Top 10 Road Trip Destinations to Explore with a Rental Car in the United Kingdom

If you’re seeking a thrilling and adventurous way to explore the United Kingdom, a road trip with a rental car is the perfect choice. The UK is brimming with picturesque landscapes, historic landmarks, and charming villages that are best experienced at your own pace. In this blog, we’ll unveil the top 10 road trip destinations in the UK that are ideal for exploration with a rental car. So, buckle up, grab a map, and get ready for an unforgettable journey!

The Scottish Highlands:

Start your UK road trip in the mesmerizing Scottish Highlands. Drive through stunning landscapes featuring majestic mountains, shimmering lochs, and ancient castles. Be sure to explore the Isle of Skye, the dramatic Glencoe, and the mysterious Loch Ness.

Car recommendation: For exploring the highlands we recommend a Kia Stonic car like this one.

The Lake District:

Head south to the Lake District, England’s picturesque national park. Drive along winding roads surrounded by breathtaking lakes, rolling hills, and charming villages. Don’t miss the iconic Lake Windermere, the quaint town of Ambleside, and the stunning viewpoints of Wrynose Pass and Hardknott Pass.

Car recommendation: We recommend a Kia Stonic car like this one.

The Cotswolds:

Discover the enchanting beauty of the Cotswolds, a region renowned for its idyllic villages and honey-colored stone cottages. Drive through charming towns like Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, and Castle Combe. Take your time to explore the serene countryside and indulge in traditional afternoon tea.

Car recommendation: Perhaps you fancy a nice city/hatchback for exploring the idyllic cotswolds like this one.

North Coast 500, Scotland

Embark on a thrilling adventure along Scotland’s North Coast 500. This epic route spans 500 miles of jaw-dropping coastal scenery, ancient castles, and rugged landscapes. Explore the enchanting Dunrobin Castle, the mystical Fairy Glen, and the stunning beaches of Dornoch and Achmelvich.

Car recommendation: We recommend a Kia Stonic car like this one.

The Jurassic Coast:

Travel to the southern coast of England and uncover the wonders of the Jurassic Coast. Drive through the UNESCO World Heritage site, which showcases millions of years of geological history. Marvel at iconic landmarks like Durdle Door, Old Harry Rocks, and the tranquil beaches of Lyme Regis.

Car recommendation: Perhaps you fancy a convertible like these ones.

Snowdonia National Park:

Venture to Wales and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Snowdonia National Park. Drive through scenic routes, surrounded by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes. Be sure to conquer Mount Snowdon, explore the quaint village of Betws-y-Coed, and visit the stunning Swallow Falls.

Car recommendation: Perhaps it’s a family trip so you need a car like these.

The Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland:

Cross over to Northern Ireland and embark on the captivating Causeway Coastal Route. Drive along the rugged coastline, passing by the famous Giant’s Causeway, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and the charming villages of Ballintoy and Cushendun. Don’t miss the vibrant city of Belfast along the way.

Car recommendation: Perhaps it’s a family trip so you need a car like these.

The Peak District:

Escape to the picturesque landscapes of the Peak District in central England. Drive through winding country roads, encounter quaint villages like Bakewell and Castleton, and soak in the breathtaking views from Mam Tor. Make sure to explore the charming market towns of Buxton and Matlock as well.

Car recommendation: Perhaps you fancy a nice city/hatchback for exploring the location, like this one.

The Norfolk Broads:

For a unique road trip experience, head to the Norfolk Broads in eastern England. Drive through the tranquil countryside, dotted with serene rivers and picturesque windmills. Rent a boat and cruise along the waterways, explore charming towns like Wroxham and Horning, and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance.

Car recommendation: Perhaps you fancy a nice city/hatchback for exploring like this one.

The Giant’s Causeway Coastal Route:

End your UK road trip with a visit to the enchanting Giant’s Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland. Drive along the stunning coastline, marveling at the hexagonal basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway, visiting the iconic Dunluce.

Car recommendation: Perhaps it’s a family trip so you need a car like these.

Find your perfect car for your travels.

Booking with Hiyacar couldn’t be easier or quicker! 

• You’ll just need to sign up (it’s free) and complete a profile with some information to get verified (have your driver’s licence handy). 
• Once verified, head to the Hire a car page on desktop or perform a search on our App, enter the location in London you’d like to rent the car from, select the ‘type’ filter and filter the search.
• Make a booking request once you’ve found the vehicle which suits your needs, select it, review the associated costs, and proceed to checkout to make your payment! If the vehicle listing does not have Instant Book enabled then you’ll have to wait to hear from the vehicle’s owner who’ll give you confirmation. If you’ve booked an Instant Book vehicle, you’ll receive ‘instant’ confirmation.
• Pick up your dream vehicle from a neighbour in your area! With the booking confirmed, simply meet the owner at the address, or head to the address if the vehicle is fitted with our keyless access QuickStart technology, confirm the vehicle’s condition, mileage and fuel, then you are ready to drive away!