The Best UK Road Trips
Invigorated by a sense of adventure, we can’t get enough of road trips here at Zipcar. That’s why we’ve brought together 10 of the very best UK road trip ideas. From the peaks of Scotland to the Jurassic coast, enjoy unparalleled views across the British countryside.
Lake District
The Lake District’s vast valleys make for one of the most scenic and best road trips in England and the UK. First stop, Ambleside. The Lake District’s biggest town sits next to England’s largest natural lake. Explore the town’s quirky bridge house - a tiny stone building that was once an apple merchant’s store. Then, drive to the nearby Rydal Hall and stroll around the 30-acre 17th Century estate. Six miles from Ambleside, find Hill Top - the home of beloved children’s author Beatrix Potter. The house is now a museum owned and run by the National Trust. Discover the story behind novels like “The Tale of Peter Rabbit,” and “The Tale of Mrs Tiggy-Winkle.” Potter created 13 of her 23 books on the grounds, and the residency certainly has a magical aura.
Other potential pit stops include Kendal Castle, Scafell Pike - the highest point in England, and Grange-Over-Sands. With plenty to do and great views along the way, why not make it into a driving holiday and enjoy all the Lake District has to offer?
West Sussex & Surrey
Just over an hour’s drive from Central London, Horsell Common should be the first stop on your outing. This national forest is best known for its appearance in H.G Wells’ ‘War of the Worlds’. A sculpture marks the spot which inspired the Martian landing in Wells’ iconic book. Afterwards, cut through the scenic South Downs and head to Chichester. Founded by the Romans in 43 AD, Chichester is a great road trip stop for history enthusiasts. Explore the excavated Fishbourne Roman Palace, and learn about life two millennia ago. If you’re looking to relax, carry on to West Wittering Beach. Popular on a windy day, keep an eye out for the resident kite surfers.
The Jurassic Coast
Much further south, a 95-mile stretch of open road known as the Jurassic Coast takes you from Weymouth to Bridport on the Southern coast. Embedded in the cliffs are fossils of dinosaurs who roamed the region some 200 million years ago. Snap a picture at Durdle Door, an enormous limestone arch stooping into the English Channel. Then, journey into Swanage, a thriving beach town. Find relaxing deck chairs, a Victorian pier, and some of the best fish and chips on the South Coast. During this UK road trip, you’ll also encounter plenty of high vantage viewpoints - perfect for a picnic or just to pause and gaze in awe at the surroundings.
Scottish Highlands
Moving from the boot of the UK to its peaks, the Scottish Highlands are a must-see for anyone who loves road trips. Winding roads bend around towering mountains, expansive woodlands and gorgeous lakes. Start at Inverness and drive to the famous Loch Ness. Keep your eyes peeled for Nessy and explore Urquhart Castle, a site famous for its role in the 13th and 14th Century Wars of Scottish Independence. Travel to the Western Highlands and, if you’re feeling adventurous, conquer Ben Nevis, the largest mountain in the UK. You’ll never be short of places to eat, drink or stay throughout your road trip. After all, Scotland’s well-known for its local pubs with delicious food. Anyone for Haggis?
Cotswolds
An area of outstanding beauty, the Cotswolds makes for a perfect road trip. Take in the sweeping hills - the ‘Wolds’ - as you drive through 800 square miles of idyllic country. Around 80 miles from London, or a two-and-a-half-hour drive, will land you in Burford. Built beside the River Windrush and with a backdrop of beautiful green hills, this is a great stop for ‘The Lord of the Rings’ fans. It is believed the famous and magical Stow on the Wold door is likely Tolkien’s inspiration for Durin’s Door - the legendary entrance to the Mines of Moria. Travelling from Middle Earth, get back in your car and head 10 miles down the B4225 to Bibury. This quaint town stands out with its cobbled stone buildings and vast green spaces. There’s nothing quite like a picnic on the Bibury greens - if you don’t fancy a trip into one of their bustling pubs. Are you heading to the Cotswolds? Why not book a Zipcar to get you there? You can share the cost with friends or family and secure a car on the same day.
Dover
Is there a UK cliff face more iconic than the White Cliffs of Dover? On this Southern UK road trip, you can stretch your legs and take in the views first-hand. If you’re lucky, on a clear day you might even be able to see the French coast. If you’re driving from London, other stops on this country crawl include Leeds Castle (not that Leeds) and Dover Castle, for any history lovers. Make sure to stop off in Canterbury, a famous place of pilgrimage. Walk atop the city’s mediaeval walls and visit Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO world heritage site. Give yourself some time to explore the city’s independent retailers, too. From vintage clothing stores to unique gift shops, there’s something for every shopper on this England road trip.
Marlow
If you’re a Londoner and fancy something closer to home, a road trip to Marlow is a great way to spend your weekend. Near the Chiltern Hills, it’ll take barely an hour (35 miles) to get there from the Capital. City high streets make way for peaceful country roads as you approach this riverside town. Once you arrive, explore the Grade-1 listed historical Marlow Bridge. Enjoy the flourishing meadows and nearby woodlands with a 5.8km round trip trail - the Marlow Walk. We recommend booking a table at “The Coach”, one of the world’s best-value Michelin-star restaurants. Did you know just one charge of Zipcar’s EV cars is enough to get you to Marlow and back? Book yours and travel to Marlow on the same day.
Cheddar Gorge
Three hours from London, Cheddar Gorge and the B3135 make for not only one of the best road trips in England but the world. Experience winding country roads at the foot of enormous, awe-inspiring cliff faces. As England’s largest natural canyon, it’s no surprise that some cliffs tower up to 138 metres above the road. Not for the faint-hearted; the roads can be pretty steep. We don’t recommend travelling in the rain or during stormy conditions. Otherwise, get yourself a Zipcar and experience the Gorge’s remarkable scenery. Starting at Jacob’s Ladder, you can hike across these magnificent cliffs with the Clifftop Cheddar Gorge walk. As the home of cheddar cheese, make sure to grab a bite (or perhaps a souvenir) while you’re there.
Atlantic Highway
A 70-mile stretch of Cornish countryside, the so-called Atlantic Highway is one UK road trip idea you don’t want to miss out on. Renowned for its beauty, enjoy golden-sand beaches and quaint fishing villages as you cruise across the Cornish coast. Stop at Tintagel Castle, the alleged birthplace of the mythical King Arthur. Visit the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, a unique emporium around Boscastle since 1960. Always on the lookout for a photo op? St Nectan’s Glen - near Tintagel - is a woodland with views to savour. This spot is home to the famous St Nectan’s Kieve - an impressive sixty-foot waterfall - the perfect backdrop for any holiday photo. Last but not least - can you visit Cornwall without experiencing the legendary Cornish surf? With beaches at every turn of this road trip, you won’t be short of places to get on your board.
The Peak District
With stunning roadside views within a 550 square mile national park, the Peak District is a Northern gem. Stretching from Ashbourne to the borders of Huddersfield, this remarkable landscape is one of our favourite UK road trips. Start at Ashbourne, a town full of independent shops and cafes. Did you know the town still hosts a mediaeval football game called Royal Shrovetide Football every year? Visit during Shrove Tuesday or Ash Wednesday, and experience the chaotically fun atmosphere. Make your way to Buxton, a town bristling with Georgian and Victorian architecture. Feeling adventurous? Drive further North to Castleton, which features some of the UK’s most incredible cave systems. One thing you must do is travel the Winnats Pass. A protected site, the road cuts through an awe-inspiring limestone valley full of ancient fossils.
