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The best road trips in the UK
Driving routes for post-lockdown road trips, from Scotland’s North Coast 500 to the West Country’s Atlantic Highway
If there’s one thing we all need, it’s a holiday. And, after lockdown, the first thing we want to do is get behind the wheel. While we usually prefer the more eco-friendly option of travelling by train, road trips feel like the perfect post-lockdown escape, thanks to the fact that you’re able to easily social distance from others, all while exploring the country’s incredible landscapes.
The time for trips on the open road is nearly upon us. Under the latest roadmap out of lockdown, travel out of our local areas and overnight stays in self-catered accommodation (including Airbnbs and campsites) will be allowed from April 12. From May 17 hostels, hotels and B&Bs will all be able to open again, too.
So here are seven of the best road trips in the UK, complete with estimated driving times, assuming you’re stopping off for multiple nights and taking the time to hike, wild swim and immerse yourself in these stunning surroundings.
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1. North Coast 500, Scotland
What is it? A super-scenic route taking in just over 500 miles of stunning Scottish landscapes, the NC500 is one of the best road trips on the planet – and the most Instagrammed in the UK.
Where does it go? It’s a loop through the Scottish Highlands. You start and end at Inverness Castle and the route takes in incredible deserted beaches, glassy lochs and heather-covered peaks, as well as castles, whisky distilleries and roadside eateries.
How long should it take? Most people do it in seven to nine days.
Find out more here.
2. The Atlantic Highway, England
What is it? Despite its grand name, this stunning stretch of road, also known as the A39, passes some lesser known spots in Devon and Cornwall.
Where does it go? The entire road connects Somerset with Cornwall, but the stretch between Barnstaple and Fraddon is named the Atlantic Highway thanks to the almost-constant views of the Atlantic Ocean you can spy from the tarmac. The route passes photogenic places like Bude, Padstow, Newquay, Clovelly, Boscastle and Tintagel. Stop off for hikes, surf lessons and incredible seafood. You can keep driving past Fraddon, right down to Land’s End if you haven’t had your fill of Cornish charm.
How long should it take? Five days should do it.
3. The Cambrian Way, Wales
What is it? A route which runs from south of Wales to the north via loads of incredible countryside.
Where does it go? You’ll mainly be sticking to the A470. Starting in Cardiff, the route finishes in the seaside town of Llandudno. You’ll pass through the beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park, the Elan Valley and Snowdonia.
How long should it take? Five days.
Find out more here.
4. Road to the Isles, Scotland
What is it? Another stricking Scottish drive, the Road to the Isles (A830) takes travellers from Fort William to Mallaig, via lochs, coast, incredible scenery and the Glenfinnan Viaduct (which you’ll probably recognise, thanks to the Harry Potter movies).
Where does it go? Start at Fort William in the shadow of Ben Nevis and head west. The road ends where it meets the sea in Mallaig, but that’s not where your journey ends. Jump on a car ferry to the Isle of Skye to explore the otherworldly island by road.
How long should it take? Three days, more if you want to properly explore Skye too.
5. Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
What is it? The Causeway Coastal Route road is not only super-pretty, it also takes in a bunch of Northern Ireland’s must-see sights.
Where does it go? It runs along the coast from Belfast to Derry-Londonderry. You can hit Belfast’s high-tech Titanic museum, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and the Giant’s Causeway along this route, not forgetting a bunch of snappable ‘Game of Thrones’ locations too, like Cushendun Caves and Ballintoy Harbour.
How long should it take? Three to five days.
6. Norfolk Coast, England
What is it? Following roads that hug in close to the Norfolk coastline, you can see some of the county’s incredible sights.
Where does it go? Start in King’s Lynn and keep the coast on your left the whole way to Great Yarmouth. Stop off and you’ll see the best of the Norfolk Coast AONB and parts of the Norfolk Broads National Park, plus seaside towns like Hunstanton, Blakeney and Cromer.
How long should it take? Four days.
7. The Yorkshire Dales, England
What is it? A chance to explore the stunning scenery of the Yorkshire Dales by car. Just stop whenever you see something you simply can’t pass by.
Where does it go? Start in Harrogate and head out into the Dales, hitting Grassington, Hawes and Reeth along the way before circling back to the beginning. You’ll pass meadows lush with wildflowers, waterfalls, world-class rambling routes and countless opportunties to sample local produce.
How long should it take? Allow three to four days.
Need somewhere to stay?
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