Inspiration

Top 5 UK Road Trips to Look Out for in 2024

Enjoying a road trip across the United Kingdom can unveil a treasure trove of unique experiences, spanning from stunning natural landscapes to captivating historical sites and charming towns.

Enjoying a road trip across the United Kingdom can unveil a treasure trove of unique experiences, spanning from stunning natural landscapes to captivating historical sites and charming towns.

The UK boasts diverse scenery, including rugged coastlines, lush countryside, and picturesque national parks, all easily accessible. Immerse yourself in the country's rich history, dotted with ancient castles and ruins, inviting leisurely exploration and discovery of intriguing tales. With the flexibility to tailor your journey according to your preferences, whether following a detailed itinerary or seizing impromptu opportunities, a road trip promises a fulfilling and personalised adventure.

Our road trip route partner, Uncover Britain, provides an extensive collection of road trip itineraries crafted to help plan the perfect journey across Britain. Each online guide includes a flexible and adaptable itinerary, complete with a detailed route map, destination highlights, links to bookable experiences, and accommodation options for overnight stays. Moreover, the Uncover More map offers additional insights like scenic viewpoints, hidden gems, and notable attractions to enrich the travel experience. With Uncover Britain's wealth of resources, road trippers can effortlessly customise their road trip to align with their preferences and uncover the finest destinations Britain has to offer.

Uncover Britain presents its top 5 road trips to watch for the upcoming year, offering unique experiences for those seeking alternatives to popular destinations. These road trips guarantee unforgettable adventures and stunning scenery, making them essential stops for holiday makers exploring the UK in 2024.

Forest of Dean & Wye Valley (Wales / England border)

Embark on this Forest of Dean & Wye Valley 80-mile (128 km) journey, ideal for a 4 to 5-day adventure, with a drive time of approximately 3 hours 30 minutes. Nestled at the meeting point of England and Wales, where the River Wye converges with the Severn, lies the captivating Forest of Dean and Wye Valley region. Here, a blend of natural beauty, historical allure, and outdoor activities awaits, whether you're bound for Wales or seeking thrilling escapades.

In the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, ancient woodlands unveil serene trails and diverse flora and fauna, offering a glimpse into its industrial past intertwined with natural splendour. Traverse picturesque villages and historic towns on a scenic road trip, surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic vistas. Engage in outdoor pursuits such as walking, cycling, fishing, and golf amid the breathtaking landscapes.

Immerse yourself in the meandering River Wye's beauty as it carves through limestone cliffs, forming majestic gorges and providing opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and leisurely boat cruises. Whether exploring the region's rich history or indulging in its outdoor wonders, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley promises an enriching and memorable experience for all adventurers. This online guidebook is available at £7.99.

North Wales Coast

This captivating North Wales Coast road trip spans approximately 100 miles (162 km) with a drive time ranging from 2 hours 40 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes, vehicle dependent. This scenic itinerary seamlessly combines the allure of stunning coastlines, majestic mountains, and enchanting forests, offering a diverse range of experiences to explore.

Discover the rich history of North Wales as you visit Edward I's iconic castles, including the medieval marvels of Caernarfon Castle and Conwy Castle, both designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore the picturesque Anglesey, home to scenic beaches, ancient ruins, and the majestic Beaumaris Castle, complemented by the Anglesey Coastal Path offering breathtaking views.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of North Wales with leisurely hikes, exhilarating bike rides, and leisurely strolls along the Wales Coastal Path. Delight in the nostalgic charm of heritage steam railways and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the region's border towns and market villages, each boasting a rich tapestry of historical and cultural heritage waiting to be discovered. This online guidebook also includes 7 mini-themes routes within the overall road trip, available at £6.99.

Edinburgh & Romantic Borders

This circular Edinburgh & Romantic Borders route spans approximately 153 miles (247 km) and can commence and conclude in Edinburgh or any point along the way, with an estimated drive time of about 5 hours.

Commence your exploration in Edinburgh, the captivating capital of Scotland, where you can delve into its storied past by visiting iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Holyrood House. Embark on tours within and around the city to uncover hidden gems and panoramic viewpoints, enriching your Edinburgh experience with insights into its fascinating history, folklore, and legends.

A journey through the enchanting "Romantic Scottish Borders," renowned for its literary connections, enjoys historic sites and breathtaking scenery. Traverse quaint Border towns steeped in heritage, marvel at the architectural marvels of castles and abbeys, and immerse yourself in the region's rich folklore and legends. Explore the tumultuous history of the Scottish Borders and admire its Gothic architectural treasures. Pay homage to the legacy of Sir Walter Scott at Abbotsford and visit a 15th-century chapel, all while soaking in the awe-inspiring landscapes of this historic region. This online guidebook is available at £7.99.

York & North York Moors

This road trip through York & North York Moors is ideal for a 4 or 5-day excursion, covering approximately 181 miles (294 km) with an estimated driving time of around 7 hours. Embark on your journey in York, then follow the coastline before immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes of the North York Moors National Park. Along this route, you'll have the chance to traverse two of National Geographic's Top 10 UK Best Road Trips for 2023, offering a memorable driving experience through the picturesque North Yorkshire Moors.

Explore the rich history of York, delving into its captivating narratives through guided walking tours and marvelling at its prominent attractions like York Minster and The Shambles. Take a nostalgic ride aboard a heritage steam train and visit the legendary Whitby Abbey. Witness the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct and explore the region's architectural treasures, including Helmsley Castle and Rievaulx Abbey. Uncover the intriguing myths and legends intertwined with the landscape and learn about the diverse array of artists and literary figures who have found inspiration in the region's natural beauty and allure. This online guidebook is available at £7.99.

Historic Worcestershire

This guide to the Historic Worcestershire road trip spans 107 miles (173 km), with an estimated driving time of around 4 hours and 35 minutes.

This captivating journey will let you explore the Cathedral City of Worcester and its iconic black-and-white buildings. Delve beyond the surface to uncover a Worcestershire steeped in history and dotted with intriguing references and hidden gems. Follow in the footsteps of King Charles I and witness the scars of the Civil War etched into the landscape. Immerse yourself in Worcestershire's vibrant history, from its musical legacy to its pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution.

Navigate through undulating hills and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where curated walks and trails offer awe-inspiring views of the countryside. Explore the borderlands where Worcestershire meets the northern edges of the Cotswolds, with opportunities to visit majestic stately homes and gardens nestled amidst the picturesque landscape. This online guidebook is available at £6.99.