Lambs bouncing in the field. Daffodils emerging from their winter slumber. Birds chirping in the trees. It can only be that time of year again: springtime.
With the longer days and life springing into action everywhere, there's no better time to go on a road trip in the UK.
Springtime road trips in the UK offer the perfect balance of mild weather, smaller crowds and blossoming landscapes. The longer days make it ideal for exploring and creating unforgettable memories.
But where are the best places to go? Check out our list for some inspiration.
1. The Cotswolds
If you're looking for quintessential English springtime countryside then look no further than the Cotswolds. Its network of scenic roads and country lanes provides the perfect backdrop for your springtime excursion.
One of the most scenic routes in the Cotswolds is the A429, otherwise known as "Fosse Way". This ancient Roman road passes through iconic towns and villages such as Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold and Cirencester.
Patchwork fields, roaming rivers, mediaeval churches and stately homes dot the route along your journey. With its timeless beauty and tranquil countryside, the Cotswolds' idyllic scenery will prove the perfect choice for your springtime road trip.
2. Bluebell woods of the UK
A mesmerising spectacle each spring in the UK is its bluebell woods.
Visitors to ancient woodlands around the country will be enchanted by their transformation into a sea of delicate blue hues and the sweet-smelling fragrance of the bluebells.
One of the most spectacular places to see bluebell woods is the Ashridge Estate in Hertfordshire.
Here, the ancient woodlands explode into a dazzling display of bluebells to captivate each visitor. With a limited flowering window in April and May, springtime makes it a great time to visit.
Then there's the beautiful Watkins Way. This scenic drive takes you through the beautiful Wye Valley and the gorgeous Golden Valley providing dramatic hilltop views and panoramas of the Black Mountains.
Along with some fabulous country houses, castles and a cathedral, Herefordshire is maybe one of the UK's most underrated counties.
In addition, the bluebell woods at Tehidy Camborne in Cornwall offer 250 acres of woodland along with a lake and nine miles of pathways to explore this enchanting woodland. All of which leads us nicely to our next destination…
3. Cornwall
Visit Cornwall in spring and see the region burst into colourful life.
Flora and fauna emerge from their winter slumber along with an abundance of wildlife from sea birds to seals. Immerse yourself in the region's history via its many smuggling coves and famous harbours.
The stunning drive between St Ives and Sennen will be a highlight of your road trip. With the blue ocean on one side and spectacular moorland on the other, you'll be captivated as you pass tin mines, lighthouses, farms and stunning viewpoints.
With its rugged coastline, picture-perfect villages and sandy beaches, Cornwall is the ideal destination for your springtime road trip. Without the summer crowds, this is the perfect time to visit.
4. The Isle of Skye
This enchanting and rugged isle off the west coast of Scotland will captivate your heart as you explore its rugged landscape along with picturesque fishing villages and medieval castles.
Whilst it might not be home to the Loch Ness Monster, there are still a plethora of lochs to visit. As the chill of winter fades and becomes a distant memory, The Isle of Skye transforms with the vibrant colours of spring.
The panoramic drive between Broadford and Elgol (B8083) won't disappoint as you drive through some of Scotland's most stunning landscapes. Fewer visitors and good weather make springtime the ideal time to visit.
5. The Lake District
The Lake District is an evergreen place for a road trip – fine all year round but especially in spring.
Get ready to be captivated by its lush greenery, colourful blossoms and cascading waterfalls. Stunning mountains provide the backdrop for tranquil lakes and spring lambs frolicking in the fields.
The A591 between Windermere and Keswick provides one of the most breathtaking drives you'll find in the whole of the UK. Along with the stunning views of shimmering lakes, rolling hills and dramatic mountains, you can stop off at one or more of the charming villages you pass along the way, including Grasmere and Ambleside. These delightful villages are a great spot for lunch or a pint at a traditional pub.
Whatever route you take, the Lake District won't leave you disappointed this spring.
6. The Yorkshire Dales
If you want breathtaking scenery, picturesque countryside and charming villages then the Yorkshire Dales could be the place for you.
Spring brings its unique charm to the area as snow fades and is replaced with lambs aplenty and green lush rolling moors and hills.
There are endless opportunities to be had for exploring and discovering this beautiful part of England. The winding roads will lead you on a journey through expansive moors, rolling hills and limestone cliffs. Marvel at cascading waterfalls, ancient stone bridges and quaint picture-postcard villages.
There are many routes to take but probably one of the most renowned is the B6255, otherwise known as the "Buttertub Pass." Running from Hawes to Ingleton, you'll find panoramic vistas of the Yorkshire Dales along with the iconic Buttertub limestone potholes. With a diverse terrain and rich cultural heritage, this destination will really give you a taste of rural England at its best.
Final thoughts
Whether it's the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye, the tranquil charm of the Cotswolds or the stunning views of the Lake District, the UK has some world-class destinations for a road trip this spring. We wish you safe and happy travels!
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