Best Scenic Drives in the UK: 15 Routes You Must Experience

Published Aug 10, 2026

The UK's Most Spectacular Scenic Drives

There's something magical about a road trip through the British countryside. From dramatic coastal cliffs to rolling hills, ancient forests to mountain passes, the UK offers some of the most scenic driving routes in Europe. This guide features 15 of the best scenic drives, each offering unique landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

1. The North Coast 500, Scotland

Often called Scotland's answer to Route 66, the NC500 is a 516-mile route around the north coast of Scotland. Starting and ending in Inverness, the route takes you through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the British Isles.

Distance: 516 miles (5-7 days recommended)
Highlights: Bealach na Bà pass, Dunrobin Castle, Assynt mountains
Best time: May-September for best weather and longest days
Tip: Book accommodation in advance, especially during summer
Caution: Some sections are single-track roads with passing places

2. The Atlantic Highway, Cornwall

This stunning route follows the A39 along Cornwall's dramatic Atlantic coast, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and coastline. From Bideford to Newquay, the road winds through fishing villages, past surfing beaches, and along cliff tops.

Distance: 70 miles (1-2 days)
Highlights: Tintagel Castle, Boscastle, Padstow, and Fistral Beach
Best stops: The Camel Estuary viewpoints and Constantine Bay
Tip: Stop at Rock for the famous Black Tor ferry crossing

3. The Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland

Made famous by Game of Thrones, the Dark Hedges is an atmospheric avenue of beech trees planted in the 18th century. While the drive itself is short, the surrounding Antrim Coast offers spectacular scenery.

Distance: 160-mile Antrim Coast loop
Highlights: Dark Hedges, Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Best for: A full day exploring Northern Ireland's coast
Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds at the Dark Hedges

4. The Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

England's largest gorge offers a dramatic drive through towering limestone cliffs. The B3135 road winds through the gorge, with steep drops and tight bends creating an exhilarating experience.

Distance: 15 miles (half day)
Highlights: Gorge viewpoints, Cox's Cave, and Cheddar village
Best for: A quick but dramatic scenic drive
Caution: Narrow road with steep gradients; not suitable for large vehicles

5. The Snowdonia Passes, Wales

Snowdonia offers several spectacular mountain passes, each with its own character. The A4086 through Llanberis Pass and the A498 through Nant Gwynant provide stunning views of Snowdon and the surrounding mountains.

Distance: Various routes (1-2 days)
Highlights: Snowdon, Llyn Padarn, and traditional Welsh villages
Best time: Spring for daffodils or autumn for golden colours
Tip: Stop at Padarn Country Park for walking trails

6. The Cotswolds, England

The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers gentle rolling hills, honey-coloured stone villages, and peaceful country lanes. This is quintessential England at its most picturesque.

Distance: Various routes (1-3 days)
Highlights: Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Castle Combe, and Stow-on-the-Wold
Best for: A leisurely drive through English countryside
Tip: Visit during weekday mornings to avoid weekend crowds

Planning Your Scenic Drive

Check your vehicle: Ensure your car is serviced and suitable for the route
Plan fuel stops: Rural areas may have limited petrol stations
Download offline maps: Mobile signal can be patchy in remote areas
Allow extra time: You'll want to stop for photos and exploration
Check weather conditions: Mountain passes can be affected by weather
Carry emergency supplies: Water, snacks, and a warm blanket for remote areas