Travel

1. Introduction: Understanding Visitor Passes

A scenic drive is the best way to enjoy Britain’s hidden gems. Breathtaking views, dramatic coasts, romantic villages, and secret valleys—there sometimes is no better way to see them than on a leisurely drive. While Britain’s trains offer a quick means of transport, a scenic drive provides an enriching experience filled with stunning landscapes and charming historical sites.01. Into the Highlands on the A82Glencoe from the Three Sisters point of view. Ferne ArfinThe journey from Glasgow to Fort William traverses some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. Covering 108 miles on the A82, this route typically takes three hours, but setting aside the whole day allows for enjoyment and photography. Start by following the shores of Loch Lomond and winding through Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. After ascending into the Black Mountains, you’ll encounter the serene Rannoch Moor to your right, eventually entering the historic Glen Coe, renowned for its tragic past. The Three Sisters are best viewed from the Three Sisters Point of View parking (GPS coordinates N56° 40′ 3.72″, W4° 59′ 11.4″), around 4 miles east of theGlencoe Visitor Center.Continuing after Glencoe leads to South Ballachulish, where you will cross a bridge over Loch Leven and have magnificent views of Loch Linnhe as you approach Fort William, with glimpses of Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the British Isles, to your right.02.West Bank of Loch LomondBen Lomond, standing at 3,196ft, is one of Scotland’s Munros, towering over Loch Lomond.Travel north from Dumbarton along the west bank of Loch Lomond on the A82. This 26-mile journey offers ever-changing vistas of heather-covered mountains and beautiful forests, most notably within Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and Rowardennan Forest. With Ben Lomond nestled within the landscape, the drive on a bright October afternoon can be particularly stunning. The low sun casts a warm glow across the panoramic views.03.Kirkstone PassAmy Hambrook / Getty ImagesAs the highest road pass in the Lake District, Kirkstone Pass reaches an elevation of 1,500 feet. This scenic route connects Lake Windermere with Ullswater, a popular destination for outdoor activities like canoeing and fishing. For an ethereal experience, visit during autumn mornings. The A591 leads from Windermere to the A592 at the pass, where the Kirkstone Pass Inn stands on the site of an ancient monastery, serving food and lodging for travelers.04. Scott’s View in Melrose, ScotlandEildon Hills. Ferne ArfinThe B6356 road between Melrose and Dryburgh Abbey climbs steeply above the River Tweed’s valley. At the summit, it provides an outstanding view of the three volcanic Eildon Hills, which dramatically rise from the flat surrounding landscape. A historic marker and parking area allow visitors to stop and appreciate Scott’s View, a spot cherished by Sir Walter Scott, who often stopped to take in the scenery.05.The Suffolk Wool Townswhitemay / Getty ImagesFor a drive through picturesque villages, explore the Suffolk Wool Towns, including Lavenham, Long Melford, and Clare. Covering about 40 miles, this scenic trip showcases the architectural beauty of these towns that reached their zenith during the textile manufacturing boom in the 13th to 16th centuries. Along the way, enjoy colorful half-timbered buildings, ancient pubs, and idyllic country lanes perfect for a day out.06. Slate Country Under SnowdonPen-y-Pass, also called Llanberis Pass, in Snowdonia. Ferne ArfinWales’ Snowdonia National Park is rich with captivating drives, with routes winding through lush valleys and mountains. The drive from Blaenau Ffestiniog through Pen-y-Pass to Llanberis offers breathtaking views. The stark landscape transitions into dense woods as you approach the tourism center of Betwys-y-Coed, making this one of the most enchanting roads in Wales.07.Cheddar GorgeRob Maynard / Getty ImagesEngland’s deepest gorge, Cheddar Gorge, is renowned for its breathtaking limestone cliffs reaching heights of nearly 500 feet. The B3135 winds through the gorge, providing stunning views and access to various outdoor activities, including hiking and rock climbing. The area is both a natural wonder and a tourist hotspot, making it a must-see for visitors.08.Pulborough to Arundel Over Bury HillSt John the Evangelist, Bury, West Sussex, 12 century Norman Church.The drive from Pulborough to Arundel showcases the breathtaking scenery of the South Downs as the A29 crosses the River Arun. Before ascending Bury Hill, take a detour to the charming village of Bury, home to the historic St John the Evangelist Church, featuring remarkable 12th-century architecture. Continue the ascent for spectacular views into the Vale of Arun.09.Wharfedale CircuitMartin Priestley / Getty ImagesWharfedale, situated in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, features a 26-mile circuit that connects Grassington, Bolton Abbey, and Skipton Castle. This picturesque drive showcases charming towns, exquisite ruins, and magnificent views across the rolling dales, making it an idyllic escape into nature.10. The Shropshire CountrysideSignpost for The Shropshire Way. VisitBritain / Simon KreitemIn Shropshire, the countryside offers delightful scenery along winding roads through quaint villages and idyllic farmland. Particularly notable is the A458, which leads through rich agricultural landscapes and scenic viewpoints. Travelers can indulge in walking, rock climbing, or simply revel in the open air while exploring this enchanting region.