A campervan or motorhome is the perfect way to explore the stunning coastlines of the UK and Ireland. Here’s how you can enjoy five of the best coastal road trips, each offering breathtaking views, local flavours, and unforgettable experiences.
1. North Coast 500, Northern Scotland
Scotland’s answer to Route 66, the amazing North Coast 500 route covers over 500 miles of stunning northern coastline. Starting in Inverness, this circular route can be traveled clockwise or anti-clockwise. Head west to Applecross for amazing views over the sea to the Isle of Skye, and don’t miss driving up Bealach na Ba, the UK’s steepest road, which twists uphill to over 2,000 feet.
Highlights include the white sandy beaches of Mellon Udrigle and Achmelvich, the bustling town of Ullapool, and the iconic John O’Groats signpost. Visit Dunrobin Castle, Scotland’s largest, and the Fairy Glen waterfalls near Rosemarkie.
Don’t Miss
Smoo Cave near Durness. Walk in or take a guided tour to witness the 60-foot waterfall crashing into the cave.
What to Eat
Haggis, world-class seafood, and some of the best raspberries in the UK.
What to Drink
Whisky. After a day of driving, visit Glenmorangie or Glen Ord distilleries for a “wee dram.”
Top Tip
Pack warm and waterproof clothes, the weather can change quickly and turn dreary.
2. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
One of the longest coastal road trips in the world, the Wild Atlantic Way stretches over 2,500 km from County Donegal to County Cork. Start at Malin Head, Ireland’s most northerly point, where you might spot the Northern Lights. Marvel at Slieve League, three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher, and explore Downpatrick Head, where St. Patrick founded a church. The route ends at the Old Head of Kinsale, a dramatic promontory with a lighthouse and golf course.
Don’t Miss
Galway, with its winding streets, live music, and vibrant café culture.
What to Eat
Galway oysters, soda bread, Irish stew, and broxty (potato pancakes).
What to Drink
Guinness, Irish coffee, or Club Rock Shandy, a unique Irish drink.
Top Tip
Be patient, pouring the perfect pint of Guinness is an art and takes time.
3. The A39 & The Atlantic Highway, South West England
Forget Route 66, this road trip is all about “feelin’ fine on the A39!” Starting in Bath, the route winds through Dorset and Devon before becoming the Atlantic Highway in Cornwall. Highlights include Exmoor National Park, Tintagel Castle (legendary birthplace of King Arthur), and the surfing beaches of Newquay.
Don’t Miss
Clovelly, a charming village with a steep, cobbled street leading to the harbor.
What to Eat
Cream tea (with jam and clotted cream, or vice versa, depending on whether you’re in Devon or Cornwall!) and Cornish pasties.
What to Drink
West Country cider or scrumpy, but save it for after driving, it’s strong!
Top Tip
Bring a surfboard or bodyboard to ride the Atlantic waves.
4. Swansea to Aberystwyth, South & Mid-Wales
This unnamed but spectacular route takes you from Swansea’s Gower Peninsula to the Victorian resort of Aberystwyth. Explore Rhossili Beach, the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, and the charming towns of Tenby and St. David’s, the UK’s smallest city.
Don’t Miss
Dolphins in Ceredigion Bay, home to Europe’s largest colony of bottlenose dolphins.
What to Eat
Welsh rarebit, bara brith (fruit cake), cawl (lamb and leek broth), and laverbread (seaweed).
What to Drink
Tea with bara brith or a traditional Welsh beer.
Top Tip
Learn a little Welsh: “Bore da” (good morning), “diolch” (thank you), and “iechyd da” (cheers!).
5. Norfolk Coast Drives, Eastern England
This scenic route follows Norfolk’s east and north coasts from Great Yarmouth to Hunstanton. Highlights include the red-and-white striped Happisburgh Lighthouse, the seal colony at Blakeney Point, and the vast Holkham Beach.
Don’t Miss
Holkham Hall & Estate and Wells-next-the-Sea, a picturesque harbor town.
What to Eat
Cromer crab, Brancaster mussels, Stiffkey cockles, and samphire.
What to Drink
Local beer, Norfolk has more microbreweries than any other county.
Top Tip
Bring binoculars for birdwatching at the RSPB Nature Reserve at Titchwell Marsh.
Top 5 Coastal Road Trip Tips
- Take your time: it’s a road trip, not a race.
- Leave no trace: respect local communities and the environment.
- Pack snacks and drinks to stay energized.
- Plan ahead to make the most of your stops.
- Focus on quality over quantity: enjoy shorter stretches rather than rushing.
These five coastal road trips promise unforgettable adventures. The only question is: which one will you explore first?
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