Kendal to Keswick Tops Britain’s Most Breathtaking Drives, Proving You Don’t Need to Go Abroad for Scenic Adventure

Britain’s roads are calling, and drivers are answering. According to new research from Isuzu UK, the nation’s most awe-inspiring and peaceful driving routes reveal that the UK offers road trip experiences that rival, and sometimes surpass, those found overseas.

Topping the poll is the 30-mile journey from Kendal to Keswick in the Lake District, with 30% of respondents naming it their favourite. Winding along the A591, the route treats motorists to panoramic views of Lakeland fells, serene lakes, and the banks of Windermere—a quintessential Lake District experience that captures the imagination at every turn. Close behind, the dramatic landscapes of Loch Lomond to Glencoe in the Scottish Highlands claimed 29%, offering a spectacular tour through Argyll Forest Park and past the mirror-like waters of Loch Tulla and Loch Ba.

The Coastal Way in Wales follows in third place (23%), with its rugged shoreline and charming villages, while Cheddar Gorge (21%) and the tranquil loops of the New Forest (20%) provide contrasting but equally unforgettable drives. The Lake District’s quieter Western Loop through Eskdale, Wast Water, and Buttermere (18%) offers a slower, reflective journey amid serene fell and lake views. Other notable routes include Llanberis Pass in Snowdonia, the dramatic moorlands of Dartmoor National Park, and Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route, a backdrop familiar to “Game of Thrones” fans.

It’s clear that Britons value the open road. A staggering 92% of those surveyed believe the UK boasts some of the world’s best road trips, with 95% agreeing that our island is home to some of the most beautiful locations on the planet. Two-thirds feel that a domestic road trip can rival, or even surpass, an overseas adventure. On average, Brits embark on seven road trips per year, covering around 93 miles per journey, often accompanied by partners, children, or close friends.

Yet, practical challenges remain. Time constraints (44%), fuel costs (42%), and family preferences for foreign holidays (21%) limit some road trip plans. Vehicle suitability also plays a role, with one in ten drivers citing car size or capability as a barrier.

George Wallis, Head of Marketing at Isuzu UK, commented:
“It’s fantastic to see just how much Brits appreciate the incredible scenery that we have in the UK, with routes like Kendal to Keswick and Loch Lomond to Glencoe topping the list. With 92% saying the UK has some of the world’s best road trips, and two-thirds believing they can be just as enjoyable as going abroad, having the right vehicle is essential. The dependable 4×4 Isuzu D-Max, with its go-anywhere capability, is built to help drivers tackle these stunning routes with ease. Whether winding through Cheddar Gorge or climbing Llanberis Pass, the Isuzu D-Max ensures you pick up amazing memories, one scenic stop at a time.”

Preparation is part of the fun. Essential items for a long drive include bottles of water, fully charged mobiles, crisps, homemade sandwiches, travel sweets, and a flask of tea or coffee. Many drivers also plan service stops carefully and curate a dedicated playlist, while others add comforts like blankets, pillows, and snacks to ensure the journey is as enjoyable as the destination.

From the rolling fells of Cumbria to the rugged Highlands, the UK’s roads offer a diverse and unforgettable array of journeys. Whether it’s the iconic Kendal to Keswick route or the hidden gems of the South Downs and Black Mountains, these drives prove that the world’s most scenic adventures can be found right on our doorstep.

The 20 Best Drives in Britain

1. Kendal to Keswick, Lake District – 30%
2. Loch Lomond to Glencoe, Scottish Highlands – 29%
3. Coastal Way, Wales – 23%
4. Cheddar Gorge, Somerset – 21%
5. New Forest, Hampshire – 20%
6. Lake District Western Loop, Cumbria – 18%
7. Snake Pass, Pennines, Derbyshire – 18%
8. Yorkshire Dales Circular, North Yorkshire – 18%
9. Cotswolds Romantic Road, Gloucestershire & Oxfordshire – 15%
10. Llanberis Pass, Snowdonia, Wales – 15%
11. North Coast 500, Scotland – 14%
12. Dartmoor National Park, Devon – 12%
13. Atlantic Highway (A39), Devon to Cornwall – 12%
14. South Downs Way, Sussex – 10%
15. Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland – 10%
16. Isle of Skye Loop, Scotland – 9%
17. Black Mountain Pass (A4069), Wales – 8%
18. Hebridean Way, Scotland – 8%
19. Hardknott & Wrynose Passes, Lake District – 8%
20. Glen Etive to Steall Falls, Scotland – 8%

For Brits craving adventure, it seems the call of the road is stronger than ever—and the UK’s scenic drives are ready to deliver.