The best driving roads for a UK road trip

Think about great driving roads and up pop the likes of the Stelvio Pass, Route 66 and the Great Ocean Road. But think again, gentlemen, because some of the greatest driving roads are a little more local than that. So put the passport away, pick up the keys and head out the door armed with nothing more than a map, wallet and watch – here are the three best driving roads in the UK.

Image: Yorkshire Walks

Sounding like something from the pages of a Dickens novel, Blakey Ridge offers the best views of the North York Moors national park. With beautiful moorland either side of the narrow, twisty road, be sure to make a pit stop at the Lion Inn half way along for some good ol’ Yorkshire pub fayre.

Image: DrivingForPleasure

Appearing on the covers of car magazines since time began, the Black Mountain Pass is a route much loved by motoring journalists – and Jeremy Clarkson. Cutting across the western side of the Brecon Beacons National Park, you’ll pass by craggy outcrops and moorland following a course of gentle corners, switchbacks and fast, open straights.

Image: UltimateDrives

The Old Military Road – or A93 for more practically minded folk – is an 80 mile stretch starting near Glenshee, Scotland. With snow capped mountains (depending on the time of year) and wild Scottish wilderness either side of you, much of the route follows the course of the River Dee. Be sure to grab a full tank of fuel in Glenshee as the going gets pretty wild when you’re into territory around the royal Scottish holiday home of Balmoral.

Main and featured image: George Maciver

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