Despite being one of the most densely populated countries in Europe, England’s beauty spots are within easy reach – especially if you have a car.

From breath-taking coastlines to windswept moorlands, the English outdoors still possesses a mystical charm that lures millions out on rural road trips each year.

And if you prefer getaways of a more urban variety, England offers everything from eccentric seaside resorts to ancient cities steeped in medieval magic.

In celebration of English Tourism Week, here are 10 of our favourite places to take a road trip in dear old Albion.

Dartmoor road trip

Sometimes called 'England's last great wilderness' Dartmoor is still straightforward to reach by car.

Cut through the heart of this wild landscape by taking the B3212 from Exeter to Plymouth (or vice versa), and stop off to see Bronze Age stone circles, mysterious standing stones and mighty tors – or simply to look at the delightful wild ponies.

Just don’t ask about the 'Hairy Hands'!

Make sure you’ve got your breakdown recovery details to hand – just in case!

 

Bath

Surely one of the most consistently pretty cities in England, Bath boasts stunning Georgian crescents and historic Roman Baths.

 

Lake District

As cherished as Dartmoor, the captivating beauty of the Lake District rises far higher – to beyond 900m.

If you’ve ever wondered why poets like Wordsworth were so preoccupied with this area, a road trip to the Lake District will reveal all.

 

Cambridge

Boasting one of the top five universities in the world, a visit to Cambridge is a wonderfully bookish affair.

Wander the cobbled streets or float down the tranquil River Cam on a traditional punt.


River Cam, Cambridge, England (AlexKozlov/Bigstock.com)

 

South Downs National Park, Sussex

Another incredible national park area, South Downs is quintessentially English.

Have your breath taken away by the chalky white Seven Sisters as they stand guard over the glassy blue English Channel, on a road trip to the South Downs National Park.

 

York

The site of numerous major political events in England, expect to find history aplenty in old York.

Don’t miss the iconic York Minster Cathedral or the National Railway Museum.

 

The Peak District

Whether you want to drive around and stop off at picturesque tea rooms, or get out there and enjoy a good hike, the Peak District is a perfect destination for an English road trip.

Discover why the likes of Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte so adored this area.

 

Brighton

Eccentric, loveable, and steeped in more British pop culture than perhaps anywhere outside London, Brighton offers something for everyone.

Don't miss the Brighton Pavilions or a night out on the tiles.


Brighton Pier, UK (Goldenwheels/Bigstock.com)

 

St Ives, Cornwall

This artistic mecca could almost be on the Mediterranean if you visit at the right time of year. White-washed houses, stunning beaches and culture galore.

A lengthy road trip if you’re coming from the north or the east of England, but very much worth it.

 

Liverpool

Home of the Beatles and two top flight football teams, Liverpool is a truly unique city boasting some of the friendliest people in the country.

Don’t miss the Albert Dock or the famous Liver Building during your road trip to Liverpool.


Albert Dock, Liverpool, UK (SAKhanPhotography/Bigstock.com)