The Most Scenic Drives in the UK

The UK is home to some truly breathtaking scenery. In many cases, you can appreciate these idyllic landscapes directly from the driver’s seat of your car as it navigates the various twists and turns of the road ahead.

If you’re planning a scenic road trip, it’s worth doing a little preparation. Top up your tyre pressure, refuel, and make sure that you’ve packed plenty of snacks. Car insurance should be a priority, too; make sure that your policy is a good fit for the stresses of the trip.

North Coast 500, Scotland

This five-hundred-mile loop will take you around the farthest extent of mainland Scotland. There, you’ll see incredible beaches, mountains, and rugged surf-battered cliffs. There are also a number of man-made structures along the way, including some of the country’s most impressive castles.

For particularly adventurous drivers, the Bealach na Bà pass, which runs through some of the steeper sections of the Scottish Highlands, is worth making time for – you’ll have to take the ascent carefully, but the view from the very top is truly spectacular.

The Cotswolds, England

If you want an unforgettable journey through English countryside idyll, then the Cotswolds, with its assortment of picturesque little villages and lush green hillsides, is difficult to beat.

While you’re in the area, you might stop off at Bourton-on-the-Water, or Stow-on-the-Wold, both of which offer several excellent country pubs, and open green spaces that are perfect for a summer picnic.

Snowdonia, Wales

There are few sections of the country more inspiring than Snowdonia National Park. You might pay a visit to Llanberis Pass, where, during summer, you can take a train up to the summit of Snowdon (or Yr Wyddfa, as it’s known). The Llanberis Path is considered one of the easiest walks up to the summit – but it’s still classed as strenuous.

Of course, there’s a great deal of scenery to be enjoyed in this part of the country, even if you don’t plan on doing any walking. Just be aware that the default speed limit in Wales has been lowered to 20mph. Make sure that you don’t get caught out!

Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

Finally, we should consider this exceptional route, in Northern Ireland. One of the highlights of this trip will be the Giant’s Causeway itself, which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, comprised of several thousand basalt columns, protruding from the coastline near Bushmills. If you’re going to tour the Bushmills distillery, making time for the Causeway is a must.

Other highlights of the area include the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, which will take you from the mainland across to the island of Carrickarede. Bear in mind that the bridge is closed during winter, and during spells of particularly poor weather. You’ll also need to book in advance, and pay a small fee (if you’re not a National Trust member).