New research by Isuzu UK has revealed the nation’s most beautiful driving routes, celebrating the world-class scenery that can be enjoyed without leaving Britain.
The study of 2,000 drivers, carried out by Perspectus Global, named the journey from Kendal to Keswick in the Lake District as the most scenic, with 30 percent of respondents selecting it. This 30-mile stretch along the A591 takes in iconic views of the Lakeland fells and the banks of Windermere.
In second place was the route from Loch Lomond to Glencoe in the Scottish Highlands (29 percent), followed by the Coastal Way in Wales (23 percent). Other popular choices included Cheddar Gorge in Somerset (21 percent), the New Forest in Hampshire (20 percent), and the quieter Western Loop in the Lake District (18 percent), which passes Eskdale, Wast Water and Buttermere.
Snowdonia’s Llanberis Pass (15 percent), Dartmoor National Park (12 percent), and Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route (10 percent) also ranked highly, alongside Snake Pass in Derbyshire and the Yorkshire Dales circular route.
The research also highlighted Britain’s enthusiasm for road trips more generally:
- 92 percent believe the UK has some of the best road trips in the world
- 60 percent say a UK road trip can be as enjoyable, if not more so, than travelling abroad
- The average driver takes seven trips a year, covering around 93 miles each time
Essential items for the perfect trip include water and fully charged mobiles (60 percent each), crisps (46 percent), sandwiches (44 percent), and travel sweets or a hot drink (39 percent).
However, challenges remain: many cited fuel costs (42 percent), limited time (44 percent), and car limitations (10 percent) as barriers to more frequent road journeys.
For driver and rider trainers, this research highlights the value of Britain’s road networks not just for leisure but also as varied training grounds. Routes such as Cheddar Gorge, Snake Pass and the Llanberis Pass present excellent opportunities to build advanced driving and rider skills, testing learners in diverse environments from steep gradients to winding rural roads.
