5 of the best driving holidays in the UK and Ireland
By Kingfisher Visitor Guides
You can't quite beat a relaxing and calming drive through the English countryside! That's why we've made a list of our favourite driving holidays in the UK and Ireland for you to try.
Devon coast
You will find fantastic coastal towns to stop off in, driving through Devon
Devon has it all: picturesque coastal scenes and serene countryside. This 120-mile trip is packed with everything you could want: coastal bays, dramatic cliffs, and an abundance of harbours. Whether you’re driving through or travelling by motorbike, this trip will make you feel at one with nature and the sea air. Start at the quayside town of Topsham, then make your way to Torquay along the A379 where, on the way, you’ll wander through Dawlish, Teignmouth and Shaldon village. Carry on along the A379 and you’ll discover the unspoiled beauties of Blackpool Sands and Slapton Sands.
Norfolk
The North Norfolk coast is 100-miles of beautiful nature and sleeping villages. Starting in Norwich, hit the road towards Salhouse to see the beautiful Broads before taking the speedier route down the A140 where you head north towards the coast.
Dorset coast
Take in the historic beauty of Corfe Castle as you pass by
This route combines beautiful coastlines, tucked-away villages, and rolling hills. Start at Swanage and go north past Corfe Castle and the Tank Museum on the A352. Then head down the B3071 by Lulworth Cove before heading back onto the A352 and the A535 to see the 323ft White Horse – it’s been there since 1808!
Offering 130 miles of Irish coasts, cliffs, and beautiful green hills, this route is perfect if you want to admire some stunning scenery. Start your journey by heading north from Belfast, along the Causeway Coast Route. Then, head towards Glenariff Forest Park before joining the A2 towards Dunluce Castle and the North Antrim coast.
The Cotswolds
Known for its golden stone, quaint chocolate box villages, and quintessentially English houses, the Cotswolds is a beautiful part of the country with hundreds of hidden gems. The 80-mile drive starts in the old market town of Chipping Campden, dubbed one of the ‘most perfect high streets in England’. Then, follow the Cotswold Way towards Broadway where you can stop and take in the town’s iconic tower. Next, join the A44 towards Moreton-in-Marsh, then the A49 towards Bourton-on-the-Water. Finally, head towards Northleach, which takes you through the beautiful back streets towards Bibury.