One of the best ways to explore the UK is by hitting its modern highways, then exiting to one of these quaint towns for a true Brit-experience.
Cotswold and Mythical Somerset
Picturesque villages and idyllic countryside, with traditional pubs and tea-rooms at every turn, the Cotswolds offers a glimpse of England at its most traditionally picturesque. South of the Cotswolds lies the county of Somerset, steeped in myth and history. Begin in the North Cotswolds and take tea on the village Green. Head through the southern Cotswolds to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath.
A short drive away lies Castle Combe, often called Britain’s prettiest village, with a high street dating back hundreds of years. From here, drive into Somerset and the town of Glastonbury, which is the spiritual heart of Britain; Glastonbury Abbey is said to be the final resting place of the legendary King Arthur, while the isolated hill of Glastonbury Tor is one of Britain’s holiest places.
Coast to Coast, Northumberland & Cumbria
This route begins on the east, taking in the vast, rugged landscapes of Northumbria and Hadrian’s Wall, before crossing over to the iconic landscapes of the Lake District in Cumbria. Head from Newcastle to discover the rich history of the Northumberland coast; the dramatic ruins of Bamburgh Castle and the medieval Alnwick Castle.
Then head for the mythical island of Lindisfarne Head south through the beautiful landscapes of the Northumberland National Park and stop off at Kielder Water. Head to the Lake District and onto the pretty town of Keswick. Discover the peaks of Scafell and Helvellyn or the tranquil waterside scenery of Windermere and Coniston.
Castles and Vineyards, Surrey & Kent
Experience the regions rich history and beauty, with thousand-year-old castles, medievalvillages and wooded hills criss-crossed with ancient drover’s trails. Spend a day taking in the castles and gardens of beautiful Kent.
Head to the 14th century Bodiam Castle or the historic town of Battle, site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings, before heading west into East Sussex and the spectacular coastal landscapes at Beachy Head and Cuckmere Haven. Lastly, head over into West Sussex, to the historic town of Arundel, dominated by the fairytale Norman castle.
Mountains and Beaches of South Wales
If you want to discover some of Britain’s most unspoilt scenery, this is the route to choose. From Cardiff, head into the Brecon Beacons National Park, through the pretty market town of Abergavenny before exploring the dramatic Black Mountain scenery. Visit Hay-on-Wye or else head west to the pretty town of Landeilo, which makes a great base for exploring the dramatic castles and lovely gardens in this area.
Choose from Dinefwr Park and Castle or the spectacular Carreg Cennen Castle, perched on a 100 metre cliff. Head south to the spectacular Gower peninsula, which stretches out from the city of Swansea and explore the pretty harbour town of Mumbles and 12th century Oystermouth castle.
Heritage and Hidden Gems of Scotland
Start in beautiful Glasgow and drive east to one of Scotland’s most important heritage sites; the village and surrounding area of Bannockburn, near the city of Stirling. Bannockburn was the site of the pivotal defeat of the English army by Robert the Bruce in 1314.
Be sure to take in the Gothic spectacle of the National Wallace Monument built to recognise the achievements of William Wallace, who led the bid for Scottish independence. Then head west to Loch Lomond and take a boat trip or stroll along the waterfront.
This article has been adapted and originally published by Driveaway Holidays