The summer holidays are finally here, and you know what that means? It’s time to set an out of office on the email and get away for a while! The problem, is, that snot as easy as it used to be. With the cost of airfare, train tickets and ferries going up all the time, many holidaymakers are opting to stay within the UK for their holidays this year. So this year, instead of cramming into a car and sleeping through the journey, why not plan a getaway that takes advantage of some of the most beautiful spots England has to offer in the comfort and style of a minibus. If you’re not sure which direction to point your minibus in for this summer, we have a few suggestions for you:
The Cotswolds are well known for gorgeous views over rolling hills and quaint countryside villages – the perfect place to escape from civilisation and recharge. And the drive there is just as beautiful. As the motorways fall to the side, you’ll spend your time weaving around country lanes, visiting local pubs and getting a real feel for country living. Once you’re there, you can enjoy long walks in the fresh air, lie under the night sky and see the stars through crystal clear skies, or just enjoy country life while still only a short drive from the capital.
The Yorkshire Dales are fondly known to locals as ‘God’s own country’, and when you get there it’s easy to see why. This area is full of dramatic sweeping landscapes and huge swathes of untouched wild countryside, and it’s hard not to be inspired by it. Once you’ve had your fill of landscape gazing, you can take long walks down the many nature trails, flowing rivers and cascading waterfalls, or visit one of the many rural farms and villages. If you’re into dry stone walling, you’re in for a treat, as there’s a lot of it in this part of the world.
The clue’s in the name on this one – if you like lakes, Watersports or just relaxing by the water, this one’s for you. Every year thousands of people flock to the Lake District to take in its breathtaking views and enjoy the camping, swimming and sailing on offer. Once you leave the motorways, the rolling hills and scenic country roads (with stunning views of the lakes) make the drive incredibly pleasant too.
There’s a pretty big clue in the name when it comes to the Peak District. Like a miniature North Wales, the Peak District is characterised by hilly peaks and mini-mountains, perfect for avid climbers or just those who want a great photo op. You could enjoy the Dark Peak to the north, where you’ll find moorland as far as the eye can see, or the White Peak to the south, where the landscape seems carved out of limestone, and many small villages and settlements are nestled within. Driving around the Peak District is a dramatic treat, with some amazing views of the beautiful national park.
And finally, if you fancy a trip down south, you could do a lot worse than Devon and the Cornish coast. The warmer weather can sometimes feel almost tropical, and you’re bound to spot plenty of plants and wildlife you wouldn’t’ see anywhere else in the UK! It’s also perfect for enjoying the sandy beaches during the heat, exploring the quintessential English villages by night and enjoying that legendary Cornish ice cream at every opportunity!
Of course, before you hop into your minibus, you need to make sure you have the right license to drive it. While there is only really one kind of minibus license, it’s more about the reason you’re driving the minibus that decides whether you need the license or not. At The HGV Training Centre, our trainers have spent years helping people just like you fulfil their holiday dreams by gaining a minibus qualification that’s right for them. So you can get some hands-on experience behind the wheel before you set off cross country, and you can make sure you’re covered legally too. For more information, just get in touch with us today.
Website Content © 2023 HGV Driver Training Centre
Abbey House, 282 Farnborough Road, Farnborough, GU14 7NA
