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Owing to recent travel restrictions, classic car enthusiasts might be itching to get back behind the wheel of their beloved motors again. And with foreign holidays off the menu a scenic UK road trip could be a perfect remedy.

Whatever the season there’s plenty worth celebrating on the UK’s roads. So, dust off your atlas, pack a picnic and overnight bag and get busy plotting your next route.

Just don’t forget to check your classic insurance for your classic car is up to date before you set off.

If you’re stuck for inspiration, here are just five of the best scenic UK road trips. Which one will you do?

1. A Scottish grand tour

Starting in the far north of Scotland, the North Coast 500 is a super-scenic route. It’s perfect for those looking to open up the throttle on some of the UK’s most deserted roads.

Beginning and ending at Inverness Castle this circular route has over 500 miles of Scottish Highland landscape to enjoy. From deserted beaches, mirrored lochs and heather-covered peaks, there are photo opportunities at every turn.

But don’t neglect to visit the whisky distilleries and fine eateries along the route for some legendary Scottish hospitality. You can choose to do it in one stretch of between seven and nine days or make it into a series of mini road trips to enjoy over the years.

2. Heaven for English motor racing enthusiasts

A 120-mile circuit through the English counties of Sussex, Hampshire and Wiltshire is an ideal choice for the vintage motor racing enthusiast.

With sublime views straight off a picture postcard, this tour through the quintessential English countryside offers much for the sightseer.

From the chalky, hilly edges of the Downs and the vast historic plains of Wiltshire to the pretty villages of the Cotswolds there’s so much to explore over a long weekend.

However, the highlight must be the three historic racing circuits you can visit. Start off at the historic Goodwood Circuit near Chichester in West Sussex.

Next up is Thruxton Motorsport Centre in Hampshire. Known as the ‘fastest circuit in the UK’ drivers can reach speeds of over 190mph. Check ahead as owing to planning restrictions, the circuit can only run 12 days of motorsport each year.

Finally visit the Castle Combe Circuit in Wiltshire and the old-world charms of the nearby Castle Combe village.

3. Put the top down for some coastal charm

Traversing the iconic counties of Somerset, Devon and Cornwall on the so-called Atlantic Highway is a joy for any driver – particularly if you’re lucky enough to have a convertible classic.

Starting off in the wilds of Exmoor National Park, you’ll drive up and down rolling hills and cut through some magnificent woodland.

There are unspoilt villages aplenty for you to refuel at while winding along the coast and marvelling at the Atlantic breakers.

Try your hand at some surfing or at least some incredible seafood before ending up at the rugged Lands’ End. You’ll sleep well after all that sea breeze!

4. Explore the Welsh heartlands on the Cambrian Way

Starting off at the Welsh capital Cardiff this five-day road trip is a truly spectacular way to explore this country from south to north.

The route crosses the mountainous spine of Wales all the way up to the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno.

You’ll cross both the Snowdonia and Brecon Beacons national parks, a wealth of industrial heritage, stunning market towns, forests, lakes and reservoirs.

If there’s space in your classic for some outdoors kit, then there are plenty of opportunities to get out into the wild Welsh countryside.

5. Indulge in some Northern Irish romance

Driving a classic car of yesteryear can be part of a very romantic experience. And there are few places more likely to have you swooning than a trip along Northern Ireland’s 130-mile Causeway Coastal Route.

Snaking along the rugged contours of the North Atlantic coast, you’ll be able to take in some of the country’s must-see sights.

The mind-blowing geological delights of the Giant’s Causeway and the heady heights of the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge are just the start.

If you get the road trip bug and decide to head further south into Eire then contact your classic car insurance provider to make sure you’re covered for the EU.

Road trip preparation

Whether you’ve got one of these specific destinations in mind or are just planning to see where the road takes you, a road trip can be an amazing experience.

Start off by making sure your classic car insurance is suitable for your trip. But before packing your bags you need to check your trusty classic is still firing on all cylinders.

This pre-departure checklist will make sure everything’s in order.

• Engine tuning – Changing oil and filters, checking spark plugs and looking for problems in the fuel system could save heartache further down the road. It’s also good fun to do!
• Check for wear – Wearing or cracks on rubber gaskets, seals and belts are a lot easier to remedy in the garage at home than by the side of the road. And don’t forget the tyres! Check their pressure and general condition before you head off.
• Brakes – Check your brake fluid level and make sure there are no leaks. When were your brake pads or lines last replaced?
• Keeping cool – Your car’s engine cooling system is vital to prevent overheating. Particularly if you plan on driving many miles on warm days.
• Test drive – A good excuse to get out and about before the big trip. Driving your classic on a variety of roads and conditions will alert you to potential problems.
• Route planning – Some routes aren’t feasible with your classic no matter how much you hope. Be realistic about what your vintage vehicle can manage and plan your route accordingly.

Protecting your classic

With over 35 years of experience in the insurance market, the dedicated team at Lancaster Insurance just can’t get enough of classic vehicles.

Working closely with our panel of specialist underwriters, we’ll search for the best policy for your cherished car.

Call for a insurance quote for your classic car today.

Policy benefits, features and discounts offered may very between insurance schemes or cover selected and are subject to underwriting criteria. Information contained within this article is accurate at the time of publishing but may be subject to change.