sampling whisky at a distillery along the way!


2. The Atlantic Highway – South West England

Route: Barnstaple, Devon to Newquay, Cornwall
Distance: 76 miles
Highlights: Dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque seaside towns.

This coastal route, also known as the A39, offers jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean as you travel through Devon and Cornwall. Pass through charming villages like Bude, Padstow, and Tintagel, where you can explore the legendary Tintagel Castle, believed to be the birthplace of King Arthur. The Atlantic Highway is particularly popular with surfers, as it leads to some of the best beaches for surfing in the UK.


3. The Black Mountain Pass – Wales

Route: Llandovery to Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen
Distance: 23 miles
Highlights: Twisty mountain roads, panoramic views, and steep climbs.

Known locally as the A4069, the Black Mountain Pass is a thrilling drive for those who love winding mountain roads. This short but exhilarating route cuts through the Brecon Beacons National Park, offering stunning views of the Welsh countryside. It’s a favorite among car enthusiasts thanks to its sharp turns, steep gradients, and scenic lookouts. Just make sure to take it slow and enjoy the ride!


4. The Lake District Loop – Cumbria, England

Route: Keswick, Ambleside, and around Lake Windermere
Distance: Approximately 30 miles
Highlights: Scenic lakes, lush fells, charming villages, and iconic mountains.

The Lake District Loop takes you through the heart of one of England’s most picturesque national parks. Start in Keswick and journey around Derwentwater, Grasmere, and Lake Windermere, the largest lake in England. Make time to visit local attractions such as Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top house, Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, and the stunning vistas from Scafell Pike. This drive offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, boating, and cozy pub stops.


5. The Causeway Coastal Route – Northern Ireland

Route: Belfast to Derry/Londonderry
Distance: 130 miles
Highlights: Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Game of Thrones filming locations.

The Causeway Coastal Route takes you from Belfast to Derry, along Northern Ireland’s dramatic north coast. Along the way, you’ll encounter the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway, a natural wonder of basalt columns, and the hair-raising Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize many of the filming locations, such as Ballintoy Harbour. This drive combines natural beauty with fascinating history and folklore.


6. Snowdonia National Park – Wales

Route: Conwy to Dolgellau
Distance: 70 miles
Highlights: Mount Snowdon, charming Welsh villages, and glacial valleys.

The drive through Snowdonia National Park offers an enchanting mix of towering mountains, shimmering lakes, and ancient forests. You’ll pass through charming villages like Betws-y-Coed and Beddgelert, as well as scenic highlights like the impressive Mount Snowdon. This is a great choice for those who want to combine a scenic drive with outdoor activities, as Snowdonia offers some of the best hiking trails in the UK.


7. Cheddar Gorge – Somerset, England

Route: Cheddar to Ashwick
Distance: 14 miles
Highlights: Limestone cliffs, hairpin bends, and breathtaking scenery.

For a short but scenic drive, head to Cheddar Gorge, England’s largest limestone gorge. The winding B3135 road takes you through dramatic rock formations and steep cliffs, making it a memorable drive. The gorge is also home to the famous Cheddar cheese caves, where you can learn about traditional cheese-making methods. This route is especially popular in autumn, when the foliage adds a burst of color to the landscape.


8. The Cotswolds – England

Route: Stow-on-the-Wold to Bibury
Distance: Approx. 40 miles
Highlights: Rolling countryside, honey-colored stone cottages, and charming market towns.

The Cotswolds are perfect for a leisurely scenic drive through quintessential English countryside. Starting in Stow-on-the-Wold, head to the picturesque village of Bourton-on-the-Water, then on to Bibury, which is often called “the most beautiful village in England.” This area is famous for its scenic beauty and quaint architecture, with plenty of charming pubs and tea rooms to stop at along the way.


9. The Yorkshire Dales – Yorkshire, England

Route: Skipton to Richmond
Distance: Approx. 50 miles
Highlights: Rolling hills, traditional stone barns, and stunning valleys.

Driving through the Yorkshire Dales offers breathtaking landscapes of lush valleys, limestone cliffs, and heather-covered moors. This route is dotted with traditional stone villages, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts. Be sure to stop at Bolton Abbey, Aysgarth Falls, and the picturesque market town of Richmond for a real taste of Yorkshire charm.


10. The Peak District – England

Route: Glossop to Castleton and beyond
Distance: Approx. 40 miles
Highlights: Rolling hills, scenic reservoirs, and dramatic moorland.

The Peak District offers a fantastic mix of landscapes, from rocky outcrops to rolling hills. Starting in Glossop, follow the winding roads to Ladybower Reservoir and on to the charming village of Castleton, known for its caverns and castle ruins. This drive is ideal for those who enjoy a mixture of rugged scenery and peaceful countryside.