Best summer road trip routes in the UK
A road trip gives you that intense feeling of excitement from the minute you get on the road. With a thrill that takes you back to your favourite fair ride as a kid, there is nothing quite like a road trip that unfolds a brand new destination for you each time and new things to explore. Before you set out on the road, make sure you’ve packed your essentials such as important car documents and a spare car key. Depending on the make and model of your car, you may be able to get a key online. If you have a Ford, you can find ford kuga key replacement services online here.
The UK has some of the best riding experiences compared to anywhere else in the globe so, if you’ve got a set of wheels – whether it’s a new bike or a well loved one – consider the following road trips this summer.
The Cat and Fiddle, A537 Buxton to Macclesfield
The Cat and Fiddle route – named after the pub that lays in the summit – is one of the most famous roads in the Peak District, especially for motorcycle riders. Approximately 12.5 miles long, this tarmac road runs through the Peak District between Buxton and Macclesfield. Although it was once named one of the most dangerous roads it has now been given a 50mph speed limit, making it much safer but still an extremely popular riding route.
If you are a newcomer, take it easy. There are bends and corners here that could catch you when unexpected, not to mention the sheep crossing the road. Once you get a taste for this route you will be hooked by its open road, beautiful scenery and peaceful tranquillity – the perfect route for a laid-back Sunday ride.
The Horseshoe Pass, A542, North Wales
This is one of the most breathtaking routes you will come across. With its steady incline, it makes the ascent and descent enjoyable and easy. This is ideal the newest of bikers to chance the open road because of its safety. It was named the horseshoe pass because of the way it shapes around the valley.
Being 1,400 feet above sea level, make the most of a hot sunny day and be sure to stop here, soak up the atmosphere and have a bite to eat at the Ponderosa Cafe but beware of the sheep on your ride, they have a tendency to wander the open road without a care in the world. The Horseshoe Pass is a spectacular riding route and certainly not one to miss out on.
Glasgow to Inverness, The A82
Being the second largest A-road in Scotland, this route feels almost as if it was designed specifically for bikers in mind. The A82 sweeps through Glasgow and Inverness with no difficulty whatsoever. This is a truly gladsome route that takes you through Glencoe, past the Loch Ness (pull over and see of if you can catch a glimpse of the Loch Ness Monster) then to Forts William and Augustus.
The sweeping bends of this road make for a comfortable and relaxed riding experience, allowing you to soak up the stunning Scottish landscape that certainly isn’t camera shy. Just be wary of frequent corners as you get close to the mountains, they become tighter and occasionally cling to the edge.
The Antrim Coast Road, A2 Northern Ireland
The coastal scenery here is spectacular due to its open roads. This road is biker friendly equipped with quaint fishing villages and secluded coves to be explored, ending at Giants Causeway. It is rumoured that this is the first place Joey Dunlop rode through. The NW200 is located in this area so for those who want to try out as a racer they can enter their own world of road trials.
Several days on this route will give you the full riding experience and allow you to make the most of your time. Those of you unfamiliar with this route should take their time and simply enjoy the views.
Clee Hill, Shropshire, The A4117
One for the more experienced rider, this is a challenging ride with some incredible views of Shropshire and its surrounding countryside of Ludlow and Cleobury. With a height of over 1,500 feet this amazing viewpoint some truly breathtaking sights for you to see.
Expect plenty of company on this route from other bikers. This route can prove to be difficult due to its long drag up and over the hill but, it is a great ride and the perfect place to meet other bikers.
Ready to try out one of these awesome summer road trip routes? Plan your trip, fill up the tank and get out there.