John Craddock Ltd Magazine (June 2023)
Now that summer is in full swing, nothing can quite beat having the car windows fully down and taking a scenic road trip in your beloved 4×4. Whether you’re planning a road trip this summer with family or friends, there are plenty of scenic routes around the UK. In this article, we will explore 5 of the UK’s best scenic routes to visit with your Land Rover. From the depths of the Midlands to the north coast of Northern Ireland, there is a route in this article for everyone to enjoy.
1) Peak District, Midlands
Drive through one of the nation’s most favourite national parks, the Peak District in Derbyshire. Start your road trip in Glossop, east of Manchester, and head into the Pennines through the Snake Pass, one of the Peak District’s most famous driving routes. Beautiful green hills run along the river Ashop and its long sloped road makes it a dream to drive your Land Rover on.
From there, travel south towards the popular Ladybower reservoir of Derwent Dam. This route takes around 25 minutes with a mixture of water and woodland scenery along the way. As you reach Derwent Dam, there is parking available at the Upper Derwent Visitor Centre, so you’ll have the opportunity to take a break, explore the area and get a glance of the stunning views of the Derwent Dam. You can also hire a bike there to cycle around the historic grounds through beautiful woodland.
2) The Atlantic Highway, South West England
One of the longest routes in the south west of England, the Atlantic Highway is a 70-mile stretch of road between Barnstaple in North Devon and the popular Cornwall seaside resort of Newquay. You will see some of the beautiful scenery in the region. It takes around 2 hours to drive the entire way. However, there are plenty of places to stop along the way such as Summerleaze beach and Camel Creek Family Theme Park. Newquay is the perfect destination to end your road trip, as it is known as a family-friendly seaside town. Plenty of sandy golden beaches to relax by and wild activities to try such as water sports, surfing, hiking, golfing and more.
3) Gower Peninsula, Wales
Known as the UK’s first recognised “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty,” Gower Peninsula is one of the most scenic routes in the south of Wales. Just west of Swansea, take the A4118 and keep heading west until you reach the stunning Rhossili Bay. Among the best beaches in the UK, Rhossili Beach is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic and soak up some sun.
If you are feeling adventurous and up for a hiking challenge, venture towards the furthest west point of Gower Peninsula, the tidal island of Worms Head. It has breathtaking views of cliffs, tidal pools and an overlook of Rhossili Bay. Park your Land Rover at the car park and tackle a 1-mile long hike of Worms Head, which is made up of inner, middle and outer heads as well as a collapsed sea cave known as the Devil’s Bridge.
However, this scenic hike is only accessible 2.5 hours either side of low tide, giving a 5 hour accessible window. Make sure to check the crossing times beforehand and give yourself plenty of time to get back. Just a word of warning, this walk is not suitable for young children or people with mobility difficulties as the rocky and uneven terrain can be quite challenging.
4) North Coast 500, Scotland
For this route, we’re heading up far north to the Scotland city of Inverness. The North Coast 500 is, you’ve guessed it, around 500 miles long in distance. It is known as Scotland’s very own Route 66. You will pass through mountain scenery, historic landmarks and idyllic villages such as John O’Groats and Ullapool to name a few, before returning back to Inverness. While you don’t have to drive the entire route, it does feature the most speculator views of Scotland’s north coast. Ideal for a family or friends holiday if you are planning a trip to Scotland. Your Land Rover will provide you and your family or friends all the space and comfort needed for this week-long road trip.
5) Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
If you happen to live in Northern Ireland, the Causeway Coastal route is a must on your bucket list. The 120-mile long route between Belfast and Derry, is the perfect mix of city life, beaches, scenic points and historic landmarks for a weekend road trip with your family or friends. Some of must-see attractions along the way include the Dark Hedges, which is a beautiful stretch of narrow road with a tunnel-like path of intertwined beech trees, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the famous Giants Causeway.
Get Your Land Rover Road Trip Ready By Visiting John Craddock
Get ready to have rolling hills and beautiful coastlines unfold before your eyes. Whatever route you decide to take, your Land Rover will make even the most uneven roads seem flat and smooth. Before you head off on your chosen route, make sure to prepare your Land Rover for the journey ahead with the right parts and spares from John Craddock, whether you have a off-roading Defender or a family Range Rover. The last thing you want is a breakdown during your road trip.
We also supply travel accessories for your 4×4. From tents and awnings for camping to fridges and bike racks, you can find everything you need to get your Land Rover road trip ready in our online range. For any enquiries, please contact us.
This month we look at ways you can maintain your Land Rover as well as ways to get out and explore.
