Going on vacation? Or thinking about it?  You’re in luck! Gemma from DNA Insurance has been kind enough to give us some head’s up on some really beautiful and scenic places to see by car. :) 

Don’t forget your car seats on the trip! 

** If you would like to do a guest post on my blog, please have a look at this post with the information and contact details. **

 

 

Britain has so much to offer in the way of sea views, small charming villages and remote valleys – and a scenic drive is often the best way to experience them all. Here are some of the best scenic driving destinations in the UK.

Kendal to Keswick

This 30-mile winding section of the Lake District National Park is simply stunning. The drive will provide you with remarkable views of Lakeland fells, as well as the banks of Lake Thirlmere and Lake Windermere. This same countryside inspired poetry by Wordsworth and Coleridge. You can even take a look at two of Wordsworth’s former homes on your way through the village of Grasmere.

West bank of Loch Lomond

Head north from Dumbarton continuing along the west bank of Loch Lomond. This route will provide you with ever-changing views of the heather covered mountainside, and the occasional glimpse of the heavily forested slopes of Rowardennan Forest and Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.

Scott’s View

The stretch of road between Dryburgh Abbey and Melrose in the Scottish borders steeply rises above the valley of the River Tweed. It’s peak overlooks the Eildon Hills, where three volcanic plugs rise out of the mainly flat landscape. The parking available makes it an ideal place to stop and admire Scott’s View.

The Suffolk Wool Towns

A scenic drive doesn’t necessarily have to be full of countryside views and landmarks; Britain has an abundance of small towns and villages that can be equally as picturesque. The Suffolk Wool Towns cover about 40 miles and can be the ideal setting for a day trip, where along the way you’ll be able to see hundreds of brightly coloured half timber buildings, ancient pubs and quaint country lanes.

The Northumberland Coast

The winding roads of Northumberland’s coastal region are the perfect change of pace from the mind-numbing drive along the motorway. This area to the north of England is one not to be missed, full of medieval castles, sandy beaches, weathered moorlands and market towns.

Cheddar Gorge

As it’s the deepest gorge in the whole of England, Cheddar Gorge is definitely one of the country’s legitimate natural wonders. The gorge is at the edge of Mendip Hills in Somerset, with limestone cliffs almost reaching 500 feet. The B3135 road is well-known for the views it provides of the gorge and surrounding areas. For an even better view there is a cliff top walk, and for any adrenaline junkies there’s rock climbing and caving explorations.

Wharfedale Circuit

This circuit through the Yorkshire Dales National Park’s most southern corner is chocked full of fantastic scenery. As you drive through miles of rolling hills you will be provided with great views of ruined abbeys, medieval castles and charming small towns. There are plenty of places to park up and have a picnic, with a sweeping view of the dales.

Kirkstone Pass

At 1500 feet, Kirkstone Pass joins the Victorian resort on the shores of Lake Windemere with Ullswater, making it the Lake District’s highest road pass. High above the treeline you will witness the beauty of the Lakeland fells and meadows. Early on an autumn morning you will be able to watch as mist rises up from the glens, giving the scenery a sense of gracefulness.

Black Mountain Road

These roads that stretch for 5 miles in Powys are definitely on a par with some of the greatest scenic drives in the world. As you drive along these basically deserted roads of the Brecon Beacons you will encounter dips, hill climbs, winds and twists.

Bealach Na Bà (Pass of The Cattle)

The Pass of The Cattle, or as it’s known in Gaelic ‘Bealach Na Bà’ is a historic pass through the mountains situated in the Scottish highlands. The narrow road will take you through an area that is bleak, but maintains a sense of beauty capable of stunning any passer-by. Conditions are known to be treacherous in winter, so it’s important to check before you to decide to venture out.

Not only are there many locations in Britain for the perfect scenic drive, but also each location carries a sense of character and historic significance. Whether it’s a series of small villages, cliff faces or woodland areas you will find somewhere with a beautiful view rather than the dullness of a motorway.

 

 

 

Gemma Sheldrick is Head of Strategy at DNA Insurance, who provide car and van insurance for all across the UK.