The holidays are finally upon us and many families are considering embarking on a road trip for the occasion. Nothing makes a road trip more enjoyable than nice scenery. While many people might be tempted to go abroad for the holidays, the British countryside offers some of the most beautiful roads the world has to offer. Here are five of the most scenic roads in the UK.
1) The Buttertubs Pass
This winding 5.5 mile route is so spectacular that it has been featured on a few episodes of Top Gear. The Buttertubs Pass starts in Thwaite, goes through the Yorkshire Dales and ends in Hawes. Between are steep climbs and descents, picturesque scenery, and the famous buttertubs. The buttertubs are limestone holes that once served as storage pits for butter, hence the name. However, if you’re travelling through the pass in winter, make sure to be careful as it can be a tricky drive when it is covered in snow.
2) Kendal to Keswick
The journey from Kendal to Keswick is 30 miles long and takes you through the Lake District National Park. As the A591 winds through the park, you can catch a glimpse of the Lakeland fells, Lake Thirlmere, and Lake Windermere. This road is so beautiful, in fact, that it has served as an inspiration for a few of Wordsworth’s poems. Fans of the poet can even stop over at two of his former residences in the tiny village of Grasmere.
3) Ribblehead Viaduct
Harry Potter fans will appreciate Ribblehead Viaduct for its central role in the movies. This 400 meter construction is 150 years old and is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Like the Buttertubs Pass, this section of the B6255 also passes through the Yorkshire Dales.
4) Glens of Antrim
This 25-mile stretch of road is often referred to as one of the most scenic routes in the world, and it does not disappoint. The A2 hugs the Antrim coast and passes at the foot of all the nine glens from the Black Arch to the Red Arch. Starting at Larne and ending at Cushendall, the route winds past picturesque villages like Waterfoot and Ballygally.
5) Bealach Na Ba Pass
The name may be a mouthful but it has a simple meaning. Bealach Na Ba simply means the pass of the cattle. It starts of as unassuming narrow road that leaves the A896 at Lochcarron in Scotland. It then winds its way to Shieldaig before finally reaching Wester Ross.
While the pass offers stunning views in summer, this mountain pass can be treacherous in winter. To make it across during this season, drivers need to be familiar with the road. If you want to brush up on your driving skills, mock theory tests are available online from driving schools such as Toptests. To visit Top Tests’ website, visit toptests.co.uk.
All these beautiful roads will serve as the perfect backdrop for any road trip. However, whatever you do, remember to stay safe and take all the precautions necessary to make sure that the trip goes smoothly.