One of the best ways to enjoy the British countryside is with the help of a classic road trip. You bundle a few close friends, or immediate family members, into the back of your car, then make your way from one place to another, packing in as many attractions and beauty spots along the way.
Of course, the ultimate road trip as far as UK residents are concerned is the famous trip from Land’s End in Cornwall to John o’Groats in Caithness, Scotland. The trip will take you across just under 900 miles of road, and when you factor in all of the stops you’ll be making along the way, you might find that you’re adding a cool thousand miles to your odometer.
So, how can you get the best of this particular adventure? Let’s take a look.
Preparing for the Trip
Before you get going, your car will need to be given a quick once-over to ensure it’s in great condition. Make sure that you’re well stocked with emergency supplies, especially if you’re travelling in winter. This might mean a blanket, a first-aid kit, and some emergency rations. Ideally, you’ll also plan all of your rest stops along the way, too.
You’ll also need to ensure that your tyres are up to the job. If the tread depth is nearing the legal minimum of 1.6mm, then you might find that your fuel economy suffers considerably. Before embarking on a trip of this length, it’s worth investing in some new, high-quality tyres from a reputable brand like Michellin Tyres.
The Route
You’re not going to be able to realistically drive for an entire day (or longer) without a break. Bear in mind that you’re going to run into traffic along the way.
The fastest way to complete the journey is along the motorways – but these aren’t particularly scenic, and so many trippers prefer instead to go for country roads, instead. If your car comes equipped with a quality satnav system, then you can venture from the beaten path without fear that you’ll get lost.
The Cost of the Trip
Given that the cost of petrol at the pump in the UK is now sitting in excess of £1.90 per litre, and the trip is around 900 miles, you can expect to spend around £900 – assuming that you’re getting around 40 mpg.
Different cars are able to offer vastly different fuel efficiencies. And there’s always the allure of an electric car (though you’ll need to plan your route well in advance to get the most from this kind of thing). You’ll need to also factor in the money you’re spending on accommodation, food, and time off work – all of which might make this a significant trip.
