AS THE WEATHER warms up and winter begins to disappear in the rear view mirror, it’s a great time to hit the tarmac for some touring fun.
Snow and icy conditions have made many routes treacherous over the past few months.
But with the worst of the inclement climate behind us, now is a perfect opportunity to pack up a picnic and enjoy some of the stunning vistas the UK has to offer.
So automotive experts at Select Car Leasing have come up with a top 10 of the most scenic routes to take as the sun peeks out for the first time in 2023.
They range from breathtaking mountain passes in Scotland to coastal adventures on Cornish clifftops.
Graham Conway, managing director at Select Car Leasing, said: “The UK boasts some of the most iconic stretches of tarmac in Europe, making it a dream for leisurely drives that deliver plenty of bang for their buck.
“These are not the twisting, hairpin-packed runs favoured by petrolheads – more picturesque cruises that will keep the whole family enthralled with plenty of wow factor.
“And they stretch across England, Scotland and Wales so wherever you live, there should be at least one within range.”
Barnstaple to Newquay, England
This stunning journey along the north Cornwall coast is also known as the Atlantic Highway and covers around 80 miles. Stop-offs en route include Tintagel Castle and the fishing port of Padstow made famous by celeb chef Rick Stein.
Dolgellau to Fishguard, Wales – A487
If it’s deserted beaches and windswept bays you crave, this iconic coast road is one not to miss.
Running from Dolgellau in the north down to Fishguard in Pembrokeshire, it’s worth the drive purely for the views across Cardigan Bay as you approach Aberarth.
Glasgow to Fort William, Scotland – A82
A route of contrasts that encapsulates Scotland in one fell swoop. From the outskirts of Glasgow you travel along the western bank of Loch Lomond and head north to pass through Rannoch Moor and into Glencoe. The towering peaks on either side will simply take your breath away.
Alnmouth to Bamburgh, England – A1068, B1339, B1340
Whisper it quietly, but Northumberland is one of the UK’s most underrated coastal regions. As a result it’s also one of the quietest, so expect to cruise along without passing too many fellow motorists. Delicious locally-caught fish and chips are the fuel of choice on this route as it passes through incredible villages such as Craster, Beadnell and Seahouses.
Whitchurch to Ross-on-Wye, England – A49
Not so much of a driving destination and as an alternative route, the A49 from near Shrewsbury will deliver you to Gloucestershire in a much better state of mind than taking the M6 and M5. Passing south through ever-changing countryside, recommended pit stops include the charming market towns of Ludlow, Leominster and Ross-on-Wye.
Llangollen to Bethesda, Wales – A5
Starting close to the iconic Pontcysyllte Aqueduct on the border with England, you then head west and pass through the sun-dappled forests of Llangollen. Then comes the serene isolation of nothingness until you reach the breathtaking Snowdonia National Park. The Ogwen Valley is a huge draw for hikers, while hearty appetites will be satisfied by the numerous eateries in the village of Bethesda.
Christchurch to Southampton, New Forest, England – A35
The New Forest surprises many visitors from outside the south coast, covering 200 square miles of natural beauty between Southampton and Bournemouth. The main route is the A31, but the quieter A35 is well worth a look. It cuts through open heathland pastures and forest, with campsites dotted throughout. It’s easy to find a peaceful spot to stop and relax.
Braintree to Saffron Walden, England – B1053
The B1053 showcases the very best of Essex on a relatively short route. It journeys through picture-postcard villages full of timber-clad houses as well as places with significant mediaeval history. Don’t forget to take a break at the historic Swan Hotel in Thaxted.
Crianlarich to Stirling, Scotland – A85 & A84
The Trossachs are known for some of the best hiking in the UK – but the driving isn’t too shabby either. Take your pick from undulating roads across moorland, mountain passes, forests and lakes. The views across Loch Lubnaig near Callander are particularly stunning.
Leyburn to Horton-in-Ribblesdale, England – A684, B6255 & B6479
This tour of the Yorkshire Dales ends with the impressive sight of the famous Ribblehead Viaduct looming into view. Before that you’ll visit the superb Aysgarth Falls waterfalls of the River Ure and drop down from Hawes through open moorland and pass rocky crags. The finale definitely has the wow factor as you’re surrounded by the Three Peaks of Ingleborough, Whernside and Pen-y-Ghent. The route can easily be extended into a circular route by continuing south to Skipton before heading back to Leyburn on the B6160.
