Britain's Top 10 Driving Roads
We list the UK’s most scenic driving routes, from the dramatic EVO Triangle in Wales to Scotland’s iconic North Coast 500. Whether it’s coastal views or mountain passes, these top 10 drives promise unforgettable adventures. Ready to hit the road? Let Cazoo help you find the perfect car for your journey.
The Cazoo editorial team
Published on 23 October 2025 | 25 mins read

Fancy a road trip? The UK is packed with amazing scenic drives, from the Scottish Highlands to the Cornish coast. If you're ready to fill up the tank, grab some snacks, and hit the open road, you’re in the right place. We've put together a list of the best driving roads in Britain to inspire your next adventure.
Planning a road trip is all about making memories. It's about finding that perfect playlist, discovering a hidden gem for lunch, and taking photos you'll look back on for years. Let's get you behind the wheel and on your way to exploring some of the most stunning landscapes the UK has to offer.
Our Favourite UK Driving Routes
1. The EVO Triangle, Wales
Named by EVO magazine, this 20-mile loop in the Welsh countryside is a favourite for car enthusiasts. With sweeping bends and long straights, it’s a brilliant way to experience the dramatic scenery around Llyn Brenig and Cerrigydrudion.
The route is made of three roads (A5, A543, and B4501) that form a triangle. While it can be driven in about 20 minutes, average-speed cameras are in place, so it’s best to take your time and enjoy the views. It can get busy on weekends, so an early morning or weekday trip is a great idea.
- Scenic Spots: Stop by Llyn Bran, Llyn Brenig, or Alwen Reservoir to stretch your legs. Parts of the drive run alongside Clocaenog Forest, adding to the stunning scenery. You might even spot some low-flying military jets!
- Where to Eat: You’ll find a few charming spots for a bite, like the Dragonfly Tearooms or Y Giler Arms.
Cazoo suggests: the Volkswagen Up! GTI is a great affordable car for zipping through the sweeping bends of the EVO Triangle. Its nimble handling makes it a joy to drive, and you can soak up the stunning views without needing to push the speed limits.

2. Snake Pass, The Peak District
Connecting Sheffield and Manchester, Snake Pass is an adventurous drive through the Pennines. It's known for its sharp bends, blind summits, and challenging cambers. The weather can be a bit wild, especially in winter when fog and ice often lead to road closures, so always check before you travel.
On a sunny day, the views are incredible. At over 500 metres above sea level, you’ll see the National Trust’s High Peak and the stunning Ladybower Reservoir. It’s a drive that really rewards you for your focus.
- Scenic Spots: The drive itself is demanding, so there aren't many places to stop. However, the views of the Pennines are a reward in themselves. Plus, you have the vibrant cities of Sheffield and Manchester at either end.
- Where to Eat: The Snake Pass Inn and the Ladybower Inn are great mid-way points for lunch with a view.
Cazoo suggests: the Suzuki Swift Sport has great sharp handling and is compact in size, so it's ideal for tackling the twists and turns of Snake Pass. It’s agile enough to make the drive thrilling, without feeling bulky on those winding roads.

3. Moffat Loop, Scotland
This 95-mile circuit takes you through the remote and beautiful Southern Uplands of Scotland. Starting and finishing in the lovely town of Moffat, the route passes through what locals call the Devil's Beeftub. It’s a drive filled with fast, sweeping bends and tight, twisty sections.
You’ll see St Mary’s Loch, Talla Reservoir, and Grey Mare’s Tail, one of the UK’s highest waterfalls. The landscape is so dramatic it feels like a slice of New Zealand right here in Scotland. Just be sure to fuel up before you start, as it's quite remote.
- Scenic Spots: The landscapes around Talla Reservoir and Gray Mare’s Tail are genuinely breathtaking. The town of Moffat itself is full of independent shops and cafes worth exploring.
- Where to Eat: As this is a remote route, plan your fuel and food stops. Moffat has plenty of options before or after your drive.
Cazoo suggests: the Moffat Pass is best driven in a smooth, comfortable car, which is where the BMW X3 comes in. With its elevated seating and refined drive, the X3 is perfect for navigating the sweeping the narrow bends. It also offers great visibility to soak in the stunning surroundings, but still feels balanced with great driving feel.

4. The Cheddar Gorge, Somerset
This 14-mile drive through Somerset's famous limestone gorge is one of England's most spectacular routes. You'll weave through one of Britain’s deepest natural canyons, with towering cliffs on either side.
The road twists and turns, demanding your attention, before opening up into long, tree-lined bends. Keep an eye out for the wild goats and Soay sheep that call the gorge home. It’s a popular spot, so there are plenty of places to park and explore.
- Scenic Spots: Visit the Cheddar Gorge caves, go for a hike, or explore the town of Cheddar. There’s enough here to make a full day of it.
- Where to Eat: You're spoilt for choice with places like Café Gorge and Lion Rock Tearooms.
Cazoo suggests: the Range Rover Evoque is the smallest in the Range Rover family, so it's perfectly suited for exploring Cheddar Gorge. Get one with a full-length panoramic sunroof that lets you take in the breathtaking cliffside views in all their glory.

5. Cat and Fiddle, The Peak District
Named after the pub at its summit, the Cat and Fiddle road runs from Buxton to Macclesfield. It's a thrilling drive with sharp bends and steep drops, offering fantastic views of the Peak District and Cheshire Plains.
The road used to have a bit of a reputation, but speed cameras have made it much safer. It’s now a route to be enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Much like Snake Pass, winter weather can be tricky, so be prepared.
- Scenic Spots: The views are the main attraction here. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Greater Manchester.
- Where to Eat: The Cat and Fiddle Inn is the obvious choice for a bite to eat. Otherwise, Buxton and Macclesfield have lots of options.
Cazoo suggests: With the Cat and Fiddle’s speed cameras and leisurely pace, the Mercedes E-Class is the perfect companion. Its quiet, comfortable ride and spacious interior make it ideal for enjoying the stunning views without rushing. Relax, stretch out, and take it all in!

6. Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
Stretching for 120 miles along the Atlantic coast from Belfast to Derry, this route is simply iconic. The raw, rugged views of Northern Ireland are unforgettable. The roads are smooth and fast, making it a more relaxed drive than some others on this list.
You’ll pass legendary landmarks like the Giant's Causeway and Dunluce Castle. It’s no surprise that many scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed here. With so much to see, it’s best to plan this as a 3-5 day trip.
- Scenic Spots: Don't miss The Gobbins, Torr Head, The Dark Hedges, and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. There are plenty of car parks to pull over and explore.
- Where to Eat: From traditional Irish pubs to ice cream shops by the sea, you’ll find something for everyone.
Cazoo suggests: The Coastal Causeway Route can get busy with motorhomes, but the Volkswagen Golf GTI has the power and agility to overtake with ease. That said, it’s still comfortable enough to keep you relaxed while you soak up the stunning coastal views, so it feels well rounded.

7. The Atlantic Highway, South West England
The A39 connects Bath to Falmouth, winding through the beautiful countryside of Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall. This long coastal drive offers dramatic coastlines, charming seaside villages, and rolling hills.
The first part takes you through Exmoor National Park. As you head south, you’ll be treated to classic sea views and surfing towns. The route ends at Land’s End, the most westerly point of the UK.
- Scenic Spots: Explore Tintagel Castle, St Nectan’s Glen, and the lovely fishing village of Port Isaac. There are countless beaches and coves to discover.
- Where to Eat: You can’t go wrong with traditional fish and chips or a Cornish pasty from one of the many towns along the way.
Cazoo suggests: When it comes to driver engagement at an affordable price, it's just impossible not to mention the Mazda MX-5. It would be great for any of the roads mentioned in this article, but the Atlantic Highway’s breathtaking scenery deserves to be fully enjoyed with the top down, and a convertible like the MX-5 lets you do just that. The MX-5's impressive fuel economy makes it perfect for the long journey, too. Yes, we know you'll only have space for a small overnight bag in the boot – but we reckon it's worth it!

8. Glasgow to Fort William, Scotland
This drive along the A82 showcases some of Scotland’s boldest scenery. In just over 100 miles, you’ll see the magnificent Scottish Highlands and the famous Loch Lomond. While it can be driven in a few hours, you’ll want to take your time.
The road is smooth and fast, with long straights and sweeping bends. The scenery around Glen Coe is particularly stunning and will make you want to stop and soak it all in.
- Scenic Spots: Glen Coe is a must-see, but you'll also pass the Falls of Dochart, Glen Etive, and have Ben Nevis in your sights.
- Where to Eat: The Real Food Café and Lochleven Seafood are popular spots. For a bit of history, stop at the Drovers Inn, which first opened in 1705.
Cazoo suggests: We recommend a tough car like the Land Rover Discovery for this route. The roads from Glasgow to Fort William can throw some challenging conditions your way, but the Discovery’s reliable four-wheel-drive system is built to handle it all. From rugged terrain to unpredictable weather, it’s the perfect companion for a smooth and confident journey through the Scottish Highlands.

9. Black Mountain Road, Wales
Often called one of the best driver's roads in the UK, the A4069 across the Brecon Beacons is a must-do. With hairpin bends, switchback climbs, and long open straights, it’s a pure joy to drive.
The road gained fame after appearing on Top Gear and is now a favourite for motoring enthusiasts. It connects Llandovery with Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen, offering breathtaking views of the Welsh landscape.
- Scenic Spots: You’ll see the Tywi Valley, Carreg Cennen Castle, and of course, Black Mountain itself.
- Where to Eat: There are plenty of charming Welsh pubs in the nearby villages, such as the Three Horseshoes or the Pandy Inn.
Cazoo suggests: We'd take the Audi S3 for a spin up in the tight twists and turns of the Black Mountain Road call. The Audi S3 is a compact performance car that fits the bill perfectly. Its agile handling shines on winding lanes, while the four-wheel-drive ensures plenty of grip, even in wet conditions. Small, sporty, and ready for the challenge!

10. North Coast 500, Scotland
The ultimate Scottish road trip, the North Coast 500 (NC500) is a 516-mile route starting and ending at Inverness Castle. It features white sand beaches, ancient castles, remote fishing villages, and rugged mountains.
This is an adventure that deserves a proper holiday. Plan for 5-7 days to hike, camp, and explore all the hidden gems along the way. You might even be lucky enough to spot the Northern Lights.
- Scenic Spots: Where to begin? Inverness Castle, Rogie Falls, Bealach na Bà, Achmelvich Beach, and Dunrobin Castle are just a few highlights.
- Where to Eat: You’ll find everything from fresh local seafood to cosy cafes in the many towns and villages along the NC500.
Cazoo suggests: the Toyota GT86 was designed by the Japanese brand from the ground up to deliver a rewarding driving experience, and the iconic North Coast 500 deserves a car that’s as thrilling as the route itself. With its sharp handling and low-slung design, it’s perfect for carving through the sweeping Highland roads.

Road Trip Checklist
Before you head off, here are a few simple tips:
- Check your car: Make sure your tyres, oil, and wipers are all in good shape. A quick check can save a lot of hassle later.
- Plan your stops: Some of these routes are remote. It’s always a good idea to know where you can stop for fuel and food.
- Pack snacks and drinks: A rumbling stomach can put a damper on any trip. Keep some snacks handy for the road.
- Follow the speed limits: These roads are for enjoying the journey, not for racing. Stick to the limits to stay safe.
- Bring some entertainment: If you’re travelling with family, some games or a tablet can help keep everyone happy on longer stretches.
Found the Route? Now Find the Car
Feeling inspired? A great road trip starts with the right car. Maybe you’re dreaming of a convertible for the Atlantic Highway or a sturdy SUV for the Scottish Highlands.
At Cazoo, we make finding your next car simple. We have a huge range of used cars to choose from, offered via our trusted dealers, so take a look!