Road-tripping across the United Kingdom presents a wealth of distinctive experiences, ranging from breathtaking landscapes and historic sites to quaint villages and lively cities. The UK's compact size belies its diverse scenery, encompassing rugged coastlines, verdant countryside, and charming national parks, all accessible on a road trip. Its rich historical tapestry, marked by ancient castles and ruins, invites exploration at one's leisure, delving into the captivating stories of the region. A road trip affords the freedom to customise the journey, whether adhering to a meticulously planned itinerary or embracing spontaneous detours, ensuring an enriching and personalised travel experience.
Our partner, Uncover Britain, offers a comprehensive library of popular and well-loved road trips designed to assist in planning the ideal journey through Britain. Each online guide features a flexible and customisable itinerary, complete with a detailed route map, destination guide, links to bookable experiences and resources, as well as overnight stay options. Additionally, the Uncover More map provides insights, such as viewpoints, hidden gems, and other noteworthy attractions, to enhance the travel experience further. With Uncover Britain's extensive resources, travellers can easily tailor their road trip to suit their preferences and discover the best that Britain has to offer.
Here, Uncover Britain shares with us their top 5 road trips to watch to enjoy this year, for those who have ventured around the ever-popular honey spots and looking for something a bit different. These road trips promise unforgettable adventures and captivating scenery, making them must-see destinations for travellers exploring the UK in 2024.
Forest of Dean & Wye Valley (Wales / England border)
This 80-mile (128 km) Forest of Dean & Wye Valleyroute, with a drive time of around 3 hours 30 minutes, is perfect for a 4 to 5-day trip. Situated where England meets Wales and the River Wye meets the Severn, this region offers a diverse and enriching experience. Whether you're on your way to Wales or simply seeking adventure, the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley promises natural beauty, historical charm, and a variety of outdoor activities.
In the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley, you'll discover ancient woodlands with serene trails and diverse flora and fauna. Delve into its industrial history, showcasing remnants of coal mining and ironworking alongside natural beauty. Enjoy a scenic road trip through picturesque villages and historic towns, taking in lush greenery and panoramic views. Engage in outdoor pursuits like walking, cycling, fishing, and golf amidst the stunning landscapes. Enjoy the meandering River Wye, carving through limestone cliffs, creating breathtaking gorges, and providing opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and leisurely boat cruises. This online guidebook is available at £7.99.
North Wales Coast
This North Wales Coast road trip has a drive time of around 2 hours 40 mins to 3 hours 30 mins and a length of 100 miles (162 km). The itinerary will take you to this stunning coastline, and combine it with mountains, and forests. There are many things to do in North Wales, from hiking and biking to visiting castles and historical sites.
Explore Edward I's iconic castles on this itinerary, offering the chance to visit four, including the renowned, medieval Caernarfon Castle, and the impressive Conwy Castle, both designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Other highlights include the stunning Anglesey, which offers scenic beaches, ancient ruins, and the grandeur of Beaumaris Castle plus the Anglesey Coastal Path. Don’t miss the Wales Coastal Path, heritage steam railways, and the border and market towns of North Wales, with their rich historical and cultural heritage.
Thisonline guidebookalso includes 7 mini-themes routes within the overall road trip, available at £6.99.
Edinburgh & Romantic Borders
This Edinburgh & Romantic Bordersroute can be circular starting and finishing at Edinburgh (or anywhere along the route), of around 153 miles (247km) with a drive time of around 5 hours.
Begin your journey in Edinburgh, Scotland's captivating capital, where you can delve into its rich history by visiting iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Holyrood House. Explore the city's hidden gems and vantage points on tours both within and around Edinburgh. Learn about the city's fascinating history, folklore, and legends to enhance your Edinburgh experience.
Discover the allure of the "Romantic Scottish Borders" with its literary ties, historic landmarks, and stunning landscapes. Explore charming Border towns steeped in history, witness the architectural wonders of castles and abbeys, and delve into the region's folklore and legends. Journey through the Scottish Borders, witnessing its turbulent past and admiring its Gothic architecture. Immerse yourself in the legacy of Sir Walter Scott at Abbotsford and visit a 15th-century chapel, all while taking in the dramatic scenery of this historic region. This online guidebook is available at £7.99.
York & North York Moors
This York & North York Moors road trip is perfect for 4 or 5 days and is around 181 miles (294km) with a drive time of around 7 hours. Begin your journey in York, then traverse along the coast before immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the North York Moors National Park. With this itinerary, you have the opportunity to drive through 2 of National Geographic’s Top 10 UK Best Road Trips 2023. Drive through the North Yorkshire Moors, winding through heather-clad moorlands, charming villages, and ancient woodlands.
Experience the rich history of York and delve into its fascinating tales through walking tours and marvel at York’s top hitters, such as York Minster and The Shambles. Experience a ride on a heritage steam train. Visit Whitby Abbey and discover its legends. Admire the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct and rich architectural heritage, from Helmsley Castle to Rievaulx Abbey. Uncover the fascinating myths and legends woven into the landscape. Learn more about the many artists and literary writers who have been inspired by the region's beauty and charm. This online guidebook is available at £7.99.
Historic Worcestershire
This Historic Worcestershireroad trip guide covers 107 miles (173km) with a drive time of around 4 hours and 35 minutes.
On this captivating road trip, you can enjoy the Cathedral City of Worcester and its historic black and white buildings. However, you can delve beneath the surface to discover a Worcestershire brimming with intriguing references and hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. Trace the footsteps of King Charles I and witness the scars of the Civil War etched into the landscape. Delve into Worcestershire's rich history, from its musical heritage to its pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution.
Navigate through undulating hills and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with curated walks and trails offering breathtaking views of the countryside. Discover the borderlands where Worcestershire meets the northern reaches of the Cotswolds, with opportunities to visit stately homes and gardens nestled amidst the stunning landscape. Thisonline guidebookis available at £6.99.
Whilst these road trip travel guides are available to buy individually by route, premium membership is available for those looking to combine routes on a longer break. Usually, the library is available at £29.99, however, Malibu customers can enjoy a £10 discount using the code MALIBU10 during 2024.