Clocking up the miles

The UK is home to some of the world’s great driving routes, spread throughout the country and full of stunning scenery.

We’ve picked out 3 of the best to fire up your imagination and get you thinking about your own summer road trip.

The North Coast 500

Starting in Inverness, the route tracks north, following the coastline up and around the top of Scotland.

The road then winds its way down the west coast, taking in places like Lochinver, Ullapool and Applecross. It’s then time to go inland, head cross-country and make your way back to Inverness.

Set against the ancient, rugged landscape of the Scottish Highlands, the route is a firm favourite for driving purists and tourists alike. If you’re seeking silence, solitude and an abundance of natural beauty, this might be for you.

The Atlantic Highway

At the other end of the UK, this stunning 70-mile stretch of road runs from Barnstaple in North Devon to Fraddon in Cornwall. The route snakes its way past craggy shorelines and surf breaks on one side, and open countryside on the other.

The magic and history of Tintagel Castle is just one of the exciting stop-offs to visit along the way, and the whole landscape is steeped in Arthurian legend. The Atlantic Highway smacks of beaches, breakers and summer sunshine. You’re never far from a sea breeze either!

The Black Mountain Pass

Out west in the Brecon Beacons National Park is the Black Mountain Pass. Spread over 19 twisting and tumbling miles, it sounds like something out of The Lord of the Rings, and has the scenery and mystique to match.

The route runs from Llandovery at the north end to Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen in the south. It takes in some thrilling turns and bends, including one notorious hairpin named locally as Tro Gwcw, or ‘cuckoo turn’. There's no wonder why is has featured in Top Gear.

You’ll climb more than 600m along the route, before descending the same, enjoying wild wilderness views as you go. It might be short, but it packs a mighty punch.

Clocking up the miles

One thing to watch out for while exploring these sensational roads is the mileage limit on your car insurance policy. Exceeding it could invalidate your cover, so it’s worth taking a moment to check and think about how far you’ll be going.

The good news is that it’s easy to adjust your policy. Simply get in touch with your insurer and ask about upping the limit. There may be a fee to pay for making the change and a little more for adding the extra miles, but it’ll mean your cover stays intact, so you can enjoy your time away.

To get in touch with us about your existing cover or to get a new quote, visit our car insurance page.