Weekends at this time of year can be a bit boring. Nobody has any money which makes entertainment options a bit limited.
But why not load up the car and head out on a road trip? There are fantastic driving roads all over the UK. Plus the benefit of living on a relatively small island is that you can drive them within a day.
Check out our list below for the best driving roads around the UK. Plus, we’ve included some top rated places to stop for a bite to eat so that you can really make a day of it.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack up the car and go!
Wales
A4069 – Black Mountain Pass
You’re spoiled for choice in Wales, but the A4069 is famed for its views thanks to Top Gear which has regularly featured it on the show. Enjoy fantastic views and testing corners.
Where to stop:
The Red Lion, LLangadog, SA19 9AA
Close to the beginning or end of the journey this place is rated highly for its Sunday lunch.
Scotland
A82 – Stirling to Skye
You could jump in the car pretty much anywhere in Scotland and be overwhelmed by the scenery. But if you had to choose then the A82 is a great shout. It takes around 3 hours, plus you’ll see many Scottish landmarks (including Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle) on the way.
Where to stop:
Cachaig Inn, Glencoe, PH49 4HX
Glencoe is a must see if you’re heading on this route and the Cachaig Inn promises ‘legendary atmosphere’. What more could you want?!
South West England
B3135 – Cheddar to Ashwick
This isn’t the longest route in the list but it is one of the most dramatic as the road winds its way through ancient rock formations.
Where to stop:
Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company, Cheddar, BS27 3QA
Would you really visit cheddar without getting some cheese? Of course not. Head to the visitor centre to see them making it in action.
South East
A258 – Dover to Deal
Sweeping bends and steep hills make this a drive to remember, plus you’ll pass three castles along the way.
Where to stop:
Coach & Horses, Deal, CT14 0AT
This is a great stop for a tasty pub lunch, plus they’re welcoming to four legged friends too so take the dog along for the ride!
Yorkshire & Humber
The Humber Bridge
To those who’ve never seen it before the Humber Bridge is a true marvel. It’s more than a mile of fantastic engineering and offers spectacular views.
Where to stop:
The Hope and Anchor, Sluice Road, South Ferriby, DN18 6JQ
You’ll be able to see the bridge while tucking into a home cooked meal at this traditional pub on the banks of the Humber.
What to take on a road trip
Have you got all these essentials in your car? If not pack them in the car before you go.
Sat Nav / Map – Sat navs are brilliant but they’re not infallible. Especially in some of the more remote parts of the UK. Plus, who doesn’t love the nostalgia of an argument over a paper map?!
Phone charger – Essential for going anywhere in the modern world! Keep your phone charged for emergencies and pulling over for a scenic snapshot or two.
Dash cam – Another essential in the modern world but you can also use it to film videos of your drive. Get one for less with 4Sight, the leading dash cam app. Just download it to your phone then it’s just 99p per month for dash cam plus at-scene accident help should you have a collision.
Snacks and drinks – Most of these roads are rural so shops are few and far between. Buy your snacks before you go and fill up a thermos for a warming drink.