The 5 Best UK Road Trips for Outdoorsy People

If you want to see majestic mountains or gorgeous beaches, the UK has that to offer and everything else in between. The country is so rich in history and culture that you’d want to explore more and know the place and meet the lovely people. Looking for the best UK road trips? We’ve got five of the best ones for you! Be sure to read through the whole article, so you’ll know your options and what the highlights of each route have in store!

The Norfolk Coast

This route on the eastern coastline of England is one of the best road trips in the UK that you can take. Norfolk is such a tranquil place that you’ll really love it if you need time to just relax and make your mind wander. You can start at Norwich, where you can visit a very historical 11th-century cathedral. After that, head over to The Broads, where you can enjoy the scenic waterways as well as the rich wildlife. If you have a couple of days to spare, do get on a boat and just laze around! This will really take your mind away from the hustle and bustle of your usual days. 

Once you’ve had your relaxing moments at The Broads, you can then drive on the coastal road heading north to Cromer and on to the famous North Norfolk coastline, referred to as the Royal Coast or Champagne Coast, as it's so beautiful.  Travel west to  explore  the  beaches, such as Wells, Holkham and Brancaster, and spend the afternoons listening to the waves crashing on the shore. Or travel inland and explore a truly rural area with chocolate box villages, made of flint or carrstone.  There is also an array of country estates and wildlife parks to visit, and the architecture of Norfolk's churches is well renowned. And why not end your tour with a visit to the Sandringham Estate. There's so much to enjoy you'll probably need a few return visits!

Atlantic Highway, South West England

Do you want to go on one of the best road trips in England? Take the A39, which is among the longest roads found in South West England. This road connects Bath to Falmouth, and driving this route will allow you to witness such picturesque landscapes, especially in Barnstaple in Devon. Stop by the Cornish seaside resort of Newquay if you ever need a break from driving. After Newquay, there are a lot more breathtaking views for you in Bude, Camelford, and Wadebridge. 

Take your friends or your family with you during this road trip. They’ll surely enjoy the many towns along the Atlantic highway, especially if they’re an active bunch. There is a lot of cycling and walking trails in North Devon called the Adventure Coast. If you’re into history and literature, you’ll love Bideford because that’s where the Tintagel Castle is, home to the legend of King Arthur. And don’t forget to try the famous Devon clotted cream tea!

Land of the Lakes

Are you a fan of English literature? If you are, then you’d want to go to the Land of the Lakes! This is Wordsworth country, as well as home to some of the most enchanting roads in England. Your road trip will start at Kendal, and then you’ll be heading north into the Lake District National Park. Further ahead is Windermere, the largest lake in England, where you’ll find picturesque resorts. 

After Windermere, stop by and have a good drink at one of the lakeside villages located in Ambleside and Grasmere. If you are a reader of the works of William Wordsworth, then you know the Grasmere is where his Dove cottage is located. It is also the place where he wrote the famous poem “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud”. The Land of the Lakes is the perfect destination for some quiet time. Hire a boat or join a cruise so you can really experience the lakes. 

Wild Wales, North Wales

Now, for one of the best road trips in Wales, you’d want to take the route going to North Wales. There, you’ll see sceneries that will simply take your breath away, especially as you drive through Snowdonia National Park and the Menai Straits going to Anglesey. This Wales road trip begins at Betws-y-Coed towards Swallow Falls and finally into Snowdonia. Take A4086 to go beyond Snowdon, but be sure to stop and explore the majestic mountain!

Love water-sports? North Wales has plenty of water-sports facilities to offer, like white water kayaking at the National White Water Centre. Beyond the park, you can go to Caernarfon, which is filled with rich historical and cultural places. You may then explore the Isle of Anglesey and enjoy the waters once more. Welsh is spoken widely there, so you may want to learn a few important phrases and impress the locals! It’s surely a great way to meet new people and make friends in Wales. 

North Coast 500, Scotland

Finally, one of the best road trips in Scotland that you can take is the North Coast 500. This is Scotland’s equivalent to the famous Route 66 in the US. If you want to be in awe of the natural beauty that this place has to offer, you won’t regret taking the NC500. You’ll have a chance to see it all — ancient castles, wondrous coastlines, mighty mountains, and historical landmarks, they’re all there for you to explore!

This Scotland road trip route begins and ends at Inverness Castle. From there, you’ll drive through so many quaint towns like Ullapool, Durness, John O’Groats, and Dornoch. Before you head off on your Scottish adventure, be sure to make reservations if you plan to stay overnight at some of these towns because your options might be limited, especially during peak seasons. 

For those who love canyoning, don’t miss going to Corrieshalloch Gorge. There, you’ll have the chance to test yourself in climbing and mountaineering. Of course, there are tour guides who’ll make sure you’re safe every step of the way. For your Scottish road trip, do give yourself five to seven days so you’ll have enough time to explore all the great spots! Enjoy! 😀