8 Scenic Road Trips Around the UK and Ireland

When you hear the phrase “road trip,” your mind probably takes you to the plains of America. But there are more scenic routes to take in the world than only those! Take the UK and Ireland, for instance, full of rolling hills, mystical moors, and little villages that are just… quaint. So come with us on a tour of that beautiful countryside – where are you visiting first?

 

 

Glasgow to Fort William, Scotland

Are you up for a 140-mile stretch of stunning scenery winding its way up to the Highlands? Of course you are! This drive takes you by some of the country’s most incredible natural landscapes. You’ll see Loch Lomond and possibly soak up some history, Ben Nevis and get the urge to climb, and then find yourself on the shore of Loch Ness wondering if Nessie herself is about to pop up to say hi. And this is all before you reach the beautiful Fort William! You’re definitely in for a treat.

 

Snake Pass, Peak District, England

This stunning route takes you over the Pennines and Ladybower Reservoir, and you’ll get to see some of the best views of the National Trust’s High Peak Estate as well. It might only be 42 miles so isn’t the longest of routes, but the Snake Pass is action-packed! This is a twisty-turny route with sharp corners, so if you’re a thrill-seeker, maybe treat yourself to this route before any other!

 

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Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

This is the most famous driving route in Northern Ireland. You set off from Londonderry and end up in Belfast, taking you along a stretch of around 130 miles of some of the most spectacular coast you’ll ever see. This is the kind of route you’ll get the most out of by doing in sections, soaking up all the incredible sights at all the beautiful spots on the way.

 

Penrith to Haydon Bridge, Cumbria and Northumberland, England

At just 37 miles, this route is one to take if you want to sample the beautiful views of the UK without committing to anything too strenuous. This drive lets you take long sweeping roads and tight corners that are open in places and tree-lined in others. You’ll also pass through the Allen Valleys, which are classed as an Outstanding Area of Natural Beauty, where you could stop for a little bird-watching if your heart so desires.

 

 

Black Mountain Pass, Brecon Beacons, Wales

This is a challenging 22-mile route, giving you the chance to see the Black Mountains up close while taking a hairpin turn or two on the way, so remember to keep your wits about you! This route starts in Llandovery and ends in Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen. The views are some of the most stunning in the country, though don’t get so distracted by them that you run into the roaming sheep who live there!

 

Cheddar Gorge, Somerset, England

Cheddar Gorge is the deepest gorge that you’ll find in the UK. You’ll start your 14-mile journey in Cheddar, winding your way through the Mendip Hills, and ending your adventures in Ashwick. Be aware that firstly, Cheddar Gorge is going to truly steal your attention, and secondly the roads that take you by it can be treacherous and tricky. Keep an eye out for the cycling groups who will no doubt be taking a similar route.

 

 

The Buttertubs Pass, Yorkshire Dales

Okay, so the Buttertubs Pass is tiny at just five-and-a-half miles. But those miles are cram-packed with beautiful scenery to look at! You’ll start off in Thwaite heading up a steep climb up the Cliff Gate Road, passing the Buttertubs on the way. These are deep limestone potholes that local legend says was a stopping point for farmers on the way to market, lowering their butter into the potholes on hot days to keep cool. The route ends in Hawes, where you’ll have definitely earned yourself a pub lunch!

 

Kerry to Cork, Ireland

Blarney Castle in County Cork is the ancestral home of the McCarthy family as well as the infamous Blarney Stone. Kiss the Blarney Stone on the site and you will become a smooth talker, gaining the gift of the gab as so many other visitors have in the past! Then make your way to Kerry via a 134-mile route that takes you by beautiful mountains and a rugged coastline that you’ll have to stop to photograph.

 

Happy travelling! We’re excited about what’s in store for you!