UK drivers prefer scenic routes over fastest, poll finds
Survey reveals 52% prioritise beautiful scenery, adding 41 minutes to journeys for better views
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A survey of 2,000 UK drivers has found that more than half prioritise scenic views over the fastest route when planning long car journeys. The poll, commissioned by temporary car insurance provider Tempcover, revealed that drivers are willing to add an average of 41 minutes to their trips to experience better scenery.
The findings highlight a preference for staycations and road trips that avoid motorways. 41% of respondents described road trips as boring, often due to motorway monotony or being stuck behind lorries. The M25 was identified as the dullest road to drive on, according to the survey.
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Barriers to scenic driving
Despite the appeal of scenic routes, 21% of drivers said they do not know how to find them. 57% rarely or only sometimes plan scenic detours before setting off, while 49% rely heavily on sat navs, which often direct them along the fastest rather than the most picturesque paths.
Tempcover has responded to these challenges by launching an online tool. Drivers can enter start and end UK postcodes to discover alternative scenic routes. The tool also suggests 'swap spot' locations where drivers can stop and share the journey. Adam Craddock, a temporary car insurance expert at Tempcover, said the tool aims to help holidaymakers balance efficiency with exploration.
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“The UK possesses world-class landscapes that genuinely rival top global destinations - from the spectacular vistas of the Scottish Highlands to the serene beauty of the Lake District - and our new interactive tool is designed to unlock them all.”
Adam Craddock, temporary car insurance expert at Tempcover
Scenic routes and shared experiences
The survey found that scenic routes can reduce travel time. 37% of drivers reported that scenic detours took a similar amount of time to motorway journeys, while 25% said they were faster due to avoiding traffic and congestion. However, scenic views can also lead to disputes, with 13% of drivers accusing passengers of hogging the best views.
Ricky Wilson, frontman of the Kaiser Chiefs, endorsed the tool, sharing his experiences of scenic detours during band tours. He said taking the scenic route had led to memorable moments, such as an impromptu stop at Stonehenge. Wilson added that scenic stops are now essential when travelling with his four-year-old twins.
The survey also revealed that 68% of drivers enjoy countryside scenery the most, followed by beach and coastal routes at 63%. However, 41% of drivers never split driving responsibilities, with 47% preferring to stay behind the wheel. Insurance concerns were cited by 27% as a reason for not sharing driving duties.
What happens next
Tempcover’s online tool is now available for drivers to use. The company has also emphasised the importance of flexible insurance options to allow shared driving. Craddock said temporary comprehensive cover can be arranged in minutes, making it easier for drivers to take turns and enjoy the journey together.
Questions this report answers
+How many drivers prefer scenic routes over the fastest?
52% of UK drivers consider beautiful scenery important when planning long journeys, according to a poll of 2,000 drivers. The survey found that many are willing to add 41 minutes to their trips for better views.
+What is the dullest road to drive on, according to the poll?
The M25 was voted the dullest road to drive on in the survey. 41% of drivers described road trips as boring, often due to motorway monotony or being stuck behind lorries.
+How can drivers find scenic routes?
Tempcover has launched an online tool where drivers can enter start and end UK postcodes to discover scenic alternatives. The tool also suggests stop-off points along the way for shared experiences.
+Why do some drivers avoid sharing driving responsibilities?
47% of drivers prefer to stay behind the wheel, while 27% cite insurance concerns as a reason for not sharing driving duties. Some also find adding an extra driver to their annual policy too much hassle.
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