Britain’s Top 10 Driving Roads

From the furthest corner of Scotland to the South West of England, the UK is home to an abundance of stunning scenic drives. If you’re planning a road trip to remember then you’re in luck as we’ve put together a list of the best driving roads in the UK. So get your playlists and picnics at the ready – we’re going on an adventure! 

Our top-rated driving routes in the UK

England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Island have so much beauty just waiting to be discovered. And what better way to explore Britain’s allure than by getting behind the wheel? Go at your own pace, stop by a landmark for lunch and take pictures ‘til your heart’s content. After all, road trips are all about making memories. 

It’s certainly no secret that the UK has some of the most breathtaking drives the world has to offer. So much so that we haven’t actually been able to include them all in this list. Still, this round-up of the best roads in the UK is pretty impressive if we do say so ourselves. From the Moffat Loop to the Atlantic Highway, we’re sure you’ll have the time of your life scouting these spectacular circuits. So without further ado, let’s begin, shall we?

1. The EVO Triangle – Wales

The EVO Triangle earned its name from EVO magazine, who regularly use the route to test drive and photograph cars for their features – and it’s no wonder. With its sweeping bends and long straights, the EVO Triangle boasts 20 miles of dramatic Welsh countryside. Taking you through open vistas passing Lyn Brenig and into Cerrigydrudion, it’s one of the most iconic drives the UK has to offer. 

This scenic stretch is made up of three roads that form a neat triangle and each leg has its own unique charm. On a clear day with a powerful engine, you can complete the route in as little as 20-minutes. Having said that, you’ll want to mind your speed, since pretty much all of the EVO Triangle is now covered by average-speed cameras. However, the EVO Triangle is incredibly popular among motoring enthusiasts so can get pretty busy  – especially on the weekends. To get the most out of it we recommend going early in the morning or during the week. 

Roads: A5, A543, B4501

Distance and ideal duration: 20 miles – 20 minutes

Scenic sights and stop-offs: The EVO Triangle certainly has no shortage of picturesque stop-offs. En route, you’ll find Llyn Bran, Llyn Brenig and Alwen Reservoir. All of which are wonderful places to stop and stretch your legs. Plus, the Clocaenog Forest runs alongside some parts of the triangle, making those views even more spectacular. 

Service stations and places to eat: As this is quite a short route through the Welsh countryside you won’t find a fuel station on the actual drive. Don’t panic though, there are stations leading up to the route that you can fill up at. In terms of getting your food fix, you’ll find a couple of cafés and pubs along the way – including the Dragonfly Tearooms, Bron Eifion Hotel or Y Giler Arms. 

Top tip: Just in case those tree-lined bends and mesmerising moorlands weren’t enough, you can often catch a glimpse of low-flying jets as well. Driving enthusiasts aren’t the only ones who enjoy this route you see, but the British military too. 

Motors recommends: Volkswagen Up!. The Up! might be small and relatively low on power, but it’ll be great fun for driving through the sweeping bends of the Evo Triangle while taking in the sights. It’ll mean you’ll be able to have plenty of fun at well under national speed limits, too. 

Find it here on Motors.

2. Snake Pass – The Peak District 

Next on our list of best driving roads in the UK is Snake Pass in the Peak District. Linking Sheffield and Manchester through the Pennines, Snake Pass is definitely one for the more adventurous of drivers. With its blind summits, adverse cambers and sharp bends, the roads on Snake Pass can be unforgiving at times – as can the weather. In the winter, the snake is vulnerable to harsh weather and it’s not unusual to have to contend with heavy fog and snowy, icy roads. All of this makes Snake Pass prone to closure, so do check ahead of travelling.

Driving Snake Pass in the summer however, now that’s what cemented its place on this list. At 512 metres above sea level and providing views of the National Trust’s High Peak, the Peak District and Lady Bower Reservoir, the snake in the sun is a sight to behold. 

Roads: A57

Distance and ideal duration: 26.1 miles – 30 minutes or less

Scenic sights and stop-offs: once you’re on Snake Pass, it’s a fairly demanding drive with not that many places to stop. And given its blind bends, it would be dangerous to do so, too.  However, there’s plenty of opportunity for sightseeing as you pass the Pennines and Lady Bower Reservoir. Plus, on each side of the snake, you have two bustling, vibrant cities; Sheffield and Manchester. Both provide plenty of activities suitable for the whole family, from museums to mini-golf. 

Service stations and places to eat: you won’t find any service or fuel stations on the actual route of the pass, but given the fact that the road links two major cities you’ll have no trouble finding a fuel station on either side. About mid-way through the route, you’ll find The Snake Pass Inn as well as the Lady Bower Inn next to the Lady Bower Reservoir – both of which offer lunch with a view.

Top tip: start the drive from Ladybower Reservoir and descend into Glossop. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see Manchester and beyond on a clear day.

Motors recommends: The Snake Pass is a great road for a smaller car. We’d opt for the Suzuki Swift Sport, as it’s got really great handling that’ll allow you to enjoy the Pass, but it’s not too large so as to feel cumbersome on the twisting roads.

Find it here on Motors.

3. Moffat Loop – Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland

The Moffat Loop takes you through the remote Southern Uplands of Scotland. It sits within a steep valley that you have to climb out and over the hills to get to. This dramatic circuit isn’t the easiest – but it sure as hell is worth it. 

Driving through what’s known locally as the Devil’s Beeftub, you’ll pass St Mary’s Loch, Talla Reservoir, and the mighty Grey Mare’s Tail, one of the UK’s highest waterfalls. You can expect fast, sweeping bends, twisty narrow curves, and tremendous scenery. The Moffat Loop has everything you’d expect from a scenic Scottish drive – and then some. 

Roads: A708, A707, A72, A701

Distance and ideal duration: 95 miles – 2 hours, 20 minutes

Scenic sights and stop-offs: both Talla Reseviour and Gray Mare’s Tail provide picturesque waterscapes combined with wild mountainous landscapes that rival New Zealand’s. Plus, you’ll start and finish the loop in Moffat, an idyllic town bursting with independent shops and cafés. 

Service stations and places to eat: something to be aware of when it comes to the Moffat Loop, more so than some of the other drives, is that you’re pretty remote. With little opportunity to load up on fuel or charge, you’ll need to make sure your tanks and EV batteries are fully loaded before you embark on the 95-mile Scottish stretch. 

Top tip: take on this route during April and catch The Moffat Rammy, Moffat’s annual folk music festival.

Motors recommends: The Moffat Loop takes in lots of sweeping – but somewhat narrow bends – so a comfy and refined car is a must here. Try the BMW X3. It’s higher up so you’ll get a great view of your surroundings, but it’s not too big – so you’ll be able to drive down the lanes without worry. 

Find it here on Motors.

4. The Cheddar Gorge – England 

Next up on our list of top driving roads in the UK is the Cheddar Gorge. Taking you through 14 miles of glorious Somerset countryside, this iconic limestone gorge is unquestionably one of England’s most spectacular driving routes. It comprises twisty roads, sweeping curves and stunning cliff face views.

Weaving through one of Britain’s deepest natural canyons, you can expect to see dramatic cliffsides, the rolling Mendip Hills, as well as wild goats and Soay sheep. The route can be split into three main sections. The first demands your undivided attention as you navigate tight turns and towering cliff faces on either side of you. The second sees long, tree-lined bends, but in the final stretch, you can relax a little as you approach those open straights. 

Roads: B3135, A37, B3135

Distance and ideal duration: 14 miles – but allow a minimum of 1-2 hours to really soak in those Somerset sights. 

Scenic sights and stop-offs: there’s certainly no shortage of things to do at Cheddar Gorge. You can visit the famous Cheddar Gorge caves, tackle one of the many hikes the area has to offer, visit the charming town of Cheddar or even go rock climbing! You can easily make a day of whatever you decide to do. This natural beauty spot is a well-known tourist attraction so you’ll find plenty of parking available for you to stop off en route. 

Service stations and places to eat: given Cheddar Gorge is a popular hotspot, you’ll find many service stations leading up to and on the route. There are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat too, such as Café Gorge, Lion Rock Tearooms and Hartley’s Kitchen. 

Top tip: looking to burn off some energy after a long drive? With a whopping 274 steps, plus another 48 if you’re heading to the lookout tower – Jacobs Ladder might be just what you’re looking for.

Motors recommends: The Evoque might be the smallest Range Rover in the line-up, but it’s the ideal choice for this list. Why? It’s all down to a full-length panoramic sunroof that’ll give you crystal-clear views of the Gorge. 

Find it here on Motors.

5. Cat and Fiddle – The Peak District 

Another one of the best driving roads in the UK is the Cat and Fiddle. What’s with the name, you ask? Well, it’s named after a pub found at the route’s summit. The drive takes you from Buxton to Macclesfield through the Peak District and is one of the most famous roads in the Peaks. It’s another one for the thrill-seekers too. With sharp, challenging bends and sheer drops – you’ll be holding your breath in anticipation the whole way round. 

In fact, the Cat and Fiddle used to be known as ‘The Widow Maker’ in reference to the number of casualties that happened on the road. However, recently there has been an increase in speed cameras on the road which has dramatically reduced the number of incidents. Notorious for its severe twists, steep drops and dry stone walls – it’s definitely one to take care on. Much like Snake Pass – the weather can be unforgiving in the winter too. 

Roads: A54, A537

Distance and ideal duration: 7.5 Miles, 13-25 minutes

Scenic sights and stop-offs: The Cat and Fiddle is a short but sweet drive, but what cements its place on the list of best driving roads in the UK is its striking views of the Peak District, the Cheshire Plains and the Greater Manchester Conurbation. Plus, whilst you’re there, you might decide you want to explore the Peaks even further. If that’s the case you should definitely check out our guide to the best roads in the Peaks. 

Service stations and places to eat: as this is a relatively short drive in the countryside, you won’t find any service stations or EV chargepoints. Not to worry though – there’ll be plenty of opportunities to stock up in either Buxton or Macclesfield. In terms of filling that stomach, you can of course grab some pub grub at The Cat and Fiddle Inn itself. Alternatively, you have Peak View Tea Rooms, Pavilion Gardens or The Old Clubhouse. 

Top tip: tackle this route on a late evening in the summer and you’ll be rewarded with an indescribable sunset. 

Motors recommends: As the Cat and Fiddle is covered with cameras, it’s not the place for speed hunters. That’s why it’s better to treat it as a more leisurely route, so we’d recommend the Mercedes E-Class as it’s comfortable, quiet and has plenty of space to stretch out in. 

Find it here on Motors.

 6. Causeway Coastal Route – Northern Ireland

No list of top driving routes in the UK would be complete without the Causeway Coastal Route. Dominating 120 miles of the Atlantic Coast, this spectacular drive serves up raw and rugged views of Northern Ireland spanning from Belfast through to Derry. 

The route itself is actually made up of nine breathtaking drives, so you can take on as much or as little of it as you’d like. Fast, smooth roads, long bends and picture-perfect sea views make this a softer, more accessible drive than some of the others and you can really make this drive your own.

For the more adventurous of you, this is your chance to put your foot down a little without sharp turns on every other corner spoiling your stride. For the hopeless romantics out there, this is your chance to go at your own pace and soak up the mythical stories the area has to offer. Passing the Giant Causeway, Dunluce Castle and the Glens of Antrim, the route  definitely doesn’t disappoint on that front. And it may come as no surprise to hear that Game of Thrones shot some of its scenes against these legendary backdrops. 

Roads: B15

Distance and ideal duration: 120 miles – 3-5 days

Scenic sights and stop-offs: any route that spans 120 miles of the Irish coastline is bound to be bursting with scenic sights and hidden gems. We recommend pulling into the various car parks or side roads available on the way so you can explore properly. Looking like they’ve been pulled straight from a mystical travel brochure – you’ll find The Gobbins, Torr Head, The Dark Hedges, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and White Rocks Beach. Don’t forget – you have two thriving cities full of history on either side of the route too in the form of Belfast and Derry. 

Service stations and places to eat: given the length of the drive you’ll find there’s plenty of opportunity to load up on fuel or charge along the way. You’ll have lots of options if you’re looking for somewhere to eat too. Whether it’s a good old traditional Irish pub you’re after or an ice cream by one of the many landmarks – there’s something for everyone. You have the Causeway Hotel, Mary’s Mcbride ad Morelli’s Portstewart to name a few. 

Top tip: take the short ferry trip from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island, where you’ll find Ireland’s infamous upside-down lighthouse and Old Bushmills Distillery, the world’s oldest licensed working distillery.

Motors recommends: You’ll find that during peak times the Coastal Causeway Route can get quite clogged with motorhomes – so you’ll want something with enough grunt to overtake them safely. Try the Volkswagen Golf GTI. It’s got all of the performance you need, but it’s relatively comfortable too. 

Find it here on Motors.

7. The Atlantic Highway – South West England

Next up on our list of best driving roads in the UK is the Atlantic Highway. Connecting Bath to Falmouth, The Atlantic Highway traverses the Somerset, Devon and Cornwall countryside. It’s one of the longest roads in South West England and undoubtedly one of the best, too. With its charming seaside villages, dramatic coastlines, moody rolling hills and dense forest – you certainly won’t feel shortchanged.

This coastal drive can be narrow and challenging at times but the views make up for it. The first leg of the route takes you through Exmoor National Park where you’ll find world-class landscapes comprising woodland, rivers and coastline. If you’re lucky you might even lay eyes on some red deer. As you descend south you can expect sea views and surfing towns – with plenty of opportunity to stop off and make a day of it. You’ll finish the route at the ever-so-fitting Land’s End, the Westernmost tip of the UK!

Roads: A39

Distance and ideal duration: 243.5 miles – 8 hours +

Scenic sights and stop-offs: the Atlantic Highway links some of the most glorious seaside towns in the UK, so you can expect scenic sights in abundance. Get your bucket and spade at the ready because this salty stretch is full of hidden gems. Here you’ll find the presumed birthplace of King Arthur, Tintagel Castle, St Nectan’s Glen, Port Quin, Crackington Haven Bossiney Haven, Port Isaac and Widemouth May. Visit any of these natural wonders and you’ll be rewarded with picturesque panoramas you won’t want to come away from. 

Service stations and places to eat: the journey to Land’s End is by no means a short one. Taking you eight hours plus, you’ll find there are plenty of places to pile up on fuel or charge. From motorway services to local petrol stations – you’re definitely covered on this front. Foodies will be pleased to hear the same can be said of places to eat. Whether it’s traditional fish and chips you’re craving or a Cornish pasty, the Atlantic Highway certainly delivers. 

Top tip: make time on your itinerary to discover the charming seaside town of Bude. It’s a hit with surfers and adventure seekers, and it’s no wonder! Featuring golden sands, wind-bashed cliff sides and wild waves, you’d be a fool to skip it. 

Motors recommends: The Atlantic Highway delivers some of the best scenery that the UK has to offer. A convertible allows you to drink all of that in, which is why we’d choose the Mazda MX-5. It’ll return decent fuel economy over the journey, too. 

Find it here. 

8. Glasgow to Fort William – Scotland

Some of Scotland’s boldest scenery is just waiting to be discovered by you on this next drive. Glasgow to Fort William can be completed in just 2.5 hours – but you’ll want to take your time so you can soak up the glory of this Scottish wonder. Offering magnificent views of the Scottish Highlands and Loch Lamond, this drive will take your breath away. 

Glasgow to Fort William is a real grand touring route. The drive itself is smooth and fast, with long open straights and sweeping bends. Again you’ve got the chance here to put your foot down a little. But with the scenery getting more majestic as you go, and the views around Glen Coe enough to stop you in your tracks – trust us, you’ll want to take your time with this one. 

If you crave more information on these spectacular Scottish drives we keep mentioning then we don’t blame you. That’s why we’ve put together this Scottish Highland adventure guide. It will certainly satisfy your curiosity. 

Roads: A82

Distance and ideal duration: 108 miles – 5 hours +

Scenic sights and stop-offs: Glasgow to Fort William is one of the best driving roads in the UK for good reason. Passing Loch Chon, the Falls of Dochart, the Lost Valley, Conic Hill, Glen Etive, Three Sisters, Loch Achtriochtan, Ben Nevis, the Falls of Falloch, the Dukes Pass, and of course, Glen Coe are just some amongst many! We’re sure you’ll agree this spectacular Scottish stretch delivers wonder after wonder. 

Service stations and places to eat: the route spans over 100 miles of Scottish Highland, so you’ll be able to find some service stations along the way. However, as with the other Scottish routes on this list, you’re more remote than some of the others. With this in mind, you should try to stock up on snacks and fuel before you go. That’s not to say there’s nowhere to grab a bite to eat though. The Real Food Café, Lochleven Seafood, and Drovers all offer some respite. 

Top tip: be sure to stop for a pit stop at the Drovers Inn. This famous Scottish pub first opened in 1705 and is a favourite with everyone from local hikers to Gerard Butler. 

Motors recommends: Depending on the time of year, the route from Glasgow to Fort William can bring some challenging conditions. Because of this, we’d choose the Land Rover Discovery, as its four-wheel-drive system will get you through even the stickiest of conditions. 

Find it here on Motors.

If you need more guidance on how to prepare for driving during the winter, don’t miss our top tips and handy video too.

9. Black Mountain Road – Wales

No list of top driving roads in the UK could ever be complete without Black Mountain Road. Arguably the drivers’ road in the UK, with its switchback climbs and long open straights, all against the backdrop of some breathtaking Welsh scenery, you can almost convince yourself you’re on Italy’s Mille Miglia. 

It’s another one for the thrill-seekers as you navigate hairpin bends and high views. This daring drive will see you cross the Brecon Beacons connecting Llandovery with Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen as you go. Once you’ve completed this rollercoaster of a route the only question you’ll be asking is when can I do it again. The road gained traction after appearing on an episode of Top Gear and is now a firm favourite amongst car magazine test drivers and motor enthusiasts alike. 

Roads: A4069

Distance and ideal duration: 14.8 miles – 20 minutes 

Scenic sights and stop-offs: Black Mountain Road is an experience in itself but what solidifies its status here is its striking views en route. As you cross the sheep-speckled moorlands you’ll catch sight of Tywi Valley, Carreg Cennen Castle, the Carmarthen Fans, Dinefwr Castle and of course, Black Mountain itself. 

Service stations and places to eat: another short but sweet drive in the countryside means you won’t find any fuel stations on the actual route. However, you can easily fill up in the neighbouring villages on either side. If you’re looking to satisfy that rumbling stomach then you have plenty of charming Welsh pubs to choose from, including the Three Horseshoes, Foyles of Glasbury and the Pandy Inn. 

Top tip: given the route’s celebrity status it can get pretty hectic on the weekends. You’ll have a better chance of being able to take advantage of the road’s several lay bays and explore the area properly if you visit during the week. 

Motors recommends: The Black Mountain Road is tight and challenging, which is why a smaller performance car is your best bet here. We’d choose the Audi S3, as it will drive well on those winding lanes, but the four-wheel-drive means it’s got plenty of grip for when things get wet. 

Find it here on Motors. 

10. North Coast 500 (NC500) – Scotland

If you thought 120 miles was long for a scenic drive, wait until you hear about Scotland’s ultimate road trip. Boasting an incredible 500 miles of spectacular Scottish scenery, the North Coast 500 has it all. White sand beaches, ancient castles, historic landmarks, remote fishing villages and rugged mountains make this drive a truly unforgettable one. And if that wasn’t enough – the NC500 offers one of the best opportunities outside Scandinavia and Iceland to spot the Northern Lights – if you’re lucky and it’s not cloudy, that is.

Starting and ending at Inverness Castle, driving the NC500 is an experience in and of itself. But given the fact it’s bursting with hiking, fishing, canoeing, camping and lots of other extreme sports opportunities – we strongly recommend making a holiday out of this one. Not only will you have to if you want to drive it all, but doing so gives you the chance to go off the beaten track and really explore those hidden gems. This adventure-ridden drive is definitely one for the outdoorsy, sports enthusiasts among you. 

Roads: Various coastal roads, Scotland

Distance and ideal duration: 516 miles – 5-7 days

Scenic sights and stop-offs: When we told you Scotland had it all – we really weren’t lying. As this is the longest route on our list of best driving roads in the UK you can expect scenic sights by the bucket load. Top of the list is your start and finish point, Inverness Castle. Then you have Rogie Falls, Bealach na Bà, Beinn Eighe National Reserve & Loch Maree, Mellon Udrigle Beach, Stac Pollaidh,Achmelvich Beach & Hermit’s Castle, Old Man of Stoer, Dunrobin Castle – and these are just the tip of the iceberg. As with the Moffat Loop, you’ll find the scenes on these Scottish Highlands give New Zealand’s a run for their money. 

Service stations and places to eat: Whether its food or fuel you’re after you’ll find there’s ample opportunity for both in the NC500. Want to sample some fresh local seafood? Or just want to share some chips on the seafront? The world (or Scotland) is quite literally your oyster here. 

Top tip: For a truly magical experience, stop off at Chanonry Point in the North for the chance to spot wild dolphins and seals off the coast. See – we told you this route was remarkable. 

Road trip checklist

Driving the best roads in the UK is exciting, trust us, we get it. But before you embark on your ultimate road trip there are some things you need to consider. Here are our top tips:

1. 1. Check your tyres. And then check them again. If there’s one thing you need when tackling the best roads in Britain it’s functioning tyres. Make sure their tread and pressure is as it should be, and make sure your spare is up to scratch too. In the event you do find yourself needing to change your tyre, our step-by-step guide will come in handy. 
   2. Stock up! On both fuel and snacks. Though some routes will have petrol stations and lunch spots by the bucket load – others don’t and it’s always best to come prepared. Plus, you might find you want to take a detour or are hungry between stop-offs. And there’s nothing like a rumbling stomach to ruin the day. 
   3. Stick to the speed limit. Those long open straights might present you with the opportunity to go a little faster, but that is of course within the legal speed limit. Many routes are now littered with speed cameras meaning breaking the rules here can result in some hefty fines. It’s not just penalties you want to avoid either, but accidents too. Always follow the highway code to keep yourself and other drivers safe. 
   4. Don’t forget the games! If you’re travelling with young ones it might be a good idea to bring some games or activities to keep them entertained. Whilst you might never bore of those breathtaking sights, we all know the kids could do with a distraction from time to time. Whether you play eye spy or keep them entertained with the iPad – the choice is yours but if you pack some games then at least you have the option. 
   5. Check your vehicle. Ok, so it’s not just your tyres that will benefit from a once-over, but the whole car. Check your oil, engine, widescreen wipers, electrics, lights (including brake, rear and hazards) and brakes. If you need any more support on this, our guide – how to prepare your car for a summer road trip – will really come in handy!

You’ve got the route, now you need the Motor!

We’ve come to the end of our best driving roads in Britain recommendations but we hope we’ve supplied you with lots of inspiration for your next trip. Looking to venture a bit further afield? Our European road trip recommendations have got you.

At Motors, we’re all about helping you find your perfect used car. That’s why throughout this guide you’ll find multiple motor recommendations. Perhaps they’ve made you realise your current car isn’t quite going to cut it if you want to take on the Scottish highlands or the Somerset countryside. 

If that’s the case, don’t fear. For we have an abundance of used cars for you to choose from. And if that wasn’t enough, our guides hub is full of advice to help you come to the right decision for you. From the best family cars to our ultimate used car buying guide – we strive to arm you with the tools you need to go out into the world and confidently make a purchase.