12 Most Scenic Road Trip Routes In The UK for Groups

From the raging shorelines, misty weather and deep roots in history to friendly people, gothic-themed castles and awe-inspiring destinations, the UK is renowned for its influence on the tourism sector. Being the host of four remarkable countries; England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Island, the United Kingdom gains much love from the tourism community. 

Especially, the famous routes around the UK shine brightly for offering the ideal road trip experience to avid travellers. But with the various routes and destinations available, settling down for a single one can often take time and effort. If you are also one of those travellers who yearn for a magical cross-country road trip, then you are at just the right place. We bring you some of the most exhilarating routes to plan out your next road adventure with a group of family or friends. 

Before embarking on the road trip, it is important to find a reliable transport that does not break down on the road and supports throughout the journey. Our exquisite MPVs, minibus and tour coaches are equipped with state-of-the-art amenities for a safe and reliable road trip.

1. North Coast 500

Best Scottish Highlands Road Trip.

Round Trip From Inverness: 516 miles (~2-3 days)

Being the UK’s most famous and longest route covering the entire Scotland, North Coast 500 is a breathtaking drive. From the rugged terrains, and outlook of grassy peaks to a temperate climate and incredible wildlife surrounded by lush green parks, NC 500 is a complete road tourism package. 

It is important to note that North Coast 500 is explored best during a multi-day itinerary. Although you can make a seamless round trip across the North Coast in 2 to 3 days, experts recommend a trip of at least a week to make the most out of the experience and see all the notable attractions the route has to offer. 

2. The South Downs

Best Road Trip In South East England.

The South Downs To Brighton: 8.5 miles (~23 minutes)

If you are happy to drive off the nature-themed routes, then The South Downs is the perfect choice to go for. On top of that, the route features notable attractions to stop by and admire the beautiful natural landscape and the wildlife. 

Starting from Muddleswood, you can enjoy the scenery of vast greenery and gardens. Continuing on the A23 motorway, you can end your road trip at Brighton Beach for a calm resting spot on the south coast of England. 

3. Snowdonia, North Wales

Best Road Trip Destination For Groups.

Aberystwyth To Llandudno: 19.1 miles (~36 minutes)

Apart from the North Coast 500, a sunny road trip to Snowdonia from Aberystwyth is an exciting experience. With the rugged coastal terrains and dramatic views of the mountains, Aberystwyth provides a charming road trip for group travellers. 

The route also unveils a magnificent shoreline with turquoise water shining on a sunny day. All you need to do is plan a trip on a sunny morning or evening and take the free-flowing A487 trunk road to embark on the scenic journey with your group members. 

4. Cairngorms National Park

Best Road Trip In Scotland.

Newtonmore To Cairngorms National Park: 26.5 miles (~38 minutes)

When it comes to scenic drives in Scotland, Cairngorms National Park is never an exception. While driving the roads of Scotland is a challenge on its own, the perched lochs, fresh waterfalls and views of grassy peaks in the Scottish Highlands are definitely worth the long drive. 

We recommend starting from the sunny landscapes of Newtonmore to get a glimpse of the rugged Scottish Highlands. While progressing on the A9 motorway, tourists can enjoy the dramatic views of the mountains and perched lochs that cascade with unpredictable weather conditions. Apart from that the route allows multiple stays around the various villages to help you recharge and connect with the natural beauty of Scotland. 

5. Glen Etive

James Bond’s Skyfall-Themed Road Trip.

Newtonmore To Glen Etive: 72.3 miles (~1 hours 53 minutes)

Among the various attractions of the Scottish Highlands, Glen Etive ranks above the list for its magical weather. Thanks to the snow-covered mountains and misty weather, Glen Etive is renowned for being the famous destination for James Bond Skyfall and Braveheart. 

Starting from Newtonmore, you can enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and slope roads. Since it is a long trip, it is highly recommended to take multiple breaks to soak up the views of craggy peaks in the Scottish Highlands. 

6. The Atlantic Highway

Best Road Trip in the UK.

Bath To Cornwall: 189 miles (~3 hours 24 minutes)

With the summers in full swing, there is no better time to tour across the Atlantic Highway. Starting from the Bath, A39 Atlantic Highway is the ultimate long-distance road trip sharing a glimpse of the ocean views and small villages. Being a long-distance trip across England, the Atlantic Highway offers flexibility to plan out a multiple-day itinerary. 

7. Dartmoor

Popular Scenic Route in the UK.

Warren House Inn To Dartmoor: 2.9 miles (~10 minutes)

The route from Warren House Inn to the Dartmoor fits the description of bustling urban and sunkissed natural gardens that not only look good but also spread the smell across the breezy roads. Starting from the countryside of Warren House, you will be driving straight on the B3212 road cutting through the Dartmoor Forests in search of bright green spaces to settle for a picnic. Or you can just drive back and forth to enjoy the breezy sight of small villages from afar. 

8. The Causeway Coastal Route

Best Road Trip Route in Northern Ireland.

Belfast To Derry: 195 miles (~2 days for full exploration)

While discussing the ultimate road trip experiences, how can we forget the dramatic rollercoaster experiences in Northern Ireland? The whirlwind 195-mile road trip from Belfast to Derry, Londonderry is packed with dramatic sights and incredible locations of the infamous Game of Thrones. 

Remember, this is a Causeway coastal experience route and the primary attraction on this route will be the adventurous Giant Causeway in Bushmills. For that, you have the choice to either multi-day travel across the coastal strip from Belfast to Carrickfergus, Larne to Ballycastle, or you can make it a single-day trip by directly travelling to Ballycastle and then take the route towards Derry over M2 and A44 roads. We can help you plan out the itinerary for a long-distance route with an instant quote for your compact car and group-focused minibus hire. 

9. Mourne Coastal Route

Best Coastal Road Trip in the UK.

Dundrum To Mourne Coastal Trail: 6.8 miles (~11 minutes)

If the Giant Causeway did not fill your leisure cravings, you can also hit a road trip on the infamous Mourne Coastal Route. While it is not a causeway, the Mourne Coastal route is preserved for posterity with less traffic but beautiful sights of raging shore waves that will make your heart race with adrenaline. With small fishing villages, expansive beaches, remarkable campsites and calm weather, the Mourne Coastal route is everything that a road traveller desires. 

10. Lake District Loop

Best Countryside Road Trip in the UK. 

Lake Windermere To Borrowdale: 32.4 miles (~1 hour 8 minutes)

Lake District Loop is a highly recommended route for those who love the beautiful outdoors and picturesque landscapes. To get started we recommend hiring a minibus with a driver to help you hit the road early from Lake Windermere for a fresh cultural-enriched experience. 

You will be ending the journey with a crown jewel destination Borrowdale. The route is highly flexible for multiple spontaneous attractions. Do not forget to indulge in a hearty hike on the Lake District Park to relax in the British’s most preserved locations. 

11. Pembrokeshire

Best Adventurous Road Trip in the UK. 

Tenby To Pembrokeshire: 26.7 miles (~46 minutes)

Pembrokeshire is another famous attraction among adventure-seeking travellers who need something extra than just a road trip. Fancy a cold bath or rural experience while surrounded by the coastal weather? Pembrokeshire invites tourists to admire the tranquil coastal areas to meditate and reconnect with nature. 

You can also extend your road trip by visiting the adventurous Oakwood Theme Park before powering on the free-flowing A40 road to the final destination of Pembrokeshire. 

12. The Peak District

Famous Road Trip In The UK.

Derbyshire To The Peak District: 24.9 miles (~47 minutes)

Who needs hiking when you can admire the beauty of the stunning Peak District Park in England? Starting from the nature surrounding Derbyshire on the bending roads of A623, the road trip to the Peak District Park is a challenging yet highly rewarding experience. 

In the end, the national trails, curving Snake Pass and stunning cliff views will make your road trip legendary. 

Final Words

UK road trips offer a mix of experiences for everyone. Whether you are seeking the thrill of dramatic weather in Scotland or a noisy coastal drive across Northern Ireland, every destination will surpass your expectations in a variety of ways. 

Lastly, you have complete freedom to craft your perfect itinerary depending on your travel time and budget. Our comfortable car and minibus hires with driver services can easily fit into your itinerary, so you can focus on recording memorable trip moments on some of the famous routes in the UK without worrying about driving.