The UK’s most beautiful road trip destination has been revealed so we sent one reporter to check it out and see if it’s worth the hype ahead of the summer
The Peak District is home to some of the most stunning views and one of the UK’s most beautiful roads.
Winnats Pass, tucked away between Castleton and Manchester is perhaps the most perfect road you could think of – and according to research from SIXT, it’s been crowned the UK’s most beautiful drive based on factors including popularity on social media. So of course, I was keen to head out on a road trip and see if it lives up to the hype.
Nestled in the middle of the Peak District, it almost feels as though you’re in a different world. Surrounded by vast fields spanning hundreds of acres, this unexpected road connects the city of Sheffield with Manchester but you wouldn’t think that 10 minutes on either side is a bustling city.
Although the road may be terrifyingly thin and leave you questioning how two cars can drive alongside one another, it’s the perfect opportunity to sit back and take in the scenery around you. Whether you’re heading for a day out or even a few days away, the Peak District is the place to be. Staying at the Palace Hotel in Buxton which is just 15 minutes away from Winnats Pass, I had to head over to see whether the hype was really worth it and let me assure you, it was.
With the Sun peeking through the clouds as we drove over the cattle grid onto the idyllic road, despite cars driving past, it really was magical. Abrosbing the scenery all around was like something out of a film. Driving up in an automatic BMW series 3 made it so much better, not having to worry about the steep incline and changing gears, I made sure to take everything in. I handed a phone to my friend to ensure we captured the historic area’s moment.
But if scenery isn’t your thing, there’s a local legend claiming that a young couple, Alan and Clara, were murdered on the pass in 1758 and often haunt the area. This, however, wasn’t something we were too keen on finding out as we made our way to the end of the road before turning towards the Devil’s Cavern to take in the sites.
Despite the blistering winds, it’s clear to see why Winnats Pass is a must-visit destination. Standing on top of the world, the horizon appears millions of miles away as you absorb what’s around you. The most perfect place to forget about any worries you may be feeling.
Nestled away just outside of Castleton, it makes the perfect place to start your day before exploring neighbouring areas such as Bakewell and the stunning town of Chesterfield. Rip-roaring around the country roads, Chatsworth House was just ten minutes away. Approaching the large stately home feels as though you’re entering another life. It’s clear to see why it’s a firm favourite of movie producers, having featured in the likes of Pride and Prejudice (1995) and The Crown (2016).
The large stately home itself has previously been visited by the likes of Princess (later Queen) Victoria on more than one occasion, as well as Charles Dickens. Walking around the estate you often see the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire as a herd of deer and cows patrol the vast grounds as you soak in the fresh air and explore perhaps the best stately home in England.
Just a short drive away in the BMW is the historic town of Chesterfield which has been traced to the Roman Fort of the first Century. It’s not hard to miss the famous Crooked Spire church which attracts thousands of visitors who often flock to the street market each week. But after dining at Bottle and Thyme, and listening to live music by local singer Josh Roe-Parkin, it was time to head back to Winnats Pass to take in the road once more.
- SIXT offers BMW series 3 hire from £64.98 a day – you can find out more on sixt.co.uk.
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