As summer approaches, we are already making a long list of places we want to visit and the road trips we want to take. Maybe we are biased but we think the UK is one of the most stunning countries to explore by car. We both love the feeling of freedom the open road offers. So much so we often have to flip a coin to decide who gets to drive. We are both car owners. However, there are lots of other ways you can see what our beautiful country has to offer.
If you too live here or are visiting for the foreseeable future but don’t want to buy a car, you could consider leasing one? Mercedes car leasing is a great option and something Vicky opted for herself for 3 years. The road trips we took and the memories we made in that sporty little A Class will stay with us forever. If you are only visiting the UK for a short time maybe a hire car would be more appropriate? And if you can not or do not want to drive, we have a reasonable public transport system which could be utilised. However, it’s important to bear in mind it’s more reliable in some places than others.
So, if you are looking for scenic road trips to take in the UK, here are our current top 4.
Black Mountain Pass, Wales
Even though Mr ESLT’s mum lives in Cardiff (and has done for nearly 30 years) we have not explored as much of the country as we would like too. Therefore the Black Mountain Pass which is one of the most famous roads in Wales is high on our list of drives to take this summer. Hopefully, we can tie it in with a visit to the family. The 20-mile section of road connects Llandovery to Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen and passes through a section of the Brecon Beacons National Park. There are a lot of twists and turns and even a hairpin bend along the road. Therefore, it is not a route for the faint-hearted or unconfident driver. You are however rewarded with stunning views, especially from the highest points. Just watch out for free roaming sheep who have no qualms about crossing or even standing in the road.
Causeway Coast and Glens, Northern Ireland
Another one on our hit list is the Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland. We’ve never visited Northern Ireland but have always wanted to, particularly this area. There are a number of attractions along this stretch of coastline including the Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge which is suspended almost 100 ft above sea level, Dunluce Castle which was built by the MacQuillan family at the beginning of the 1500s and of course the Giant’s Causeway itself. The Giant’s Causeway is owned and managed by the National Trust. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular attractions in Northern Ireland. Along the coastal route, a number of beautiful villages and numerous castles can be seen. Together with the ever-present waves of the North Atlantic Ocean crashing along the rugged shoreline.
Glasgow to Fort William, Scotland
One of the most beautiful road trips we’ve ever taken was into the Scottish Highlands from Glasgow to Fort William. We visited a few years ago for Mr ESLT’s birthday in August and the weather could not have been better. The 100(ish mile) journey is an extremely scenic one with a number of beautiful villages, castles and of course Lochs to stop off at along the way. Some of our favourite things along the route include the 30 ft high Falls of Falloch on the River Falloch, the now famous Glen Etive which was used as a filming location for the films Skyfall and Braveheart and not forgetting one of Scotland’s oldest pubs – The Drovers Inn which dates back to 1705. If you have the time, why not park up and take a long walk along the shore of Loch Lomond or even take an organised boat trip on it.
The Lake District, England
The Lake District is one of our favourite places to visit in England. We’ve visited numerous times and at different times of the year. We’ve seen the flowers bloom in spring. The sun shine over Lake Windermere in summer. And snow cover the peaks of the surrounding mountains and hills in winter. Regardless of when you visit, you’ll be rewarded with views of beautiful and picturesque scenery. You’ll find something for everyone in the Lake District. Some of our favourite things to see and do include wandering around the postcard-perfect villages and picking up unique momentos from the boutique shops. Taking boat rides on the lakes. And visiting the various museums in the area. This is also a great place to visit if you love outdoor pursuits including hiking, rowing and cycling, just remember to pack your waterproofs.
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