There’s something magical about hitting the open road, especially when it hugs the dramatic coastlines of the UK. From the rugged cliffs of Cornwall to Scotland’s famous North Coast 500, the UK offers some of the most breathtaking seaside drives in the world. Whether you’re looking for a short weekend adventure or a week-long escape, these routes combine stunning scenery with charming towns, historic landmarks, and hidden beaches.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the ultimate UK coastal road trips you should add to your travel bucket list.
1. Cornwall’s Atlantic Highway (A39)
One of the most famous coastal drives in England, Cornwall’s Atlantic Highway stretches for around 70 miles along the dramatic north coast.
Highlights:
- Stunning beaches like Bude, Newquay, and St Ives
- Tintagel Castle, the legendary birthplace of King Arthur
- Quaint fishing villages such as Padstow and Port Isaac
- Surfing opportunities and golden sands
👉 Best time to visit: Summer for beach vibes, spring and autumn for fewer crowds.
2. The Jurassic Coast (Dorset to Devon)
The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stretching 95 miles from East Devon to Dorset. It’s perfect for geology lovers and scenic drive seekers.
Highlights:
- Iconic Durdle Door arch
- Lulworth Cove’s turquoise waters
- Fossil hunting at Lyme Regis
- Sweeping coastal views from clifftop roads
👉 Best time to visit: Spring and summer, when the weather is warm and the skies are clear.
3. Northumberland Coastal Route
A quieter, underrated coastal drive, the Northumberland Coast offers unspoiled beauty and historic castles.
Highlights:
- Bamburgh Castle rising over sandy beaches
- Holy Island of Lindisfarne
- Seahouses fishing village for fresh seafood
- Farne Islands, home to puffins and seals
👉 Best time to visit: Year-round, though summer offers the best wildlife spotting.
4. The Causeway Coastal Route (Northern Ireland)
Voted one of the world’s most scenic drives, this route stretches from Belfast to Derry, covering 130 miles of breathtaking coastline.
Highlights:
- Giant’s Causeway (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
- Dark Hedges (Game of Thrones filming location)
- Glens of Antrim and rugged cliffs
👉 Best time to visit: Late spring and summer for long daylight hours.
5. Scotland’s North Coast 500
Known as Scotland’s answer to Route 66, this 516-mile route is the ultimate coastal road trip for adventurers.
Highlights:
- White sandy beaches at Achmelvich and Dornoch
- Dramatic mountain passes and lochs
- Quaint fishing villages like Ullapool
- Castles and whisky distilleries along the way
👉 Best time to visit: May to September for the best weather conditions.
Scotland walking and road adventures
6. Wales’ Pembrokeshire Coast
Wales offers some of the most stunning coastal drives in the UK, with Pembrokeshire National Park as the crown jewel.
Highlights:
- Tenby’s colorful harbor town
- St David’s Cathedral
- Pembrokeshire Coast Path for walking detours
- Stunning views of cliffs, islands, and beaches
👉 Best time to visit: Summer for seaside charm, autumn for peaceful escapes.
7. Scotland’s Argyll Coastal Route
Running 129 miles from Tarbet to Fort William, this route combines lochs, mountains, and sea views.
Highlights:
- Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
- Castle Stalker on the shoreline
- Oban, the “Seafood Capital of Scotland”
- Dramatic views of the Inner Hebrides
👉 Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
Tips for Planning Your UK Coastal Road Trip
- 🚗 Rent a reliable vehicle: Consider a campervan for flexibility.
- ⛽ Plan fuel stops: Some remote areas have limited services.
- 📍 Book accommodation early: Especially in peak summer months.
- 📸 Pack a camera: The views are unforgettable.
- 🗺️ Download offline maps: Signal can be weak in remote spots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the most famous UK coastal road trip?
The North Coast 500 in Scotland is the most famous, often compared to America’s Route 66.
Q2: Can I do a UK coastal road trip in winter?
Yes, but be prepared for shorter daylight hours, unpredictable weather, and closed attractions.
Q3: How many days do I need for the North Coast 500?
Most travelers recommend at least 5–7 days to experience it properly.
Q4: Do I need a car for UK coastal trips?
Yes, a car (or campervan) is essential to explore the coastal routes fully.
Conclusion
The UK’s coastline is packed with adventure, history, and natural beauty. Whether it’s Cornwall’s golden sands, Scotland’s rugged highlands, or Northern Ireland’s dramatic cliffs, these UK coastal road trips promise memories that will last a lifetime.
So, pack your bags, fuel up, and get ready to explore the best seaside routes the UK has to offer!
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