British drivers are being encouraged to break up the monotony of grey motorways and bleak A-roads this year by taking to some of the most picturesque roads across the UK.
Motoring experts from car leasing giant LeaseCar.uk have compiled a list of 10 of the most scenic routes across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales to inspire the nation’s drivers to get out and explore new places in 2018.
Daredevils should opt for a bold and daunting drive such as Hardknott Pass in the stunning Lake District, or the treacherous Abergwesyn Pass which has been aptly dubbed “The Devil’s Staircase” thanks to its hairpin bends, bridges, crests and spectacular views.
For the more cautious drivers, travelling the humble Humber Bridge in North Lincolnshire provides stunning views without the risk, or a leisurely drive through the charming Hutton-le-Hole village in North Yorkshire is equally as eye-catching.
Tim Alcock of LeaseCar.uk said: “If your commute involves a lot of driving, and especially if you drive for a living, it’s quite easy to become bored and uninspired when taking the same routes day in, day out.
“There are some fantastic roads and journeys to take and enjoy the most spectacular views and scenery which we think are “must-drives” for everyone who is able.
“Great Britain boasts some of the most beautiful places on earth and these journeys will allow you to see just a smidgen of what The British Isles have to offer.”
Here are 10 of the most picturesque roads and journeys in Britain:
Humber Bridge – North Lincolnshire/Yorkshire, England
The 2,220 metre-long single-span suspension bridge was the longest of its kind when it was first opened in 1981. It spans the Humber, the estuary formed by the River Trent and River Ouse, connecting East Riding of Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire.
Abergavenny to Penderyn – Wales
Stop off at Blaenavon iron works and admire the views of Pen y Fan (pictured) on this pleasant drive along the south edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Hutton-le-Hole – North Yorkshire
Enjoy a leisurely drive through this picture-perfect village, complete with a tiny stream, lush greens and the award-winning Ryedale Folk Museum.
Abergwesyn Pass – Wales
Expect hairpin bends, bridges, crests and spectacular views as you ascend the aptly named “Devil’s Staircase” – this one’s not for the road shy.
Hardknott Pass – The Lake District, England
Approach the entry to this famously challenging and lofty road and you’ll be greeted with a plethora of stark warning signs that say it all – “Extreme caution”; “Narrow route”; “Severe bends”; “Gradient 1 in 3” – perfect if you fancy a challenge.
Buttertubs Pass – The Yorkshire Dales, England
This 5.5-mile route is short but sweet with its spectacular scenery, so it’s no surprise that it’s been featured on Top Gear on a number of occasions.
Causeway Coastal Road – Northern Ireland
Starting in Londonderry and ending in Belfast, this driving route is one of the most famous in Northern Ireland, featuring 130 miles of some of the most stunning coastal scenery.
Bealach na Bà (Pass of the Cattle) – Ross and Cromarty, Scotland
Endure a 1-in-3 ascent with white-knuckle hairpins and narrow single-track sections and be rewarded with the Applecross Peninsula on the other side.
Cat and Fiddle Route – The Peak District, England
Although the Cat and Fiddle Inn is no longer open, it still lends its name to this 12-mile route which is one of the most famous in The Peak District, taking you from Buxton in Derbyshire to Macclesfield in Cheshire.
Cheddar Gorge – Somerset, England
This journey starts in Cheddar and ends in Ashwick, taking you through the famous Cheddar Gorge – the deepest gorge in the UK – and around 14 miles of dramatic scenery.
