WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DRIVE: A GUIDE TO CLASSIC ROAD TRIPS AROUND THE UK

The A39, also known as the Atlantic highway, is one of the steepest and longest roads in Britain, running along the west coast between Bath and Falmouth. One of the most beautiful parts of this glorious 2.5 hour drive is between Barnstaple and Newquay, with incredible views of the Atlantic as you drive through quaint coastal towns. We recommend stopping at Bedruthan Steps Beach in order to take in the dramatic views of the large slate outcrops that are scattered along the shore. Driving in this part of the UK only calls for one thing; A classic VW campervan. Add a couple of boards to the roof for that ultimate Cornwall surfer vibe!

Bedruthan Steps Beach, Cornwall Photo by Nathan Riley

Head up into the Pennines on the infamous and aptly named Snake Pass, which winds between Glossop and the Ladybower Reservoir at Ashopton and wiggles its way along the River Ashop. Having been listed previously as one of the best driving roads, why not make it even more of an adventure by taking a sidecar tour. This one is for the thrill-seekers, with some describing the experience as one with only ‘a bit of mild peril’!

Ladybower Reservoir, Derbyshire Photo by Matthew Feeney

The North coast 500 is the UK’s answer to Route 66 or the Amalfi coast. With a name inspired by the Proclaimers, it incorporates just over 500 miles of incredible scenery of Scotland’s North Coast. The route starts and ends at Inverness Castle, passing Stac Pollaidh, through Durness and John O’Groats. Go and watch the Moray Firth Dolphins at Chanonry Point or enjoy the beautiful white sand and turquoise waters of Achmelvich Beach. Be sure to also look out for the Northern Lights on your journey, as the route is one of the best places to see aurora borealis outside of Scandinavia!

Photo sourced from www.carsonpaper.nl

Enjoy the vistas that inspired English literature’s romantic age, and take a road trip through Wordsworth country, travelling from Kendal to Windermere. Only a short detour will see you at Beatrix Potter’s Hilltop, the farm that was the inspiration for her most famous story, Peter Rabbit. The incredible lakes provide a perfect opportunity to park up and take a boat out for the day, or explore the area by mountain bike. Pack your walking boots (and some plasters) and hike up Scafell Pike and stand on England’s highest mountain, the reward being not only the scenery but a long lunch at one of the Lake District’s famous pubs. For those attempting Scafell Pike, make sure your backpack is full of chocolate (you’ll want it - trust us)!

Buttermere, Lake District Photo by James Armes

Take a trip along England’s eastern coast, passing through the city of Norwich, home to medieval streets and an abundance of 11th century churches. To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the Broads National Park, home to some of Britain’s rarest animals and plants. Let your route take you north to Cromer and get your snorkels ready to discover ‘Britain’s Great Barrier Reef’, the Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed. Drive a bit further along the coast and you’ll end up at Brancaster beach, a perfect location for spending an afternoon relaxing by the sea, or if you fancy stretching your legs, then take a walk out to the shipwreck of SS Vina.

Cromer, Norfolk Photo by Mark Timberlake