Laughs, memories and adventure: you can expect all of this and more from your UK road trip. Who says you need to travel to an exotic location to have a fantastic holiday? There are so many amazing places sitting on your doorstep just waiting to be explored. Don’t just take our word for it, ask the 37.9 million tourists who visited the UK in 2018, eager to experience British culture and admire the green landscapes. If you’re worried about the safety of a road trip, don’t be; driving fatality rates are the best they’ve ever been in Europe and the odds of a driving-related death occurring are 49 in a million.
What are you waiting for? Get your driving snacks prepared and add these six epic locations to your UK road trip plan:
1. Wiltshire
You might think that nothing much happens in this farming county, but it’s actually home to one of the biggest unsolved mysteries in the world. There are many theories surrounding the construction of Stonehenge, ranging from ritual worship to aliens. Whatever the reason, Stonehenge truly is a marvellous construction; it’s well worth visiting the structure so you can make up your own mind about the reason for its erection.
2. Cornwall
Everyone needs to stop at the seaside during their road trip. Slip-on a wetsuit, swap your car for a surfboard and have great fun surfing the Cornish waves (or in most cases, falling into them). You could also use this stop off as a chance to visit St Michael’s Mount, a majestic castle located on its own tidal island.
3. Bristol
Modern art lovers will be in their element in Bristol as they get to explore the Banksy artwork that is dotted all around the town. Once you’ve had your fill of art, there is so much more to do and see in one of the biggest cities in the south-west of England; Bristol Harbour is a great place to admire the view and grab a bite to eat, while a tour of Brunel’s SS Great Britain is a great activity if you have young children.
4. Cumbria
If you want to immerse yourself in the beauty of the UK’s nature, then look no further than the Lake District. This national park is a beauty to explore and the ideal picnic destination for sunny days. You could easily spend days here, hiking the scenic routes and camping overnight.
5. Birmingham
Shopaholics will be in their element in this bustling city, sure to find a road trip souvenir in the many ‘Brummie’ shops. If you’re hungry, grab a curry for dinner, as the locals will argue that Birmingham’s are the best in the country.
6. London
No epic road trip is complete without a trip to the capital. Start off with a ride on the London Eye, before hopping on a tube to visit Buckingham Palace. If you like all things unique, then a trip to Camden market is essential before you get back on the road.