The Most Scenic Beach Drives in the UK
Summer is upon us. With the chaos at the airports making overseas holidays even more stressful than usual, many will now be looking for places within the UK to enjoy some relaxing family time. Or, maybe you aren’t from the UK and have stumbled across this whilst looking for inspiration. With over 7000 miles of coastline to appreciate, it can be tough to choose which ones to visit.
So whether you are visiting from abroad or enjoying a domestic holiday this year, let the Direct Car Hire Excess team guide you on the best beach drives you can enjoy in the UK.
The Assynt Peninsula – Scottish Highlands
This wild ride is one not to miss. Although it didn’t make our cut for Scottish Highland drives when we focused on this area, it makes for a welcome entry to this list due to the nature of the journey it takes you on. A single lane that is probably one of the most remote roads in Britain, it winds through stunning scenery as you pass mountains, seascapes and lochs. Whilst the water may be too cold to take a dip in, the views and warm hospitality of locals more than compensate. It’s a 25-mile route, starting on the B869 and heading north from Lochinver to Kylesku.
Saint Ives to Land’s End – Cornwall
Cornwall has always been a favourite destination for holidaymakers, and this journey is a notable one for the Southwest. It is only a 19-mile route, but provides some stunning views. Driving over disused mine shafts and embracing the mystical, fantasy-like atmosphere makes for an exciting journey that helps you delve into the past whilst staying in the present. This is worth a visit for those who have a penchant for pagan history. Use the B3306/A30 to enjoy this enchanting ride.
Alnouth to Bamburgh – Northumberland
Mixing sea and land to perfection, this route allows you to enjoy white sands on the beaches and historical castles on land. With over 70 castles in the Northumberland area, there are plenty to explore. It is a 24-mile route packed with visual treats. In our opinion, it’s a journey worth taking at any time of year. Warm and welcoming when hot, cosy and uniquely British when wet or windy. Head to Boulmer to get the journey started.
Machynlleth to Dolgellau – Wales
Sunsets are appealing wherever you are in the world, but sticking to our UK theme, this is an area to embrace and enjoy. Located near Cardigan Bay, this route runs alongside a railway and will take you up to the wooden viaduct that you can walk over for some breath-taking views of coastline. This is a 35-mile route that takes in some of the best Wales has to offer. Start on the A493 and simply follow the road.
Ventnor to Totland – Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight is one of the UK’s gems. Popular by the coast and inland, it has plenty to offer for everyone. This particular route takes you off the tourist track and allows you to view the back roads often frequented by classic cars. It is only a 19-mile journey, but during this trip, you will take on blue waters, pass old villages and discover picturesque old pubs. Photo opportunities appear along every part of the way, and once you have exhausted every avenue for capturing the perfect shot, you can head into the island to discover Ryde, Shanklin, Sandown or Newport very easily.
These are our top 5 scenic beach drives – do you have any others to suggest?
Whether you are visiting from abroad or the UK, if a hire car is on the agenda, speak to our team. The holiday car excess insurance cover we provide means that you can enjoy any trip, anywhere, stress-free. You’ll avoid the costly excess fees associated with car hire and be able to put your cash to better use enjoying your holiday. Contact us today to see how we can keep you covered and happy on your holidays. A free quote is available now.
