Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or someone just looking for a cheaper break this year, a road trip is a great way to make a quick escape without breaking the bank. It’s easy to forget just how many beautiful destinations there are for a holiday in the UK. A road trip will let you see some of the often overlooked green and pleasant lands, taking you to amazing places that you can reach by car. Here is our selection for the best road trips you can do in summer 2022.

North Coast 500

We start our selection in Scotland, where summer really is the best time to visit for one reason – the weather. While we can’t guarantee you won’t be rain free, when the sun is shining over this route that winds through the Scottish highlands, it’s a spectacular journey. As well as the scenery, there are amazing ancient castles and beautiful beaches to visit, so you can combine history and relaxation in one trip.

Atlantic Highway

At the other end of the country in Devon and Cornwall, the Atlantic Highway takes you along the west coast of Englan’s southernmost tip. Winding its way along past beautiful beaches and historic fishing villages, you’ll be in your element if you love sun, sea and fish ‘n’ chips.

Lake District

If you want to see some of England’s most beautiful scenery, then you can’t go wrong with a trip through the Lake District. The good news is that the 30 mile route through the national park won’t take you too long to navigate. But you might find yourself stopping every five minutes to take in another spectacular vista. The lakes are great for watersports, and you can also climb England’s highest peak – Scafell Pike.

Wales Coast to Coast

There are so many beautiful stops in Wales, the best way to see them is to travel from the southern coast of the principality to the north. Beginning in Cardiff, you can travel up through the Brecon Beacons, stopping in the old market town of Dolgellau, before reaching Snowdonia. A trip of highs and lows, but in the best possible way.

Causeway Coastal Route

Of all the attractions to visit, one of the most spectacular is the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. The unique rock formations have to be seen to be believed. Away from the rocks, there are pubs aplenty, and there’s something quite thrilling about looking west and seeing nothing but ocean before you.

Snake Pass

The Peak District is another location that’s pretty self-explanatory. Lots of rolling hills and green-topped mountains make for a stunning backdrop to this road trip. The roads themselves have some beautiful Victorian architecture to take in. And, if the ground-eye view is not enough, you can take the Heights of Abraham cable car for a bird’s eye view of the landscape.

Cheddar Gorge

Not a giant chasm made of cheese (sorry fromage-fanciers), but a stunning location often overlooked when the best road trips are mentioned. The road itself is one of the most thrilling routes to take thanks to the steep cliffs and sheer drops. Stop and visit the caves for a unique tourist attraction, and then finish your trip in the beautiful cities of Bath or Bristol.