Our Top Summer UK Road Trips and the Best Cars for the Journey
- North Coast 500, Scotland
Route: A 516-mile scenic loop around the northern coast of Scotland.
Highlights: Stunning coastal views, historic castles, and quaint villages. Must-see spots include Inverness Castle, Bealach na Bà, and the sandy beaches of Dornoch.
Our choice for this road trip: Nissan Qashqai
- Why: The Qashqai’s advanced safety features and comfortable interior make it perfect for the winding roads and long drives of the North Coast 500.
- The Atlantic Highway, South West England
Route: A 170-mile journey from Barnstaple in Devon to Newquay in Cornwall.
Highlights: Dramatic coastal scenery, surfing spots, and charming seaside towns. Don’t miss Tintagel Castle, Bude’s sandy beaches, and the vibrant town of Newquay.
Our choice for this road trip: MG HS
- Why: With its spacious interior and robust design, the MG HS offers a comfortable ride for families and plenty of space for surfboards and beach gear.
- The Lake District, North West England
Route: A loop around the Lake District National Park, covering approximately 100 miles.
Highlights: Beautiful lakes, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. Key stops include Windermere, Keswick, and Grasmere.
Our choice for this road trip: Renault Captur
- Why: The compact yet versatile Renault Captur is perfect for navigating the narrow, winding roads of the Lake District while offering great fuel efficiency.
- The Cotswolds, Central England
Route: A 90-mile circular route starting and ending in Cirencester, covering the heart of the Cotswolds.
Highlights: Rolling countryside, historic towns, and honey-coloured stone cottages. Highlights include Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Broadway.
Our choice for this road trip: Dacia Duster
- Why: The Duster’s affordability and ruggedness make it ideal for both countryside exploration and city driving.
- Snowdonia, North Wales
Route: A 100-mile route through Snowdonia National Park.
Highlights: Majestic mountains, serene lakes, and ancient castles. Key sites include Mount Snowdon, Conwy Castle, and Betws-y-Coed.
Our choice for this road trip: Hyundai Tucson
- Why: The Tucson’s advanced safety features and spacious cabin ensure a comfortable and secure journey through the mountainous terrain of Snowdonia.
- The Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
Route: A 120-mile drive from Belfast to Derry/Londonderry.
Highlights: Rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and historic sites. Must-sees include the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Dunluce Castle.
Our choice for this road trip: Genesis GV70
- Why: The luxurious Genesis GV70 combines performance with comfort, making it perfect for the dramatic and varied landscapes of Northern Ireland’s coast.
Summer road trips in the UK offer incredible landscapes and activities along the way, from the rugged coasts of Scotland to the serene lakes of Cumbria. Choosing the right car is vital to enjoying your journey, providing comfort, safety, and reliability. Whether you’re driving a Nissan Qashqai through the Scottish Highlands or a Genesis GV70 along Northern Ireland’s coast, these vehicles will help you make the most of your summer adventure.
