AA Travel Experts Reveal Top 10 UK Summer Road Trips

41% of the UK look to staycations this summer to avoid the airline chaos
Experts reveal the top British road trips and events to visit

Seeking adventure, breathtaking scenery, and memorable experiences this summer? Then look no further as the AA’s team of trusted experts at RatedTrips.com have revealed the top 10 road trips in the UK for 2023, perfect for a weekend break with the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Take to the open road for:

·       A breathtaking Welsh journey from Builth Wells to Aberystwyth

·       An awe-inspiring trip through the valley from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Bangor

·       A relaxing route hugging England’s stunning coastline from St Mawes to Penzance

Plus! Every route includes top AA-rated places to stay and eat along the way.

 And to enhance your road trip experience, the experts have even highlighted exciting events happening in each destination. From Viking festivals and music concerts to food festivals and art exhibitions, there’s something for everyone.

AA UK top 10 road trips revealed

Thetford to King’s Lynn

Norfolk: Immerse yourself in Norfolk’s diverse landscapes, visit market towns, and soak up the coastal beauty of Wells-next-the-Sea.

For the Artist: King’s Lynn Festival (16-29 July)
The Annual festival of music and art, King’s Lynn.

 Danby to York

North Yorkshire: Traverse the dramatic Yorkshire Moors, encounter charming towns, and experience York’s architectural wonders.

For the Nature Enthusiast: Rosedale Annual Show – (19 August)
Farm show, founded in 1871 (Rosedale Abbey).

Builth Wells to Aberystwyth

Powys and Ceredigion: Indulge in the breathtaking landscapes of mid-Wales, explore quaint towns, and enjoy Aberystwyth’s coastal charm.

For the Music Lover: MusicFest Aberystwyth (31 July-5 Aug) Classical and orchestral music in a variety of venues in Aberystwyth.

Blaenau Ffestiniog to Bangor

Gwynedd: Uncover the Conwy Valley’s beauty, visit Colwyn Bay and Llandudno, and embrace Bangor’s vibrant atmosphere.

For the Busy Bee:  (July & Aug)
A mix of paid and free events including concerts, classic car show, street food at various venues in Bangor.
Open House Festival (July & Aug)

New Romney to Canterbury

Kent: Discover three Cinque ports, picturesque coastline, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Canterbury.

For the Petrol Head:  Kent VW Festival (4–6 August)
A celebration of Volkswagen cars and vans with music – Coldred village, just outside Dover.

Bishop’s Waltham to Winchester

Hampshire: Delve into Hampshire’s historic towns, serene countryside, and experience Winchester’s rich heritage and modern delights.

For the Foodie: Foodies Festival (14–16 July)
Food festival with well-known local chefs and live music. North Walls Recreation Grounds,

 Inverewe Garden (Poolewe) to Inverness

Highlands: Travel through the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, witness stunning Loch Ewe, and explore Inverness, a growing city filled with hidden gems.

For the Culture Seeker: City of Inverness Highland Games (15 July)
Scottish sports, culture, music and food. Bught Park Pitches, Inverness.

St Mawes to Penzance

Cornwall: Journey through Cornwall’s treasures, from enchanting gardens to the southernmost point of the UK in Penzance.

For the Beach Lover: Falmouth Week (4–12 August)
 Sailing, street performance and live music, Falmouth. 

Cambridge to Ipswich

Cambridgeshire and Suffolk: Explore the gentle East Anglian landscape, pass through idyllic villages, and explore Ipswich’s historical allure.

For a taste of Asia: Magic of Thailand (5–6 August)
Celebration of Thai food and culture, Parker’s Piece, Cambridge. 

Clitheroe to Morecambe

Lancashire: Experience historic forests, vibrant coastal lights, and the upcoming ‘Eden Project North’ on Morecambe’s seafront.

For the History Lover: Heysham Viking Festival (15–16 July)
A celebration of Viking culture –– Heysham (3 miles from Morecambe).

Visit AA Rated Trips for more details on the top 10 routes as well as events, travel tips and places to stay and eat along the way.