Scenic Routes Unveiled: The Best Roads in the UK for a Day Trip, Long Weekend and 7-Day Holiday

Feb 12, 2024

When you think of road trips, you probably imagine epic journeys on Route 66 and the Great Ocean Road. However you’ll find there are some unbelievably scenic routes much closer to home - here is a roundup of some of our favourites, sorted by suggested trip length.

Day Trips:

Route 1: A39 from Bath to Minehead

This route packs a huge amount of variety into a short distance - it’s mainly coastal and you can expect panoramic ocean views, charming old coastal villages and the wild and beautiful landscapes of Exmoor National Park (where you might even see some wild ponies if you’re lucky).

Highlights:

• The charming coastal villages of Porlock and Watchet - perfect for a pub lunch
• The wilds of Exmoor and its roaming horses
• Panoramic views of the Bristol Channel
• Dunster Castle

Route 2: A82 from Glasgow to Glencoe

On this day-long journey from Glasgow to Glencoe, you’ll traverse Loch Lomond, take in the haunting beauty of Rannoch Moor and the stunning Glencoe valley. Gawp at waterfalls, castles and the gorgeous rugged landscape - this ancient landscape will take you back in time.

Highlights:

• Loch Lomond, the largest freshwater lake in Scotland
• The moving, desolate landscape of Rannoch Moor
• The towering mountains of the Glencoe Valley
• Watching the waterfall at Steall Falls

Long Weekends:

Route 1: A591 from Kendal to Bassenthwaite

The Lake District is one of the most visited areas in the UK, and for good reason. Technically this drive wouldn’t take you long and you could easily do it in a day, but it’s worth taking some extra time to explore this beautiful area. The A591 will guide you through the lakes from one end to the other, with stops at the famous Lake Windermere, the bustling town of Ambleside, the Rydal Cave and the interesting historic town of Keswick.

Highlights:

• Watersports on Lake Windermere
• Bustling, beautiful Ambleside
• Scenic views of the Langdale Pikes
• Grasmere, home to William Wordsworth
• The historic town of Keswick

Route 2: Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland

If you’ve ever thought about going to see the Giant’s Causeway, this is a great way to do it. The route is a combination of gorgeous coastal scenery and old castles, with many truly unique attractions along the way. Stop off at the National Trust’s Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and test your nerve. Stroll amongst the Dark Hedges and marvel at Dunluce Castle. If you want to extend your trip, the Causeway connects to the Wild Atlantic Way at Muff and to the 'Mourne Coastal Route' at Belfast - allowing you to drive the whole northern coast.

Highlights:

• Take in the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and walk the beautiful coastal paths
• The daring Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• The Dark Hedges, a famous tree-lined avenue
• Dunluce Castle, merging with the edge of the cliff

7-Day Adventures:

Route 1: North Coast 500 in Scotland

Unleash the adventurer in you on the iconic North Coast 500. From the historic city of Inverness to the rugged landscapes of Assynt, this seven-day road trip unveils the best of Scotland's Highlands. Mountain passes, remote villages, and unparalleled vistas await.

Highlights:

• Inverness, the gateway to the Highlands
• Bealach na Bà, a challenging mountain pass
• Assynt's rugged landscapes and ancient ruins
• The remote and picturesque village of Durness

Route 2: The Welsh Three Peaks Route

Traverse the beauty of Wales on a week-long escapade. Conquer the peaks of Snowdonia, wind through the valleys of Llanberis Pass, and soak in the coastal allure of the Gower Peninsula. The Welsh Three Peaks Route is a symphony of mountains, meadows, and coastal wonders.

Highlights:

• Snowdonia National Park and its majestic mountains
• Llanberis Pass, surrounded by peaks and valleys
• Brecon Beacons National Park with its scenic vistas
• The coastal beauty of the Gower Peninsula

Each of our itineraries offers a carefully crafted blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and the joy of the open road. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!

Make sure to check Petrol Map along the way to find the cheapest fuel prices on your route. If you’re interested in why prices vary across your trip, check out our article on why petrol prices differ across the UK.