Staycations don’t have to mean predictable beach holidays or crowded city breaks. The UK is home to endless hidden gems, all accessible via a scenic road trip. They offer the freedom to explore at your own pace too. While Europe is great for those wanting to travel further afield, you can see plenty without having to leave the island.
Before you set off, you’ll need to consider the cost of car insurance and secure a policy for your trip. Then, it’s on to all the essential vehicle maintenance checks and packing everything you need.
But where do you go? You’re spoilt for choice with road trip routes. Here are just a few suggestions.
A Cornish adventure
This route winds its way along the dramatic Cornish coastline, taking in picture-perfect fishing villages and world-class surfing beaches.
As you journey south, pay a visit to the imposing St Michael’s Mount, a tidal island topped by a medieval monastery. Meanwhile, Land’s End marks the tip of Cornwall and is known for its huge crashing waves. Hidden coves like Kynance Cove are a must-see – this one combines turquoise waters and remarkable rock formations.
During your trip, you can tuck into in fresh seafood at harbourside cafes and explore the region’s maritime history in museums like the National Maritime Museum Cornwall.
Scottish Highlands
This epic adventure takes you into the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Expect towering mountains, crystal-clear lochs and ancient castles steeped in history.
Glencoe is a huge valley carved by glaciers. It offers breathtaking scenery and opportunities for hiking and exploring. You can also visit Loch Ness and take boat tours to see this legendary loch in all its glory. Stop by towns like Fort William and enjoy traditional Scottish fare like hearty stews and fresh seafood to refuel.
The Jurassic Coast
This fascinating part of the world will see you working your way across a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its millions of years of geological history.
Durdle Door is a natural limestone arch carved by the sea and is perhaps the most iconic landmark along the route. Elsewhere, Lulworth Cove is a beautiful horseshoe-shaped bay where you can go fossil hunting and get a sense of the hidden gems on the coastline.
Explore the seaside towns along the way, like Lyme Regis, another haven for fossil hunters. Here, you can dig deeper into the region’s geological marvels at museums like the Lyme Regis Museum.
Yorkshire Dales
This route meanders through the rolling hills and picturesque villages of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
You can stop by Aysgarth Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls and explore market towns like Hawes, famous for its Wensleydale cheese. To marvel at a giant natural wonder, head to Malham Cove and take a hike around the area. Another highlight involves taking a trip on the Settle-Carlisle Railway, one of the most picturesque railways in Britain. This is a great opportunity to witness panoramic views of the Dales.
Make sure you indulge in hearty food at traditional country pubs as you continue on your trip and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the region.
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