Where's the Best Place to Drive in the UK? A Journey Through Britain’s Most Scenic Roads

 

Where's the Best Place to Drive in the UK? A Journey Through Britain’s Most Scenic Roads: A Complete Guide

The United Kingdom is a land of rolling hills, dramatic coastlines, and picturesque market towns. The debate for driving enthusiasts and motorists alike on the location of the best driving experience is a long-standing one. While the continent has its fair share of autobahn roads and Alpine passes, the UK has something that might be even more desirable: a plethora of roads that provide a challenging driving experience coupled with a scenic backdrop. From the sweeping highlands of Scotland to the tight, hedge-lined roads of Cornwall, the location of the best driving experience might depend on whether you are looking for a thrilling experience or a relaxing drive through picturesque landscapes. One thing is for sure: the journey is more important than the destination.

When it comes to planning a road trip, there are many times when the logistics can be very important in helping to make the experience as enjoyable as possible. For those that are setting out from the Home Counties, the process may start with a convenient and efficient transfer to a transport hub. For example, if you are hoping to fly to a particular region in order to collect a rental car and start your road trip, then making use of a local taxi service such as Taxis Hemel can help to make sure that you reach your train station or airport without having to contend with city traffic before your trip even begins.

The Iconic North Coast 500

If there is a crown jewel in the UK’s driving routes, it has to be the North Coast 500 (NC500). The 516-mile route through the Scottish Highlands starts and ends in Inverness and has been described as "Scotland’s Route 66." The beauty of this route is that there is something for everyone. One can enjoy the barren beauty of the Bealach na Bà pass near Applecross, a road that is known for its steep inclines and hairpin bends that require absolute concentration on the road. Apart from the challenging drive, the NC500 also has some of the most beautiful beaches that can be compared to the Caribbean, minus the heat, of course. It is a place where you can stop on the side of the road, listen to the silence, and marvel at the fury of the North Sea crashing against ancient cliffs.

The Snake Pass and Peak District

For those in the Midlands or the North, the Peak District provides some of the most exhilarating roads to drive in the country. The A57, commonly known as Snake Pass, runs between Manchester and Sheffield. It's a road that commands respect. Its name has nothing to do with the actual shape of the road but has everything to do with the crest of the coat of arms of the Duke of Devonshire, which features a snake. It's a road that winds its way through the Peak District National Park, providing fast straights to overtake other cars, but also has tight corners that follow the rise and fall of the moorland. Unlike the NC500, the benefit of this road is that there are villages nearby, such as Glossop and Ladybower Reservoir, to provide the convenience of a day trip.

The Atlantic Highway (A39)

Moving south, the Atlantic Highway, mainly the A39, provides a completely different experience. This highway stretches from Barnstaple in Devon to Falmouth in Cornwall and provides the ultimate cruise. It may not give the speed enthusiast the rush of a mountain pass in Scotland, but for the relaxed motorist, there is something far more important: the view. The highway sticks to the coast, and there are wonderful vistas to be seen of the Atlantic Ocean. The main points to look out for are the section through Exmoor National Park and the approach to the surfers' paradise, Newquay. The experience here is all about taking your time. In the summer months, there are plenty of caravans and tourists to slow up the traffic, but the scenery makes even a slow crawl enjoyable. The cliffs and the changing light on the water make for a photographer’s delight.

The Cheddar Gorge

For those who like a bit of drama in their driving, a visit to Cheddar Gorge in Somerset is a must. This is not a long drive, but it is arguably one of the most visually stunning stretches of tarmac in the UK. The B3135 runs through the very heart of the gorge, surrounded by limestone cliffs that rise to heights of almost 450 feet on either side. Driving through the gorge is like driving through a canyon in the American Southwest, not exactly what you expect in the English countryside. The road is a bit tight and narrow, making it exciting to drive, especially outside of peak hours. As it is a popular destination, it is recommended to drive through early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid pedestrians and cyclists, in order to take in the sheer scale of the natural architecture that surrounds you.

Strategic Travel and the Southern Gateway

Before you set off on such a journey, especially if you are coming from the south-east of England, it is very important to make sure that your vehicle is sorted or you have a smooth transfer to your destination. Some people prefer to fly to regional airports to collect their special vehicles or to avoid wasting time on a very long journey north. For people who prefer to use air transportation in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, ground transportation is an important aspect of their travel plan. Good executive transportation, such as Hemel Hempstead Airport Taxis, is a great solution to get to your destination, ensuring that your vehicle is safely left at home and your road trip starts in a relaxed state of mind, rather than in a state of road rage from the M25!

The Hardknott and Wrynose Passes

For the adventurous driver who wants a real challenge, there are the Hardknott and Wrynose Passes in the Lake District. These are not roads for the faint of heart. The Hardknott Pass is particularly infamous for its gradient of 1 in 3 (i.e., a 33% gradient), making it one of the steepest roads in the country. Coupled with the tight hairpin bends that require deft handling in a manual transmission car, this is a real test of driving prowess. Nevertheless, the reward is the unimpeded access to the inaccessible areas of the Lake District. It is recommended for drivers who are brave enough and in a vehicle that has sufficient low gear pulling power. The views of the Roman Fort at the summit of this pass are a testament to how hard this terrain has been to cross for centuries.

The Black Mountain Pass (A4069)

Although Wales tends to be ignored in the driving conversation, the A4069, also known as the Black Mountain Pass, is a hidden treasure. This road crosses the Brecon Beacons and became famous as a filming location for the BBC’s Top Gear program. The road has a long sweeping section that allows drivers to get into the flow of the road while surrounded by the stark beauty of the Welsh moorland landscape. Unlike other areas that are tight and constricted, there is wide visibility in some sections of the Black Mountain Pass, making for safe overtaking maneuvers. The road runs from the villages of Llangadog and Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen, and the middle section has a dramatic descent that gives the driver an adrenalin rush similar to a track day.

Also read: Beyond the Guidebook: Three Weird (But Genius) Tips for Traveling in the United Kingdom

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best place to drive in the UK is subjective. If you crave the wild and untamed wilderness, the North Coast 500 is the best place to go. If you enjoy handling tests, the mountain passes in the Lake District and Scotland will provide the challenge that you need. If you enjoy scenery rather than speed, the Atlantic Highway and the rolling hills of the Peak District National Park provide endless opportunities for enjoyment. The variety of the UK's diverse landscapes allows for a change in climate and culture within a short distance of driving. Whether you're a local resident looking for a weekend getaway or a tourist wanting to explore the heart of the United Kingdom, the adventure awaits. So, pick your route, prepare your ride, and head out to find out why the United Kingdom is the best place to drive and why it's so loved by so many around the world.