The arrival of winter doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a UK road trip and explore the beauty of the UK. Whether you’re driving a car or venturing out in a cozy motorhome, the frosty landscapes and quieter roads make the winter season a perfect time for an adventure.
Stuck for winter road trip ideas? We’ve got you covered. From cosy country pubs and iconic landmarks to adventurous activities, our guide to some of the best will leave you reaching for your suitcase and sat nav.
Benefits of a UK winter road trip
Winter road trips offer popular destinations with lower crowd levels, with lots of stunning seasonal scenery across the country. From the snow-dusted peaks of Scotland to the rugged coastlines of Wales to the charming villages of England, winter road trips in the UK have a lot to offer, including:
- Peaceful exploration: avoid the summer tourist rush and explore with smaller crowds
- Affordable travel: off-season discounts on accommodation and attractions
- Diverse landscapes: each region has unique offerings with unique scenery in the winter months
England
England offers an array of road trip options, from dramatic moorlands to idyllic seaside escapes. Here are our top three must-visit destinations.
Lake District
Famous for its stunning lakes and mountains, the Lake District transforms into a winter wonderland, and there’s no better way to fully experience all that this region has to offer than by car.
One of the best-loved road trip destinations in the UK, there are multiple routes to take around the area. Our suggested itinerary takes in spectacular scenery, a great selection of the region’s lakes and offers an array of activities along the way.
Grasmere to Coniston
If you can, you should allow around five days to make the most of this route. Start your trip in Grasmere and take a hike around one of the Lake District’s most popular walking spots. Rydal Water offers some excellent trails, all with a beautiful backdrop. Rydal Cave is a must-visit as is Wordsworth’s Seat, named after the famous poet and known for its far-reaching views.
The main road to Windermere is an easy drive, but if you’re looking to stop off at one of the many small, family-run, cosy B&Bs, you might prefer to take the more scenic route. Upper Loughrigg runs parallel to the River Rothay and features a handful of accommodation off the beaten track.
Ambleside is the gateway to Lake Windermere, a popular destination for a UK road trip. Enjoy a country pub lunch before heading to Bowness, where you can really soak up the winter atmosphere on a boat trip around the lake. And if the weather conditions become a little too unfavourable, The World of Beatrix Potter offers a unique, indoor experience.
Take the A592 to the very south of Lake Windermere before heading north up to Esthwaite Water. For adventurous road trippers, Graythwaite offers a selection of activities including off-road driving and clay pigeon shooting.
Finish your UK winter road trip at Coniston Water and take advantage of the plethora of water sports activities including kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing.
Yorkshire Moors and Coast
Discover expansive moorland landscapes, market towns and pretty fishing villages in the North Yorkshire moors and coast. While you might not be as willing to sample the seaside ice creams during the winter months, you’ll find some cosy pubs and great fish and chips to warm you up on your adventures.
York to Saltburn-by-the-sea
This route features a great combination of city experiences, expansive moorland, pretty seaside towns and outdoor adventure.
Start in the historic city of York, soaking up the local attractions and landmarks, before heading out to the small village of Stamford Bridge and north towards Pickering via the A169. A stop-off in the market town of Malton offers delights for foodies with festivals, monthly markets and produce shops.
Make Pickering one of your stop-overs on your road trip and choose from one of the many B&Bs, guest houses or hotels. Immerse yourself in nature at Dalby Forest, which offers a selection of walking and cycling trails and play areas for children.
Take in the dramatic moorland scenery as you continue your journey up to Robin Hood’s Bay, via Goathland. The viewpoint car park at Goathland offers some of the best views across the moors on this UK winter road trip, while the quirky seaside village of Robin Hood’s Bay features a small, picturesque beach and some unique shops and eateries.
Whitby is a must-visit with its gothic charm and famous fish and chips, but, if you prefer a quieter location, Sandsend is just three miles north and features a stunning stretch of golden, sandy beach, a beachside café and a cosy pub.
End your road trip in Saltburn-by-the-Sea and discover this Victorian seaside town out of season and away from the crowds. Brave the sea and enjoy the surf, take a ride on the funicular and visit the valley gardens.
Dorset and Devon
You might equate the south of England with long, warm days and seaside breaks, but there’s more to Devon and Dorset than summer holidays. With lots of history, culture, food and drink, there’s plenty to explore as you head on a road trip through time along the Jurassic Coast.
Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast has plenty to offer at any time of year, but as a winter road trip destination, this area of the country boasts a dramatic coastline like no other. And with vibrant cities also close by, there’s lots to explore.
Stretching just under 100 miles from Exmouth in Devon to Studland in Dorset, the starting point is up to you, but it’s a good idea to give yourself a few days to fit everything in. Begin in Exmouth and you can even sample the bustling city of Exeter before relaxing into your coastal journey.
The seaside heritage town of Sidmouth is the gateway to the Jurassic Coast and a great way to ease yourself into your road trip. From here, travel inland and explore the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, featuring nature trails, cycling, horse riding and some excellent accommodation options.
Continue to Bridport, taking time to discover the historic harbour town of Lyme Regis on the way. West Bay offers some fantastic coastal walks and views that stretch for miles across the English Channel.
Spend some time in Weymouth and soak up the history by visiting Sandsfoot Castle, Portland Castle and the landmarks of Nothe Fort and Breakwater Fort.
Complete your UK winter road trip by travelling to the iconic Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove before ending at Studland. Winter is the best time to discover fossils here due to the rough seas and quieter beaches. And, if you wish to continue your road trip, the larger towns of Poole and Bournemouth have activities for all the family, whatever the weather.
Scotland
If you want your UK winter road trip to feature snow-capped mountains and dramatic coastlines, Scotland could be the ideal destination. You might have to brave the cooler conditions, but the iconic Highland towns, breath-taking scenery and unrivalled activities make up for the colder temperatures. There is also the added bonus of being legally allowed to wild-camp in Scotland, making it perfect for campervan or motorhome adventures. Here are our favourite Scottish road trip itineraries.
Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye, part of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, is a breath-taking destination filled with dramatic landscapes, historic ruins, and charming villages.
Skye is accessible via road along the Skye Bridge or by taking the ferry from Mallaig. If you’re taking the Skye Bridge, you need to drive to Kyle of Lochalsh on the mainland and follow the bridge from there, eventually arriving in the village of Kyleakin on Skye. This route offers stunning views and is free to cross.
The ferry will take you from Mallaig to Armadale on Skye’s southern coast, taking around 45 minutes. The ferry is a scenic option but is best to book in advance, especially during peak travel times. For full schedule and fares information, visit the Caledonian MacBrayne Ferries website here.
Once you’ve arrived in Skye, start your adventure in Portree, the islands largest town and cultural hub. Here you can stroll along the picturesque harbour with its iconic pastel-coloured buildings, visit local shops and enjoy fresh seafood. For accommodation, Portree offers a range of options, from cosy B&Bs to luxury hotels.
The Trotternish Peninsula, north of Portree, offers a must-drive route with several iconic stops along the way. Drive along the A855 to the Old Man of Storr, a towering rock formation surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
Continue north to Kilt Rock, a sea cliff resembling a pleated kilt, where the Mealt Falls plunge into the ocean below. Further along the loop, stop at the Duntulum Castle ruins, perched dramatically on a cliff. Here you can explore the remnants of this 14th century castle, linked to Viking history and Scottish clan battles.
On your way back, consider detouring to the Fairy Pools near Glenbrittle, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and cascading waterfalls. A short-walk from the car park will take you to the pools, which are perfect if you’re brave enough for a quick dip!
End your trip in Armadale, the southern gateway to the Isle of Skye. If you have time before you catch the ferry back, you can visit Armadale Castle and explore the beautiful grounds and museum.
Cairngorms National Park
Cairngorms National Park offers a scenic road trip where you can take in natural beauty, quaint villages and wildlife. Following the A9 as your central route, you can take detours along this road to explore hidden gems, making it perfect for adventurers.
Begin your journey on the A9, starting in Aviemore. Known for its outdoor activities, this is the ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. Head over to the Cairngorm Mountain Resort for skiing and snowboarding in winter and other outdoor activities during spring and summer, like tubing slides and mountain biking.
In this area, you can also visit Britain’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer at The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd. Take a guided walk to see the reindeer roaming freely in their natural habitat.
Drive southeast along the A93 to Ballater, a picturesque village with strong ties to the British Royal Family. Here you can find Balmoral Castle, the Scottish home of the Royal Family since 1852. The castle interior is only open seasonally, but the grounds are worth visiting year-round.
Continue southwest along the A93 to reach Braemar, another charming village with a strong Highland tradition. Home to Braemar Castle, a 17th century fortress, Braemar offers a glimpse into a local history. You can also visit Braemar Highland Games Centre to immerse yourself in the Highland culture and learn about the history of the games.
Re-join the A9 for your return journey, soaking in the dramatic mountain views of the Cairngorms on your way home.
Argyll Coastal Route
The Argyll Coastal Route is one of Scotland’s most picturesque drives, offering a stunning mix of lochs, mountains, and historic landmarks. Stretching from Loch Lomond to Fort William, this road trip is perfect for those seeking a blend of adventure and culture.
Begin your journey at Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s most iconic natural landmarks. Here you can take a boat cruise to soak in the views of the loch’s many islands, or visit Loch Lomond Shores for shopping and dining.
Drive along the A83 to Inveraray, a quaint town steeped in history and surrounded by breath-taking scenery. Inveraray is home to both a castle and a jail. Inveraray Castle is a grand 18th century estate, providing tours of both the interiors and gardens. Inverary Jail is a well-preserved 19th century prison and courtroom turned escape room that is well worth a visit!
Continue your journey along the A85 to Oban, often referred to as the Seafood Capital of Scotland because of its fresh seafood, fishing industry and many seafood restaurants.
There are many places to eat seafood here, including award-winning restaurants, family-friendly pubs, and fish and chip shops. You can also visit the Oban Distillery and take a guided tour, sampling whisky at one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries.
From Oban, head northeast along the A828 and A82 towards the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe. There are lots of walking and hiking trails to explore in this area, including the Lost Valley and Buachaille Etive Mor.
You can end your trip in Fort William, also known as the Outdoor Capital of the UK. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hike the UK’s tallest mountain, Ben Nevis, or opt for a less strenuous, scenic walk in Glen Nevis.
Wales
A Welsh road trip features rugged mountains with picturesque coastlines, and there’s no better way to fully explore the country than by car.
Wales is a very popular road trip destination, especially during the summer months and school holidays, but it offers a certain charm with its snow-capped mountains in the colder months, making it ideal for winter road trips.
Snowdonia
A road trip through Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park offers a blend of incredible landscapes and thrilling adventures. Starting at the Llanberis Pass and ending in the historic town of Conwy, it’s a perfect route for adventurers, families and photographers.
Begin your journey with a drive along the Llanberis Pass (A4086), regarded as one of the most scenic routes in the UK. Along the pass you can stop at viewpoints to admire Yr Wydffa (Snowdon), Eryri’s highest peak and the highest mountain in Wales. If you’re up for a challenge you can also stop along the pass to hike up Snowdon from the Pen-y-Pass car park. If you’re looking for a more relaxed option to take in the view, you can catch the Snowdon Mountain Railway from Llanberis village to the summit of the mountain.
Continue on to the Sychant Pass, a lesser-known gem offering breath-taking views and stunning surroundings. This winding road connects the park to the coast and offers stopping points for panoramic views of the Conwy Valley and Yr Wydffa.
Arrive in Conwy next, a historic town packing with charm and character. Conwy Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a striking medieval fortress with well-preserved towers and walls. Climb to the top for sweeping views of the estuary.
You can also walk the nearly intact medieval town walls for a unique perspective of the town and surrounding landscapes. Conwy is also home to the Smallest House in Britain. Stop by this quirky attraction, a tiny red house just 6 feet wide, on your way along Conwy’s quay. End your route at Conwy Marina, a peaceful spot perfect for a stroll or watching the sunset.
@dayinsure Looking for some day out inspiration? ✨ Visit Conwy with us 🏴🐚🏰🌊 #roadtrip #conwy #wales #dayout #daytrip #walestravel #roadtrips #ukgetaway
Cardigan Bay
Explore the stunning Cardigan Bay along The Coastal Way, a route that winds through quaint seaside towns, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches. From the Llyn Peninsula to St Davids, this road trip itinerary showcases some of the best of Wales’ coastline.
Begin your journey on the Llyn Peninsula, often referred to as the Welsh Riviera. There are lots of beaches to choose from here, with soft sands and colourful beach huts. Explore the charming streets filled with local shops and seaside eateries.
Head west to Aberdaron, a peaceful village at the tip of the peninsula, and visit Porth y Swnt, a National Trust interpretation centre celebrating Welsh heritage. From here you can also take a boat trip to Bardsey Island, known as the Island of 20,000 Saints, for a unique experience filled with wildlife and history.
Drive south along the scenic coastline to Aberystwyth, a lively university town. Here you can stroll along the promenade and visit the Royal Pier or take the Cliff Railway up Constitution Hill for panoramic views of Cardigan Bay.
Continue south to Cardigan, a historic town on the River Teifi, where you can visit Cardigan Castle, a restored heritage site offering insights into Welsh history and culture. You can also take a scenic walk along the riverbanks or explore the nearby Teifi estuary.
Just a short drive from Cardigan is the tranquil Mwnt Beach, a hidden gem of the Pembrokeshire coastline where you can often spot dolphins in the bay from the clifftop paths.
End the road trip driving into Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and arrive at St Davids, the smallest city in the UK. Here you can explore St Davids Cathedral, a stunning medieval structure, and St Non’s Chapel, held by tradition to mark the birthplace of St David.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland offer a number of fantastic road trip routes, with scenic landscapes and historic landmarks. Even in the colder, winter months, these routes are worth a drive.
Causeway Coast to Belfast
The Causeway Coastal Route is one of the most picturesque drives in the UK, combining dramatic cliffs, iconic landmarks, and cultural gems. Starting in Derry and ending in Belfast, this road trip offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and vibrant city life.
Begin your journey in Derry, Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture. Here you can walk the Derry City Walls, a 17th century defensive structure with 7 gates and 24 restored cannons, offering views of the city and the River Foyle.
Drive along the Causeway Coastal Route (A2) to the world-famous Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This popular destination is a result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption, featuring approximately 40,000 interlocking columns. Visit the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre for interactive exhibits and stories of local legends.
Continue to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, located near Ballintoy. Cross this 20m long rope bridge on foot, suspended 30m above the sea, linking the mainland to Carrick-a-Rede Island. Here you can spot puffins and other seabirds from the cliffs in the spring and summer months.
End your road trip in Belfast, Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital. There are lots of sights and activities to keep you occupied here, including the Titanic Belfast Museum, an award-winning attraction detailing the history of the Titanic and Belfast’s maritime heritage. You can also explore the lively streets of Belfast, visiting local shops, lively pubs, historic buildings and on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, St George’s Market for local crafts and food.
County Tyrone
This road trip takes you through the incredible Sperring Mountains, featuring the historical charm of Glenarm Castle and outdoor adventures of the Davagh Forest Trails. Perfect for nature lovers, this itinerary offers a unique blend of activities and stunning landscapes.
Start your journey at Gortin Glen Forest Park, a gateway to the Sperrin Mountains, one of Ireland’s most remote and unspoiled mountain ranges. You can follow four scenic driving routes (North, Central, East and South) offering breath-taking views of the rolling hills, or explore hiking trails ranging from short woodland walks to more challenging routes.
Next head to the Beaghmore Stone Circles, an ancient site shrouded in mystery and folklore. The seven stone circles date back to the Bronze Age, believed to have astronomical significance. You can learn about the history and significance of the site with on-site information boards making it a quick stop off spot along your route.
Continue your adventure in Davagh Forest, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here you can explore a variety of mountain biking trails, suited to all skill levels, from family-friendly to more challenging routes. There is also the Dark Sky Observatory nearby, one of the best stargazing spots in Ireland. Book an evening tour for an unforgettable experience.
Drive east from here to Glenarm Castle, one of Northern Ireland’s most picturesque estates. Tour the castle gardens and explore the heritage room, showcasing the castle’s history and role in Northern Ireland’s heritage. Finish your trip with a stop at the Glenarm Castle Tea Room for a tasty afternoon tea with locally sourced treats.
Get prepared for your winter road trip with temporary insurance from Dayinsure
Wherever you choose for your winter UK road trip destination, it’s important to properly prepare.
With the possibility of unpredictable weather, make sure you carry a winter car kit with essentials such as an ice scraper, de-icer, shovel, hi-vis vest, torch and first aid kit. Ensure you check travel and road conditions before setting off and allow yourself plenty of time.
Crucially, you’ll need to make sure you’re fully insured on the vehicle you’re using for your trip. If you’re sharing the driving in a car or motorhome you don’t normally use, a temporary insurance policy can give you peace of mind for the duration of your road trip.
We provide temporary car insurance and temporary motorhome insurance for up to 30 days without it affecting the main annual policy. It’s easy to get a quote and you could be covered in just 15 minutes. Get a quote today and you’ll be off on your next winter road trip in no time.
