England is home to the royal family, the traditional cup of tea and fish and chips at the seaside. It’s also, on the other hand, home to some beautiful, scenic country and coastal routes which the whole family can enjoy.

If you don’t mind a bit of rain and are up for driving on the left hand-side, why not plan your very own road trip in the UK? In this guide Izzy shares the top 5 scenic drives in England for your next UK road trip. So all you have to do is pack up the car, check you’ve got the best tyres in the UK, and get on the road!

The view from the top of the old railway bridge at Kiplingcoates Station - geograph.org.uk - 19598

Top 5 Scenic Drives in England

The Lake District

It’s known as one of the most beautiful spots in the UK, and the Lake District is home to some stunning drives surrounded by deep blue lakes and lush vegetation. Embark on the 30 mile run between two popular tourist towns, Kendal and Keswick to see the very best of what the Lake District has to offer.

The drive runs through the Lake District National Park too so you’ll be have plenty of chances to stop off and admire the view along the way.

Lake district

The White Cliffs of Dover

With one of Britain’s main and busiest ports situated in the Kent town of Dover, it’s easy to forget to stop and take a look around. Getting away from the hustle and bustle down below, why not take a drive up the hill, up by the iconic white cliffs? You’ll have to park up and take a walk to get the most out of your trip, but you’ll get some fantastic views of the ocean from up there.

The white cliffs are only a short drive away from Dover castle too, so don’t forget to pay that special landmark a visit!

The Atlantic Highway - geograph.org.uk - 732784

The Atlantic Highway, Cornwall

Cornwall is an English seaside resort known for its ice cream and delicious Cornish pasties (pastry filled with mince and potato!), but it’s also one of the most beautiful places in the UK.

The Atlantic Highway is a costal route which runs through the most scenic parts of coastline which the country has to offer. Along the way, you’ll be treated to some breathtaking views of rugged, rocky beaches and turquoise sea which stretches as far as the eye can see. Be sure to stop off along the route and visit some of the famous landmarks which you’re sure to come across.

Hessle to Filey, Yorkshire

The great thing about this 45 mile drive is that there’s no motorways and lots to see along the way. Take the A165 from Hessle – a town located in the East Riding of Yorkshire – and continue on to Filey, stopping off at the many landmarks along the way.

The Hamlet of Kiplingcotes is a beautifully quiet community and home to the Kiplingcotes derby horse race. It’s worth paying a visit to the hamlet on your way to get a taste of real rural British living.

North Northumberland Heritage coast

Flickr - law keven - The Long and winding road...

The road which runs along the Northumberland coast and past Bamburgh Castle will take you on a wild and rocky adventure.

Start at Amble and make the 40 mile trip to the Scottish border, You’ll make your way past historic landmarks and stunning nature reserves like Coquet Island. Enjoy the sights and don’t forget to take plenty of photos!

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