Top 10 Overland Destinations in the UK: Explore the Great Outdoors

10th Dec 2024

The UK is a treasure trove for overland enthusiasts, offering breathtaking landscapes, historic trails, and opportunities for wild camping. Whether you’re new to overlanding or a seasoned adventurer, these top destinations provide the perfect backdrop for your next journey. Equip your vehicle with the right gear from Apex4WD, and you’ll be ready to conquer these trails in comfort and style.

1. Snowdonia National Park, Wales

Snowdonia offers a mix of rugged trails and spectacular mountain scenery. Green lanes like the Wayfarer’s Pass provide exciting challenges for 4x4 vehicles, with sweeping views and historic tracks to explore.

Why It’s Great:

Ideal for beginners and experienced off-roaders.

Opportunities for wild camping under the stars.

Apex4WD Essentials:

A roof tent ensures a secure and comfortable base camp in remote locations.

2. North Coast 500, Scotland

Dubbed “Scotland’s Route 66,” the NC500 is a 516-mile journey through Scotland’s rugged highlands. From coastal cliffs to mountain passes, this iconic route is perfect for overland adventurers.

Why It’s Great:

Stunning landscapes, including Torridon Hills and Applecross Pass.

Plenty of secluded spots for overnight camping.

Apex4WD Essentials:

A durable canopy to protect your gear from Scotland’s unpredictable weather.

3. The Lake District, England

Famous for its serene lakes and dramatic peaks, the Lake District offers legal green lanes like Gatesgarth Pass and Walna Scar Road for off-road enthusiasts.

Why It’s Great:

A mix of technical trails and scenic drives.

Opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and photography.

Apex4WD Essentials:

Portable awnings for shade and shelter during breaks.

4. The Ridgeway, South England

Known as Britain’s oldest road, The Ridgeway offers historic charm and fantastic views. The route stretches across chalk ridges and ancient trails, connecting to overland-friendly areas like Salisbury Plain.

Why It’s Great:

Easy-to-moderate trails, perfect for beginners.

Access to landmarks like Stonehenge.

Apex4WD Essentials:

A reliable lift kit for navigating uneven terrain.

5. Strata Florida, Wales

This iconic Welsh trail takes you through river crossings, rocky paths, and lush valleys. Strata Florida is perfect for testing your vehicle’s off-road capabilities.

Why It’s Great:

Challenging water crossings and technical routes.

A true test of your 4x4’s capabilities.

Apex4WD Essentials:

Snorkels and recovery gear for tackling deep waters.

6. Yorkshire Dales, England

The Dales offer some of the UK’s most picturesque trails, such as Cam High Road and Roman Road. These ancient tracks wind through rolling hills and valleys.

Why It’s Great:

Perfect for a weekend getaway.

Access to local pubs and villages for post-trail relaxation.

Apex4WD Essentials:

Storage boxes to keep gear organized on shorter trips.

7. Kielder Forest, Northumberland

Kielder Forest is one of the UK’s largest man-made woodlands, offering a variety of trails for 4x4 vehicles. It’s also a haven for stargazers, with some of the darkest skies in Europe.

Why It’s Great:

Family-friendly trails with easy navigation.

Stunning views of Kielder Water.

Apex4WD Essentials:

A roof rack to carry extra gear for stargazing and camping.

8. Salisbury Plain, South England

Salisbury Plain is a favorite among off-roaders for its wide-open spaces and accessible trails. With plenty of military history and wildlife, it’s a fascinating place to explore.

Why It’s Great:

Easy-to-navigate trails with minimal technical challenges.

Opportunities to see wildlife like hares and deer.

Apex4WD Essentials:

All-terrain tires for a smooth ride across the grassy plains.

9. Brecon Beacons, Wales

The Brecon Beacons National Park is known for its scenic beauty and legal off-road tracks like the Sarn Helen Trail. This area offers a mix of river crossings, rocky paths, and panoramic views.

Why It’s Great:

Remote and peaceful trails for overlanding.

Great for combining off-roading with hiking or mountain biking.

Apex4WD Essentials:

Recovery boards for tricky spots along muddy tracks.

10. Exmoor National Park, South West England

Exmoor combines coastal views with hilly trails, making it a favorite for adventurous 4x4 drivers. Trails like the Byway to Lynton offer plenty of challenges and beautiful vistas.

Why It’s Great:

A mix of coastal and forest scenery.

Historic landmarks like Tarr Steps along the way.

Apex4WD Essentials:

A winch system for tackling steep inclines or helping fellow adventurers.

Get Ready for Adventure with Apex4WD

Overlanding in the UK offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and thrilling trails. With the right preparation and gear, every trip can be safe and unforgettable. Apex4WD provides the essentials you need—from durable roof tents to reliable lift kits—so you can focus on exploring the great outdoors.

Start planning your next adventure today! Check out our full range of overland gear at Apex4WD.