road trip roads
road trip roads

Top UK road trip destinations

 

This summer looks set to be the year of the Great British road trip, with two fifths of Brits planning on driving more. Those driving are already kicking their plans into gear too, with 39% of drivers having already booked a UK holiday this year vs. just 18% of non-drivers.

There are definitely lots of hidden gems to explore in the UK, to inspire those looking to explore the UK this summer we reveal the top five places voted the perfect road trip destinations.

 

South Downs National Park, England

cuckmere, south downs

South Downs National Park, England

Referred to as the lungs of south-east England, South Downs sits between London and the south coast, boasting rolling green hills, charming villages and beautiful landscapes. Only a fifth of travellers (23%) have made the most of its expansive space, fresh air and wonderful vistas. 

With more than 3,300km of green to explore, the South Downs National Park gives travellers plenty of space to relax and enjoy getting outside with staying 1- 2 metres apart not proving a problem.
 

Eden Project, Bodelva, England

eden project

Eden Project, Bodelva, England

Cornwall is a loved road trip destination, but the hidden gem for families this year is the Eden Project’s botanical garden. More than just a huge, tropical paradise, Eden is a gateway into the relationships between plants and people. 

Road trippers will think they’re abroad as they experience the sights, smells and scale of the rainforests in the Rainforest Biome - the world's largest greenhouse. Since it’s unlikely we’ll be flying overseas anytime soon, why not get a slice of South Africa and California as you discover the orange and lemon trees, olive groves and vines of the Mediterranean Biome.
 

Ben Nevis, Fort Williams, Scotland

path leading to the peak of ben nevis

Ben Nevis, Fort Williams, Scotland

If it's an adventure you’re after, join the 16% of Brits who have made it to the tallest mountain in the British Isles! The summit at Ben Nevis is formed by the remnants of an ancient volcano which exploded and collapsed inwards on itself millions of years ago, making it a sight like no other.

Harry Potter fans will recognise the Jacobite steam train which appears in four Harry Potter films carrying the beloved Hogwarts Express over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.
 

The White Cliffs of Dover, Kent, England

white cliffs of dover

The White Cliffs of Dover, Kent, England

Already on the radar for some holiday makers, the White Cliffs of Dover have been visited by 36% of Brits, however it’s likely to soon see fresh faces as research reveals nearly half of Brits (44%) are opting for the countryside or woodlands for their next holiday.

An official icon of Britain, the White Cliffs of Dover’s dazzling white chalk faces and sharp edges reach layers of lush grass for the perfect photo opportunity. Don’t forget to admire the gorgeous ponies speckled throughout the fields! 

Arthurs Seat, Edinburgh, Scotland

arthurs seat edinburgh

Arthurs Seat, Edinburgh, Scotland

This gorgeous, grass covered hill marks the remains of an extinct volcano that erupted 350 million years ago. Arthurs Seat is situated in Holyrood Park, an easy 45-minute walk from Edinburgh's city centre. 

Surprisingly, only 18% of Brits have visited Edinburgh's landmark which dominates the city’s skyline. The view alone will give you some serious top-of-the-world feels!  
 

In need of a car?

plugging in phone at the wheel of a zipcar

In need of a car?

Zipcar Roundtrip is the perfect car hire option for weekend breaks. Pick up your car from a dedicated bay, enjoy your road trip, then return it to the same bay when you’re done. Easy!
 

What's included?

Each drive has everything you need included in the cost to help you make the most of your trip – and to keep things simple.    

60 miles included each day, after that it's from 25p/mile
Insurance - third party motor liability - covered in every drive
Breakdown assistance roadside 24/7/365, at no extra cost
Fuel! If you need to top up there's a fuel card on the dashboard

Why Zipcar?

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Save money

We pay for fuel, parking, Congestion Charge and insurance – so you get access to a car without all the hassle of owning one!

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Rent a car locally

Zipcars live just around the corner. We've got the largest car sharing fleet in the UK (not that we're boasting) and you'll find us in cities across the UK. 

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Drive on-demand

Whatever you need wheels for, we’ve got them. Rent cars and vans by the minute, hour or day when and where you need them.

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Live greener

We’re the perfect addition to buses, trains and bikes for those times when you just need a car. We've also got hundreds of electric cars in our fleet.