The United Kingdom is a treasure trove of history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities, making it perfect for a memorable weekend getaway. With SelfDrive Mobility, offering flexibility, comfort, and affordability, exploring the UK becomes a breeze. Whether you're craving city excitement, scenic drives, or historical landmarks, the UK has something for every traveler. In this blog, we’ll take you through seven unforgettable weekend adventures across the UK, paired with the ideal hire cars for each journey.

Let’s dive into the best places to visit, how to get there, what to see, and how the right car hire can make your adventure even better.

1. Berkshire: A Royal Escape

How to Reach: Located just an hour from London, Berkshire is easy to reach by car via the M4 motorway or by train from London Paddington.

What to See:

• Windsor Castle: One of the oldest and most iconic castles in the world.
• Windsor Great Park: Ideal for a relaxing stroll or bike ride.
• Maidenhead & Charming Villages: Explore the picturesque villages scattered across the county. (Source: TripAdvisor)

Weather: Expect mild to cool temperatures, especially in spring and autumn, with average summer highs around 20°C (68°F).

Best Car for the Journey: For a smooth ride through the scenic countryside and quaint villages, the Renault Clio Dynamique (A) is perfect. It’s compact yet comfortable for navigating narrow lanes.

2. Brighton: Seaside Fun

How to Reach: Brighton is about 1.5 hours south of London by car or a quick train ride from London Victoria.

What to See:

• Royal Pavilion: A magnificent palace with stunning architecture.
• Brighton Pier: A classic seaside destination with fun rides and food.
• North Laine: A vibrant area filled with boutiques, cafes, and street art. (Source: Visit Brighton)

Weather: Brighton enjoys mild weather, with summer highs around 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F). Expect cool winds by the sea, so pack a light jacket.

Best Car for the Journey:
To explore Brighton’s beach and cultural offerings, the Renault Zoe (A) offers an eco-friendly and stylish option that’s perfect for seaside exploration.

3. Cardiff: Capital Adventures

How to Reach: Cardiff is easily accessible via the M4 motorway or a 2-hour train ride from London Paddington.

What to See:

• Cardiff Castle: A historical landmark in the heart of the city.
• Bute Park: A beautiful green space ideal for walking and picnicking.
• Millennium Stadium: Home to Welsh rugby, don’t miss a tour if you’re a sports fan.(Source: TripAdvisor)

Weather: Cardiff enjoys mild weather with summer temperatures ranging from 17°C to 21°C (62°F to 70°F). Rain is common, so an umbrella is a good idea.

Best Car for the Journey: For a city like Cardiff, the Renault Captur (A) is ideal. It’s compact for city driving but offers ample space for all your adventures, whether in the city or the countryside.

4. Edinburgh: A City of History and Beauty

How to Reach: Edinburgh is accessible by a 7-8 hour drive from London or a 4.5-hour direct train from London King’s Cross.

What to See:

• Edinburgh Castle: Dominates the skyline and offers incredible views.
• Royal Mile: A historic street lined with shops, cafes, and landmarks.
• Arthur’s Seat: Hike to the top for stunning panoramic views of the city. (Source: Holidify)

Weather: Expect cool and unpredictable weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) during summer. Always be prepared for rain.

Best Car for the Journey: To explore Edinburgh and the surrounding Highlands, the MG HS Exclusive (A) is a great option. It combines comfort and power for both city roads and scenic countryside drives.

5. London: A City of Endless Possibilities

How to Reach: London is well-connected by both domestic and international transport links. Easily reachable by car, train, or flight.

What to See:

• Tower of London: Discover the rich history behind this iconic landmark.
• Buckingham Palace: Watch the Changing of the Guard or take a tour inside.
• British Museum: Home to world-renowned exhibits. (Source: TripAdvisor)

Weather: Expect moderate temperatures with summer highs between 20°C and 23°C (68°F to 73°F). Rain is frequent, so always carry a raincoat or umbrella.

Best Car for the Journey: Navigating London’s busy streets requires a compact yet comfortable car. The Citroen C5 (A) is perfect for city exploration while offering a smooth drive through the capital.

6. Liverpool: Music and Maritime Heritage

How to Reach: Liverpool is easily accessible from London via the M62 motorway or a 2.5-hour train ride from London Euston.

What to See:

• The Beatles Story: A must-visit for fans of the legendary band.
• Royal Albert Dock: A vibrant area full of shops, restaurants, and museums.
• Anfield or Goodison Park: For football fans, a tour of these iconic stadiums is essential. (Source: Viator)

Weather: Liverpool has mild weather, with summer temperatures ranging from 14°C to 18°C (57°F to 64°F) and occasional rain.

Best Car for the Journey: For exploring Liverpool’s culture and heritage, the Renault Clio Dynamique (A) offers a compact, efficient ride that makes city driving a breeze.

7. Manchester: A Vibrant Cultural Hub

How to Reach: Manchester is accessible by the M6 motorway (about 4 hours from London) or by train from London Euston in about 2 hours.

What to See:

• Manchester Museum: A great spot for culture lovers.
• Northern Quarter: Known for its eclectic shops, cafes, and street art.
• Old Trafford: The famous home of Manchester United. (Source: Thrillophilia)

Weather: Expect typical British weather—cool, rainy, and changeable. Summer temperatures average between 15°C and 20°C (59°F to 68°F).

Best Car for the Journey: The Renault Captur (A) is the ideal choice for navigating the vibrant streets of Manchester, offering a comfortable drive with ample space to explore the city and surrounding areas.

Useful Apps for Your UK Road Trip

To make your weekend getaway even easier, consider downloading these helpful apps:

• Google Maps/Waze: For navigation and real-time traffic updates.
• Parkopedia: Find parking easily and at the best rates across the UK.
• CityMapper: Great for navigating public transport within major cities.
• TripAdvisor: Check out reviews for restaurants, attractions, and things to do.

Conclusion

Exploring the UK with a SelfDrive Mobility provides the freedom to see more of the country at your own pace. Whether you’re visiting historic cities, seaside towns, or cultural hubs, there’s a car for every adventure. From the compact Renault Clio Dynamique (A) for city exploration to the spacious MG HS Exclusive (A) for longer journeys, each vehicle offers the perfect blend of comfort, efficiency, and style.

Download the SelfDrive Mobility App or visit our website to book your vehicle today. For assistance, call us at 0203 097 4296, and our dedicated team will ensure a seamless car hire experience.

Note: Prices and offers are subject to change. Please verify details with the provider.