Top 5 Scenic Drives in Britain

Whether you're exploring Britain for business or pleasure, a road trip is the best way to see and enjoy all the beauty and charm Britain has to offer.

1. Bath to Stratford-upon-Avon

Best for: History Lovers

Distance: 140 miles

Our Vehicle Pick: Mercedes E300 AMG Cabriolet

One of the most picturesque and quintessentially British drives there is, start off in the historic town of Bath, a destination since Roman times. Retrace Jane Austen’s steps and drive along streets flanked by impressive Georgian homes. From Bath, take the A46 to the A433 towards the historic Cotswolds and enjoy the beautiful rolling countryside and timeless honey-coloured stone villages. The perfect backdrop to a romantic drive.

Your scenic drive of the Cotswolds will take you to enchanting chocolate box English villages including, Cirencester, Nauton and Bilbury. All offering their own charm and history you can’t go wrong getting off the main road and exploring. Make a special visit to Burton-on-the-Water, known as the Little Venice of the Cotswolds, this romantic and charming village even offers the Cotswold Motoring Museum featuring an impressive vintage car collection. End your journey in Stratford-upon-Avon, a medieval market town famously known as the home of William Shakespeare.

 

2. Black Mountain Pass in the Brecon Beacons, Wales

Best for: Supercar Enthusiasts

Distance: 20 miles

Our Vehicle Pick: Jaguar F-Type R 5.0 Supercharged Coupe

Although the shortest route of the group, this scenic road is ideal for all motoring enthusiasts. It features many twists, dips, and climbs as you drive around the Brecon Beacon mountains, giving you an exciting drive with truly stunning views. A supercar is the best way to experience this swooping mountain pass which is popular with bikers and motorists alike. But watch out for any wayward sheep!

Avid bird watchers will enjoy the area – especially around the rivers Wye and Usk, as you may be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of various migrating birds during the summer months. Top it off with a stop at the Brecon Beacons National Park. We promise you will not be disappointed.

 

3. Glasgow to Skye, via Ben Nevis and Loch Ness

Best for: Grand tourers

Distance: 430 miles, plus a ferry

Our Vehicle Pick: Mercedes S560 AMG Coupe

Pick up your Mercedes S500 AMG Coupe in Glasgow and take the A82 route – famously known as the gateway to the Highlands – and pass through some of Scotland’s most famous and dramatic scenery of lochs, hills, and villages. This is classic touring country.  Visit the Trossachs National Park and Loch Lomond, the largest loch or lake in the whole of Britain. Make a short detour to the famous Loch Ness, a top holiday destination in Scotland. Head back to Fort William and stop by the Glenfinnan Viaduct located to the West, you may remember this as the bridge that carries the Hogwarts Express in Harry Potter. From here take the A830 to the port of Mallaig and catch a ferry to the Isle of Skye for an unforgettable tour of rugged landscapes, picturesque villages, and medieval castles.

 

4. Padstow to Land's End, Cornwall

Best for: Beach lovers

Distance: 57 miles

Our Vehicle Pick: Mercedes S560 AMG Line Cabriolet

If a coastal drive is what you are in the mood for this summer, this scenic route is a must-see. Choose a convertible/cabriolet for this drive to get the full sensory experience as you drive past the sun-drenched golden sand beaches.

Stop along the many coastal towns and villages along the way to take in the scenery and enjoy the amazing British summer weather and fresh seafood. Surfing enthusiasts and spectators alike will love the popular Fistral Beach, Newquay. Stretch your legs at Carnewas at Bedruthan coast walk, a specular stretch of North Cornwall coast offering views of the dramatic cliffs overlooking Bedruthan Steps. And onward to Land’s End, the place Cornish sailors once thought was the end of the world.

 

5. Keswick to Kendal, Lake District, Cumbria

Best for: Family Road Trip

Distance: 47 miles

Our Vehicle Pick: Range Rover Autobiography SDV8

The Lake District is filled with wonderful driving routes which between them visit all the main lakes, towns, villages and attractions the Lake District has to offer. We chose this route in particular for its spectacular natural beauty and attractions which will provide a fun trip for the entire family. The journey along the A591 can be done in a short amount of time, but we recommend parking the car and getting outside! Take a child and buggy-friendly walk from Elterwater to Skelwith Bridge in the Landgates where you will see waterfalls, woods, and refreshments on both ends. Also, try Scout Scar near Kendal where on a clear day you will have a view from the sea to the mountains.

 

Choose Avis Prestige Today...

Avis Prestige is here to help you find the right vehicle for any British road trip you choose. Our large range of luxury vehicles will please anyone, from luxury 4x4 SUVs to top of the range Executive cars and more, we carefully select our vehicles to include ride comfort, driving performance and style so your experience is always unforgettable.

Get in touch with us today for a hassle free quote and to learn more about our standard premium Heathrow Meet & Greet Service.