A Roadtrip through Great Britain

Known as the “land of different countries,” Great Britain offers a vast diversity of stunning landscapes, distinct cultures, and unexpected Roadtrips. Embark on a journey through Wales, England, and Scotland, and explore the ancient, modern, world-famous, and hidden treasures awaiting you on your drive. But don’t forget: in the UK, they drive on the left!

Cardiff, Wales

Begin your journey across Britain’s roads in Cardiff, the capital of Wales. Instead of braving the infamous Welsh rain, drive around Cardiff Castle, along the River Taff, and past the Principality Stadium, heading south to Cardiff Bay. There, you can marvel at some of Wales’s finest landscapes, architectural masterpieces, and attractions.

The Wales Millennium Centre and the Senedd (Welsh Parliament building) dominate the confluence of the Taff and Ely rivers and are must-see landmarks. Have lunch by the harbor before concluding the Welsh chapter of your Roadtrip and heading east to your next destination: Oxford. Say goodbye to Wales at sunset with a heartfelt “hwyl fawr,” crossing the Grade I-listed Severn Bridge, which spans the Severn and Wye Rivers, to Bristol, England. From here, you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of the sunset over the Severn Estuary.

Oxfordshire, England

Roughly three hours later, you’ll arrive in the homeland of the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Oxfordshire perfectly encapsulates the quintessential image of England with its idyllic landscapes and charming rural villages. Be prepared to enter a place where time seems to stand still. Oxford is a city with a unique charm, best described as “ancient.” Enjoy a hearty Full English Breakfast and try punting (Oxford’s answer to Venetian gondolas) before getting back on the road. Pack a picnic, fasten your seatbelt, and hope against hope that the British weather cooperates as you drive through the eastern section of the Cotswolds. Words can hardly describe the beauty of this region’s landscapes. On a mild day, there’s nothing more relaxing than driving with the windows (or the top, if you’re in a convertible) down through England’s countryside. Park near Woodstock and picnic in front of the astonishing Blenheim Palace. Take any road back to the city – in this part of England, it’s hard to find a route that isn’t scenic – and treat yourself to a drink at the hidden yet popular Turf Tavern. While the clientele is mostly students, legend has it that Bill Clinton “did not inhale” here, and former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke set a Guinness World Record for beer drinking at this very spot. However, don’t follow his lead, as you’ll need an early start to reach your next destination: the Lake District.

Lake District: Cumbria, England

The drive north to Cumbria might not be the most thrilling route: the motorway stretches endlessly and monotonously through various parts of England, bypassing major cities along the way. But it’s worth it. The monotony ends at the Lake District with its hills and greenery. Covering an area of approximately 2,300 square kilometers, the Lake District is England’s largest national park and home to its highest mountain (Scafell Pike), deepest lake (Wastwater), and longest lake (Windermere). These natural wonders culminate in a breathtaking landscape listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If that’s not enough to tempt you, there are also excellent restaurants, pubs, and hotels with stunning views of Cumbria’s landscapes, perfect for a break, a walk, or a selfie. If time allows, drive along the Cartmel Peninsula, past Lake Windermere, and soak in the unique, stunning surroundings. Stop by the towns of Kendal and Bowness to admire their historic architecture. Continue through Eden Valley to Penrith, where you’ll be rewarded with views of sandstone villages and prehistoric monuments. If you can tear yourself away from Cumbria’s natural splendor, drive further north to cross the border into Scotland.

The West Coast of Scotland

Head north through Glasgow and follow the A82 all the way to Glencoe. This A-road winds through the Trossachs National Park, passing Loch Lomond, and offers unparalleled views of Scotland’s natural beauty. Admire the cottages that evoke the famous “bonnie banks of Loch Lomond” and the vibrant foliage surrounding the loch.

Drive through the Glencoe Pass like James Bond in Skyfall. This awe-inspiring landscape will leave you spellbound all the way to Glenfinnan, where the famous viaduct played a starring role in the Harry Potter films. Park at the visitor center at the town’s entrance and walk to the viewpoint – photography enthusiasts will be thrilled. If you’re hungry or need coffee, the Glenfinnan Dining Car, a converted railway carriage, is just a few steps away and serves some of the tastiest scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam in the region. Once back behind the wheel, take the winding road west to reach Arisaig, a village on the far west of Britain’s mainland. The coastal drive is exhilarating, and in summer, you can drive late into the evening. Stop at one of the many white beaches along the coast to watch the sunset over the islands of Eigg, Muck, Rum, and Canna.

So far north, the summer sun barely sets, leaving the sky a pale blue even after midnight. Before heading east, take a detour to Mallaig, about 16 kilometers away, where cozy pubs and charming B&Bs await. Don’t miss the chance to sample fresh seafood before leaving Scotland’s western islands. Indulge in lobster, prawns, and scallops with chips, all at surprisingly affordable prices in this lovely coastal town!

The East Coast of Scotland

The journey from west to east is less scenic but still worthwhile. Drive through Stirling – the former home of the Scottish Crown – on your way to St. Andrews via Edinburgh. While the weather in Edinburgh is often unpredictable, the somber rain adds to the romantic ambiance of the city’s gothic architecture. Stroll along Princes Street and visit iconic landmarks such as the Walter Scott Monument and Edinburgh Castle before heading to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, one of the British Queen’s residences in Scotland. Drive up Arthur’s Seat, the highest hill in Holyrood Park, for a spectacular view of Edinburgh. From this vantage point, you can spot George Heriot’s School, an architectural Renaissance masterpiece that inspired Hogwarts in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. Cross the Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage engineering marvel, and head into Fife. Take the scenic coastal roads towards Cupar, stopping in Anstruther for world-renowned fish and chips before arriving at St. Andrews.

Admire the architectural masterpieces that have withstood the test of time in this historic city, such as the University of St. Andrews, Scotland’s oldest university and the third oldest in the English-speaking world. Conclude your Roadtrip at the ruins of St. Andrews Castle, whose turbulent and erratic history as a residence for both kings and prisoners mirrors the ever-changing British weather you’ve undoubtedly experienced throughout your journey across Great Britain.