South West Coast, NC500 Named UK’s Top Scenic Routes

Several scenic routes and coastal paths across the UK and the US have been recognized for their outstanding natural beauty and cultural significance in 2025. In the UK, the South West Coast Path stretch between Bude and Westward Ho! was named Britain’s Favourite Path by the Ramblers, praised for its mental health benefits and coastal views. Scotland’s North Coast 500 scenic drive, dubbed 'Scotland’s Route 66,' offers 516 miles of stunning Highlands landscapes, including beaches, historic ruins, and quiet villages, though its growing popularity presents challenges. In the US, Chicago’s Lake Shore Drive was highlighted as a top urban road trip destination with its combination of beaches, architecture, and cultural landmarks. Coastal road trip destinations in Texas, California, and New York were featured for their diverse shorelines and unique local cultures, providing varied experiences from surfing to historic towns. Additionally, the Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains, was recognized as one of the best US road trips, notable for its panoramic views and natural landmarks, with ongoing restoration efforts following recent storm damage.