With the current stress levels involved with travelling abroad this year, it is reported over 73%* of Brits are opting to leave the stress behind and remain in the UK for a staycation.
Tourist hotspots from Cornwall to Scotland seem to have been fully booked since March, so what about the in between, or the closer to home? We have compiled a list of 4 of the best road trips in England all within 3 hours of London, for you to experience in your shiny clean cars this summer.
Cheddar Gorge
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Cheddar Gorge
The B3135 which runs from Cheddar to Ashwick through the rolling Mendip Hills, provides drivers with 23 kilometres of breathtaking countryside views.
The road can be broken into three very different experiences. As you set off through the picturesque village of Cheddar, the start of the drive is the definitely the most demanding as you weave through the roadside cliffs with plenty of twists and turns, however the views are definitely worth it.
After around 10 kilometres you will enter the next section of the drive, here you lose the tight winding corners, which are replaced with tree lined sweeping bends followed by a sea of green fields.
The final stretch of the route will provide you with continuous straight sections which will give you the opportunity to sit back, relax and enjoy the views.
The New Forest
Exploring the New Forest can be done at completely your own pace, but if you have the weekend, or a couple of days why not explore and uncover scenic spots and hidden gems.
The forest provides a maze of winding roads, and the numerous villages provide a plethora of character. It is safe to say that you will never be short of beautiful scenery, wildlife and cosy pubs.
With hundreds of routes to choose from, be sure to include the Bolderwood Arboretum in your plans. The arboretum provides spectacular views of the tallest trees in the New Forest and the deer sanctuary. If you continue travelling south to the top of the New Forest you’ll soon be greeted by the vast and open wilderness, if you’re lucky the heathlands will be scattered with grazing horses and deer.
Surrey Hills
A little closer to London, the zig-zagging Surrey Hills are not to be missed. The Surrey Hills take you through countless picturesque villages, historic towns and ideal stops for exploring in between.
Shere, Box Hill and Leith Hill provide a day of rolling hills, and with every ascent comes spectacular views, and if you’re lucky enough on a clear day panoramic views of London can sometimes be seen in the distance.
Whilst you’re there, why not stop at the famous Denbies Wine Estate restaurant for a spot of lunch?
The Surrey Hills can be a hotspot for cyclists so make sure to be careful on the winding, single lane, country roads.
Driving in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds
Another AONB on the list, but with winding tree lined country roads and vast patchwork fields, driving through the Cotswolds will not disappoint.
The Cotswolds are one of a kind as the bedrock of Jurassic limestone paints the entire area an extraordinary shade of gold.
The drive is broken up with quintessential English villages all with their own personalities, and all with narrow roads surrounded by charming ancient buildings.
In between driving, why not leave the car and discover the quaint villages (especially Bourton-on-the-Water and the colourful Cirencester), historic mills and charming vineyards.
Always be sure to check the safety of your vehicle before setting off on any road trips around England. For even more convenience and for peace of mind, why not just add a Summer Refill and Health Check (windscreen washer fluid, engine coolant, tyre pressure and tyre tread check all included) to your next Dropless valet and be on your way!