What is the best driving route in the UK?

Forget delayed flights and hours waiting at the airport, sometimes a staycation is exactly what’s needed. Whether it’s a trip away with friends, an adventure with the family, or even a solo road trip that’s good for the soul, Britain has it all. 

Come rain or shine, there are some fantastic places to see right here which are all accessible by car. From world-famous routes across England to Scotland’s very own Route 66, you’ll be surprised at what our shores have to offer… 

In this holiday-themed blog, we share Britain’s top scenic drives and reveal the best driving route in the UK - it’s time to get packing! 

The top 10 driving routes in the UK

When planning a road trip across the UK, where do you start? Well, at Octane Finance we’re here to help you. There’s no need to spend hours studying a map as we explain the best places to go on a UK road trip - and there’s 10 epic adventures to choose from! 

Road trips in England

England boasts some of the best coastal routes in the UK and has roads winding through the heart of the British countryside with views that will leave you breathless. Where will your next adventure take you?

The Atlantic Highway road trip

Spanning the counties of Somerset, Devon and Cornwall, the Atlantic Highway is a route through the South West Peninsula of England. It is so-called because of the 70-mile stretch of road along the A39; this goes from Barnstaple in North Devon to Fraddon near Newquay and heads towards the Atlantic Ocean - we can almost smell the sea from here!

So what will you see on this exciting road trip? Well, aside from a wonderful view of the Atlantic for most parts of the journey, it is the iconic Land’s End which proves popular with sightseers. Don’t forget to make time to enjoy a walk along the coastline in Devon while en-route! 

The Jurassic Coast road trip

Famous the world-over, the Jurassic Coast has plenty of surprises up its sleeve. Starting in the coastal town of Poole in Dorset, the 96-mile stretch ends near Swanage in East Devon and is a road trip not to be missed! The Jurassic Coast, which is famous for its fossils, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an astonishing 185-million years of history to discover. 

With so much to explore, you won’t want to miss a minute of breathtaking views and sand-filled beaches. The road trip gets off to a strong start thanks to the picturesque Durdle Door and nearby Lulworth Cove, then there’s Old Harry Rocks to see too which mark the most eastern point of the Jurassic Coast road trip. Simply stunning.

The Lake District road trip

If it’s breathtaking scenery paired with picture-perfect landscapes, then a road trip to the Lake District is definitely on the cards. As the largest National Park in England, there are a multitude of routes to discover which connect the majority of lakes in the area. 

The most popular route by far is Keswick to Ullswater via the A66 and A5091, which is a 15-mile route  through the heart of the Lake District. Visit Derwentwater which is a must-see destination for any outdoor enthusiast, and head to Ullswater in the Eden Valley to try your hand at a variety of water sports and some much-needed rest too. 

The Norfolk Coast road trip 

Head to the East of England for a Norfolk-based road trip which will take you through postcard worthy picturesque villages and the renowned Norfolk Broads. Choose King’s Lynn to kick-off your road trip where you’ll head towards the coast and follow the roads to Great Yarmouth, until you reach the mediaeval city of Norwich.

This trip isn’t complete without a stop-off at one of the many country pubs on route, or a visit to the blue-flag beaches where you could even catch a glimpse of England’s largest seal colony that will leave you feeling at one with nature. 

The Peak District road trip

From the Lake District to the Peak District now, where the mountainous landscape will provide a spectacular backdrop during this northern-based road trip. Snake Pass is by far the most stunning route through the Peak District and has been made famous by many on-screen appearances. 

Crossing the Pennines which takes you between Glossop and Ashopton, the road originally opened way back in 1821 and at its highest point, towers a staggering 1,679 feet above sea level, which is simply mind blowing. Stop off at certain points along the journey to appreciate the rolling green hills which frame the river Ashop, not forgetting Ladybower Reservoir in the Upper Derwent Valley which takes you into the heart of the Peak District National Park. 

The Yorkshire Moors road trip

If you have a yearning to visit Yorkshire, then this road trip through the historic county in Northern England is right up your street. The trip will see you travel from the ancient city of York to the seaside village of Robin Hood’s Bay, which is nestled along the Yorkshire Coast between Whitby and Scarborough. 

There’s so much to discover on your journey through the North York Moors where you can stop off at Goathland village, which has been made famous thanks to the Harry Potter films. If you’re travelling with a canine companion, then the Yorkshire Moors is the place to be as it’s been rated the most dog-friendly region in the UK. We think it sounds paw-fect! 

Road trips in Wales 

Wales provides the backdrop for a scenic and awe-inspiring road trip that has so much to discover all within an 8,000 square mile space that’s yours to explore. Discover why the land of the dragon is an unmissable adventure…

The Dragon’s Spine road trip

Any seasoned road-tripper is bound to be headed for the famous Dragon’s Spine in Wales at some point. This 186-mile journey starts in the Welsh capital of Cardiff in South Wales and winds its way towards the market town of Conwy in North Wales complete with its very own castle.

Make sure you stop by the stunningly beautiful Brecon Beacons to take in some of the best views the country has to offer, before visiting Snowdonia National Park which is home to over 823-miles of unspoilt parkland and no less than nine mountain ranges!     

Road trips in Scotland

Scotland is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the UK, so it’s fair to say that a road trip to Scotland should be on your bucket list. Let’s help get you started…  

The Island Trail road trip

Scotland’s Island Trail road trip is one of the best ways to appreciate the stunning Isle of Skye. The 100-mile route starts at Fort William in the western Scottish Highlands, to the Isle of Skye bridge where you’ll travel across the sea as you head towards Portree on the island. Famous for some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world, it’s a chance to kick back and enjoy mountainous landscapes and coastal views. 

A trip along Scotland’s Island Trail isn’t complete without a stop-off at the impressive Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous from the Harry Potter films. Stretch your legs when you reach the Duirinish Peninsula on the Isle of Skye which is an ideal spot for hiking, and take in the spectacular sea views on the return leg ferry. 

The North Coast 500 road trip

Don’t miss a chance to drive along Scotland’s very own Route 66! Known as the North Coast 500 (dubbed the NC500 by locals) not only is the route classed as one of the best road trips in the UK, but in the entire world, so it’s definitely one to tick off the bucket list. 

A trip to the Scottish Highlands is a must-do and there’s no better way to explore this beautiful country. The 500-mile North Coast is a road trip of a lifetime which works its way along the rugged coastline in the North of the Highlands. There’s so much to see on the circular route which starts and ends at Inverness Castle. 

Road trips in Northern Ireland

Head to Northern Ireland for the ultimate escape and take on a giant adventure by car. Discover the secret sights that await you whether you’re planning a short weekend away or a month-long getaway…

The Causeway Coastal road trip

A trip to Ireland by car isn’t complete without committing to the Causeway Coastal 130-mile road trip. Starting in the Northern Ireland capital of Belfast, you’ll travel through rugged coastline, unspoilt beaches, and areas of outstanding natural beauty. The walled city of Derry, Londonderry is the final destination on this epic vacation.

Your journey will be crammed full of picture perfect moments and breathtaking views which will leave you booking another trip. The epic Giant’s Causeway (the trip’s namesake) was formed as a result of a volcanic eruption and is an absolute must-see. Don’t miss a visit to Cushendun Caves and Ballintoy Harbour which were featured in the Game of Thrones series.         

The best driving route in the UK

Now you’ve read all about the top 10 road trips across the country, which one is considered to be the best driving route in the UK? Well, if the data is anything to go by, then it’s the ‘land of the lakes’ that takes the top spot. Road trips in the Lake District receive over 37,000 searches online every year, so there certainly is a big appetite for the Cumbrian destination which is famous for its many stunning lakes and the Scafell Pike mountain. 

Which is the best coastal route in the UK?

Scotland’s North Coast 500 road trip is not only considered to be the best coastal route in the UK, but has appeared in a list of the top five road trips in the WORLD. Often referred to as Scotland’s answer to Route 66, there really is so much to see and do on this 10-day journey by car. Expect 500 miles of spectacular coastline framed by undulating hills and nature at its best on this epic journey. 

Best driving routes in the UK FAQs

With so much to see and do right here in the UK, why not plan a road trip to remember. From the best seaside town to visit, to the number one beach to spend a day on, here are your most frequently asked questions about the best driving routes in the UK… 

What is the longest coastal road in the UK?

Ireland has the longest coastal road in the UK. The ‘Wild Atlantic Way’ is a spectacular 1,600 mile journey that stretches from the Inishowen Peninsula on the Irish west coast, all the way to the town of Kinsale in County Cork which is based in the south of the country. 

What is the best seaside town in Britain?

It is the town of Southwold in Suffolk that is considered to be the best seaside town in Britain. Situated between the mouth of the River Blyth on the Suffolk coast and an area of outstanding natural beauty, the English seaside town looks out across the North Sea coast. Its location on the Suffolk Heritage Coast makes it an ideal destination for old and young.   

What is the prettiest area in England?

The Lake District takes some beating and is classed as the prettiest area in England. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is protected so it can be enjoyed by generations to come. A must-see for those who appreciate the natural wonders of our world, the Lake District is home to well-known lakes such as Windermere, and the highest point of Scafell Pike.  

What is the longest drivable distance in the UK?

When it comes to the most epic road trip in the country, then it’s the Land’s End to John O’Groats route that is without doubt the longest drivable distance in the UK. Covering a distance of 874 miles, the journey links Cornwall’s legendary Land’s End point not far from Penzance, all the way up to Scotland’s John O’Groats in the far north near Canisbay. 

Get road trip ready with Octane Finance

Whether at home or abroad, a road trip can be an adventure full of memories to last a lifetime. If you need a new set of wheels to facilitate a trip around the best driving route in the UK, then Octane Finance can help.

We work with an extensive panel of lenders to find the best finance solutions for our customers, no matter what your vehicle needs. From family hatchbacks to classic sports cars and everything in between, we’re here to help secure the funds you need for a new set of wheels. Get in touch to find out more.