The UK road trip is the ultimate holiday for friends who grew up in the Isles. Between the inspiring open path ahead of you and the world of the opportunity presented by new locations every day, road trips can be formative memory-making experiences – and incredibly exciting and joy-inducing to boot. They are also a fantastic way to say goodbye to a specific time of your life, whether graduating from university or moving away for a new career.
UK road trips lend themselves, naturally, to the summer. The UK might look picturesque in the autumn and winter, but the changeable weather makes driving and accommodation like camping much less appealing. Another reason why summer is more popular is that the gulf between terms at university makes it prime territory for a leisurely trip along one of the best routes the UK has to offer.
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Of course, this is also something of a financial gulf, with months between maintenance loan payments and rising fuel costs impacting the affordability of such adventures. Luckily, you can subsidise your road trip with a short-term student loan to bridge the gap until your next student loan or new salary kicks in. With money less of an object, which UK road trips should you try for a last hurrah with your friends?
The Atlantic Highway, Devon/Cornwall
The Atlantic Highway is an unassuming stretch of road – namely, the A39 – that links Devon and Cornwall. The route starts at Barnstaple in Devon and ends at Fraddon, a stone’s throw from Newquay. While the A39 is not strictly a coastal road, it does run parallel to the northernmost coast of England’s southwestern peninsula, affording some incredible views of the flat land and shoreline as you make your way westward.
The road trip is a relatively short one in comparison to other notable ones in the UK, but this makes it all the more appealing to the student seeking a simple domestic road trip. There are countless beautiful spots to stop and admire the view, and a number of amazing towns and villages where you can spend a provincial night before moving on. At the end of your journey, Newquay promises beautiful beaches, fantastic surfing opportunities, and laidback beach parties where you can dance the night away.
The Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
The Causeway Coastal Route is an endlessly customisable linear trip from Belfast to Derry. It starts at around 120 miles, but an additional 250 or more miles can be added through a number of ‘loops’ that take you through the best of the landscape between the two landmark cities.
The main, central route closely follows the northern shores of Northern Ireland, hugging the coastline as it wends its way through glorious seaside settlements and areas of stunning beauty. A natural stand-out is the Giant’s Causeway, the infamous basalt pillars that, according to local legend, appear to have once paved the way for giants.
The various loops tend to track inland, through hills and mountains the scenic way. However, there is one loop that takes you around the picturesque and peninsular Islandmagee in County Antrim – a beautiful parish with notable palaeolithic roots.
In terms of evening entertainment, there are not many places that are more welcoming than this part of the world. Expect cosy pubs with live music and a range of traditional ales and whiskies, all serving hearty fare that will keep you going during the next day’s long drive.
The Lake District Lap, Cumbria
Last, but certainly not least, is the Lake District Lap. The Lake District is one of the most beautiful national parks in Europe, let alone the UK; its mountains and the glacial lakes that formed them are edificial, and the roads that wind between them are nothing but fun to navigate. Lake Windermere is a must-visit, and the various small villages that skirt the River Eden are charming to a fault.
The active amongst your group will enjoy some indulging in exhilarating water sports on the lakes such as kayaking and windsurfing. There is also a selection of stunning trails for trekking, the most famous being England’s highest peak – Scafell Pike. Less intense but similarly scenic options include The Buttermere Ridge and Old Man of Coniston.
Wherever you end up choosing to go for your road trip in the UK, the journey promises to be an unforgettable adventure for you and your friends full of sensational views, a great local atmosphere, traditional food, and amazing activities. Which is your favourite UK road trip route?
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Should you consider UK road trips?
Yes, it will definitely be an experience and as we always say, you should try it at least once. A UK road trip is a fun and pretty affordable way to experience the countryside and seaside of the island.
If you have a road trip route or want to share your experience, drop us a note in the comments and we’ll be sure to add it to our next list.
