Driving routes not to miss on a road trip in the UK

While the busy cities and popular tourist attractions can seem a little crowded on a road trip in the United Kingdom, there is always somewhere nearby to escape the noise. For this reason, having access to a car is priceless and an easy way to reach lesser-visited parts of the country for which England, Scotland, and Wales are best known. With that said, here are some of the best driving routes to make part of your travel itinerary when taking a road trip into the countryside:

Best driving routes for a road trip in the UK

Snake Pass, Peak District (England)

Living up to the name, Snake Pass is a winding road in the Peak District and often considered one of the most rewarding drives in the United Kingdom. Featuring awe-inspiring views of the countryside, the drive down into Glossop is nothing short of breath-taking and a nice prelude to the scenic road ahead. While the roads on Snake Pass are not advisable during bad weather conditions, the area is easily accessed from the nearby cities of Manchester and Sheffield.

Black Mountain Pass (Wales)

The Brecon Beacons is arguably the most famous National Park in Wales and home to a truly memorable drive through the most majestic mountains. Climbing and twisting through the Black Mountains, the roads here are immaculate with the only real danger being the rather spontaneous sheep that seem hell-bent on crossing the road any time a car is approaching. Although there are random speed cameras at the highest point, the mountains are very isolated, and it is often a case that it can feel like you have them all to yourself.

Selkirk to Moffat – A708 (Scotland)

Travelling alongside St Mary’s Loch, away from Selkirk, and into Yarrow Valley, you can begin what is known as the Scottish Borders Drive. Featuring a collection of tiny villages in between empty, barren mountain landscapes, this is possibly the best road trip in Scotland to become acquainted with the locals and rural life in the UK. In fact, the area is owned by the Scottish Trust, such is the importance of this cultural region, and with so many nature trails, birdlife and glorious scenery, it is easy to see why the locals are more than happy for this region to be protected so vigorously.

A686 – Penrith to Hayden Bridge (England)

Last but by no means least is the A686 in England. Starting out in the largely unassuming Penrith, this is a rather bland name for what is an exceptionally beautiful drive. Through dense forest and the charming village of Melmerby, the road begins in quite a subtle way before rising to the very top of Hartside Mountain. At the top, you will find a café to accompany the views and a very steep road down the other side. However, the next section is possibly the most impressive with unobstructed views from Alston to Hayden Bridge, which is the official end to this epic drive.

Remember Insurance

When driving in the United Kingdom you should have a valid car insurance. If you are a foreigner driving in UK these sites can help you in finding a car insurance:

Money Maxim, Bilforsikring, and uSwitch

What to do in London on vacation

londonLondon, one of the most vibrant cities in the world has something to offer for everyone. There is always an excuse or a reason to visit this city. This is why the capital of England, London is regarded as one of the most important cities in the world. If you are still confused about why you should visit London, here are a few reasons that will attract you and make you want to book that next flight there.

1.    Shopping

Whatever style or fashion trend you follow, you will find it all here in London. From the major flagships store in the Oxford Street to the boutique nature of the west end, London is filled with various shopping opportunities.

2.    The Famous Sights

What would a trip be without checking out the famous sights? London has a huge list of must watch and must visit attractions that you must check out. Do check out the London Eye, Tower of London, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace and the list goes on and on. There are also many interesting sites in East London. You can also get a unique experience by getting on the top of the double decker bus and seeing some of the most recognizable beauties in the world from its deck.

3.    Nightlife

Londoners are known to work hard but they are not behind in partying too. There’s everything that any party animal could possibly want in London, from chic clubs to classic pubs, theatres and dive bars. Whatever you decide make sure you book the tickets beforehand. There are also plenty of good restaurants in East London and in the greater London area.

4.    Sports in London

London is popularly known to attract the biggest sporting events in the world. Come here and see a match or take a tour of the spectacular sporting venues. These sporting venues include Webley Stadium, Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum and Lord’s Cricket Ground.

5.    Welcomes all Budgets

One of the best things about London is that it welcomes people with any kind of budget. The city is also filled with so many free attractions. Some of the finest museums such as the Science Museum, National Gallery, National History Museum and Tate Modern can be explored for free where many free exhibitions are held.

6.    Green Spaces

Another thing that attracts people here at London is that you really don’t need to travel far to get to the green spaces. The city is a home to eight beautiful lush royal parks. Whether you want to enjoy the parks or the view, London has a lot to offer. You will eventually find out that the parks here are a great place to relax and see locals going about their daily life.

7.    Accommodation Options

When looking for a place as your holiday destination, it is really important to find something according to your budget. London is something that definitely has to offer that. No matter how high or low your budget is there is something for you to fit your perfect needs. Check out this article about hotels i East London.

When to buy and when not to buy a Travel Insurance When Travelling to the UK

There are a lot of individuals who travel without an insurance. To them, such policies are just a waste of money, considering the possible costs of backpacking in a foreign land. However, travel insurance is a must have other than your luggages and essential documents. In times of crisis, the policy will cover the expenses incurred from hospitalization, flight delays, lost luggages and many others. Aside from that, it is the best protection against debt because an insured individual does not have to spend his/her money for the damages or bad experiences he/she has been through.

travel insurance in UKA travel insurance is truly an effective tool that offers a peace of mind. If your trip is interrupted, all the costs are recovered and there is nothing to worry about the possible expenses. However, there are some things to keep in mind when you buy a travel insurance policy. It is important to know when to buy or when not to buy this kind of insurance, to make sure that you do not spend your money on something that you cannot use.

When to buy a travel insurance

A travel insurance is a must have if;

  • You are spending an enormous amount of money for a vacation. A big ticket purchase is something that can be a huge loss on your part when some things are not going well. Make sure to get a travel insurance to safeguard your trip from potential expenses caused by losses, theft and uncontrollable circumstances.
  • You are a nervous backpacker. If you think you will have flight cancellation, accident or health issues along the way, better get yourself a travel insurance to give you a peace of mind.
  • You are cruising or having a package tour. To ensure that you do not miss cruise lines or tour packages, purchase a travel insurance to rebook or reimburse your expenses when things are not doing well on you.
  • You have a lengthy itinerary. Travel insurance is a necessity when you travel from one place to the other. Regardless of how safe and secured the destination is, you will never know when you get sick or missed a flight.
  • You are travelling internationally. Most of us are secured with health insurance policies in our own country but these are not applicable in other parts of the world. To cover any medical expenses, get your own travel insurance policy that covers health related issues experienced in the country where you are travelling at.

When not to buy a travel insurance

A travel insurance is not necessary if;

  • Your trip is short and inexpensive.
  • You are spending less and you do not mind losing the cost of your travel should there be an unexpected circumstance that will take place.
  • You travel through a flight voucher or you stay at your friend’s house.
  • You have a pre-existing medical condition.
  • The coverage is redundant or you have a travel insurance with similar policies and benefits.

Final thoughts:

There is no perfect insurance policy for backpackers. However, there is always something in store for you if you search and find a travel insurance for your needs. Take your time to do some research and consider these factors to buy or not to buy a travel insurance.

Read more:

Rick Steve on insurance

Rejseforsikringer

Do I need a travel insurance? – The Guardian

Do I really need travel insurance – The Telegraph