Who doesn’t love a great road trip? Songs have been written about the joy of the open road. Films have been made about the adventure and freedom that a road trip can bring. A road trip is full of possibility, anticipation, new sights and fresh experiences to be had. If you feel like loading up the car or van and heading out into the big wide world, here are some of the best UK road trips:
The Atlantic Highway
For those with only a weekend to spare, the Atlantic Highway is perfect. It covers one of the longest stretches of road in the south west of England between Cornwall and Somerset. When the weather’s fine, this is a beautiful road trip to make. From Barnstaple in Devon to Newquay in Cornwall there is an almost uninterrupted view of the sea. When driving for long periods, be sure to stay alert and in particular drive safely through any roadworks. Roadwork teams should always be highly visible with Chapter 8 regulation chevrons. Find out more and visit PVL UK.
Cambrian Way, Wales
This route runs from the south to the north coast and if you want rugged escapism, Wales is perfect for a road trip. Starting in Cardiff and finishing up in Llandudno, you’ll take in the Brecon Beacons National Park on the way, as well as the stunning views of Snowdonia. Snowdonia National Park provides breathtaking views at virtually every bend in the road, so take some time to stop and soak up the scenery.
Yorkshire Moors
For brooding moorlands and thick forests, this is definitely one for the road trip bucket list. It is best to allow for a week so you can take in the moors and the dales. This way you don’t need to skip any of the amazing sights. With meadows bursting with wildflowers, waterfalls and hiking – this is a picturesque tour that also takes you to the ancient city of York with all its Roman and Viking history.
Causeway, Northern Island
This is a simply stunning 130 mile route that soaks up all the wild beauty of the Atlantic coast between Derry and Belfast. With cliff views, smugglers caves and charming villages, there is no end to the magical beauty found on this Emerald Isle road trip. Of course, the pinnacle is the Giants Causeway, a world famous natural phenomenon formed by an erupting volcano some 60 million years ago!
The Cotswolds
For a shorter trip that takes in lots of quaint villages, there is nowhere quite like the Cotswolds. Quintessentially English towns and villages, winding roads and traditional Cotswold stone homes, this is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for very good reason. From afternoon tea in Chipping Campden to soaking in the natural thermal spas of Bath, the Cotswold are a must.
Norfolk Coast
Offering sandy shores, open roads and plenty of sea views, a road trip along the Norfolk coast is highly recommended. Another Area of Outstanding Beauty, you’ll find bucket loads of medieval history as well as buckets and spades on the beach of popular seaside resort Great Yarmouth. Whether you’re looking for nature or sailing, it’s all available here.