Plan the perfect UK road trip

Our definitive round of the best drives in the UK '“ from stunning scenery to pockets of history.
The rocky majesty of Glencoe makes for a particularly picturesque driveThe rocky majesty of Glencoe makes for a particularly picturesque drive
The rocky majesty of Glencoe makes for a particularly picturesque drive

As UK drivers we tend to spend more time in traffic jams than out on the open road.

But there is a whole host of stunning, exciting and secluded roads just waiting to be discovered.

So, whether you are planning a full-on driving holiday or just looking for an excuse to get out on the open road, check out our guide to the best roads in the UK.

The RAC picked the ultra-quiet A897 out of Helmsdale as one of its driving heaven roads last year.The RAC picked the ultra-quiet A897 out of Helmsdale as one of its driving heaven roads last year.
The RAC picked the ultra-quiet A897 out of Helmsdale as one of its driving heaven roads last year.

Glasgow to Glencoe

When the motoring and travel teams at The Telegraph teamed up to pick their favourite road trip routes they chose this A82 route as their number one.

They described it as ‘a haven of windswept rocky splendour’.

According to the experts at independent car supermarket V12 Sports and Classics this is the ideal choice for the convertible driver – although you will want to make sure the heating is working first.

The RAC picked the ultra-quiet A897 out of Helmsdale as one of its driving heaven roads last year.The RAC picked the ultra-quiet A897 out of Helmsdale as one of its driving heaven roads last year.
The RAC picked the ultra-quiet A897 out of Helmsdale as one of its driving heaven roads last year.

“For convertible drivers it is all about the air on their face and the wind moving around them and the A82 definitely offers that,” said a spokesman.

As well as the panoramic views of mountain ranges, this is also a great road for drivers looking for a bit of run rather than just a cruising experience.

Cheltenham to Stratford-upon-Avon

The scenic route along the B4632 topped a list of the most beautiful drives in the UK compiled by international insurance firm Clements & Co.

Described as a ‘peaceful ride’ it allows drivers to appreciate the beauty of the Cotswolds hills.

V12 Sports and Classics say this is the perfect drive for ‘comfort’ drivers.

“Cruising drivers are looking for a smooth driving experience allowing them to take in the scenery in comfort,” said the spokesman.

“Ideal cars for them are the bigger Mercedes and Audi models and the B4632 is the perfect route – the epitome of the English countryside.”

Helmsdale to Melvich, Sutherland

If you are tired of sitting in queues staring at the brake lights of the car in front of you then this is the choice for you.

The RAC picked the ultra-quiet A897 as one of its ‘driving heaven’ roads last year.

It has been named the quietest A road in Britain – high praise indeed.

Richmond to Hawes

Visit Britain named the Buttertubs Pass in the Yorkshire Dales as one of Britain’s most scenic routes.

It was picked for its fast descents and quick corners as well as its stunning views of the Dales.

V12 Sports and Classics says it is ideal for high-performance drivers who value handling and like to put a car through its paces.

“For drivers of a car like say the BMW 3 Series it is about speed and performance and this is the ideal road to see that performance in action.”

V12 Sports and Classics is one of the fastest growing independent car supermarkets in the UK with more than 850 cars across three showrooms in Hinckley, Stoke-on-Trent and Wolverhampton and is the only car supermarket professionally associated with the AA.

For more information on how the team could help you find your dream car visit www.v12sportsandclassics.co.uk or pop into one of the showrooms.