Britons are increasingly choosing domestic road trips over overseas travel this summer, driven by factors such as rising costs of international flights and a desire to explore the UK's diverse landscapes. New research indicates that over two-thirds of Britons are planning a staycation, with many finding that the UK's scenery rivals that of destinations abroad.
The Lake District Scenic Loop in England has been identified as the nation's favorite road trip, surpassing other popular routes like Scotland's North Coast 500 and the Atlantic Highway in Devon. This trend suggests a sustained interest in exploring the United Kingdom, with over half of those surveyed reporting increased exploration of Britain since 2020.
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The Lake District Scenic Loop, particularly the Keswick Loop via Buttermere and Borrowdale, offers a 23- to 28-mile journey through stunning scenery, including ancient woodlands and glacial lakes. A notable feature is Honister Pass, known for its dramatic mountain road and views of slate quarries.
Scotland's North Coast 500, stretching 516 miles around the Highlands, is described as Scotland's version of Route 66. This route passes white sand beaches, sea cliffs, and whisky distilleries, with attractions like Dunrobin Castle and the chance to spot wildlife near John o’ Groats.
In South West England, the Atlantic Highway runs for 70 miles between Barnstaple and Newquay, showcasing dramatic coastal cliffs, historic villages, and surf beaches. Highlights include Hawker's Hut, the National Trust's smallest building, and Tintagel Castle.
Wales offers The Coastal Way, a 180-mile route along Cardigan Bay from Aberdaron to St. Davids, featuring cliffs, beaches, and fishing villages. Shorter loops are available for those with less time.
England's Yorkshire Dales provide numerous scenic routes, with a recommended loop starting and ending in Grassington. The Buttertubs Pass, once famously described by Jeremy Clarkson, is a key feature, alongside Malham Cove, which inspired backdrops in the Harry Potter films.
The Jurassic Coast in South Coast England, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spans 95 miles from Exmouth to Studland Bay. This route explores 185 million years of geological history, with attractions like Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.
Northern Ireland's Causeway Coastal Route, a 120-mile stretch between Belfast and Londonderry, includes dramatic cliffs, castles, and beaches. The Giant's Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge are major draws.
Dartmoor National Park in Devon offers the Dartmoor Explorer Route, tracing the B3212 and B3357 roads. This route features Bronze Age settlements, such as Grimspound, and dramatic landscapes with granite tors.
Another Welsh route, the Pembrokeshire Coastal Drive, covers 200 miles of scenic coastline, passing castles, abbeys, and fishing villages like Laugharne and Tenby.
Finally, the Hadrian's Wall Route in Northumberland follows the historic Roman wall for approximately 84 miles, linking ancient forts and offering views of Kielder Water and Forest Park, as well as Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh Castles.