Summary
We are immensely proud of our island! From the charm of the Cotswolds to the grandeur of Edinburgh, and the quaint allure of Tenby in beautiful Wales, there is an abundance of locations waiting to be explored. This sentiment is especially evident when considering destinations for a British road trip.
Indeed, the options are plentiful when it comes to choosing iconic locations to include on your journey across the country. To assist with your planning, I would like to highlight some key destinations that should be on your itinerary during a road trip in Britain.
1.) London
London undoubtedly deserves a place on your list. With its numerous exquisite food markets, exceptional coffee establishments, and magnificent palaces, alongside hidden gems, London offers a wealth of experiences.
Visitors will be truly spoilt for choice in London. Devote a few days to exploring the noteworthy areas as each neighborhood presents its own unique character.
2.) Stonehenge
This internationally recognized landmark is an essential stop while journeying west from London and ranks among the premier locations to visit during your British road trip.
Situated just two hours from the city center, Stonehenge provides an excellent opportunity to delve into our extensive and storied past. Given that weekends can be particularly crowded, it may be beneficial to arrive early in the morning or shortly before closing time.
3.) Bath
Located in South West England, Bath stands out as one of Britain’s most visually appealing cities.
Dedicate a day from your itinerary to explore its Roman baths, natural springs, and the Royal Crescent. To this day, Bath remains one of my personal favorite cities in England, and I trust you will appreciate it too.
4.) Brighton
Brighton, one of the most famous coastal cities in southern England, is delightful to explore, especially on a sunny day. It is undoubtedly a prime destination during any British road trip when visiting the south of England.
Merely two hours from Central London, Brighton’s Royal Pavilion, its charming streets, and its Victorian Pier make for an exceptional day of exploration in a unique English seaside city. Settle into a deck chair and enjoy a classic “99” while soaking up a little British sunshine!
5.) Windsor
Windsor is renowned for being home to one of the most notable royal residences, following Buckingham Palace. Windsor Castle is an essential stop while uncovering the treasures of Britain.
Just a 30-minute journey from Heathrow Airport, it serves as an excellent destination to explore during a long layover between flights.
6.) The Cotswolds
The gentle hills, charming towns, and rich history found in this area of outstanding natural beauty make it perfect for exploration over a day or two.
7.) Edinburgh
As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh stands out as one of my favorite cities in Great Britain to discover!
Dedicate a few days to exploring both the old and new towns, each offering a distinctive vibe. Do not forget to sample traditional haggis!
Furthermore, enjoy a leisurely stroll along Princes Street and visit its storied castle perched upon an extinct volcano.
8.) Bristol
Bristol boasts a vibrant art scene, notably associated with the renowned artist Banksy, whose temporary exhibition Dismaland showcased his works nearby.
While the exhibition may no longer be running, Bristol remains peppered with many instances of Banksy’s celebrated creations.
9.) Glasgow
The debate over which is the ‘best’ Scottish city is a lively one, especially between residents of Glasgow and Edinburgh.
10.) York
The historic city of York is rich in heritage. Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre, York Castle, and York Minster to witness some of its most remarkable attractions.
11.) Cambridge
The rivalry between Oxford and Cambridge is unrivaled!
Stroll around the beautiful campus grounds, with King’s College Chapel being a particularly notable highlight while enjoying the charm of Cambridge.
12.) Liverpool
Liverpool is renowned for its musical legacy and stunning city center.
Explore some of the prominent attractions, but be sure to reserve energy for the nightlife, as that’s when the city comes alive.
13.) Newcastle
This northern city represents one of Britain’s best-kept secrets! Once an industrial center, Newcastle has transitioned into one of the country’s most enjoyable cities to visit.
14.) White Cliffs of Dover
Not far from Brighton, the White Cliffs of Dover are an ideal location to appreciate the natural allure of our island.
Stroll along the various coastal paths that traverse this area of exceptional natural beauty.
15.) Durham
Located near Newcastle, Durham stands out as a perfect stop on your exploration of the North of England.
Make sure to visit the iconic Durham Castle and Cathedral, which are both striking and formidable landmarks within the city.
16.) The Lake District
The Lake District is one of the most picturesque regions in Britain. In my opinion, this area is best navigated by car, making it ideal for exploration at your own pace while enjoying its numerous lakes.
17.) Rye
This quaint town in East Sussex serves as an ideal location for a restful break after a long journey.
18.) St. Ives
No trip to Cornwall is complete without visiting St. Ives.
This stunning Cornish gem offers opportunities for relaxation, surfing, and indulging in delicious Cornish pasties. It truly exemplifies coastal beauty.
The entire Cornish coastline is breathtaking and ranks as one of the top locations to include in your British road trip, especially for those who appreciate natural beauty and charming fishing villages.
19.) Scilly Isles
While it’s not possible to drive directly here, visitors can easily board a ferry from Cornwall.
Make the most of your time by spending a day or two discovering this distinct collection of islands in England.
20.) Tenby
This picturesque fishing town is among the most charming in all of Wales.
Tenby is a historic fishing village that is relatively accessible by car, making it an ideal destination during a British road trip.
Wander through its meandering streets and admire the colorful architecture while indulging in local fish and chips.
It is, without a doubt, a quintessential seaside favorite.
