Driving with the windows open (or even top down) while the sun beams in is the iconic road trip picture. And there’s no denying that summer is a great season for trying the UK’s top routes, but they’re magical in a different way in the winter.
You can expect quieter roads, glittering frosted scenery and smaller crowds at each destination, as well as plentiful festive attractions if you travel in December. Harsh conditions and shorter days can make driving more challenging, but pre-trip vehicle maintenance and careful driving with appropriate insurance will help you feel calm and confident, whatever the weather.
Discover some of the best road trip routes for a winter getaway in the UK, from the iconic North Coast 500 in Scotland to a cosy journey through The Cotswolds.
The Lake District, England
England’s largest national park is a series of peaks and valleys, sheltering vast lakes which perfectly reflect the surrounding mountains and traditional villages. You’ll feel a world away from urban life, giving you the chance to completely switch off when walking the fells and enjoying cosy fire-side evenings in the local pubs.
Unless you’re an experienced walker, stick to low-level walking routes. There is over 50 miles of accessible walking paths in the Lake District, from coastal trails to countryside circulars with beautiful views. Confident climbers can take to the fells like Helvellyn and Scafell Pike, but you must be prepared with warm clothes and safety gear and follow the advisories of the Fell Top Assessors who provide analysis of summit conditions each day.
The North Coast 500, Scotland
Discover the wide skies and wild scenery of the North Coast 500, rated among the top road trips in the world for the views, friendliness of the locals and diversity of things to do. The entire route is just over 500 miles, drawing a circle around the Highlands, starting and ending at Inverness.
See the unique sea and river caves of Smoo Cave and remote beaches like Achmelvich Bay against stormy skies, from the turret of an ancient castle or clifftop where you can spot seals and dolphins in the dark waters below. Hike snow-covered hills (when conditions allow) and stroll around deserted lochs. Spend evenings stargazing, with the chance to view the Milky Way, before ducking into warm pubs for warming local grub and, if you’re lucky, live music.
The Cotswolds, England
Looking for a shorter road trip that you could fit into a long weekend? The answer is The Cotswolds, a romantic region of rolling farmland, old villages and staggering historic attractions that feels utterly lost in time.
It’s a great option for less confident or younger drivers too, as the country roads are quiet and largely empty out of season. If you’ve recently passed your test, look into the option of young driver insurance for cost-effective cover and consider including extras like breakdown cover for peace of mind. Remember to get responsible passengers insured on your car too, so they can share the burden of driving to avoid you driving tired which can be dangerous.
Must-see Cotswolds attractions includes magnificent country house Blenheim Palace, which hosts a Christmas festival each year with an illuminated garden trail and ice-skating rink. Most of the villages run festive hairs and markets, and wherever you go you’ll find winding woodland and countryside walks to enjoy in the crisp air.
