Experience the thrill of the open road! It’s where freedom meets adventure, calling out to individuals who love to explore. For motorcycle riders and camper van travellers, the United Kingdom has some of the most beautiful routes – through rolling hills, ancient castles, and lively coastal towns.
According to the UK Government, 90% of all passenger kilometres in Great Britain were travelled by road in 2023. This shows that road trips are still one of the best ways to see the country’s beauty and history up close.
Whether you ride a motorcycle or drive a camper, these six excellent UK road trip routes promise unforgettable views, great stops, and stories you’ll share for years. Get ready – your adventure starts here.
Essential Road Trip Routes Across the UK
Here are the six essential road trip routes across the UK that you must consider:
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Explore the North Coast 500 in the Scottish Highlands
Start your journey on Scotland’s equivalent of Route 66 – a 516 mile trip that begins and ends at Inverness Castle. The North Coast 500 takes you through the beautiful Scottish Highlands, offering sea views, mountains, and peaceful lochs.
Highlights:
- Bealach na Bà: A challenging mountain pass with sharp turns and steep hills offers riders stunning views.
- Loch Ness: Look for the famous Nessie as you ride by the shores of this popular loch.
- Remote Villages: Explore alluring towns like Applecross and Durness, each with its unique charm.
Ideal for: People looking for a complete Highland adventure can enjoy natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Best Season: The climate is more temperate, with extended daylight periods from late spring to early autumn.
Tip: Fuel stations can be limited in isolated regions; plan your fuel stops wisely.
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Drive the Atlantic Highway in South West England
The Atlantic Highway runs 275 kms from Somerset to Cornwall and provides beautiful coastal views. It passes through the best areas of Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall.
Highlights:
- Tintagel Castle: Experience the story of King Arthur at this fortress on the cliffs.
- Exmoor National Park: Explore the moorlands and wooded valleys, where you might see wild ponies.
- Surf Beaches: Stop at popular surf spots like Bude and Newquay to ride the waves or enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
Ideal for: Riders who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and seaside culture will find this route appealing.
Best Season: The best weather occurs in the summer, but be careful of tourist traffic.
Tip: Some parts of the route have sharp turns and narrow roads, so ride carefully.
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Discover the Cambrian Mountains in Rural Wales
Explore the beautiful Cambrian Mountains in the heart of Wales. This area is peaceful and offers stunning views. You can enjoy a relaxing getaway while walking through untouched landscapes.
Highlights:
- Elan Valley: Visit a series of Victorian dams and reservoirs set in rolling hills.
- Devil’s Bridge: See the famous waterfalls and the three stacked bridges, each from a different time.
- Strata Florida Abbey: Learn about Welsh history at this critical monastic site.
Ideal for: People looking for peace and a strong connection with nature will enjoy this area.
Best Season: The best time to visit this place is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the roads are clear.
Tip: Since this region is remote, there are fewer services available. Ensure your vehicle is well-prepared for the trip.
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Experience Snake Pass and the Peak District
Snake Pass (A57) is a popular route for motorcyclists in Sheffield. It offers an exciting ride through the Peak District, connecting Glossop to Ladybower Reservoir.
Highlights:
- Ladybower Reservoir: Find a beautiful spot to rest and take photos.
- Winnats Pass: Explore the impressive limestone gorge with steep gradients and sharp turns.
- Charming Villages: Visit the charming village of Castleton, famous for its caves and lovely streets.
Ideal for: Day-trippers and those seeking thrilling rides with beautiful views can enjoy the area.
Best Season: Spring and autumn have fewer tourists and offer colourful landscapes.
Tip: Weather can change quickly, so always check the forecast before you go.
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Loop Through Scenic Roads in the Lake District
The Lake District provides a route that captures some of England’s most breathtaking landscapes, perfect for cyclists and camper van tourists.
Highlights:
- Kirkstone Pass: Climb the highest mountain pass in the area for stunning views.
- Honister Pass: Travel over rough terrain with steep hills and valleys.
- Lakeside Towns: Visit charming towns like Keswick and Ambleside, where you can find unique attractions and local food.
Ideal for: Riders looking for challenging routes and beautiful scenery will enjoy this area.
Best Season: You can see vibrant colours in autumn, and fewer people are around.
Tip: Some roads are steep and narrow, so your vehicle suits these conditions.
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Follow the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland
Begin a 120-mile hike along the northern coast of Northern Ireland. Start from Belfast Lough and end at Lough Foyle. This trek features beautiful cliffs and important historical sites.
Highlights:
- Giant’s Causeway: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique basalt columns.
- Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: Test your bravery by walking across this historic rope bridge above the sea.
- Dunluce Castle: A beautiful ruin sits above the sea as it is full of stories and legends.
Ideal for: This route is for riders and road-trippers who enjoy coastal scenery, history, and famous landmarks.
Best Season: The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn for nice weather and clear views.
Tip: You can take ferries from the mainland UK to Belfast and Larne, which are great starting points for the journey.
Whether you’re navigating sharp corners on your bike or cruising coastlines in a camper van, the UK has some of the most beautiful routes for every kind of road warrior. For those exploring the vanlife side of the journey, Find My Leisure Vehicle is a great starting point to find your perfect setup for the open road.
Conclusion
A road trip in the UK is not just about driving – it’s filled with unforgettable moments. Every trip shows us why we love the open road. We enjoy travelling through Scotland’s misty Highlands, watching the golden sunsets in Cornwall, and driving along the winding streets of the Peak District.
These six excellent routes focus on freedom, discovery, and the stories coming to life. Whether driving alone with the wind in your hair or enjoying time in a camper van with friends, embrace the journey.
Pack lightly, drive far, and let the road take you on an unforgettable experience. Your next trip starts now.
