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UK's best road trip named it beats North Coast 500, Jurassic Coast and Atlantic Highway

A new survey has crowned the best road trip in the UK

[Couple on a road trip]

The best road trip in the UK has been named(Image: GETTY)

The Lake District's Scenic Loop has been crowned the nation's favourite road trip - beating the North Coast 500 and the Southwest Atlantic Highway to pole position.

The mountainous region scooped the top spot with 63% thanks to its picturesque lakes, rolling hills and charming market towns.

The North Coast 500 in Scotland ranked second (54%), celebrated for its dramatic coastal scenery, historic castles and wildlife.

Completing the top three is the Southwest Atlantic Highway (48%), offering travellers a stunning combination of beautiful beaches, rugged cliffs and delicious seafood.

The findings, released following the launch of the Santander Rewards Credit Card, also found that more than two thirds of Brits are planning to holiday closer to home this year (68%).

It comes as rising travel costs (35%), ease of planning (31%) and less stressful journeys (30%) are helping to drive the staycation trend.

Brits expect to spend an average of 433.20 per person on a UK holiday this year, reaching 1732.80 on average for a family of four.

Other cost considerations for Brits holidaying at home include petrol/diesel (91), EV charging (51), accommodation (281), groceries (108.60) and dining out (148.60).

The staycation boom has gathered pace since the pandemic, with more than half (52%) of the 2,000 Brits quizzed saying they've explored more of the UK since 2020 than in the previous decade.

While the recent heatwave has brought temperatures more familiar to those abroad, the UK's temperamental seasons don't dampen the spirit of staycationers.

[A road trip]

The best road trip wasn't in Scotland or Wales (stock image)

Of those surveyed, almost three fifths (59%) say weather uncertainty isn't a deterrent.

While the weather can't always compete, 69% believe the UK's scenery rivals destinations abroad.

The UK's coastlines, countryside and national parks are increasingly seen as just as compelling as traditional overseas hotspots.

Highly photographed beauty spots and landmarks such as St Michael's Mount (48%), the White Cliffs (48%) and Loch Ness (42%) are among the top locations inspiring Brits to hit the road.

When choosing a road trip, the things that ranked most highly on the wish list include coastal views (66%), beaches (49%) great pubs and food stops (54%).

Additional hallmarks of the perfect kit for a trip include car snacks (24%), road trip playlists (19%), and a portable phone charger (18%).

Gerry Davies, Payments Commercial Director at Santander UK, said: "The research shows that more Brits are choosing to explore closer to home this year - with many opting to enjoy summer on the open road creating memorable experiences across the UK.

"From national parks and dramatic coastal routes to charming market towns and hidden gems, there's a huge appetite for discovering what's on our doorstep.

Whether it's a weekend getaway or a longer summer adventure, customers are increasingly seeking value and flexibility when they travel.

"That's why we've launched our Rewards Credit Card to help customers get more from their everyday spending, including 3% cashback on many of the things we buy throughout the summer."

For more information, visit https://www.santander.co.uk

Top 10 best road trips in the UK

1. Lake District Scenic Loop, England (63%)

2. North Coast 500, Scotland (54%)

3. Atlantic Highway, South West England (48%)

4. Snowdonia's Coast Way, Wales (47%)

5. Yorkshire Dales Scenic Drive, England (42%)

6. Jurassic Coast Road Trip, South Coast England (41%)

7. Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland (31%)

8. Dartmoor Explorer Route, Devon (29%)

9. Pembrokeshire Coastal Drive, Wales (29%)

10. Hadrians Wall Route, Northumberland (27%)

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