What are the UK’s best summer road trip routes? From breathtaking coastal views to inland wonders
From long coastal tracks to winding paths through rolling hills, these are five of Britain's best road trip routes
SUMMER is well and truly upon us, so there's never been a better time to get out on the road and enjoy the weather.
And no matter how long you have to explore, there's a scenic cruise to suit almost everyone.
The UK has incredible stretches of road dotted all around the country, which make the perfect destination for a day in the car.
From coastal highways to picturesque inland tracks, there is plenty to see along some of the nation's best routes.
These are five of the best journeys to explore this summer.
But don't forget to protect yourself from the sun, as harmful UVs can damage your skin while you're out on the road.
Atlantic Highway (A39), Barnstaple to Newquay
Arguably England's most impressive collection of beaches, the Atlantic Highway is a road trip every Brit should tackle at least once.
Stretching over 70 miles, the A39 from Barnstaple to Newquay will see you pass some of the best surfing spots in the South West.
If you've got the time, take a few days to explore the coast, stopping at classic seaside towns like Bude and Padstow along the way.
A165, Scarborough to Spurn Point
The A165 tracks almost 70 miles of coastal highway all the way from North Yorkshire's Scarborough down to the stunning Spurn Heritage Coast.
Starting on the Yorkshire coast, you'll finish up in the Spurn National Nature Reserve where you can gaze out to sea from an isolated sandy headland.
And there's only one road in and out of the point, so you'll get to see both sides of the coastline when you head back home.
Snake Pass (A57), Manchester to Sheffield
To explore England's inland beauty, you can't go past Snake Pass in the Derbyshire section of the Peak District.
The winding stretch of road takes you from Manchester through to Sheffield, passing through the breathtaking valley.
And it's the perfect place for a summer drive, with Ladybower Reservoir making for the ideal picnic stop along the way.
Causeway Coastal Route, Belfast to Londonderry
One of the best ways to see Northern Ireland, the Causeway Coastal Route will take you from Belfast to Londonderry.
Stretching across 120 miles, you'll see everything from stunning coastlines and harbours to sleepy hamlets.
Running all along the northern coast there are plenty of exciting stops along the way, including castles, valleys, magnificent causeways and Ireland's iconic beech tree archways.
The Causeway Route has been named as one of the greatest drives in the world.
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North Coast 500, starting in Inverness
Also known as Scotland's "Route 66", the North Coast 500 is the country's best stretch of road.
Beginning at Inverness Castle, the route heads north on the A862 through Dingwall and on to the Black Isle, passing through Sutherland, Caithness and Applecross peninsula before turning back towards Inverness.
Perfect for both cars and motorcyclists, the entire route covers more than 500 miles - but simply spending a few hours of travel on this road will be enough to amaze you.