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The Best UK Road Trips To Take With Your Family This Summer

As the weather warms up and families start planning their summer getaways, road trips are becoming a go-to choice. Searches for “the best UK road trips” have surged by 21% in the past six months, showing that families are eager to hit the road and explore new destinations. If you’re craving a getaway filled with scenic views, memorable stops, and family-friendly adventures, a road trip might be just what you need.

Whether you’re seeking dramatic coastlines, rolling countryside, or historic towns, there’s nothing quite like a road trip to create lasting memories. To help you find the perfect adventure, the car experts at Garage.co.uk have revealed the top 5 family-friendly road trips across the UK. These routes are ideal for school holidays, upcoming bank holidays, or even last-minute escapes. Each one has been chosen for its ease of driving, family-friendly stops, accessible service stations, and overall scenic and entertainment value.

Top 5 UK Family Road Trips

1. North Coast 500, Scotland

No. of Stops: 12

No. of Service Stations: 7

Approx. Driving Time: 8-10 hours (loop)

Best For: Dramatic coastal views

Known as Scotland’s answer to Route 66, the North Coast 500 is a jaw-dropping 500-mile loop starting and ending in Inverness. It’s a road trip full of rugged cliffs, white sand beaches, and charming Highland villages. This route is ideal for families who love castles, wildlife spotting, and the occasional ice cream on the beach. The trip is filled with scenic beauty, making it one of the most picturesque and memorable routes for families.

2. Cornwall Coastal Route

No. of Stops: 10

No. of Service Stations: 6

Approx. Driving Time: 5-7 hours

Best For: Beach and surf fun

Starting in St Ives and winding through Penzance, Newquay, and Padstow, the Cornwall Coastal Route is a dream for seaside lovers. With its sandy beaches, surf schools, and family-friendly restaurants, there’s something for everyone. Stop for a pasty pit stop or a visit to the Eden Project, and don’t forget to take in the stunning coastal views along the way.

3. Peak District Circular

No. of Stops: 8

No. of Service Stations: 4

Approx. Driving Time: 3-5 hours

Best For: Outdoor adventures

For families looking for a mix of nature, history, and fresh air, the Peak District Circular is a perfect choice. This manageable route takes you through Bakewell, Castleton, and Kinder Scout, offering opportunities for walks, cave explorations, and relaxing in countryside cafés. The shorter drive times and compact route make it perfect for younger children too.

4. Norfolk Broads to Cromer

No. of Stops: 6

No. of Service Stations: 3

Approx. Driving Time: 2-4 hours

Best For: Wildlife and boat trips

This gentle East Coast road trip combines nature reserves, wildlife spotting, and traditional seaside charm. Starting at the Norfolk Broads, the route leads you to the Victorian seaside town of Cromer, where you can hire a boat, explore nature reserves, or simply enjoy the traditional attractions. It’s a peaceful and educational road trip that the whole family will love.

5. Snowdonia to Anglesey

No. of Stops: 7

No. of Service Stations: 4

Approx. Driving Time: 3-5 hours

Best For: Mountains and castles

Snowdonia is known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, while Anglesey offers serene beaches, making this a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Enjoy a scenic drive while exploring ancient castles, hopping on steam train rides, and experiencing some of the most beautiful driving roads in Wales.

Top Tips for Getting Your Car Ready for a Road Trip

Before you set off on your family road trip, it’s important to ensure your car is in top condition. No one wants to deal with breakdowns or car troubles while on vacation. The car experts at Garage.co.uk recommend the following checks to ensure your journey goes smoothly and safely:

Check Your Tyres (Including the Spare!) Make sure your tyres are properly inflated and have enough tread depth. The legal minimum is 1.6mm, but 3mm is recommended for safety. Don’t forget to check your spare or repair kit, just in case you need it.

Top Up All Fluids Long journeys put extra strain on your engine, so it’s important to top up essential fluids such as engine oil, coolant, screen wash, and brake fluid. This helps prevent breakdowns and overheating.

Test Your Battery If your battery is more than 3 years old, it’s worth having it tested. A weak battery can easily cause breakdowns, and the last thing you want is to be stuck on the side of the road with kids in the back!

Make Sure Your Lights Are Working Check that all your lights—headlights, brake lights, indicators, and number plate lights—are fully functioning. Carry spare bulbs in case of any issues, especially for night driving or when you’re in remote areas.

Pack an Emergency Kit Make sure to pack essentials like a warning triangle, hi-vis vests, a first aid kit, torch, mobile phone charger, bottled water, snacks, and blankets. A paper map is also a good backup if your sat-nav or phone signal fails.

Road trips are a fantastic way to explore the beauty of the UK and create lasting memories with your family. Whether you’re venturing into the rugged Highlands of Scotland or soaking up the sun in Cornwall, the adventure is sure to be worth it. Just remember to prepare your car for the journey, and you’ll be all set for a smooth and memorable trip!