Best Road Trip Destinations for Car Enthusiasts in the UK
The UK is a treasure trove of scenic routes and historic roads, perfect for car enthusiasts who love the thrill of the drive. Whether you’re cruising along coastal highways, navigating winding mountain roads, or exploring picturesque countryside, there’s something for every type of driver. At Bartlett Automotive, we understand the joy of the open road, so we’ve put together a list of the best road trip destinations in the UK for those who appreciate the art of driving.
The North Coast 500 (Scotland)
Dubbed as Scotland’s answer to Route 66, the North Coast 500 (NC500) is a 516-mile scenic route that starts and ends in Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands. The NC500 takes you through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes, including rugged coastlines, towering mountains, and charming villages. This route is a paradise for car enthusiasts, with its mix of straight roads and challenging bends. Key highlights include the Bealach na Bà pass, one of the most thrilling drives in the UK, and the stunning beaches of Dornoch and Achmelvich.
What to Drive:
A nimble, responsive car like a Porsche Cayman or a BMW M4 will help you make the most of the NC500’s twists and turns.
The Atlantic Highway (South West England)
The Atlantic Highway, officially known as the A39, stretches from the outskirts of Bath to the coastal town of Falmouth in Cornwall. This route offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque villages. It’s a perfect blend of coastal and countryside driving, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore historic sites, beaches, and local cuisine.
What to Drive:
A convertible like the Porsche Boxster is ideal for this journey, allowing you to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and open views as you drive along the coast.
Snowdonia and the Llanberis Pass (Wales)
Snowdonia National Park in North Wales is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in the UK. The Llanberis Pass, a winding road that cuts through the mountains, offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The challenging bends and steep climbs make this a favourite among driving enthusiasts. The route is relatively short, making it perfect for a day trip, but the driving experience is second to none.
What to Drive:
A car with excellent handling and power, such as the BMW M2, will give you the control and confidence needed for this mountainous terrain.
The Lake District (North West England)
The Lake District is renowned for its natural beauty, with its rolling hills, deep valleys, and shimmering lakes. The roads here are a mix of scenic drives and challenging passes, such as the Hardknott Pass and Wrynose Pass, which are among the steepest roads in England. The views are incredible, and the driving experience is both thrilling and rewarding.
What to Drive:
An SUV with good suspension, like the BMW X5, is perfect for tackling the varied terrain of the Lake District while providing comfort on longer drives.
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Cheddar Gorge (Somerset)
Cheddar Gorge, located in the Mendip Hills of Somerset, is England’s largest gorge and a site of outstanding natural beauty. The B3135 road that cuts through the gorge is a favourite among car enthusiasts, offering sharp bends and steep descents surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. This short but exhilarating drive is perfect for those who love a bit of adrenaline with their scenery.
What to Drive:
A sports car with sharp handling, such as the BMW M4, will make the most of the twists and turns in Cheddar Gorge.
The Cotswolds (South Central England)
For those who prefer a more leisurely drive, the Cotswolds offers a quintessentially English experience with its rolling hills, charming villages, and historic landmarks. The roads here are less about speed and more about enjoying the journey through some of the most picturesque countryside in England. It’s a great destination for classic car enthusiasts who appreciate the charm of a vintage vehicle.
What to Drive:
A classic car like the Porsche 911 will enhance the nostalgic feel of driving through the Cotswolds.
The Evo Triangle (North Wales)
Named after the car magazine “Evo,” the Evo Triangle is a popular driving route in North Wales, consisting of three roads: the A5, A543, and B4501. This route offers a mix of fast straights and tight corners, set against the backdrop of the stunning Welsh countryside. It’s a relatively short circuit but provides an intense driving experience, making it a must-do for any car enthusiast.
What to Drive:
A high-performance car like the Porsche or a BMW M3 will help you make the most of the Evo Triangle’s demanding roads.
The Peak District (Central England)
The Peak District, located between Manchester and Sheffield, is a diverse landscape of rolling hills, rugged moorland, and charming villages. The roads here offer a mix of scenic drives and challenging sections, such as the Snake Pass and the Cat and Fiddle Road. The Peak District is perfect for those who want to combine a great drive with opportunities for hiking and exploring the great outdoors.
What to Drive:
A versatile car like the Porsche Cayenne, or a BMW X3 will give you the flexibility to enjoy both the open roads and the tighter, twisting sections of the Peak District.
Whether you’re looking for challenging roads, stunning scenery, or just a peaceful drive through the countryside, the UK has something to offer every car enthusiast. At Bartlett Automotive, we’re passionate about cars and driving, and we believe that the journey should be as enjoyable as the destination. So, fuel up, hit the road, and discover the best driving experiences the UK has to offer.
Safe travels and happy driving!
