Best UK road trips - London Adventures Walking Tours and Experiences

Best UK Road Trips – 6 Scenic Itineraries for Castles, Coast & Countryside

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Explore England by Car

There’s nothing quite like the freedom of a UK road trip. One moment you’re winding through storybook villages, the next you’re cresting a hill to see a castle silhouetted against rolling green fields. For overseas visitors—especially from the US, Canada, and Australia—a road trip offers the perfect balance of iconic sights, local flavours, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

This guide brings together six unforgettable UK road trips, each designed for a leisurely pace so you can truly savour the journey. Whether you want to base yourself in one place and explore nearby, or make a multi-day loop through different regions, you’ll find routes that mix history, scenery, and food experiences in equal measure.

From the honey-stone cottages of the Cotswolds to Cornwall’s rugged coastline, Scotland’s wild Highlands, and the glassy lakes of Cumbria, these itineraries will help you plan a trip that feels both adventurous and effortless.

Travel Tip: For maximum freedom, consider starting your trip with a rental car from GetRentaCar or a private transfer to your starting point. Book accommodation and popular attractions early—many spots sell out fast in peak season.

1. London → Cotswolds → Bath → Stonehenge – The Quintessential English Countryside Loop

For overseas visitors with a few days to spare, this road trip offers the best of rural England—storybook villages, elegant Georgian city life, and ancient wonders. Spanning four days, it’s designed for a leisurely pace with time to enjoy scenic drives, market town wanderings, and photo stops that make you want to linger.

Day 1: London → Cirencester & Bibury

Leave London in the morning and take the M4 west to Cirencester, the “Capital of the Cotswolds” (around 1.5 hours). This vibrant market town boasts Roman roots, an excellent Corinium Museum, and lively markets. Stroll its charming streets lined with independent shops and cafés.

After lunch, take the short 20-minute drive to Bibury, famed for Arlington Row—a line of 17th-century weavers’ cottages often called England’s prettiest street. It’s small enough to explore in an hour, leaving time for relaxed photography before returning to Cirencester for your first overnight stay.

Where to Stay: Book early with Booking.com for charming B&Bs and boutique inns in Cirencester or nearby villages.

Day 2: Broadway → Broadway Tower → Stow-on-the-Wold → Lower Slaughter → Bourton-on-the-Water

Start early and head north to Broadway, a picture-perfect village with boutique shops and art galleries. Enjoy lunch in one of its stylish cafés before driving up to Broadway Tower for panoramic views stretching across 16 counties.

From here, make your way to Stow-on-the-Wold, known for its antique shops and historic market square. Continue to Lower Slaughter, where the millstream and stone cottages create a scene straight from a postcard. End the day in Bourton-on-the-Water, the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” famous for its low bridges and riverside charm. Return to Cirencester for your final night in the Cotswolds.

Car Hire Tip: Pick up your vehicle from GetRentaCar for flexibility to explore these smaller villages at your own pace.

Day 3: Bath – Georgian Elegance & Roman History

Drive to Bath (about 1.5 hours), a UNESCO World Heritage city blending Roman heritage with Georgian sophistication. Visit the Roman Baths, admire Bath Abbey, and wander the elegant Royal Crescent. Explore artisan shops and cafés along Pulteney Bridge or take a riverside walk. In the afternoon, relax in the Thermae Bath Spa, where rooftop pools offer city views. Overnight in Bath.

Book Ahead: Pre-book Bath walking tours and attraction tickets to skip queues. Overnight in Bath.

Day 4: Stonehenge, Avebury & Wiltshire’s White Horse

Leave Bath and head to Stonehenge for an early visit before the crowds. Continue to Avebury, where the largest stone circle in Britain invites you to walk freely among the stones. If time allows, detour to see the Westbury White Horse, a giant chalk figure carved into the hillside—an iconic Wiltshire landmark. Return to London in the late afternoon.

Extend Your Stay in the Cotswolds: There are dozens more villages worth exploring if you have 3–4 nights in the region. Consider adding Painswick (the “Queen of the Cotswolds”), Snowshill (with its manor and lavender fields in summer), or Castle Combe, often dubbed England’s most beautiful village.

Driving Tip: This route is best enjoyed with early starts, allowing time for spontaneous stops and cream tea breaks.

Book in Advance: Reserve Stonehenge & Avebury tickets to secure your preferred time slot.

Read more about What to see and do in the Cotswolds: Click here

Want to plan an itinerary with interesting sightseeing (not tourist traps) balance with rest stops, enjoy English afternoon tea in country tearooms or a pub lunch, we can help and create your bespoke itinerary. Contact Us

2. Brighton → Seven Sisters → Hastings → Rye → Dover – A 3-Day Coastal & Historic Escape

This south coast adventure blends vibrant seaside cities, iconic clifftop walks, and historic towns steeped in English heritage. With two overnight stops, you’ll have time to enjoy the highlights without rushing.

Day 1: London → Brighton

Leave London in the morning for Brighton (about 1 hour by train or 1.5 hours by car). Begin your visit with a stroll along the pebble beach and the iconic Brighton Pier. Explore the flamboyant Royal Pavilion, a palace with onion domes and opulent interiors, and get lost in The Lanes—a warren of narrow alleys filled with quirky shops and vintage finds.

Brighton’s food scene is exceptional—try fresh seafood at The Salt Room or plant-based fine dining at Terre à Terre.

Book Ahead: Secure your Brighton hotels early for the best seafront or boutique options. If you prefer a guided day, join a Brighton & Seven Sisters tour.

Overnight in Brighton.

Day 2: Brighton → Seven Sisters → Hastings → Rye

After breakfast, take the coastal route to the Seven Sisters Cliffs (around 45 minutes). Park at Seaford Head for the best panoramic views, or start from Birling Gap for a gentle clifftop walk.

Continue east to Hastings (about 50 minutes), a town where history and creativity meet. Visit the atmospheric Old Town, lined with half-timbered houses, explore the fishing beach with its black net huts, and take the cliff railway for sweeping views. History buffs can explore Hastings Castle, built shortly after the Norman Conquest.

From Hastings, it’s a short 30-minute drive to Rye, a medieval jewel of cobbled lanes and centuries-old architecture. Wander Mermaid Street, visit Ypres Tower, and climb St Mary’s Church for rooftop views.

Stay & Explore: Book a charming inn or B&B in Rye via Booking.com to enjoy the town after day-trippers leave.

Day 3: Rye → Dover → London

Leave Rye in the morning for Dover (around 1.5 hours). Tour Dover Castle, with its medieval keep, underground wartime tunnels, and sweeping Channel views. Take a short walk on the White Cliffs of Dover for unforgettable vistas—on a clear day, you can see France.

Tip: Pre-book Dover Castle tickets and guided tours to save time.

Return to London in the afternoon, or add more stops along the Kent coast before heading back.

Driving Tip: The stretch between Seven Sisters and Rye is full of scenic coastal lay-bys—keep your camera handy.

Extend Your Stay: Spend an extra night in Rye to visit Camber Sands beach or explore Battle, the site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings.

Find out more about Rye here.

Find out more about Hastings here.

Knaresborough Viaduct — Knaresborough is a market town located in North Yorkshire

3. York → Harrogate & Knaresborough → Peak District – A 4-Day Yorkshire & Derbyshire Escape

This road trip blends grand history, elegant spa towns, rugged landscapes, and hearty northern flavours. Beginning in York and ending among the rolling hills of the Peak District, it’s a journey through two of England’s most beautiful regions.

Day 1: York – History in Every Stone

Arrive in York, a city where Roman walls, Viking heritage, and medieval streets meet. Walk along the city walls for views of York Minster, one of Europe’s greatest Gothic cathedrals. Wander The Shambles, a narrow street lined with crooked timber-framed shops, and visit the Jorvik Viking Centre for an immersive look at York’s Norse past.

If time allows, explore the National Railway Museum or take a riverside stroll along the Ouse. In the evening, enjoy a traditional roast with Yorkshire pudding in a centuries-old pub.

Stay in Style: Find charming hotels and guesthouses in York on Booking.com.

Day 2: Harrogate & Knaresborough – Spa Town Elegance

Spend the morning exploring Harrogate, famous for its Victorian architecture, manicured gardens, and spa heritage. Treat yourself to a cream tea at Betty’s Tea Room—a Yorkshire institution—and, if you have time, relax in the ornate Turkish Baths.

In the afternoon, make the short drive to Knaresborough, a picturesque market town perched above the River Nidd. Photograph the striking railway viaduct, wander the riverside paths, and explore Knaresborough Castle’s ruins.

By late afternoon, head south to the Peak District, staying overnight near Bamford in the Hope Valley—an ideal base for the next two days.

Car Hire Tip: Pick up a rental through GetRentaCar for flexibility to explore rural routes.

Day 3: Peak District Highlights – Villages & Views

Begin in Hathersage, a village linked to Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre and the legendary Robin Hood. Continue to Stanage Edge, a dramatic gritstone ridge popular with walkers and climbers, offering sweeping views across the moors.

Stop in Bakewell, famous for its tarts and puddings (the original Bakewell Pudding Shop is a must). Then visit Haddon Hall, a romantic medieval manor house.

Plan Ahead: Book Haddon Hall entry in advance to secure your preferred time. Return to Bamford for the night.

Day 4: Chatsworth & Country Fare

Dedicate your final day to Chatsworth House, one of England’s grandest stately homes. Tour its lavish interiors, wander the landscaped gardens, and don’t miss the Chatsworth Farm Shop, stocked with artisan cheeses, local pies, cured meats, and local produce.

Book Early: Reserve Chatsworth House tickets to avoid disappointment, especially in summer.

If time allows, take a scenic drive before heading to your onward destination.

Foodie Tip: The Yorkshire and Derbyshire countryside is full of farm shops and traditional inns—perfect for sampling local cheeses, meats, and hearty roasts with towering Yorkshire puddings.

Driving Tip: These regions are best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Expect winding country lanes, scenic viewpoints, and plenty of tempting spots to stop for tea or cake.

Edinburgh City View — Dugald Stewart Monument and view over historic Edinburgh from Calton Hill, Scotland, UK

4. Edinburgh → Stirling → Inverness & Loch Ness → Isle of Skye → Glasgow – A 5-Day Highland & Island Adventure

This road trip blends Scotland’s captivating cities, legendary Highland landscapes, and the wild beauty of the Isle of Skye—with a dram of whisky along the way. Starting in Edinburgh and ending in Glasgow, it’s the perfect introduction to Scotland’s history, culture, and natural wonders.

Day 1: Edinburgh – History, Haggis & Whisky

Spend your first day in Edinburgh, walking the Royal Mile between Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Climb Arthur’s Seat for city views, explore hidden closes, and visit the National Museum of Scotland for a taste of Scottish heritage.

In the evening, enjoy haggis with neeps and tatties, paired with a whisky flight at The Scotch Whisky Experience or The Bow Bar.

Stay in Comfort: Book a central hotel in Edinburgh via Booking.com.

Day 2: Edinburgh → Stirling → Inverness / Loch Ness

Head to Stirling (1 hour) to tour Stirling Castle and admire the Wallace Monument. Continue north through Perthshire, stopping in Pitlochry for lunch and a whisky tasting at Blair Athol Distillery, known for its rich, full-bodied single malt.

From there, drive into the Highlands, arriving in Inverness or at a Loch Ness-side hotel for the night. If time permits, take a lakeside stroll in search of the mythical Nessie.

Plan Ahead: Pre-book Stirling Castle entry tickets.

Day 3: Inverness → Isle of Skye

Drive west towards Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photogenic landmarks. Cross the Skye Bridge to the Isle of Skye and explore its rugged beauty—towering cliffs, sea lochs, and windswept glens.

Stay overnight in Portree or a nearby village. Dine on Skye’s renowned seafood—fresh scallops, langoustines, and mussels.

Book Now: Reserve Eilean Donan Castle tickets or join a guided Highlands tour.

Day 4: Isle of Skye – Wild Beauty

Spend the day discovering Skye’s highlights: hike to the Old Man of Storr, wander through the Quiraing, and visit the magical Fairy Pools. Make time for a tour and tasting at Talisker Distillery, Skye’s famous single malt producer.

Tip: Secure your Talisker Distillery experience early in summer.

Overnight in Skye.

Day 5: Isle of Skye → Glasgow

Drive south through Fort William and along Loch Lomond, stopping in Glencoe for photos and short walks. Arrive in Glasgow by late afternoon to explore its lively music scene, Victorian architecture, and award-winning restaurants before your final overnight stay.

Where to Stay: Browse Glasgow hotels for the perfect end to your trip.

Foodie Tip: Scotland is a paradise for food lovers—pair your whisky tastings with artisan cheeses in the Highlands, seafood on Skye, and hearty stews in traditional inns.

Driving Tip: Scotland’s scenery demands frequent stops—build in extra time so you can pull over whenever a view takes your breath away.

St. Michael's Mount in Cornwall — Mount Saint Michael at the sunset with sand ripples in Penzance, United Kingdom.

5. Cornwall Coastal Route – 5 Days of Seascapes, Seafood & Storybook Villages

Cornwall’s dramatic coastlines, golden beaches, fishing harbours, and legendary sites make it one of the UK’s most magical road trip destinations. This 5-day itinerary blends world-famous landmarks with hidden coves and unforgettable foodie experiences.

Day 1: London → St Ives

Leave London early for the long but scenic drive to St Ives (approx. 6 hours), or break it up with an overnight stop in Devon. On arrival, wander the cobbled streets lined with galleries, cafés, and boutiques. Visit the Tate St Ives for coastal-inspired art or relax on Porthmeor Beach as the sun dips over the Atlantic.

Stay & Dine: Choose from St Ives hotels and guesthouses and enjoy harbourfront dining or posh fish & chips for sunset.

Day 2: St Ives → Land’s End → Mousehole → Penzance

Spend the morning exploring Land’s End, England’s most westerly point, with clifftop walks and sweeping ocean views. Continue to Sennen Cove, then on to Mousehole, a fishing village of narrow lanes and flower-filled cottages.

From Mousehole, make a short drive to Penzance, a bustling harbour town with a subtropical promenade, art galleries, and an emerging foodie scene. It’s also the gateway to the Scilly Isles via ferry, if you plan to extend your trip.

Return to St Ives for a second night—stroll along the harbourfront or enjoy fresh seafood.

Day 3: St Ives → St Michael’s Mount → Falmouth

Head east to St Michael’s Mount, a tidal island crowned by a medieval castle. Time your visit with the tide so you can walk the causeway.

Continue to Falmouth, a lively harbour town with maritime history and sandy beaches.

Plan Ahead: Book St Michael’s Mount entry and Falmouth stays in advance.

Day 4: Falmouth → Eden Project → Lost Gardens of Heligan → Padstow/Tintagel

Start at the Eden Project, where vast biomes house rainforest and Mediterranean landscapes. Then explore the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a restored Victorian garden filled with exotic plants.

Drive north to either Padstow—a foodie haven with Rick Stein’s restaurants—or Tintagel, steeped in Arthurian legend.

Book Ahead: Reserve Eden Project tickets early in peak season.

Day 5: Tintagel/Padstow → Tintagel Castle → Boscastle → London

If staying in Padstow, start your day with a drive to Tintagel Castle to explore its ruins and dramatic coastal views. Nearby Boscastle is a charming harbour village with an intriguing Witchcraft Museum.

Enjoy lunch—perhaps Rick Stein’s monkfish & chips—before starting the return journey to London.

Extra Stops if Time Allows:

Porthcurno – A turquoise bay with the open-air Minack Theatre perched on the cliffs.
Polperro – A postcard-pretty fishing village on Cornwall’s south coast.
Bedruthan Steps – Striking rock formations and cliff walks near Newquay.

Foodie Tip: Cornwall is seafood heaven—try locally caught crab, mackerel pâté, Cornish pasties, and clotted cream ice cream (jam first, always).

Driving Tip: Cornwall’s lanes can be narrow—allow extra time for journeys and be ready to reverse into passing places.

Lake District - Keswick — Photo taken in Keswick, United Kingdom

6. Lake District – 4 Days of Lakes, Hills & Timeless Villages

The Lake District National Park is a paradise of mirror-like lakes, green fells, and charming stone villages. With UNESCO World Heritage status and countless walking trails, it’s the ideal destination for those who prefer a slower pace and nature-filled days. Staying in one location means less packing, more relaxing, and plenty of time to savour the scenery.

Where to Base Yourself

Choose Ambleside or Bowness-on-Windermere for your stay. Ambleside offers a cosy feel with independent shops and cafés, while Bowness is livelier with a wide choice of dining and lake cruises.

Find Your Stay: Browse Lake District hotels and B&Bs for the perfect base.

Day 1: Arrival & Lakeside Stroll

Arrive by car (or train to Windermere) and settle into your hotel or guesthouse. Spend the afternoon on a gentle lakeside walk or take a Windermere Lake Cruise for panoramic views.

Book Ahead: Reserve your Windermere Lake Cruise tickets for flexible times and the best routes.

Day 2: Ambleside, Grasmere & Rydal Water Walks

Start in Ambleside, visiting the quirky 17th-century Bridge House. Then head to Grasmere, famed for its gingerbread and as the home of poet William Wordsworth—visit Dove Cottage for a peek into his world.
Walk the easy loop around Rydal Water, one of the prettiest small lakes, with reflections of surrounding fells.

Day 3: Tarn Hows & Hawkshead

Enjoy a scenic drive to Tarn Hows, a picturesque spot with an accessible circular walk. Continue to Hawkshead, a postcard-perfect village with cobbled lanes and whitewashed cottages. Visit the Beatrix Potter Gallery and enjoy a leisurely lunch before returning to your base.

Day 4: Fell Views & Farewell

Spend your final morning tackling a short but rewarding fell walk—Orrest Head offers stunning panoramic views over Windermere and beyond. If you have more time, extend your stay for drives to Buttermere, Keswick, or the Honister Pass for truly jaw-dropping scenery.

Walking Tip: The Lake District has walks for all abilities, from gentle lake loops to fell hikes. Always check weather conditions and wear good footwear.

Extend Your Stay: Add 1–2 days to explore Ullswater (try the steamer boat), Derwentwater, and the dramatic Kirkstone Pass drive.

Explore our Itinerary Planning Service for bespoke ideas that fit your pace and interests.

Planning Your Perfect UK Road Trip

From the honey-stone cottages of the Cotswolds to Cornwall’s dramatic coastline, Scotland’s wild Highlands, the Lake District’s tranquil waters, and beyond, the UK’s landscapes are made for slow, scenic travel.

These six itineraries are designed for a relaxed pace—perfect for overseas visitors who want to enjoy history, food, and scenery without feeling rushed.

Whether you choose one region or combine a few into a grand tour, these routes offer castles, coastlines, countryside, and plenty of local flavour.

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