Quieter UK Summer Day Trips

08/05/2025 11:21 Share

Quieter UK Summer Day Trips

There’s no better way to make the most of the UK’s odd spot of sunshine than with a spontaneous day trip. The UK is filled with hidden gems that are just a short drive away, no trains, no airport queues, just you and the open road. Are you a coastal lover or looking for city vibes? Whatever your mood, these lesser-known spots are ideal for a day trip and easy to reach by car.

We've picked some of the quieter attractions here – still stunning, but not as busy as the usual tourist spots. We've focused on smooth drives, scenic routes, and hassle-free parking.

For Coastal Lovers

Everyone knows about Cornwall and Brighton, but what about the quieter corners of the coastline?

Robin Hood’s Bay, nestled between Whitby and Scarborough, is a charming, car-accessible fishing village with dramatic cliffs and winding streets.

Or try Aberdaron on the Llyn Peninsula, a peaceful stretch of beach that's a lot quieter in summer than popular Pembrokeshire. Still, with golden beaches and sweeping dunes, it’s more like the Med than North Wales.

Llansteffan in Carmarthenshire overlooks the mouth of the River Towy. This quiet Welsh coastal village offers golden sands, a ruined Norman castle to explore, and peaceful woodland walks. It’s rarely crowded, with free or inexpensive parking right by the beach, perfect for a serene seaside escape.

Discover Culzean Bay in Ayrshire. Tucked beneath the stunning Culzean Castle, this Scottish beach is a hidden gem. The drive down is beautifully scenic, and once you’re there you can stroll along the sandy bay or through the clifftop gardens of the castle estate. It’s a refreshing alternative to busier west coast spots.

For History Buffs

Skip the crowds at Stonehenge and go off-radar with places steeped in just as much intrigue.

Avebury in Wiltshire boasts an even larger stone circle than Stonehenge, and you can walk among the stones freely. Jointly ran by English Heritage and the National Trust, there’s ample parking and plenty of proper pubs nearby.

Or head to Stokesay Castle in Shropshire, a perfectly preserved medieval manor that feels like stepping back in time. The best-preserved fortified medieval manor house in England often runs events throughout the summer months, excellent for entertaining young historians.

Just outside Cardiff, Castell Coch looks straight from the pages of a fairy tale. With its towering turrets and Gothic Revival architecture, it's an easy drive from South Wales cities and offers plenty of nearby parking. Far less visited than larger Welsh castles like Caernarfon, but every bit as enchanting.

Once the ancient capital of Scotland, Dunfermline is steeped in history but often overlooked. The Dunfermline Abbey is the burial place of King Robert the Bruce, and the surrounding town is charming and walkable. Just 30 minutes from Edinburgh by car, with stress-free access and parking options.

On the Ards Peninsula lies Greyabbey, a beautiful 12th-century ruin surrounded by parkland and gardens. It’s a peaceful, off-the-radar spot perfect for a quiet picnic or photo walk. Easy to reach by car with plenty of space to park, ideal for a calm and contemplative day trip.

For Natural Beauty

The UK countryside offers an unbeatable mix of peace, space, and photo-worthy views.

Drive to Malham Cove in the Yorkshire Dales, a natural limestone amphitheatre surrounded by rolling hills and waterfalls. Park up in the town, wander around the cove, then head back for a pub lunch and a well-earned drink.

Explore the Quantock Hills in Somerset, one of England’s first Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, ideal for walking and wildlife spotting. Famous for its sweeping purple heather, there are plenty of circular walks to soak up the scenery.

The Elan Valley, Powys is a network of dams, reservoirs, and rolling hills that feels wonderfully remote but is very accessible by car. The scenic driving routes are a dream for road-trippers, and there are plenty of spots to stop, walk, and picnic without the crowds of Snowdonia or the Brecon Beacons.

Just off the A9 near Dunkeld, The Hermitage is a hidden woodland wonder. Towering Douglas firs, a waterfall, and mossy paths make it a magical place to wander. The short drive from Perth or Stirling is easy and scenic, and the National Trust car park makes access simple.

Known as the "Queen of the Glens," Glenariff in County Antrim offers dramatic waterfalls, deep wooded valleys, and panoramic views of the Antrim coast. It's a quieter alternative to the Giant’s Causeway and perfect for a summer hike. There’s a good car park at the trailhead, making it an easy drive-in day out.

For Big Town Buzz

Want a touch of culture and coffee without the capital city chaos?

Try Durham, the compact, characterful city with a majestic cathedral, riverside walks, and relaxed vibes. Just off the A1(M), Durham is easy to get to from anywhere in the North.

Or head to Lincoln, where charming medieval buildings flank its modern market. See Magna Carta at Lincoln Castle then head out for a delicious brunch.

A colourful market town set against the Tywi Valley, Llandeilo is bursting with boutique shops, cafes, and galleries. It combines a creative buzz with a countryside backdrop and is just off the A40, with easy parking options. It's the perfect blend of charm and culture without big-city stress.

Often overlooked in favour of Glasgow or Edinburgh, Stirling has royal history, vibrant shopping, and an emerging food scene. The castle and Wallace Monument add to its appeal, but it’s still relaxed and easy to get around. There’s ample parking, and it’s ideal for a car-based day trip.

Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland’s second city, is packed with character from its famous 17th-century walls to modern museums and street art. It’s compact and welcoming, with scenic drives along the Causeway Coastal Route leading in. It’s a great cultural city experience without the intensity of Belfast traffic.

Getting Around the UK by Car

With wild coasts and sleepy villages, some of the best UK day trips are the ones just off the beaten track. With a little planning and a good playlist, your car can take you to incredible places without the crowds or cost.

Before you hit the road, make sure your car is ready for the summer miles ahead. A Summer Health Check from Vertu ensures your car is safe, efficient, and road-trip-ready, from tyres to fluids and air-con.

Almost 70% of our vehicle technicians report a spike in air conditioning issues during the summer months. Nothing could spoil the fun of your summer day trip quite like queueing in a hot car! Well, maybe the UK rain, but we can’t fix that...

A Vertu Summer Health Check is a small pit stop that helps your adventures go smoothly. Book yours today and drive into summer with confidence.

Book a Summer Health Check