Travel Guides

UK Road Trip Itinerary (2–3 Weeks) A Realistic Route for England, Wales & Scotland If you’re searching for a UK road trip itinerary, you’re probably trying to answer one core question: How do you structure it without spending half your trip stuck on motorways? After spending six months road-tripping the UK by car, with my dog Roly riding shotgun, I learned something important: The UK is compact, but not fast. Distances look short on the map. Drive times can surprise you. Regional flow matters more than ticking off cities. Table of Contents Best UK Road Trip Route Overview England, Wales, Scotland Loop Logic 2-Week UK Itinerary Breakdown 3-Week Extended Version Drive Times Between Major Regions Best Time of Year for a UK Road Trip Where to Base vs Move Daily Realistic Pacing in the UK Is Driving Around the UK Easy? Best UK Road Trip Route Overview The most efficient UK road trip itinerary follows a loop. Starting and ending in London works well if you’re flying in. The most logical flow: London → South West England → Wales → North England → Scotland → Return South Why? Because it minimises backtracking and follows natural geographic progression. The UK isn’t huge, but traffic, narrow roads, and weather slow things down. The best road trip UK experiences come from regional clusters, not city hopping. England, Wales & Scotland Loop Logic Here’s the clean regional logic: Stage 1: South West England Cornwall, Devon, Bristol Wild coastline. Surf beaches. Clifftop walks. This is one of the most scenic road trips UK regions offer. Stage 2: South Wales Cardiff + Brecon Beacons Compact. Green. Underrated. Stage 3: Midlands / North West Chester → Lake District Historic towns → dramatic mountains. Stage 4: Scotland Edinburgh → Highlands (optional extension) Scotland requires more time than you think. Stage 5: Yorkshire / Peak District Gentle landscapes. Market towns. Walking routes. Then return south toward London. This creates a natural circular route without major detours. 2-Week UK Itinerary Breakdown If you’re planning a 2 week England itinerary (or UK-wide), this is realistic pacing. Days 1–2: London Recover from travel, and start in London. Pick up car on departure day. Days 3–4: Bristol Creative city + Clifton Suspension Bridge. Gateway to the South West. Drive: 2.5–3 hours from London. Days 5–7: Devon & Cornwall Base yourself, don’t move daily. Cornwall highlights: Perranporth St Agnes Fistral Beach, Newquay Clifftop coastal walks Drive Bristol → Cornwall: 3–4 hours. Days 8–9: Cardiff (Wales) Break the coastal drive north. Cornwall → Cardiff: 3.5–4 hours. Days 10–11: Lake District One of the best scenic road trips UK regions. Cardiff → Lake District: 4–5 hours. Days 12–13: Edinburgh Historic, walkable, dramatic skyline. Lake District → Edinburgh: 2.5 hours. Day 14: Return South (long drive or flight/train option) This works as a UK travel itinerary 14 days without feeling rushed. 3-Week Extended Version With 3 weeks, you gain flexibility. Add: Extra Cornwall coastal days North Wales (Snowdonia) Scottish Highlands Yorkshire Dales Peak District 3 weeks allows Scotland to breathe properly. A true 2 week England itinerary focuses on England + Wales. A 3-week trip allows meaningful Scotland time. Drive Times Between Major Regions This is where many itineraries mislead people. Approximate times (without heavy traffic): London → Bristol: 2.5–3 hrs Bristol → Cornwall: 3–4 hrs Cornwall → Cardiff: 3.5–4 hrs Cardiff → Lake District: 4–5 hrs Lake District → Edinburgh: 2.5 hrs Edinburgh → Yorkshire: 4 hrs Yorkshire → London: 4–5 hrs Motorways are easy. Coastal and rural roads are slower but more scenic. Always factor extra time in summer. Best Time of Year for a UK Road Trip Late May to September is ideal. Pros: Longer daylight Milder temperatures Beach access Cons: School holiday traffic (July–August) Higher accommodation prices Spring (April–May) can be beautiful and quieter. Autumn (September–October) is underrated. Winter road trips are possible, but daylight is short. Where to Base vs Move Daily One of the biggest mistakes: Changing accommodation every night. Instead: ✔ Base 2–3 nights minimum in each region ✔ Explore from one central town ✔ Reduce packing/unpacking fatigue Cornwall, Devon, and the Lake District especially reward slow basing. Realistic Pacing in the UK The UK looks small. It isn’t slow because of distance. It’s slow because of: Narrow country lanes Coastal bends Congestion near cities Weather variability Plan no more than 3–4 hours of driving on major transition days. Anything beyond that becomes tiring. Scenic road trips UK-wide are about immersion, not mileage. Is Driving Around the UK Easy? Yes, but with nuances. You’ll drive on the left. Motorways are straightforward. Rural roads can be: Single-lane Narrow Hedged Fuel stations are widely available. Parking in cities can be tight, research ahead. If you’re confident driving, the UK is manageable and rewarding by car. Final Thoughts A strong UK road trip itinerary isn’t about covering the whole country. It’s about choosing a logical regional flow. The South West coast. Welsh greenery. Northern lakes. Scottish drama. The UK delivers variety quickly, but only if you pace it well. Two weeks gives you a taste. Three weeks gives you depth. And the best road trips around the UK? They’re the ones where you stop often, linger longer than planned, and let the landscape set the tempo.  For full route planning, city guides and supporting travel logistics, explore all our UK Travel Guides.

Table of Contents The Week Before Leaving the UK UK to EU Dog Travel Rules After Brexit Microchip and Rabies Requirements for UK to EU Dog Travel Getting an Animal Health Certificate for Travel to Europe Travelling from the UK to France with a Dog via Eurotunnel How Long Can You Travel in Europe with a Dog After Entry? Getting an EU Pet Passport in Europe Returning to the UK with a Dog: The Tapeworm Requirement Travelling Europe with a Dog from the UK: What I’ve Learned The Week Before Leaving the UK In October 2025, I packed up my life in Hackney Wick, London and drove out of the city with no return date in the diary. This wasn’t a weekend in France or a short European break. It was the start of a long-term road trip across Europe and beyond with my best travel companion, Roly. I’m a digital nomad, which sounds free and spontaneous, and it is but this chapter came with some structure, because this wasn’t just me crossing borders. It was me and Roly, my five-year-old cockapoo, navigating a post-Brexit system that requires precision. In the weeks leading up to departure, I’d been quietly working through the details: calculating rabies timelines, double-checking microchip records, booking the Animal Health Certificate appointment, and working backwards from the date we’d drive through the Channel Tunnel and officially leave the UK. Travelling from the UK to Europe with a dog isn’t complicated but it is specific. This is exactly how I did it: the sequencing, the paperwork, the vaccines, the timing, the real costs from someone who has actually done it. If you’re planning the same move, this will make the process feel clear, structured, and manageable from the start. UK to EU Dog Travel Rules After Brexit A few years ago, travelling from the UK to Europe with a dog would have been far more straightforward. You’d have a UK-issued EU pet passport tucked away in a drawer, reusable and ready whenever you fancied to travel to Europe with your dog. No extra appointments. No ticking clock. After Brexit, that changed. The UK is now classed as a “Part 2 listed country,” which means UK-issued EU pet passports are no longer valid for entry into the EU. Instead, each trip requires an Animal Health Certificate issued specifically for that journey. It’s just an additional layer and one where timing matters. Microchip before rabies Twenty-one days after vaccination Certificate issued within ten days of travel Once you understand the structure, it’s easy to work within it. Microchip and Rabies Requirements for UK to EU Dog Travel Before you can even think about the Animal Health Certificate, the foundations have to be in place. First: microchip. Then: rabies vaccination. The order matters. If the rabies vaccine was given before the microchip, it’s invalid for travel. Once Roly’s rabies vaccination was done, the clock started. You have to wait 21 full days before travelling to Europe. That waiting period isn’t negotiable. It’s built into the rules. So in the weeks leading up to departure, I was counting carefully forward from that vaccine date, working backwards from when I wanted to leave London. Once that window had passed, only then could I return to the vet for the next step. Getting an Animal Health Certificate for Travel to Europe Once the timelines were locked in, the next step was booking Roly’s Animal Health Certificate appointment. I went to The Hackney Vet in Clapton, his regular vet in London and the appointment cost £265. By the time we walked into the clinic, I already knew the dates by heart. The microchip was scanned first. The rabies vaccination record checked. Twenty-one days counted carefully forward to make sure everything aligned with the UK to EU dog travel rules. The vet worked through the certificate page by page, completing each section carefully before signing it in blue ink, a small but important detail, as official signatures must be clearly distinguishable from printed copies. I also had to sign the document confirming the travel details were correct. There are no digital versions. No emailed backups. What you’re handed in that room is the original document you travel with. That certificate wasn’t just another form. It was our clearance to leave the UK and drive into Europe. Travelling from the UK to France with a Dog via Eurotunnel I drove down to Folkestone the night before my crossing and stayed at the Burlington Hotel, BW Premier by Best Western an easy, dog-friendly option close to the terminal. The next morning, we headed to the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle early, and I’d recommend you do the same. Give yourself at least 1.5 hours, especially if you’re travelling with a dog. Everything runs efficiently, but it isn’t a ten-minute process. Here’s how it works: Main check-in Pet Reception (microchip scanned and documents checked) UK passport control EU passport control Quick stop for toilets or snacks before boarding At Pet Reception, Roly’s microchip was scanned and the Animal Health Certificate reviewed carefully. Rabies dates confirmed. Details checked. Only once everything aligned with the UK to EU pet travel rules were we cleared to proceed. Then you drive your car onto the shuttle and remain inside for the 35-minute crossing to Calais. No handing your dog over. No separation. Just you, your vehicle, and the train carrying you under the Channel. And just like that, we were in France, legally entered and officially on the road. How Long Can You Travel in Europe with a Dog After Entry? Once you’ve entered the EU legally with an Animal Health Certificate, the pressure drops. The certificate is valid for four months for travel within the EU. That means once you’re in Europe, you don’t need new paperwork every time you cross an internal border. For a long road trip, that flexibility changes everything. The key restriction is the entry window: you must enter the EU within ten days of the certificate being issued. After that, you can move freely within most EU countries for up to four months, provided the rabies vaccination remains valid. It’s structured, but it’s workable and once you understand the validity rules, travelling Europe with a dog becomes straightforward. Getting an EU Pet Passport in Europe There’s one more step that changes long-term travel completely. An Animal Health Certificate gets you into the EU. But if you’re staying for months and moving between countries, the real unlock is getting an EU-issued pet passport once you’re inside Europe. I got Roly’s French (EU) pet passport at Vetovie Fougères Vétérinaire in Rennes, France. The vet was fantastic; friendly, professional, and English-speaking, which made the whole process easy. They registered Roly, carried out a routine health check, and issued his EU passport on the spot. Total cost: around €60. That EU pet passport replaces the need for repeated Animal Health Certificates for travel within the EU and for future trips back into the EU from the UK, as long as the rabies vaccination remains valid. For long-term road travel, that’s a game-changer. It shifts everything from tightly managed paperwork windows to something far more fluid. Less admin. More road. Do You Need to Be an EU Resident to Get an EU Pet Passport? You might see conflicting advice online about this. There is no strict EU-wide rule that says you must be an EU resident to get an EU pet passport. However, in practice, some vets, depending on the country may choose not to issue passports to non-residents. This isn’t a legal restriction, but a vet-level decision. France is generally one of the easiest places to do this. In my case, Roly had his rabies vaccination done in the UK. When we arrived in France, the vet simply verified his records, carried out a quick check, and issued the passport. No restart. No waiting period. If your rabies vaccination is valid and properly recorded, the process is usually straightforward. Returning to the UK with a Dog: The Tapeworm Requirement Entering Europe is structured. Returning to the UK has one final rule you can’t ignore. Before re-entering the UK, your dog must receive tapeworm treatment between 24 and 120 hours before arrival. It has to be administered by a vet and recorded properly in the passport or travel documentation. The timing isn’t flexible. Not earlier than 120 hours. Not later than 24. For Roly, I use Droncit, and I always book the appointment as soon as my return date is confirmed. Once that’s done, the process back through Eurotunnel is straightforward. Microchip scanned again. Documents checked. Cleared to re-enter. By that point, you’re no longer second-guessing the system. You’re just moving through it. Travelling Europe with a Dog from the UK: What I’ve Learned Travelling from the UK to Europe with a dog isn’t complicated but it rewards precision. Microchip first. Rabies second. Twenty-one days counted properly. Animal Health Certificate issued within ten days of entry. Tapeworm treatment timed carefully for the return. Once you’ve done it once, the structure makes sense. The paperwork becomes routine. The borders stop feeling like obstacles and start feeling like part of the route. For me, travelling Europe with Roly isn’t about ticking countries off a list. It’s about building a life on the move that still respects the rules. Less stress. More freedom. And once you understand the system, the road opens up.  For more dog travel planning guides, explore the full France Travel Guides.

Table of Contents From One Journey to the Next The Final Day in London: Packing Up a Chapter Why I Stayed in Folkestone Before the Eurotunnel Morning of the Crossing: Eurotunnel Pet Tips Inside the Eurotunnel: 35 Minutes to a New Chapter Driving in France: What to Expect Pit Stop Magic: Chocolate Briochette & Roly’s Stretch First Impressions of Rouen What I Learned on Day One of the Road Trip From One Journey to the Next After six months of exploring the UK from January to July 2025, from Cornwall’s beaches to Bristol’s art scene, I realised how much the flow of the open road suited me. Mornings without alarms. Days shaped by curiosity. The joy of Roly riding shotgun, ears flapping in the breeze. Somewhere between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, the idea of continuing the journey across Europe stopped feeling wild… and started feeling right. So when autumn arrived, I decided to go for it. This time: a little further afield, Europe and Africa. The Final Day in London: Packing Up a Chapter October 2nd, 2025, the day everything became real.  I spent the entire day packing up the last of my belongings, underestimating how long the “final bits” would actually take (classic). But by the end of it, everything was loaded into my Mini One, Roly was in tow, and my little car was officially transformed into a European travel pod. I took one last look at my London apartment, closed the door behind me, and exhaled. I didn’t know exactly what was ahead, just that it was time. Time to open a new chapter, even if the pages haven’t been written yet. As I drove away with Roly curled up beside me, his eyes full of curiosity, I felt the shift. And just like that, life on the road had officially begun. Why I Stayed in Folkestone Before the Eurotunnel Pro tip: If you’re doing a big move or long-distance road trip, take the pressure off. I drove to Folkestone the night before my Eurotunnel crossing and it was such a good call. The journey from London took around 2 hours and 45 minutes thanks to rush hour traffic, and by the time I arrived (around 9pm), I was starving. Pizza was the only thing on the to-do list. I stayed at the Burlington Hotel, BW Premier by Best Western which had a smooth check-in, friendly staff, and was dog-friendly.  Before heading to the Eurotunnel in the morning, I also made a quick stop at the M&S Simply Food at the nearby petrol station to stock up on snacks and groceries. After a long travel day, having something to eat when I arrived in Rouen without needing to hunt for a shop was a game-changer. Just scenic drives, dog-friendly stays, and a flexible lifestyle that made room for spontaneity. Morning of the Crossing: Eurotunnel Pet Tips Roly and I went for a short walk along the promenade in the rain. I couldn’t quite see France across the Channel, but I knew it was just out there waiting. We headed to the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle terminal early, and I highly recommend you do the same. Here’s the breakdown of the process: Main check-in Pet check-in (they scan your dog’s microchip + documents) UK passport control EU passport control Toilet/snack/fuel stop before boarding Give yourself 1.5+ hours, especially if you’re travelling with a dog. Everything runs efficiently, but it’s not a 10-minute job. Inside the Eurotunnel: 35 Minutes to a New Chapter Once waved through, I drove onto the shuttle train with car after car, neatly stacked like a real-life game of Tetris. It feels orderly. Industrial. Efficient. Once parked, I switched off the engine, handbrake on, and settled in. The train started moving with barely a jolt. No dramatic clunks or lurches, just a subtle hum. For 35 quiet minutes, we cruised beneath the Channel.  Before I knew it, we were slowing with arrival in Calais. I restarted the engine, and waited for the doors ahead to open. France was just moments away. You can also explore my guide Ferry to France from the UK (With a Car) if you're planning to travel to France by ferry.  Driving in France: What to Expect The moment you roll off the Eurotunnel in Calais, you’re practically on the motorway. Driving on the right wasn’t as daunting as I expected, it actually felt intuitive pretty quickly. The roads are smooth, and everything is in km/h, not miles per hour. The speed limit is 130km/h on the motorway, which is about 80mph (faster than the UK’s 70mph). Heads up: French motorways often have speed cameras. You’ll spot occasional warning signs or cameras mounted discreetly. Just something to be mindful of. I settled in for the 3-hour drive to Rouen, music on, Roly snoozing in the front. Pit Stop Magic: Chocolate Briochette & Roly’s Stretch About halfway into the drive, I needed a toilet. The thing is once you leave the motorway in France, you’re often in tiny, sleepy towns with not much open. By sheer luck, I found a gem: Boulangerie Victor in a village just outside Abbeville, called Nouvion-en-Ponthieu. It smelt like heaven, warm bread, pastries, that perfect bakery scent. I grabbed a chocolate briochette and asked the woman behind the counter to warm it up slightly. The chocolate started melting just enough… and wow, so delicious. I could’ve eaten ten. Toilet? ✔️ Snack? ✔️ Stretch break for Roly? ✔️ We were both happy. First Impressions of Rouen The final hour of the drive was smooth, and we arrived in Rouen around 6pm. The city was alive, people chatting over wine, walking dogs, shopping, laughing. That Friday night feeling was in the air. It felt vibrant, social, full of energy. I checked into my Airbnb and only brought in a few bits from the car, some clothes, essentials, dog food. No need to unpack everything when I’m only here for a week. Later that evening, I wandered the town just to soak it in. People dining indoors and outdoors, a man walking his dog, music and murmurs floating in the air. It felt good to be somewhere new. Out of London. In a fresh space. In motion. What I Learned on Day One of the Road Trip Take the pressure off by breaking up long journeys (Folkestone overnight was a game-changer) Stock up on groceries before you cross. Your future self will thank you Allow buffer time for border control and pet check-ins Stop at the bakery for a halfway stop and to stretch your legs Driving in France is easier than expected, especially on the motorways Speed cameras are around, drive relaxed but be mindful It’s okay not to know what comes next. Sometimes the road just opens up ahead of you For city-by-city breakdowns and deeper regional planning, explore our country travel guides.

A Journey That Started Closer to Home Leaving London for a 6-month UK road trip felt both surreal and simple. One minute we were walking the same canal route we’d strolled for years, and the next we were in a packed car, snacks in the glove box, Roly’s harness on the passenger seat, and a route scribbled in a notebook titled The Next Route. There was no master plan. Just a rough loop of the UK and a desire to live slower, explore deeper, and let each place leave its mark. Why We Hit the Road This wasn’t a gap year or a “finding myself” cliché. It was a choice to do life a little differently, to work remotely, travel with intention, and give my dog Roly the kind of year most humans would envy. No flights. No chaos. Just scenic drives, dog-friendly stays, and a flexible lifestyle that made room for spontaneity. If you are curious to do the same, you can explore our in-depth travel guides. The Route: A 6-Month UK Road Trip Itinerary Here’s the journey we took, from buzzing cities to peaceful cliffsides. Every stop was dog-friendly, remote-workable, and full of local flavour. 1. Cardiff: Green Space, Arcades & Easy Calm Base: Neighbourhood Kitchen & Cocktails, Cathedral Road (near Pontcanna) Read the full Cardiff blog here -> Highlights: Bute Park & the River Taff Trail (perfect for long walks) Cardiff Bay Trail via the Aqua Ride Dog-friendly cafes like The Wyndham Cafeteria and Brava Cafe Kings Road Yard farmers market in Pontcanna & Cardiff's vintage arcades Vibe: Laid-back city energy with tons of green space and friendly locals. An easy, balanced start to life on the road. 2. Bristol: Colours, Art & Canals Base: Ashton Court Read the full Bristol blog here -> Highlights: Morning walks in Ashton Court Estate with beautiful nature views Clifton Suspension Bridge and colourful houses Stokes Croft and Bansky graffiti Harbourside hangouts and cafes like Society Cafe Vibe: Creative and full of character. Bristol has colour, culture, and community running through every street. 3. Devon: Sea Air & Slow Living Base: Brixham, Torquay & Dartmoor Read the full Devon blog here -> Highlights: Broadsands Beach walks and Berry Head coastal views Hikes to Haytor Rocks and Hound Tor in Dartmoor Cream tea at The Rugglestone Inn in Widecombe-in-the-Moor Fresh seafood at Rockfish Brixham, The Oyster Shack and The Crab Shed in Salcombe Vibe: Sea breeze, winding roads, and the kind of calm that lingers. Devon is slow living at its best. 4. Cornwall: Cliffs, Surf, Sunsets & Coastal Magic Base: Perranporth & Newquay Read the full Cornwall blog here -> Highlights: 8km walks along Perranporth Beach at low tide, often shared with surfers, swimmers, and horses at sunrise Clifftop trails at St Agnes Head & Wheal Coates, with rust-red mine ruins against the Atlantic Cosy roasts at The Driftwood Spars & The Peterville Inn in St Agnes Sunset drinks at Summerhouse or The Watering Hole, perched right on the sand Boho cafes for remote work like NALU Coffee House, Saltd Cafe, & The Colonial Seafood & Grill Long beach walks at Fistral, Holywell Bay, and Mawgan Porth  Vibe: Wild cliffs, sand dunes, creative energy, and sea air that resets your soul. Cornwall is where coastal living meets freedom. Beyond Cornwall The journey didn’t end there. After Cornwall, we travelled north through the Peak District, Chester, The Lake District, Yorkshire, and Edinburgh. Each with their own story. Full blogs for these chapters are coming soon, as this space continues to grow, just like the journey itself. What I Learned on the UK Road You don’t need to quit your life to change it. A dog will always choose the scenic route. The UK is full of quiet, magical places that still feel wild. And the open road? It’s just another way of coming home to yourself. For city-by-city breakdowns and deeper regional planning, explore the full UK Travel Guides.

From London to Cardiff After leaving London, I wasn’t sure what would greet us. But what we found was slow mornings, castles, hidden arcades, and a city that quietly lets you breathe. It was the perfect first stop, not too fast, not too quiet, just the right kind of unfamiliar. Oh, and Roly? He approved immediately. I got in late on Thursday night, slightly wired from the long drive. The car looked like organised chaos: boxes, bags, snacks, and a life squeezed into one Mini. Friday started the right way, pancakes, bacon, maple syrup, and a dirty chai at The Wyndham Cafeteria, one of those cosy, dog-friendly spots that feels like a local secret. It was the soft landing I didn’t know I needed. Exploring the City Cardiff has this rare quality, a capital city that doesn’t rush you. Everything is walkable, people actually smile, and there’s space to just be. We started at Cardiff Castle, wandering through its medieval walls before slipping into Bute Park, one of the largest urban parks in the UK. The River Taff runs straight through it, and Roly was in his element, nose to the ground, tail in overdrive. Later that afternoon, I stopped at Uisce by Heaney’s for oysters and cocktails. It’s the kind of modern, easy-going restaurant where you lose track of time, sleek but unpretentious, and dog-friendly too. If you’re planning a longer meal, their sister spot Heaney’s next door serves tasting menus that balance local produce and creative flair beautifully. Saturday Markets & Hidden Arcades Saturday started at Kings Road Yard, home to a small farmers market with local produce, and a lively mix of vendors. From there, it was a short walk to Brava Cafe in Pontcanna for a smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel. Pontcanna itself has an easy, village feel, leafy streets, independent cafes, and relaxed weekend energy. Back in the city, I spent hours wandering Cardiff’s Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades which feel like stepping back in time. Morgan Quarter, Castle Arcade, and High Street Arcade are filled with vintage shops, coffee stops, and quirky independent stores. Spillers Records, tucked inside Morgan Arcade, is a must-visit, the world’s oldest record store, still spinning vinyl since 1894. For vintage treasures, Penny Lane Vintage and Central Market are worth a browse, and Riverside Market offers more local finds if you visit on a Sunday. Dinner that night was at Neighbourhood Kitchen & Cocktails, easy-going, lively, and conveniently located right below my Airbnb.  Sunday by the Bay Sunday was for slow exploring. I took the Aqua Bus from Cardiff Castle to Mermaid Quay, a river ride that gives you a whole new view of the city. From there, I walked the Cardiff Bay Trail, a 1.5-hour loop that circles the waterfront and passes landmarks like the Pierhead Building and Wales Millennium Centre.  Following the walk, I enjoyed lunch at The Sultan, a Turkish restaurant serving grilled meats, warm bread, and comforting meze. The team were friendly, the food was excellent, and dogs are welcome inside, the perfect post-walk stop. Work, Coffee, Repeat Monday and Tuesday were for catching up on work. I set up base at Uncommon Ground Coffee Roastery in the Royal Arcade which has fast Wi-Fi, good coffee, and the kind of background that makes getting things done easy. When you work remotely, you quickly learn that not all cafes make good offices but this one does. The staff were friendly, the playlists were good, and it’s right in the heart of the city. Midweek in Nature By Wednesday, I was craving open space. A short drive out of the city led to Fforest Fawr, a mix of woodland trails and wide forest paths, and Forest Farm Country Park, where the trails wind along rivers and wetlands, perfect for clearing your head and letting Roly run wild. Eating & Drinking in Cardiff A few standouts worth noting: Casanova — refined Italian tucked away in the city centre. Asador 44 — Spanish grill and wine house serving incredible tapas and meats. Mowgli Street Food — vibrant Indian comfort food.  La Pantera - a lively taco bar tucked in the city centre, great for casual bites and cocktails, with outdoor seating that’s dog-friendly. Pasture — the city’s best steak house. Bar 44 and Curado Bar — great for tapas and wine (not dog-friendly inside). Tiny Rebel — craft beer, casual atmosphere, and dog-friendly. Uisce by Heaney’s & Neighbourhood Kitchen — best balance of food, cocktails, and welcome-to-all energy. 💌 A Note from the Road This first stop in Wales felt like the beginning of a slower, more spacious chapter. Cardiff has a way of easing you into travel with friendly faces and enough nature to remind you to slow down. The River Taff runs right through the heart of the city, and by the end of the week, it felt like a quiet companion, always nearby, always moving.  Because sometimes, all you need is a new destination, a long walk, a dog at your side, and the courage to keep going. For city-by-city breakdowns and deeper regional planning, explore the full UK Travel Guides. Now, it’s time for the next route. Next stop: Bristol. 

The Journey To Bristol After Cardiff, our UK road trip wound its way into Bristol, a city buzzing with colour, creativity, and riverfront charm. It’s one of those places that doesn’t need to try. The art, the food, the people, all creative, all confident, and completely unpretentious. I first came in February, staying at a studio on Kenneth Road. It was freezing then and Roly wore his new puffer jacket like a pro as we crossed the Clifton Suspension Bridge but the energy was undeniable. Even in the cold, Bristol buzzed. By May, when I returned following my trip in Cornwall, it was warmer days, brighter skies, and a new base. I stayed in an airbnb in Bower Ashton, a great base for the return trip. You’ve got Ashton Court Estate and Leigh Woods right on your doorstep, the Harbourside minutes away, and the best of the city within reach. It’s that rare mix of green and urban that makes life feel easy. If I ever moved out of London, I could see myself here. Why Bristol Works Bristol’s got soul. It’s a port city turned cultural powerhouse, constantly evolving but never losing its character. The Harbourside, once packed with trading ships, is now a blend of restaurants, food markets, cafes, art spaces, and converted warehouses. The old cranes still stand, quiet but proud, keeping watch over a city that knows where it came from. It’s also fiercely independent. From local businesses to community-owned pubs, Bristol thrives on people doing their own thing. Even Roly got a trim at About The Dog and came out looking dapper. And somewhere between mural-hunting and market-hopping, I even found a dog-friendly gym called Trojan Fitness. Absolute win. When you’re living on the road, finding somewhere you can lift, move, and reset without leaving your dog behind is rare. For me, getting a proper weights session in was the cherry on top of an already balanced city routine. The Banksy Trail Bristol is where Banksy began, and his mark is everywhere, both literally and in spirit. Well-Hung Lover – 7 Park Street, BS1 5NF Mild Mild West – 80 Stokes Croft, BS1 3QY The Girl with the Pierced Eardrum – Albion Dockyard, BS1 6UT The joy of seeing them isn’t just the art itself, it’s how naturally they sit in the landscape. You’ll find old and new pieces, and murals from other artists filling in the gaps. Walk the streets of Stokes Croft, Montpelier, and Bedminster, and the city becomes one big open-air gallery. Neighbourhoods That Define Bristol Clifton & Hotwells Elegant Georgian terraces and the famous Clifton bridge. Don’t miss the colourful hillside houses. Stokes Croft & Montpelier The creative heart, indie cafes, restaurants, murals, and thrift stores. Try That Thing for vintage, Upfest Gallery for street art, The Crafty Egg and Cafe Kino for good coffee, breakfast and laptop days. Harbourside & Wapping Wharf Perfect for lazy afternoons. Grab a seat by the water, drift between the container restaurants, or catch the sunset on the waterfront. Southville & North Street Murals, markets, and community. Tobacco Factory Sunday Market is a must for food stalls and live music. The Spotted Cow is good for drinks and a Sunday roast.  Easton Multicultural, artistic, and full of local flavour. You’ll find hidden gems like The Plough Inn and tiny bakeries tucked between terraces. Bower Ashton My pick for where to stay. Peaceful mornings, easy city access, and woodland walks right from your door. Where to Eat & Drink Bristol might be small, but its food scene punches way above its size, full of creative bistros, laid-back wine bars, and modern crêperies that reflect the city’s character: a little classic, a little rebellious, and always delicious. Nadu: Sri Lankan in Stokes Croft, flavour-packed and dog friendly. Bravas: Tapas and wine on Cotham Hill; order everything. The Saigon Kitchen: Vietnamese comfort on Zetland Road. Burra: Laid-back brunch spot on North Street. Bokman: Korean plates worth crossing town for. Society Cafe (Harbourside): the kind of place you could work all day. The Apple: cider bar on a boat; Bristol in a nutshell. The Old Duke: jazz, pints, and proper character. And then there’s the Sunday roast situation. The Bank Tavern, The Shakespeare Tavern, The Spotted Cow, and The Kensington Arms are all top tier, but good luck walking in without a booking. Trust me, book a week or two ahead. Bristol doesn’t mess around when it comes to roast dinners. Bristol’s Vintage & Creative Side St Nicholas Market is a treasure hunt of vinyl, vintage clothes, and global food stalls. Gloucester Road has a long stretch of independent shops, perfect for a slow wander. There’s also a visible creative pulse here. Music drifts from side streets, murals evolve overnight, and people actually talk to you in cafes. It feels like a city in motion, but one that knows exactly who it is. Why Bristol Stuck With Me Bristol feels real. It’s creative without trying too hard, conscious without being preachy, and welcoming without ever losing its edge. It has that rare combination, history, art, nature, and modern culture, all packed into one walkable city. You can wake up to birds in Leigh Woods, grab coffee by the Harbourside, eat tapas in Redland, then end the night at a live music bar. It’s a city that lets you fully embrace yourself. There's much to love and I'll definetely be back. For city-by-city breakdowns and deeper regional planning, explore the full UK Travel Guides.    Now, it’s time for the next route. Next stop: Devon.

The Route To South Devon After Bristol, I headed down to South Devon. I based myself in Brixham, a colourful fishing town that feels like a postcard, working harbour, pastel cottages, seafood galore, and dog-friendly walks in every direction.  A short walk from there leads to Berry Head Nature Reserve, a cool find in South Devon. The cliffs sweep out into the sea, home to guillemots and wildflowers, and The Guardhouse Cafe serves breakfast with a view. Roly loved it too, wide open space, friendly dogs, and the occasional whiff of bacon drifting in the breeze. Broadsands Beach became our morning ritual with wide sands, calm tides, and friendly locals who all seemed to know each other’s dogs by name. Elberry Cove nearby was another gem, a tucked-away bay perfect for a post-breakfast walk. Life Between Coast and Moor Brixham made a good base, cosy, coastal, and with character. When I wanted a change of scene, I’d drive inland to Dartmoor National Park. The moorlands hit different, open, wild, and full of mood. Haytor Rocks and Hound Tor were standouts, with sheep grazing against misty backdrops. To warm up, I’d stop for a cream tea at The Cafe On The Green in Widecombe-in-the-Moor, where scones come out still warm. For pub stops, The Rugglestone Inn and Two Bridges Hotel were both classics for cosy fires and hearty food. Back on the coast, Torquay offered a totally different vibe with promenades, marinas filled with yachts, and easy going seaside charm. Dinner at Siam Garden Thai was a surprise find, tucked away and authentic. The South Hams From Brixham, I followed the curve of the coast toward Salcombe and the South Hams a really pretty stretch of Devon. Think turquoise coves and winding lanes. Bigbury-on-Sea was breathtaking, a beach revealing a sandy causeway to Burgh Island. Lunch at The Oyster Shack (mussels and a glass of white) summed up the region perfectly: casual, coastal, quietly perfect. In Salcombe, I wandered through narrow streets lined with boutiques and pastel cottages before heading to North Sands Beach for a sunset stroll. The Crab Shed lived up to its name serving up a yummy crab lunch, fresh, and right by the harbour. I also ventured inland to Totnes, a creative market town full of vintage shops, organic cafes, and a slightly bohemian energy. I had lunch at Rumour Kitchen & Bar.   Exeter to Plymouth. History Meets Harbour Heading north, Exeter made a good stop between coasts with its student buzz, and riversides. I grabbed a coffee and Portuguese tart from The Exploding Bakery, then wandered the Exeter Quayside before checking out Exeter Cathedral.  From there, I carried on to Plymouth, a city that surprised me. It wears its maritime history proudly. The Hoe, Smeaton’s Tower, and the Mayflower Steps are all worth a wander. I enjoyed Royal William Yard, a redeveloped naval complex turned foodie hub, and nearby Wembury Beach for a quiet dog walk to end the day. Devon on a Plate Everything tastes more fresh here. Seafood highlights: Albero (Brixham) - seafood linguine Rockfish (Brixham & Plymouth) - hake & chips The Crab Shed (Salcombe) - crab heaven Cream teas & cosy stops: The Cafe On The Green - Widecombe-in-the-Moor Two Bridges Hotel, Dartmoor - fireside charm Fingle Bridge Inn, Dartmoor - riverside views Pub classics: The Rugglestone Inn - venison pie & real ale The Ship Inn, Noss Mayo - crab sandwich by the creek The Masons Arms, Exmoor - Michelin-star country pub 🐾 Dog-Friendly Devon Beaches like Broadsands, Bantham, and Saunton Sands welcome dogs year-round, and most pubs, restaurants and cafes happily bring out a water bowl before you even sit down. Roly’s favourites? Morning walks on Broadsands Beach, the coastal path from Berry Head, wild runs at Haytor, a splash at Elberry Cove.  A Note from the Road Two weeks in Devon felt like pressing pause on life, swapping screens for sea views, noise for nature, and hurry for something slower and more grounded. If you’re craving a trip that blends coast, countryside, good food, and a bit of soul, Devon delivers.  For city-by-city breakdowns and deeper regional planning, explore the full UK Travel Guides.    Now, it’s time for the next route. Next stop: Cornwall.

My Cornwall Escape After Devon, I drove to Cornwall to base myself there for two months (April to May). There’s something about Cornwall, its mix of cliff trails, surf, and sea air, that keeps you chasing the next view. Days begin with the sound of seagulls, and end with fiery sunsets over the ocean. Somewhere in between you’re walking cliffs, swimming in turquoise coves, and finding cafes that make remote work feel like holiday. In April, I based myself in Perranporth, a long golden stretch on Cornwall’s north coast. My days found a natural flow including morning walks with Roly along the beach, hours spent working from a boho cafe or my seafront cottage Airbnb, and evening runs at low tide. There’s an effortless ease to life here, the kind that makes even ordinary moments feel cinematic. North Cornwall. Beach Days & Coastal Living Perranporth quickly felt like home. In April, the town had an easy flow before the summer crowds rolled in, so it often felt like Roly and I had the beach to ourselves, sharing it with the locals and their dogs. People here are genuinely friendly; everyone smiles, says hello, and it doesn’t take long before you start recognising the same faces on your morning walks. At low tide, Perranporth Beach stretches for miles, an 8 km expanse of golden sand where you’ll see everything from surfers and wild swimmers to riders cantering their horses along the shoreline. It’s the kind of beach that changes by the hour: calm in the morning, lively by afternoon, glowing amber at sunset. No.4 Breakfast & Bistro is a good go-to for a post-walk brunch. Seiners Arms was the local spot for hearty pub food and local energy. The Tywarnhayle Pub, The Deck Bar, and Pickwicks Fish & Chips were also go-to's depending on the mood; whether it was a casual pint, fish and chips, or a glass of wine. For sunset, Summerhouse, is a sound choice as it has an elevated view perched right above the sand, or The Watering Hole, the bar set directly on the beach perfect for drinks with ocean views and that warm, golden light that makes you forget what time it is. When I wasn’t out exploring, I’d work from a cafe window or my seafront cottage Airbnb, watching the tide roll back in, surfers catching the last waves of the day, dogs chasing tennis balls into the surf. It’s the kind of place that strikes the prefect balance.  Just up the coast, St Agnes Head and Wheal Coates delivered beautiful clifftop trails. From the path, you can look out over the old Wheal Coates mine, rusted stone walls set against the bright Atlantic, with surfers catching waves at Chapel Porth below. I enjoyed The Peterville Inn and The Driftwood Spars in St Agnes for cosy pub vibes and Sunday roasts. The Tap House, just up the road, is another favourite, laid-back, friendly, and always serving something good on their weekly lunch specials. Newquay. Surf Vibes & Boho Cafes A short drive from Perranporth is Newquay which is where I stayed for my second month in Cornwall. It blended surf culture with coastal energy. Beaches like Fistral, Great Western, and Tolcarne were ideal for long walks and sea swims, while Pentire Headland offered panoramic views over Crantock Beach. Between calls, I’d set up at local cafes like Saltd or NALU Coffee House. One of my favourite spots, though, was The Colonial Seafood & Grill on Tolcarne Beach. It’s got that perfect beachfront vibe, you can work from their glass conservatory or patio, order something fresh off the menu, and feel like you’re on holiday even mid-workday. The food’s excellent, the service is warm, and honestly, nothing beats taking a break straight onto the sand on a sunshine day.  In the evenings, I enjoyed live music at Project Eighty Three, wine and homemade pasta at Little Ears Italian (yummy Italian, simple, authentic, and full of flavour), or a drink at The Red Lion pub.  Further along the coast, Mawgan Porth and Holywell Bay stretch wide and open, the kind of beaches where Roly could run for miles. Porthtowan and Mount Hawke are smaller surf towns with a quieter, more local feel that were perfect to wander through between workdays. Road Trip Day Adventures St Ives No Cornwall trip is complete without venturing west. St Ives was every bit as pretty as promised, cobbled lanes spilling toward the harbour, local art galleries tucked between cafes, and that unmistakable sea-salt energy in the air. I spent the afternoon wandering from boutique to beach, ending with fresh oysters and a glass of wine at Cintra Seafood Bar, watching fishing boats sway in the tide. Sennen Cove & Land’s End Further west, Sennen Cove felt straight out of a film, turquoise water, sweeping dunes, and surfers catching the last light of the day. After a windswept walk along the coast path toward Land’s End, I stopped at The Old Success Inn for a drink and a plate of something hearty. Penzance I spent a day in Penzance, exploring its waterfront and narrow backstreets. The town has a quiet charm, working harbour, creative shops, and locals who’ll happily point you toward their favourite bakery. It’s a perfect jumping-off point for exploring Cornwall’s far west, with St Ives, Mousehole, and Sennen Cove all close by. Newlyn Next door to Penzance, Newlyn is smaller and more creative, an old fishing village with a modern twist. It’s known for its art scene and seafood, and Argoe is the spot everyone talks about. The view from the window tables looks straight over the working harbour, and the food, local fish, with lots of flavour and perfectly cooked is worth the detour on its own. The Eden Project Heading inland, The Eden Project was a total contrast, a rainforest hidden inside giant glass domes. Tropical palms, Mediterranean gardens, and waterfalls fill the air with humidity and colour. It’s part science project, part escape, and completely worth the detour. Mawgan Porth & Holywell Bay Back on the north coast, are Mawgan Porth and Holywell Bay, wide, open beaches perfect for long walks, sea, sand, and endless horizon. Porthtowan & Mount Hawke Porthtowan and Mount Hawke offered a slower pace, small surf towns with local cafes and restaurants and hidden coves. Perfect for low-key afternoons between workdays, and watching surfers chase the tide. South Cornwall. Secret Coves & Garden Calm Heading south, I fell for the creative, bohemian energy of Falmouth, one of my favourite towns in Cornwall. I spent the day wandering its harbour streets, popping into little boutiques and galleries before dinner at Cribbs, a Caribbean restaurant full of good vibes and warmth. Nearby, Glendurgan Gardens was a dream to explore, winding paths, exotic blooms, and leafy trails that open onto hidden views of the Helford River. Further along the coast, the Lizard Peninsula was a hidden gem. Kynance Cove felt almost tropical, sheer cliffs dropping into turquoise water and soft white sand tucked between rocky coves. I also drove out toward Helston for my mum’s birthday dinner at The Greenhouse in St Keverne. It's husband and wife owned and specialises in fresh local ingredients, the perfect end to a coastal day. East Cornwall & Hidden Corners Inland, Golitha Falls was a peaceful woodland walk leading to waterfalls on the River Fowey, while Bodmin Moor and Lanhydrock Estate added a dose of history and open space. Padstow proved worth the hype, seafood at Prawn on the Lawn and a walk along the harbour made for a perfect day. Dog-Friendly Cornwall  🐾 Cornwall is a dog’s paradise. Almost every beach and trail welcomes dogs, and pubs like Driftwood Spars and The Peterville Inn go out of their way to make them feel part of the family. Roly loved all of the beaches, swimming and running wild across endless sand. 💌 A Note from the Road Cornwall was a mix of everything I love, beach walks, good food, friendly people, and that constant pull to get outside. From morning swims to working from boho cafes in and exploring coastal towns, every day felt different and effortless. It’s one of those places where you can work, wander, and feel completely at ease all at once. If you’re planning a UK road trip, see my UK Road Trip Itinerary (2–3 Weeks) guide. Now, it’s time for the next route. Next stop: The Peak District.

The Journey to the Peak District After Bristol, our UK road trip turned north toward the Peak District, England’s oldest national park and a landscape that feels worlds away from city life. The drive from Bristol took just under three hours, swapping Bristol’s colourful streets and harbourside energy for rolling hills, dry stone walls, and winding country roads that gradually narrow as you reach the heart of the Peaks. Our base for the week was The Dale in Stoney Middleton, a small village tucked into one of the limestone valleys in the White Peak. The moment we arrived, the pace shifted. Stone cottages lined the quiet road, the river ran gently through the valley, and the surrounding hills felt close enough to reach out and touch. It’s the kind of place where mornings start with dog walks straight from the front door, coffee in hand, mist still hanging over the valley. Climbers gather around the nearby cliffs, walkers head out toward the dales, and the rhythm of the place moves with the landscape rather than the clock. After the coastlines of Cornwall and the buzz of Bristol, the Peak District felt grounding. Wild, open, and endlessly walkable. Where days are measured in miles on the trail rather than plans in the diary. Monsal Trail: Old Railway Lines & Peak District Countryside Our first afternoon in the Peak District started with a walk along the Monsal Trail, one of the most accessible and scenic routes in the area. Just a short drive from Stoney Middleton, the trail follows a disused railway line that now cuts through the countryside. The beauty of it is how easy the walking is. The old railway track means the path is wide and mostly flat, so you can settle into a steady pace without thinking too much about the terrain. The landscape opens out into green fields, stone walls, woodland edges and grazing farmland. Spring had arrived properly by May, with wildflowers and fresh grass everywhere. Roly was in his element, nose deep in the grass, zig-zagging along the path like every smell was worth investigating. At one point we passed a small hillside where a group of cows were stretched out in the sun, completely relaxed and barely lifting their heads as walkers passed. It felt like the countryside moving slowly around us. We walked for about two hours, following the trail through tunnels, open valley views and quiet stretches of countryside before turning back toward the car. A simple walk, but the perfect introduction to the Peaks. Chatsworth House & Gardens: Grand Estates & Easy Wandering The next day we headed to Chatsworth House, one of the most iconic estates in the Peak District and easily one of the most beautiful. Driving in, the scale of the place reveals itself. First the rolling parkland, then the long open lawns, and finally the stately house sitting proudly against the Derbyshire hills. It feels cinematic before you’ve even stepped out of the car. We spent day morning exploring the gardens and grounds, which stretch across hundreds of acres of landscaped parkland. Inside the house is not dog-friendly, but there was more than enough for us to explore outside on the grounds. Chatsworth has that rare balance of grandeur and ease. It’s impressive, but it’s also somewhere you can simply wander. Roly was more than happy with this plan. We started with a walk through the gardens, where winding paths move through woodland, flowerbeds and carefully sculpted terraces. From certain angles you get sweeping views back across the estate, the house framed by open lawns and rolling countryside beyond. One of the highlights was hopping on the estate tractor ride, which loops around parts of the grounds and gives you a wider view of the landscape. Roly sat proudly on the bench beside me, ears lifted in the breeze like he was conducting his own inspection of the estate. Back on foot, we crossed the enormous front lawn where people had spread out picnic blankets in the sun while others wandered between the gardens and the river. It’s the kind of place where you can easily a day without noticing the time pass. Grand but relaxed. Historic but alive with people enjoying the space. A perfect Peak District day. Riverside Froggatt Loop: A Walk We Found by Accident The following day was much less planned. One of the things I love most about travelling slowly through places like the Peak District is that some of the best walks aren’t on lists or pinned on Google Maps. Sometimes you just pull over, follow a path, and see where it leads. That’s exactly what happened here. Driving through the Derbyshire Dales we spotted a small lay-by along the road near Froggatt, with a few cars tucked under the trees. A wooden gate and narrow path disappeared into the woodland beside the road. No big signs, no visitor centre, just one of those quiet countryside entrances that makes you curious. So we parked up, clipped Roly onto the lead, and stepped through the gate. The path dropped gently into the trees and soon opened onto a beautiful riverside trail. The River Derwent ran beside us, reflecting the sunlight through the canopy while wild spring flowers lined the edge of the path. It was quiet in that particular Peak District way. A few walkers passing occasionally, the sound of water moving through the trees, and long stretches where it felt like we had the trail to ourselves. Roly trotted ahead like he’d personally discovered the route. The path followed the river for a while before climbing gradually up the hillside, where the landscape suddenly opened out into classic Peak District views with rolling green hills stitched together with farmhouses scattered across the valleys, and big open skies stretching across the dales. From up there you can see just how layered this landscape is. Field after field, hill after hill, fading into the distance. It turned out to be the Riverside Froggatt Loop, a short but beautiful 2.5-mile circuit that mixes woodland, riverside paths and sweeping valley views. One of those walks you don’t plan but end up remembering the most. Hathersage Village Walk: A Short Wander Through the Dales Later that day we stopped in the nearby village of Hathersage, one of the most well-known villages in the Peak District and a great place to stretch your legs after a longer countryside walk. Compared to the wide open landscapes around Froggatt, this one was much shorter and more casual, just under a mile but it was a nice way to explore the village itself and the surrounding hills. We started near the centre of Hathersage and followed a small path that quickly climbed away from the houses and up toward the hillside. Within a few minutes the village started to fall away behind us, replaced by stone walls, grazing fields and those wide Derbyshire views that seem to roll endlessly into the distance. Even on a short walk like this, the landscape shifts quickly. One moment you’re passing cottages and village lanes, the next you’re standing above the valley looking out across green fields stitched together by dry stone walls. Roly, as always, treated it like a full expedition. The whole loop took less than twenty minutes, but it was one of those small detours that adds to the character of a trip. A quick wander, good views, and another corner of the Peaks discovered. Stoney Middleton Heritage Trail: Quiet Paths & Quarry History The following morning started the same way many of our Peak District walks did, pulling over on the side of a quiet country road and seeing where a path might lead. Just outside Stoney Middleton, we spotted a small roadside verge where a couple of cars were parked beside a narrow gate opening into the fields. I clipped on Roly’s lead and headed through. The Stoney Middleton Heritage Trail climbs gradually away from the road, weaving between dry stone walls and open farmland before opening up into wide views across the Derbyshire Dales. Early in the morning it was completely silent. We didn’t pass a single other walker, which made the whole route feel like we had the landscape entirely to ourselves. The path moves through a mix of rolling pasture and old quarry land, a reminder of the area’s long history of limestone quarrying. For centuries this part of the Peak District supplied stone used in buildings, roads and industry across the region. The dramatic rock faces that appear along the trail are the remains of those quarries, now softened by grass and scattered trees reclaiming the landscape. Walking here you feel that blend the Peak District does so well; nature layered over history. From the higher points along the trail you can look out across patchwork fields divided by centuries-old stone walls, with the hills of the White Peak stretching across the horizon. Roly trotted ahead happily as usual, occasionally stopping to investigate a scent or patch of grass before continuing up the path. The whole route is just under two miles, but it packs in a surprising amount of scenery and history. Early morning, clear skies, and not another walker in sight. One of those peaceful Peak District moments that feels quietly special. Sunset at Curbar Edge Later that evening we drove a few minutes out toward Curbar Edge, one of the most iconic ridge walks in the Peak District and easily one of the best sunset spots in the area. The path begins near Clodhall Lane and within minutes opens onto the wide gritstone ridge that runs along the hillside. From the top, the landscape drops away dramatically into the valley below, revealing the classic Peak District patchwork of green fields, stone walls and small villages scattered across the Derbyshire countryside. We timed it for golden hour, when the light softens and the entire valley starts to glow. Curbar Edge is famous for its dramatic gritstone rock formations, which stretch along the ridge like natural viewing platforms. Climbers come here during the day, but in the evening it’s mostly walkers and photographers spreading out along the rocks waiting for the sun to drop lower over the hills. Roly trotted along the ridge beside me, occasionally stopping to peer over the edge as if inspecting the view himself. From up there you can see for miles across the valley toward Calver and Baslow, the rolling farmland stretching endlessly toward the horizon. As the sun began to dip, the light cut across the landscape in long beams, casting shadows across the rocks and turning the fields below into layers of green and gold. It’s one of those places where you understand instantly why people keep coming back to the Peak District. Simple paths, big skies, and views that stretch forever. A perfect way to end the day.  Longshaw Estate: Deer, Open Moorland & Big Valley Views The following morning we headed over to Longshaw Estate, a National Trust area that sits right on the edge of the Dark Peak and offers some of the most open landscapes in this part of the park. The walk starts gently, weaving through woodland before opening out into wide moorland and meadow, where the terrain stretches out in soft waves toward the distant hills. Compared to the dramatic ridges of Curbar Edge the night before, Longshaw felt quieter and more expansive, the kind of landscape where you can see for miles in every direction. About halfway into the walk we spotted something that immediately slowed us down. A small herd of wild deer grazing across the open field, completely unfazed by the walkers passing through the estate. They moved slowly across the grass in loose formation, occasionally pausing to lift their heads and scan the surroundings before continuing on. Watching them move across the landscape felt like stepping into a nature documentary. Roly stood completely still beside me, ears up, clearly fascinated by the unexpected wildlife encounter. The path continued through open fields framed by woodland and scattered trees, with long views stretching toward the rolling hills of the Peak District beyond. It’s an easy, well-marked walk and one that feels perfectly balanced between woodland, meadow and open countryside. Three miles later we looped back toward the start point, the kind of walk that reminds you how much space there still is in the English countryside. Wide skies, grazing deer, and miles of open land to wander through. Upper Burbage to Stanage Edge: One of the Peaks’ Most Iconic Ridges Later that day we headed out again, this time toward one of the most famous landscapes in the Peak District, Stanage Edge. We started near Upper Burbage, where the path begins gently across open moorland before gradually rising toward the long gritstone ridge that defines this part of the park. Even before reaching the edge itself, the landscape already feels bigger and wilder than the valleys below. The terrain here is classic Dark Peak country with heather-covered hills, open moorland, and vast skies stretching across the horizon. As the path climbs, the famous gritstone escarpment of Stanage Edge begins to appear, rising dramatically from the hillside. The rock formations run for nearly four miles, forming one of the most recognisable ridgelines in England. Walking along the edge feels expansive in a way that’s hard to describe. On one side the land drops away toward the Hope Valley, while on the other side the moorland continues endlessly across the plateau. Roly, as usual, treated the entire ridge like his personal adventure trail. There’s something about the Peaks’ edges that makes you slow down. The scale of the landscape, the wind moving across the heather, the sense of space that stretches far beyond the path itself. It’s easy to see why Stanage Edge has inspired photographers, climbers and walkers for generations. Simple terrain, huge views, and one of the most memorable walks in the Peak District. Eyam Village: The Plague Village of the Peak District The next morning we drove a short distance to Eyam, a village with one of the most remarkable and sobering histories in England. At first glance it looks like many other Peak District villages with stone cottages, narrow lanes, rolling countryside surrounding it on all sides. But Eyam carries a story that changed its place in history forever. In 1665, the Great Plague of London reached the village when a parcel of cloth arrived from London carrying infected fleas. Within weeks the disease began spreading among residents. Instead of fleeing and risking spreading the plague to neighbouring towns and cities, the villagers made an extraordinary decision. Led by the local rector William Mompesson and former Puritan minister Thomas Stanley, the village agreed to quarantine itself completely. For over 14 months, Eyam sealed itself off from the outside world. Villagers placed money in a “boundary stone” filled with vinegar so that neighbouring communities could safely deliver food and supplies without direct contact. Families isolated themselves in their homes. Fields around the village became burial sites as the death toll rose. By the time the outbreak ended in 1666, around 260 villagers had died, nearly half of the population. Yet their sacrifice prevented the plague from spreading further into the surrounding regions of Derbyshire and northern England. Walking through Eyam today, you still see reminders of that story everywhere. Many cottages display plague plaques listing the families who lived there and the dates they died. There are memorials, historic sites, and quiet corners that tell the story of a community that chose collective protection over survival. Our walk through the village was short, just under two miles but it carried a weight that most countryside walks don’t. History sits very close to the surface here. Between the peaceful streets and the surrounding green hills, Eyam stands as a powerful reminder of how a small village once made an extraordinary decision that helped protect an entire region. Ladybower, Limestone Valleys & a Detour to Castleton Some days on the road aren’t about ticking off famous landmarks. They’re about movement. Fresh air. Letting the day unfold as it wants to. This one was spent at Ladybower Reservoir, deep in the Peak District National Park, where the landscape opens up into wide water, long dams, and hills that feel much bigger than the rest of England. Early evening light was bouncing off the reservoir. The dam stretches out in front of you like a long stone walkway, with forested hills rising on the other side and water sitting still beside it. It’s one of those places that feels quiet but powerful at the same time. The sun was dropping just behind the ridge line, throwing long beams of light over the dam wall and the water below.  We walked the stretch of the dam, stopping every few minutes, partly for photos, partly because views like that deserve a pause. A short drive after through winding countryside roads brought us into Castleton, a tiny stone village that feels like something pulled from another century. Behind the cottages and pubs sits a narrow limestone valley locals know well but visitors often miss. The path begins almost hidden, before suddenly opening into Cave Dale. And the moment you step inside it, the landscape changes completely. The valley floor is rough limestone and loose stones, carved through the hills like a natural corridor. Steep rock walls rise on both sides, pale grey against green grass, with sheep scattered across the slopes like they’ve been placed there deliberately. At the top of the ridge sits the ruins of Peveril Castle, watching over the valley from above. It feels ancient. Raw. A little wild. The trail through Cave Dale isn’t polished or manicured. It’s uneven, rocky, and sometimes more scramble than walk. But that’s exactly what makes it good. By the time we reached the end of the valley, the evening light had softened and the whole place had gone quiet. Just wind across the limestone, the occasional sheep calling from somewhere up the hillside, and the crunch of stones underfoot. Days like that are hard to plan. You start with a reservoir walk. You end up in a hidden limestone valley beneath a medieval castle. And somewhere in between, the Peak District quietly reminds you why England’s landscapes still surprise people who think they’ve already seen it all. Notes from the Road  The Peak District surprised me. For somewhere so close to major English cities like Manchester, Sheffield, Leeds, it still feels genuinely wild in places. Not dramatic in the Alpine sense, but textured. Limestone valleys, reservoirs that stretch out like inland seas, sheep paths cutting across hills that have been walked for centuries. What I loved most about the Peak District was how quickly the landscape changes. One moment you’re walking along the wide dam walls of Ladybower Reservoir, with open water and forested hills stretching into the distance. A short drive later you can be standing inside a narrow limestone gorge like Cave Dale, beneath the ruins of Peveril Castle, surrounded by rock walls and loose stone trails that feel far older than the road you drove in on. That contrast is what makes this part of England so interesting. The Peak District isn’t about one big landmark. It’s about layers. And everywhere you go, sheep. Roly absolutely loved it. For dog owners, the Peak District is one of the easiest landscapes in England to explore. Wide open spaces, endless trails, and villages that are completely used to muddy boots and muddy paws turning up at the pub door. It’s also a place that rewards curiosity. Some of the best moments came from simple detours. Turning off the main road into a quiet village. Following a footpath just to see where it led. Realising that what looks like a small valley on the map actually drops into something far more dramatic once you’re inside it. Once you start exploring, it unfolds into one of the most varied landscapes in England. For city-by-city breakdowns and deeper regional planning, explore the full UK Travel Guides. Now, it’s time for the next route. Next stop: Chester.

From the Peaks to the Walls: Driving from the Peak District to Chester After a few days exploring the hills of the Peak District, I drove west toward Chester. The route is short, just under an hour but the scenery gradually softens as you leave the Peaks behind. Winding country roads that cut through limestone valleys begin to open into wider farmland, and the hills slowly flatten into the greener, more spacious countryside of Cheshire. Dry stone walls and rugged moorland give way to pastures, hedgerows, and small market towns dotted along the road. It’s the kind of drive where the transition happens almost without noticing. One moment you’re weaving through the final ridges of the Peaks, the next you’re cruising along straighter roads with the countryside stretching out on either side. Then suddenly, the skyline changes again. Instead of hills, the first thing that signals your arrival in Chester is history; Roman walls, medieval streets, and the unmistakable feeling of entering one of England’s best-preserved historic cities. After the wild landscapes of the Peak District, Chester felt like stepping into a completely different chapter of the journey. If you’re planning a UK road trip, read my UK Road Trip Itinerary (2–3 Weeks) guide. Checking Into Chester After the short drive, I checked into my Airbnb for the week. The location couldn’t have been better. Tucked just inside the historic centre, it meant everything was within easy walking distance including the city walls, the river, the shops, cafes and restaurants that make Chester such an easy place to explore on foot.  One of the first things you notice walking around Chester is its architecture. The city is famous for its distinctive black-and-white timbered buildings, a style that has become something of a trademark here. Many date back to the Tudor period, with wooden beams crisscrossing white façades in geometric patterns that feel almost storybook-like. You see them everywhere, standing proudly on street corners as if they’ve been there forever. It gives Chester a very particular character. The city feels historic without feeling frozen with roman walls, medieval streets and Tudor buildings all sat alongside everyday life. For the next six days, this would be our base, and with the city walls just minutes away from the front door, it didn’t take long before we were out exploring. Walking the Roman Walls of Chester One of the best ways to understand Chester is from above. Chester is one of the very few cities in Britain where you can still walk the entire circuit of defensive walls that once protected it. Originally built by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago and later reinforced through medieval times, the walls now form a continuous raised stone walkway circling the historic centre. So naturally, that’s where we started. With clear blue skies overhead and Roly happily trotting ahead, we climbed up onto the sandstone walls and began the full loop around the city. Almost immediately the perspective changes. Instead of walking through the streets, you’re walking just above them, looking down into the energy of everyday life below.  One of the first places that catches your eye is the remains of the Roman Gardens below the walls. Stone columns and fragments from the ancient fortress lie arranged across the grass, quiet reminders that Chester began as a Roman military base called Deva Victrix nearly two millennia ago. Continue along the walls and you begin to look down onto the heart of the city. Below you are the famous timber-framed buildings that give Chester its distinctive character; the black-and-white Tudor façades leaning slightly over narrow streets that have been busy with traders, travellers and locals for centuries. Then suddenly, you reach one of Chester’s most recognisable landmarks. Framed perfectly between two historic buildings stands the ornate Eastgate Clock. Built in 1897 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, the clock sits dramatically above the street where the original Roman entrance to the city once stood. From the walls you can watch crowds gather below, people stopping for photos as the clock ticks above the constant flow of the city. From this vantage point you also see one of Chester’s most famous streets stretching out ahead, Eastgate Street. The street runs straight through the centre of town, lined with historic buildings and the unique two-level galleries known as Chester Rows. These elevated walkways date back to the medieval period and create a layered cityscape unlike anywhere else in England. The walk continues past Chester Cathedral, where the Gothic stone towers rise dramatically above surrounding gardens. From the walls you can see into the peaceful green space beside the cathedral; people sitting on benches, flowers in bloom, and the quiet contrast to the busy shopping streets just minutes away. Further along, the city opens out again. The walls curve gently toward the River Dee, where the dense historic centre suddenly gives way to water, trees and open space. From above you can watch the river winding past the city, boats drifting slowly along the water while people walk the riverside paths below. The walk itself feels surprisingly calm for somewhere right in the middle of a city. Occasionally the route dips down a staircase before climbing back up again, passing towers, gates and defensive points that once controlled who could enter the city. By the time we completed the full circuit we had walked just over three miles. A complete loop around one of the best-preserved historic cities in England. Roman stone beneath your feet. Tudor streets below. Cathedral towers rising above the rooftops, and the whole of Chester slowly revealing itself as you walk. From Chester to Snowdonia: A Day in the Welsh Mountains One of the unexpected advantages of basing ourselves in Chester is just how close it sits to the Welsh border. Within an hour of leaving the city, the landscape changes completely. The tidy streets and Tudor buildings of Chester slowly give way to rolling countryside, then deeper valleys, and eventually the dramatic mountain terrain of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia). It makes for one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips in this part of the UK. We set off early, coffee in hand, heading west along the A55 before turning inland toward the mountains. The roads begin to narrow as you move deeper into North Wales, winding through small villages, past stone farmhouses and open stretches of green countryside. The further you drive, the bigger the landscape becomes. Soon the mountains begin to dominate the horizon. Jagged ridgelines rise up around you, slate-grey rock cutting through rolling green hills, with deep valleys carved between them. It’s a landscape that feels raw and ancient, shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago. Snowdonia, or Eryri as it’s known in Welsh, is one of the most dramatic national parks in the United Kingdom. The region contains more than 100 peaks, with Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) standing as the tallest at 1,085 metres. For centuries these mountains have been tied to Welsh mythology, language and identity, forming one of the cultural hearts of Wales. But what makes the area special isn’t just the highest peaks. It’s the entire environment. Deep valleys filled with lakes. Rolling green hills dotted with sheep. Old stone walls cutting across the landscape. Narrow mountain roads weaving through dramatic scenery at every turn. By the time we reached the village of Llanberis, the mountains were towering above us. Llanberis is one of the main gateways into the national park and the starting point for several hiking routes up Snowdon itself. It’s also where the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway climbs slowly toward the summit, a small train that looks almost surreal as it moves across the vast mountain slopes. But our plan for the day was hiking. Roly, of course, was ready. We started along one of the main walking routes climbing gradually out of the valley. At first the trail winds through grassy hillsides and open countryside, with wide views across the valley below. The path is rocky but well worn, with hikers steadily making their way up and down the mountain. The higher you climb, the more the scenery opens up. Huge slopes of exposed rock appear around you, with ridges stretching across the skyline and deep green valleys dropping away beneath your feet. On a clear day like this, the visibility feels endless. There’s something energising about hiking in Snowdonia. The air feels sharper. The landscape feels wilder, and the scale of the mountains gives everything a sense of perspective that’s hard to explain until you’re standing there in the middle of it. Roly trotted happily ahead along the trail, weaving between hikers and occasionally stopping to investigate the rocks or sheep. It’s a dog-friendly place, with plenty of open space and endless trails to explore. Our hike covered just under six miles with around 1,100 feet of elevation gain; enough to feel the climb, but still manageable as a day hike. And like most hikes here, the reward is constant scenery. Green valleys stretching out below. Rocky ridges climbing higher into the mountains, and the occasional appearance of the mountain railway slowly making its way across the slopes, tiny against the scale of the landscape. By the time we made our way back down toward Llanberis, the afternoon sun was lighting up the valley, the mountains casting long shadows across the hills. It’s hard to believe that a place this wild and dramatic sits just over an hour from Chester. But that’s part of what makes this corner of the UK so special. In a single day, you can walk medieval city walls in the morning and hike through one of Britain’s most spectacular mountain landscapes by afternoon. Sunset Walk: Handbridge & The Meadows The day after hiking in the mountains of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), we stayed closer to home. One of the things that makes Chester so enjoyable as a base is how easily the city blends historic streets with green space. Within minutes of leaving the centre, you can be walking along the river, surrounded by trees and open fields rather than buildings. So that evening, as the day began to soften toward sunset, we headed out for a long riverside walk. The route started near the historic core of Chester before crossing toward the neighbourhood of Handbridge. Traffic noise fades, replaced by the sound of water moving slowly along the River Dee. We crossed Queen’s Park Suspension Bridge, a graceful iron bridge first built in the early 20th century. From the middle of the bridge you get one of the best views of the river: wide, calm water stretching in both directions, with rows of Georgian houses and trees lining the opposite bank. Roly, of course, took the lead again, happily trotting across the wooden boards of the bridge while people strolled past enjoying the evening light. On the far side of the river the landscape opens out into The Meadows, a long stretch of grassy riverside paths that locals clearly use as their daily escape. Families walk dogs, runners pass steadily along the path, and rowing teams glide up and down the river in long narrow boats. From the banks you can watch the vitality of life along the water. Rowers cutting through the river. Small boats drifting past. Ducks moving lazily along the edge of the reeds, and across the water, the historic skyline of Chester rising gently above the trees. In the distance you can even spot the city’s ferris wheel turning slowly above the rooftops; a small modern addition against a backdrop of centuries-old buildings. The walk itself is simple but beautiful. Flat riverside paths wind through tall grasses and wildflowers, with huge open skies overhead. In the evening light the river reflects the clouds and soft colours of the sky, making the whole place feel calm and expansive. Our loop covered just over four miles, an easy end-of-day walk after the previous day’s mountain hike, and it’s the kind of place that reveals another side of the city. Chester may be known for its Roman history and medieval streets, but along the River Dee it feels almost rural, open, peaceful and deeply connected to the landscape that surrounds it. A perfect way to close the day. Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Walk - A Final North Wales Detour On my final full day before leaving Chester, I made one last short drive back across into North Wales. The destination this time was something completely different from the mountains of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), but just as impressive in its own way. About 45 minutes from Chester sits one of the most remarkable pieces of engineering in the UK: the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Built in 1805 by civil engineer Thomas Telford, the aqueduct carries the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee valley. And when I say across the valley, I mean high above it. Standing 38 metres (126 feet) above the river below, Pontcysyllte is the highest canal aqueduct in the world, a narrow ribbon of water suspended in the air on towering iron arches. From below, the structure looks enormous. Stone pillars rise from the valley floor, supporting a long iron trough that stretches across the landscape like a bridge for boats. But the real experience is walking across the top. Walking Across the Aqueduct The path alongside the canal is just wide enough for walkers on one side, while narrowboats glide slowly through the water channel beside you.On the other side… nothing. Just open air and a sheer drop into the green valley below. The first few steps definitely get your attention. The walkway has railings, but the canal itself has none. The water sits right at the edge of the aqueduct, making it feel like the canal is floating in the sky. Roly trotted along confidently beside me, completely unfazed by the height, while I took my time soaking in the view. Below us, the River Dee valley stretched out in every direction with thick woodland, rolling hills and small villages scattered through the landscape. The late afternoon sun made everything glow. Water in the canal reflected the blue sky like glass, while the valley below faded into soft green layers in the distance.  It’s one of those places where engineering and landscape somehow feel perfectly balanced. Not intrusive. Not overwhelming. Just quietly spectacular. The Pontcysyllte Canal Path After crossing the aqueduct, we continued walking along the canal path toward the village of Trevor. The towpath here is easy to follow, winding alongside the water through trees and open countryside. Narrowboats pass occasionally, moving slowly enough that people walking along the path can chat with the boaters as they go by. The whole area feels relaxed and unhurried; the kind of place locals come for evening walks or quiet weekend strolls. Our loop ended up being just under 2.5 miles, an easy walk that took about an hour, but the setting made it feel far more memorable than the distance would suggest. Notes From The Road Chester is compact, beautiful and incredibly walkable. Within minutes you can move from Roman history and medieval streets to riverside paths and open green spaces along the River Dee. The famous black-and-white Tudor buildings, the covered Rows, and the intact city walls give Chester a character that feels completely distinct from other UK cities. But what makes it particularly special is its location. Within an hour you can be deep in the mountains of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), hiking through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the UK. And just across the Welsh border sits the remarkable Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a 200-year-old engineering masterpiece suspended high above the River Dee valley. For anyone road-tripping through this part of the UK, Chester works perfectly as a hub because of its historic city atmosphere combined with easy access to some of North Wales’ most impressive scenery. And for me and Roly, it delivered the best of both worlds; morning coffee in cobbled streets, evening walks along the river, and mountain adventures just down the road. One last view, before the road called again. For city-by-city breakdowns and deeper regional planning, explore the full UK Travel Guides.    Now, it’s time for the next route. Next stop: Yorkshire.