Guide to avoiding the tourist traps whilst planning your summer road-trip.
Stay safe in your own space while enjoying a much-needed summer break with loved ones by hitting the road and discovering the natural beauty and wonder of the British Isles, whilst supporting local economies.
The UK has plenty of spectacular road trip itineraries to rival America’s Route 66. From stunning coastline, hairpin mountain passes, new sporting adventures, open moorland, to picturesque villages, cityscapes, or routes to feed foodies, there are self-drive options to suit every holiday preference.
And thanks to sharing economy platform Camptoo, you don’t even have to own the vehicle!
Here, expert road tripper and Head of Wanderlust at Camptoo, Ed Bassett, provides a guide to his top ten UK routes.
“The UK offers so many surprises,” says Ed. “From award-winning beaches to picturesque villages, impressive forts, castles and spectacular scenery. Pair all of that with a trip that focuses on adventure and new experiences, plus the opportunity to really bond with your fellow road-trippers, and you will create holiday memories to last a lifetime.
“This year, however, road-trippers will need to do a bit more forward planning – many pubs, restaurants and attractions require booking in advance to ensure social distancing is adhered to. There are also different guidelines in place across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, so it’s important to check local guidelines before you travel.
“It’s also never been so important to consider the potential for overcrowding in your intended destination. Many popular UK destinations have seen a huge increase in staycationers this year. As such we’ve put together our recommendations for some of the best off the beaten track destinations in the UK. Happy driving!”
North Coast 500 (NC500), Scotland
Perfect for more well-seasoned road-tripper, this iconic coastal touring route of the North Highlands begins and ends at Inverness Castle. Although a relatively new route, NC500 is awe-inspiring, with 516 miles of fairy tale castles, rugged mountains, white sand beaches and historical ruins. Roadtrippers should ensure they try the delicious local produce along the way.
Moors and dales, Yorkshire
Heather moorland, rolling hills, pine forests and stunning coastline dotted with historic abbeys and castles, traditional pubs and picturesque villages and hamlets is what to expect on a Yorkshire road-trip. You’ll enjoy visiting Harome, Wensleydale, Buttertubs Pass, Blakey Ridge, North York Moors National Park, Whitby and Hovingham.
Norfolk & Suffolk
From the raw beauty of the Norfolk countryside and the endless expanse of beach at Holkham Bay, to the picturesque seaside town of Aldeburgh in Suffolk. Covering just 286 miles across relatively flat countryside, this road trip is ideal for those wanting a slower, scenic break.
Coastal Causeway, Northern Ireland
Grab your friends and enjoy this winding coastal road that passes through picturesque villages and unforgettable scenic locations. Game of Throne fans will be in their element with visits to Ballycastle, Cushendun, Ballintoy Harbour, Larrybane and The Dark Hedges.
The Snake Pass, Pennines
Passing through the Pennines, between the northern cities of Manchester and Sheffield, the Snake Pass is not for the faint-hearted. Weaving through dramatic countryside, expect a sharp incline followed by a long, scenic descent with twists and turns along the way. The road is often closed in the winter months, but if you’re up for a challenge it’s worth tackling in the summer months.
Cotswold Village Hopping
From Arlington Row in Bibury, the set of stone cottages built in 1380, to the vintage markets in picturesque Burford, to afternoon tea at The Slaughters Manor House Hotel, a Cotswold village hopping road-trip is ideal for people wanting to enjoy a slower pace and who are happy to just go with the flow. Expect chocolate box cottages made from local honey-coloured stone.
Seafood Trail, Scotland’s west coast
A meandering drive along the rugged and unspoilt west coast of Scotland with some of the best seafood and shellfish in Scotland thrown in for good measure. Whether you’re after fresh crab rolls served with a zesty squeeze of lemon and home-made mayonnaise at the Seafood Cabin in Skipness, or to sample a Michelin recommended menu at the Cairnbaan Hotel, this road-trip caters for all foodies and whisky lovers.
The Rolling Hills of Northumberland
Whether you choose to travel from east to west via the 50-mile route from Amble to Kielder or north to south from Berwick Upon Tweed to Newcastle you’ll enjoy peaceful dales, winding roads and unspoilt countryside. Northumberland is full of wide open spaces – the perfect place to unwind and explore after months spent at home.
Lough Erne, Northern Ireland
Lough Erne – the name of two connected lakes in Country Fermanagh – is a tranquil escape with a rich medieval history. Dotted with 150 small islands and surrounded by lush greenery, including golf courses and water sports facilities – there’s sure to be something for everyone.
To rent a campervan, motorhome or caravan, visit www.camptoo.co.uk.
For know-before-you-go information, visit www.camptoo.co.uk/blog/2020/06/03/renters-are-you-looking-to-book-you-can-now-do-so-with-confidence/
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Notes to editors:
Camptoo’s Head of Wanderlust and UK Country Manager, Ed Bassett, is available for interview or comment upon request.
For further press information, please contact:
Elsa Findlay/Jo Kendall/Charlotte Wright
Rooster PR
T: +44 (0) 20 3440 8930
E: [email protected]
About Camptoo
Launched in the Netherlands in 2014, Camptoo is a sharing economy platform that connects the owners and renters of campervans, motorhomes and touring caravans.
Since it was launched, Camptoo users have booked over 250,000 nights in vehicles rented through the site. Owners are able to generate income from their campervan when it’s not being used while renters have greater flexibility when booking their vehicle so that it best suits their needs.
There are over 4,000 vehicles to choose from across Europe and a further 400 across Australia, with more being added every week. Vehicles are properly insured to allow both owner as well as renter a carefree holiday, with Camptoo providing all the necessary paperwork, checklists and roadside assistance. For more information, visit http://www.camptoo.co.uk
