With summer approaching and the UK enjoying warmer and sunnier weather, many families are looking to plan their next break. Those staying on local soil should take note of the findings form Europcar’s latest survey*, which identifies the UK roads with the most spectacular scenery and unique stops to make the journey a memorable part of the holiday for all the right reasons.
It can be easy to forget the incredible landscapes and scenery we have right here on our little islands, in favour of more exotic destinations and famous landmarks. But those planning a UK break won’t be disappointed if their trip takes in one of the routes voted the most scenic in a recent Europcar survey. Interestingly, most of the top rated routes are in the north of the UK.
According to the survey, drivers’ three favourite scenic driving routes in the UK are The North Coast 500 in Scotland (39%), the Kendal to Keswick route in the Lake District (33.4%), and the ‘Cat and Fiddle’ Buxton to Macclesfield route in the Peak District (25.9%). The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland came in a very close fourth place (25.6%).
Stops along the routes include wonderful local pubs, dramatic caves, idyllic beaches and so much more. Furthermore, if your hire a car from Europcar, it takes the pressure off ensuring your own car is fit to travel the distance, and avoids adding to the mileage clock too.
• In first place, the North Coast 500 is the closest thing the UK has to the iconic US Route 66, and the 500-mile circuit of the north coast of Scotland takes in mountain scenery, waterfalls, castles and stunning beaches.
• In second place, the A591 is a popular route of less than 30 miles from Kendal to Keswick in the Lake District, which takes in some of the most spectacular sights in the National Park, including Lake Windermere and the picturesque village of Grasmere.
• Named for the pub part way along the road, the Cat and Fiddle route in the Peak District takes third place. The pub is the second highest in the UK, and makes a good lunch stop on the day trip between Buxton and Macclesfield.
• Close as it was to a spot in the top three, fourth place deserves a special mention. The Causeway Coastal Route is a 120-mile drive from Belfast to Londonderry, hugging the dramatic Atlantic coast and offering awe-inspiring views as well as access to the famous Giants Causeway.
This Summer, Europcar is helping staycationers get on the road to see as many of these incredible sights as possible, with top tips for planning a getaway and a wide range of comfortable rental vehicles to suit every road tripping group – from compact hatchbacks to large MPVs and even prestige soft tops. Europcar is taking the stress out of planning a UK family break.
*1000 consumers were asked what their favourite UK scenic road trip would be via Vypr research tool during May 2024.
