Iconic EV drives across the UK

Our pick of the country's jaw-dropping routes

On the big screen, road trips invariably trace Route 66 or California’s Big Sur. You know the story: the sun’s out, the roof’s down and the FM radio’s up high. But forget the Hollywood cliché, we have other ideas for you. 

In no special order, here are our top five jaw-dropping EV drives to enjoy rain or shine without leaving the UK. So, plan ahead and check our app for all your charge point options. Then charge up, drive safely and enjoy every minute starring in your own classic road trip. 

1. Snake Pass, Peak District, England 

The A57 between Glossop and Sheffield is known as Snake Pass for an obvious reason: 26 miles long and climbing to over 1,600 foot above sea level, the road twists and turns snake-like across the Pennines. Actually, some say that the road was named after the Snake Inn near Grindslow Knoll, but since the pub took its name from the road’s winding route the point is moot!  

With gradients that can ramp up to 10%, Snake Pass is often used as a punishing stage of cycling’s Tour of Britain. Hairpin bends and blind summits add to the thrills but pay due attention to the road and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views as well as one of the most enjoyable EV driving experiences a UK summer can offer.     

Don’t miss: Fantastic views over Manchester and beyond from near Glossop.  

Charge at: bp pulse charging station, 26 Edward St, Glossop SK13 7AF >

2. North Coast 500, Highlands, Scotland 

Scotland’s ultimate road trip, the North Coast 500 begins and ends at Inverness Castle but any stretch of its 516 miles guarantees magical memories of you and your EV.  

What would you hope to see from behind the wheel in the North Highlands? Majestic mountains? Stunning coastline? Remote fishing villages? Fairy tale castles? The North Coast 500 gives you all those and more. 

A word to the wise. Don’t take on too much. If you have a full week, then you can look forward to enjoying the entire route. If not, plan your itinerary carefully and drive at a relaxed pace, giving you time to revel in the landscape as well as go off route as and when the mood takes you. 

Don’t miss: Keep your eyes peeled as you pass Loch Ness! 

Charge at: bp pulse charging station, BP Longman SF Connect, 22-24 Longman Road, Inverness IV1 1RY >

3. The Atlantic Highway, South West England 

In mundane terms, the Atlantic Highway is a 70-mile stretch of the A39 that runs from Barnstaple in Devon to Newquay, Cornwall. But for anyone with a touch of poetry in their soul and the keys to an EV in their hand, the Atlantic Highway is the portal to a land of rugged and pastoral beauty as well as magic, myth and legend. 

As you navigate the road’s twisting path, rolling farmland, glorious woodlands and ocean views all take their turn. Then, as you approach Tintagel, enjoyment of the here and now gives way to a mystical sense of the past. The fabled birthplace of King Arthur, Tintagel’s evocative clifftop castle has been occupied since Roman times and is accessible from the village car parks. 

Don’t miss: For spooky time away from the wheel, brave the Museum of Witchcraft & Magic in Boscastle.   

Charge at: bp pulse charging station, SF Connect, Holsworthy, Rydon Rd, Bude EX22 6HZ >

4. The Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland 

Stretching from buzzing Belfast to historic Derry-Londonderry, this gorgeous drive follows the coast road for around 195 miles. Boasting stunning scenery, dramatic castles and thriving wildlife, it’s no surprise that many films and TV programmes including Game of Thrones have filmed on and around the Causeway Coastal Route. 

And what of the Causeway itself? Legend has it that an Irish giant named Finn McCool built the causeway to do battle with a Scottish rival. Science has it that the causeway consists of around 40,000 hexagonal columns. Whichever story you choose to believe, the Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO world heritage site and is a book-ahead must-see on your EV road trip.  

Don’t miss: If you have a nervous disposition or mobility issues, the Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge near Bushmills is not for you. Otherwise…    

Charge at: bp pulse charging station, 290 Antrim Rd, Glengormley, Newtownabbey BT36 7QT >

5. The Coastal Way, Wales 

The Coastal Way runs for 180 miles along the length of Cardigan Bay and is a wonderful way of leaving the crowds behind. Perhaps the best approach to this trip is just to charge up your EV then take things slowly.  The start and end points—St Davids and Aberdaron—are ancient places of pilgrimage well worth exploring. In between, with mountains on one side and coastline on the other, you’ll pass harbour towns and fishing villages as well as some of the UK’s most beautiful—and uncrowded—beaches.  

If you’re in no rush—and please make sure you’re not—take time out to find a hidden cove and look out for puffins, seals and other rare wildlife.    

Don’t miss: The chance of seeing dolphins leaping join a specialist boat trip from New Quay. 

Charge at: bp pulse charging station, University, Penglais Rd, Aberystwyth SY23 3FL >