13 Scenic Routes for a London Road Trip Adventure
There’s something about leaving the bustle of London behind and hitting the road that feels exhilarating.
One of the things I have always appreciated is how a weekender road trip transforms an ordinary weekend into an extraordinary escape.
From charming historic villages to stunning coastal drives, there’s plenty to see a couple hours from the city.
This guide points to 13 of them that could make for your next road trip adventure.
Whether you’re in pursuit of nature, history, or simply a breath of fresh air, these routes will be exceptional adventures.
1. The Cotswolds: The Quintessential English Countryside
Just an hour or two from London, the Cotswolds is a postcard-perfect destination.
As you drive along its winding lanes, you’ll come across honey-colored cottages, rolling hills and pretty market towns.
I paused in Bourton-on-the-Water, known as the “Venice of the Cotswolds,” and spent hours wandering its quaint streets.
Be sure to stop in at Bibury, sometimes referred to as England’s most beautiful village — it’s actually like magic.
2. South Downs
Head south, and within two hours you’ll arrive at the beautiful South Downs National Park.
I had loved the drive along the Seven Sisters cliffs with their rugged, chalky edges dropping sharply into the sea.
Pack a picnic and take a break at Devil’s Dyke for panoramic views of the countryside.
Quaint Alfriston village is a perfect place to stop for a cream tea.
3. The New Forest: Home to Wild Ponies
The New Forest, about 90 minutes from London, is like stepping into another world.
Wild ponies casually crossed the road as I drove through its ancient woodlands and heathlands.
Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst are lovely villages to discover, with cosy pubs and unusual shops.
If cycling is your thing, this area boasts some truly great trails to get the legs moving.
4. Cambridge and Ely: Scholar Meets Serenity
Drive for 1.5 hours to arrive at Cambridge, famed for its historic colleges and punting on the River Cam.
I combined this with a visit to Ely, a lovely city dominated by its beautiful cathedral.
The route between the two is a patchwork of quiet fenlands and waterways.
It’s the ideal mix of culture and natural beauty delivered in a single trip.
5. The Peak District: Rugged Landscapes and Hidden Gems
The Peak District, a further three hours from London, is also well worth a visit.
I drove over Snake Pass, a twisted route that opened up incredible views of the moorlands.
Bakewell, known for its tarts, is a perfect stop for a snack and some charming shopping.
But if you’re after a hike, there are more than enough options here — the summit of Mam Tor provides views that will leave you breathless.
6. Oxford and the Chilterns: The Intersection of History and Nature
Pair a visit to Oxford with a scenic drive in the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Exploring Oxford’s iconic landmarks such as the Radcliffe Camera and Bodleian Library was one of my favourite days.
The Chilterns’ rolling landscapes are home to many quaint villages such as Turville and Hambleden.
It’s an ideal blend of intellectual urbanity and pastoral tranquility.
7. Kent, The Garden of England: Castles and Vineyards
An hour from London, a drive through Kent will reward you with castles, orchards and endless greenery.
I went to Leeds Castle, which seems the stuff of fairy tales and rests surrounded by a moat and gardens.
Vineyards in Tenterden are a must on the to-do list for any wine lover (English sparkling wine is surprisingly tasty!)
On your return home, stop in at Whitstable for fresh seafood.
8. The Jurassic Coast: Ridge Lines, Sand and Cliffs
If you’re up for a longer drive (about three hours), Dorset’s Jurassic Coast is glorious.
I parked near Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch and one of the UK’s most famous sights.
And it’s a unique, memorable road trip with beaches and fossil-filled cliffs.
You can also explore Lyme Regis, called the “Pearl of Dorset.”
9. Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswold Edge
Add the birthplace of Shakespeare and a driving tour of the Cotswold Edge.
Stratford-upon-Avon is a must for theater lovers, and the Tudor cyclical town is enchanting.
The B4632 route takes sweeping views and passes through picturesque villages.
It’s a really great combination of cultural heritage and countryside.
10. Norfolk Broads: A network of waterways and wildlife
Drive two hours to the Norfolk Broads, a dream of a place for nature lovers.
The wide open plains are fabulous for slow drives, as well as lots of stopping to check out the surroundings.
I rented a boat for an hour to experience some of the placid waterways up close — it was so serene.
There are some excellent cafés around the nearby town of Wroxham to refuel.
11. Salisbury and Stonehenge: Amazing Old Things
Less than a two-hour drive from London, Stonehenge is a must for history buffs.
Combine it with a stop in Salisbury, with its spectacular cathedral and medieval streets.
The drive through the Wiltshire countryside is soothing, with rolling fields and pastoral views.
Plan time for a hearty pub lunch en route.
12. The Wye Valley: Tumbling Waterfalls and Lush Forests
The Wye valley is one of the UK’s most scenic drives, at around 2.5 hours from London.
The route meanders alongside the River Wye, threading through woods and past historical sites like Tintern Abbey.
I paused for a riverside picnic, taking in the peace of the setting.
Symonds Yat is a great viewpoint for panoramic pictures.
13. The Surrey Hills — A Rural Escape Near London
The Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is just 40 minutes from the city.
Driving through Box Hill, with its serpentine roads and breathtaking sights across the countryside, was another favourite of mine.
Swing by Denbies Wine Estate for a vineyard tour or picnic in the fields.
To prove that you don’t need to travel far from London for pastoral seclusion.
