Road tripping is by far the best way to experience and explore new places as well as an incredible way to explore the length and breadth of our wonderful country, Great Britain. With stunning views that offer an array of diverse sights for you to see, Great Britain is truly magnificent. If you’re considering a road trip this summer, then here are some of the best places in the UK with the stops that you should consider making.
1. Snake Pass – Peak District, England
Located in Derbyshire, the Snake Pass crosses the Pennines and Ladybower Reservoir. It is an area of great diversity and is split into the Dark Peak and the White Peak. The name of the road matches its winding route but actually derives from the emblem of the Snake Inn, one of the few buildings on the high stretch of road. Expect smug corners and twisting tarmac as you enjoy the magnificent views of the National Trust’s High Peak Estate.
2. Black Mountain Pass – Brecon Beacons, Wales
Also known as the A4069, the Black Mountain Pass is a challenging road, which connects Llandovery with Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen in Wales. It is the perfect place to leave the daily grind behind as it sweeps through valleys, between high hedges, and contains more twists and turns than you can imagine. Don’t forget to watch out for roaming sheep!
3. Penrith to Haydon Bridge – Cumbria and Northumberland, England
Taking you to the roof of Britain, the journey from Penrith to Haydon Bridge provides you with breathtaking views. This road is very popular with motorcyclists and drivers should would out for the steep bends. The dramatic scenery of the Pennines hills encountered along its route is perfect for photo opportunities.
4. Abergwesyn Pass – Powys, Wales
Abergwesyn Pass offers a feast of long straights, bridges, ascents, descents, hairpin bends, and crests. Stretching for approximately 20 miles, the old drover’s track is also known as the ‘devils staircase’ as the road remains an adrenaline-pumping journey as it soon becomes incredibly steep and windy through thick forests. You can be sure to expect a stunning backdrop of mountains.
5. Cheddar Gorge – Somerset, England
Based in the heart of the West Country, Cheddar Gorge causes many motorists to stare in awe. The gorge also referred to as the Cheddar Complex, has become a tourist destination and is underlain by black rock slate. With twisting turns and the odd farm vehicle, you will find yourself weaving your way through these fantastic routes.
It’s one of the most scenic road trips in the country! Offering summits, valleys, waterfalls, and lochs, the A82 through the Glencoe Valley Scotland is magical. The Munros and peaks that surround the road were formed by volcanic activity and shaped by glaciers, making it a grand landscape and a must-see when traveling in Scotland.
7. The Evo Triangle – Derbyshire, Conwy and Gwynedd, Wales
The Evo Triangle is a very popular route among driving enthusiasts and one of the most talked-about routes in the UK. You can enjoy tight and sweeping bends and although the route’s main attraction is the drive itself, you can even stop along the way to take in the views and enjoy some refreshments.
8. The Dark Hedges – County Antrim, Northern Ireland
It is an avenue of beech trees and is very popular, with the widely popular Game of Thrones even having filmed a scene on this beautiful road. With the twisted branches forming an arch over the road, it makes for incredibly impressive photographs that’s for sure.
9. Buttertubs Pass -Yorkshire, England
High up within the Yorkshire Dales is the Buttertubs Pass, whose road is locally noted as a challenging cycle climb. It has everything that you need, steep climbs, rapid descents, tight challenging corners, and dramatic scenery, giving you an amazing driving experience.
10. Bealach Na Ba – Wester Ross, Scotland
The winding single-track road is a great climb and will certainly take your breath away. It’s a beautiful climb and not to mention one of the hardest. Its quiet roads and stunning scenery make Bealach Na Ba a great reason to go and visit and climb.
