Top 6 best drives in the UK

Posted on 16/12/2018 by Amber | guest blogger

We are lucky enough to have some of the best drives in the UK. From the winding laneways of the Cotswold's to the open roads of the Welsh countryside you will never be short of scenic beauty. Our favourite best drives in the UK can be found below.

1. Ribblehead Viaduct, North Yorkshire

The Ribblehead Viaduct or Batty Moss Viaduct carries the Settle–Carlisle Railway across Batty Moss in the Ribble Valley at Ribblehead. It truly is a sight for sore eyes, spanning an impressive 400m long and containing 24 exquisite arches.

Parking is fairly limited and tends to fill up real fast during peak season. However, this spectacular piece of architecture is best witnessed from a distance, anyway – making it one of the best drives in the UK. Once you’ve marvelled at its wonderment, there’s a great little pub nearby where you can grab a good ole English ale – and we all know how much us Brits dig a good pint.

Ribblehead Viaduct: one of the best drives in the UK

2. Kendal – Keswick

Kendal, home of the much-loved mint cake! A must try if you’re hitting up this charming little market town in Cumbria. The drive from Kirby to Keswick takes just under an hour and is the best drive in the UK for scenic hilltops, greenery, lakes and open roads!

The Lake District National Park is renowned for its beautiful nature, you’re sure to fall in love with this incredible place. Passing through Windermere would be an ideal spot, to park up your Spaceship and hop out for a picnic by the lake coupled with a cheeky cider, while you figure out who’s the designated driver…

3. Gateshead, Tyne & Wear

Take the A1 past Gateshead through the county of Tyne & Wear, located in between the River Tyne and the River Wear for another one of the best drives in the UK! You’ll be able to witness some of the most impressive sculptures in the UK. Including, Millennium Bridge, The Halo and The Angel of the Nuuurth.

If the weather is being kind to you, park up your Spaceship and enjoy an afternoon at Quayside Seaside. If the British weather is being well, British weather… there is no shortage of restaurants and bars along the beachfront for you to grab yourself a traditional Fish & Chips!

4. Black Mountain Road (A4069), Wales

Black Mountain Road or A4069 should have really been at the top of this list because it truly is one of THE best drives in the UK! Take a trip through gorgeous valleys, between the highest hedges, along one of the windiest roads in the UK.

Soak up the beauty of the mountain tops, overlooking glistening rivers. Brecon Beacons National Park is indescribable, you’re just gonna’ have to check it out for yourself! The journey from Lower Brynamman to Llangadog will take you under an hour, so why not take a detour and imagine life living as Royalty in Carreg Cennen Castle. Once you’re well and true King of the Castled out, pop into The Barn for a lovely cuppa and a scone!

5. Cheltenham – Stratford-upon-Avon

So, I’m slightly biased about this drive BUT that does not stop it from being the greatest drive of all time!! I’m kidding… Kind of but seriously, there’s a reason this is one of the best drives in the UK. Start the hour-long drive from Cheltenham to Stratford-upon-Avon by hitting up Montpellier District, a regent area bursting with bars, cafes and restaurants so there’s something for everyone!

Take the B4632 through the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Yes, that is its full title and yes, it is fully deserved. Once your mind and eyes have been well and truly satisfied with the wonders of the Cotswolds, travel straight through to Riverside Caravan Park in Stratford-upon-Avon and set your camper to sleep mode, in one of the most stunning spots right next to the river Avon.

6. Conwy – Merthyr Tydfil

What good would a list of the best drives in the UK be without mentioning Snowdonia?! Start in the market town of Conwy and take the A470 straight through the mountains and glacial landforms. Snowdonia National Park is home to an extensive number of trails and hikes with over 100 lakes and peaks to explore!

The Snowdon Railway will also carry you to the summit of Mount Snowdon for spectacular views across the sea to Ireland. The 3 and half hour drive down to Merthyr Tydfil will transport you along the Rivers Severn and Wye before passing through another of Wales’ National Parks, Brecon Beacon. This Mountain Range stands out as one of the best drives in the UK - home to South Wales’ highest Mountain, Pen Y Fan.

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