The joys of the open road are perhaps best experienced when driving through the breathtaking scenery of the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom is home to a treasure trove of amazing routes for the keen road tripper, from the rugged coast of Cornwall to the stunning highlands of Scotland. And for a great journey, it needs to be planned.
The Right Ship for the Journey
First things first, you need the right set of wheels. Whether you’re winding through the winding country roads of the Cotswolds or climbing the more challenging hills of the Lake District, your car is important. For those in search of affordability and reliability, a browse through the variety of used cars in Plymouth will have you with a safe and economical option for your trip.
Tips for Choosing:
- Size Matters: Consider the number of passengers and the amount of luggage you’ll be carrying. A small car is ideal for narrow city streets; an SUV is better for group travel.
- Fuel Efficiency: Distance can be expensive. Look for a fuel-efficient vehicle, particularly if you have a long list of sights to see.
- Maintenance: Before setting off, ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Regular servicing can prevent unwanted breakdowns.
Mapping Your Adventure: Planning the Itinerary
Britain is full of classic and off-the-beaten-path routes. Your journey should be tailored to your preferences. Are you interested in city sights or the quiet allure of less-touristy towns?
Popular UK Road Trips:
This is a beautiful route around the top of the country, visiting castles, beaches and mountains.
- The Atlantic Highway (A39): A beautiful route from Bath to Falmouth, which winds its way through quaint seaside towns and dramatic coastlines in Devon and Cornwall.
- The Lake District Loop: A route through one of England’s most celebrated national parks, with views of the lake and mountains, and charming towns.
Tips for Itinerary Planning:
Be Realistic: Don’t expect to cover too much ground in a day. Don’t over-plan your days.
- Book in Some ‘Flexible’ Days: Plan for several days without firm activities. This gives you flexibility if you find a place you love or need to rest.
- Book Accommodation in Advance: In the peak season, hotels can be booked out. This guarantees you a roof over your head.
The Road Trip Packing Checklist
Packing for a road trip is a tricky balance of packing for the unexpected and packing too much. After all, it’s a marathon, not a sprint!
What to Pack for a Road Trip:
- Map and Assistance: GPS is helpful, but a printed map is essential in times of poor connectivity.
- Snacks and Water: Keep hunger and thirst at bay with a stock of non-perishable snacks and plenty of water.
- Entertainment: Music, podcasts or an audiobook might help those long drives.
- First-Aid Kit: Stock up on bandages and pain relievers.
- Car Goods: Keep your driver’s licence, vehicle registration and insurance in handy.
- Tool Kit and Spare Tyre: You should have a jack, wheel brace and a well-inflated spare tyre.
- Master of the Road: Driving in the UK
- Driving in the UK: Can be a different challenge, particularly for right-hand drivers. Here are some key
- Keep Left: Remember this rule.
- Driving on Roundabouts: Give way to the right. Signals are mandatory.
- Speed Limits: Be aware of speed limit signs. The single carriageway national speed limit is 60 mph; dual carriageways and motorways are 70 mph.
- Narrow Lanes: Country roads are often single-track and narrow. You may need to stop in passing places to allow vehicles to pass.
Emphasise the Fun: Making Memories
A road trip is also about the memories. Take a detour to visit quirky roadside attractions, enjoy the local food (pasties in Cornwall, anyone?) and take the opportunity to explore some off-the-beaten-track destinations. Take photos, keep a journal, and savour every moment.
So plan, plan, plan, find the right car and embrace the adventure, and you will have a memorable road trip through the UK. So, pack your suitcases, load up the car and hit the road.