North Coast 500: How Long Does It Take to Drive Around Scotland

Wester Ross in Scotland

America has Route 66. Australia has the Great Ocean Road. Iceland has the Ring Road. Scotland has the North Coast 500. When it comes to epic driving routes, the North Coast 500 is right up there! The ultra-scenic route snakes for more than 500 miles across the country, starting and finishing at Inverness Castle.

If you’re looking for a route that promises breathtaking coastlines, stunning countryside and history in spades, the North Coast 500 is the ultimate Scottish road trip. As well as meandering through the Scottish Highlands, expect to see everything from charming towns and centuries-old castles to long sandy beaches and shimmering lochs.

So, how long does it take to drive around Scotland? The short answer is five to seven days, if you stick to the North Coast 500. Of course, there’s loads more to say about this legendary driving route. Read on as we take a closer look at what to expect. 

A brief history of the North Coast 500

Compared to other bucket list driving routes around the world, the North Coast 500 is relatively new. The route was officially crowned in 2015 by the North Highland Initiative Tourism Project Board and wraps the crème de la crème of scenery, attractions and experiences into one neat package.

It’s regularly voted one of the top coastal driving routes in the world by high-profile travel brands and publications, including a mention in Lonely Planet’s Ultimate United Kingdom Travelist guide.

“We are at the start and the finish of the NC500 and Inverness will surely benefit from its success,” said Graeme Ambrose, chief executive of Visit Inverness Loch Ness. “The route has had a massive impact on the local area since its launch and it has become an iconic trail.”

How many days for the North Coast 500?

Now you know more about the North Coast 500, let’s take a closer look at itinerary planning. How long does it take to drive around Scotland on the North Coast 500? The route is more than 500 miles long, which means you’ll need multiple days to explore the entire loop. Most tourism boards recommend allowing between five to seven days to drive the North Coast 500. This allows for plenty of stops along the way to take in the scenery. Of course, you can definitely make your trip longer if you have more time.

Regions featured in the North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 passes through six spectacular regions in Northern Scotland.

  • Inverness-shire

This region is home to Inverness, the largest city on the route. It’s a great place to stock up on supplies and of course, snacks. Don’t forget Scottish classics like oat cakes and shortbread. This is also your start and end point for the North Coast 500. Allow some time to tour mighty Inverness Castle and take a scenic cruise on Loch Ness. Keep an eye out for Nessie!

  • Black Isle

Black Isle is best-known for the rugged peninsula that juts into the North Sea. Rolling farmland frames the coast and adds to the picturesque setting. Look for dolphins splashing in the waves whenever you’re on the coast.

  • Easter Ross

This section of the North Coast 500 takes you through some of the prettiest seaside villages in Scotland. You’ll also pass a handful of distilleries where you can try premium Scottish whiskey.

  • Caithness

Caithness marks the midpoint of your North Coast 500 road trip. Stop for lunch in John o’Groats, the northernmost village on mainland Britain. 

  • Sutherland

It’s worth spending at least a night or two in Sutherland, one of the most dramatic regions featured on the North Coast 500. If you’re a golfer, pencil in a tee time at one of the iconic courses in the area. There are ancient castles to visit, and some beautiful historic monuments peppered across the region.

  • Wester Ross

This is your final leg of the North Coast 500, but it doesn’t scrimp on scenery. Beaches are the star of the show in Wester Ross, though you’ll also see towering peaks and sparkling lochs.

Unlike other iconic drives like Route 66, the North Coast 500 isn’t a single stretch of road. Instead, it’s made up of several different roads that skirt the coast. Don’t worry, there are plenty of signs along the way to help you stay on track.

As for your itinerary, there are some signature sights and experiences to tick off. But don’t stress too much about your itinerary. The entire North Coast 500 is gorgeous, and you really can’t go wrong.

Accommodation on the North Coast 500

One of the best things about the North Coast 500 is the variation when it comes to accommodation. If you’re on a budget, you’ll find some beautiful campsites strung along the route. Midrange travellers love the cosy inns and B&Bs, while well-heeled road trippers can splurge on luxury hotels and boutique accommodation. There really is something for everyone on the North Coast 500.

Clockwise or counter-clockwise on the NC500?

The North Coast 500 is a loop trail which means you can do it in either direction. However, for this article, we recommend travelling in a counter-clockwise direction. How long does it take to drive around Scotland on the North Coast 500? Around five to seven days.

Preparing for the North Coast 500

With so much to see, do and experience, we don’t blame you if you want to hit the road ASAP. But it’s important to brush up on a few safety basics before driving the North Coast 500. Conditions can get wet and slippery, so it’s important to check your tyre tread and pressure before you depart.

Drive times can be long, which makes regular breaks a must. This is a blessing as it gives you an excuse to explore hidden gems or enjoy a cheeky afternoon tea break in a chocolate-box town. Ideally, you should take a 15-minute break for every two to three hours you spend on the road. Even better, tag team with another driver and share the responsibility. 

Finance the perfect car for your road trip

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Is Apple Making a Car?

Glass apple logo in city

Apple has long set its sights on the motoring industry. As far back as 2008, rumours circulated that an Apple car was in the works, but progress has stalled on a number of occasions.


So, is Apple making a car, and if so, when will it hit the market?

What is known about the Apple car?

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the road to the Apple car has been full of twists, turns and abandoned negotiations. In 2014, ‘Project Titan’ began – the Wall Street Journal reported that Apple was hiring a range of automobile experts and engineers with the aim of launching a fully autonomous electric vehicle. In May 2018, the tech giant was reported to be in communication with Volkswagen – a partnership that literally crashed and burned as a result of test crashes and employee leaks.

In 2016, rumours suggested that ‘Project Titan’ had been shelved, but by 2020, the Apple car project was back on track. However, 2021 brought reports that negotiations between Apple and Hyundai, and its subsidiary company Kia, had broken down. By April of the same year, Apple CEO Tim Cook equivocated around Apple’s work on developing a car, but hinted that it was a project the company was invested in moving forward.

Is Apple making a car?

Currently, the Apple car is green lit – but it won’t be a fully autonomous vehicle, as the company had initially hoped. The Apple car will be partially autonomous, with a traditional driving seat, steering wheel and pedals (all of which had been removed for the initial autonomous prototype).

At the close of 2022, Bloomberg reported that Apple planned to launch a consumer model of the car by 2026, with a price point of $100,000. As such, the Apple car will be competition for the likes of the Tesla Model S and the top-end BMW i7. Further reports by Bloomberg suggest that the Apple car’s stats and features will be finalised by the end of 2024, with testing commencing in 2025 and production from 2026.

There is significant speculation about the Apple car’s design and technology, with the exact details remaining broadly unknown. Full iOS integration is expected, and a number of pending patents have been noted for vehicular features. These include patents for ‘movable sensors’, ‘smart headlights’ and ‘adjustable tinted windows’, amongst others.

Apple’s AI lead John Giannandrea is reported to be overseeing the Apple car project, with input from Kevin Lynch, a software developer who worked on the Apple Watch. As Apple itself has no experience in the automobile industry, they will need partners – at the time of writing, these are unconfirmed. Whether Apple achieves the goal of manufacturing a car after all these years remains to be seen.

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What are the Best Road Trips in the Lake District?

Rydale Water in the Lake District

From Jane Austen and William Wordsworth to Taylor Swift, the Lake District has inspired countless artists, musicians, writers and creative souls over the centuries. As far as we’re concerned, a self-guided road trip to the Lake District is the best way to tour the evocative region. Behind the wheel, you’ll have the freedom to hop between chocolate-box towns and villages, explore scenic walking trails and even get off the beaten track if adventure calls.

The best thing about road trip in the Lake District itineraries? You can tailor your trip to fit your unique travel style. Settle into a cosy bed and breakfast, splurge on a five-star hotel or pitch a tent and sleep under the stars. With so many incredible experiences on offer, it’s no wonder the Lake District is one of the most visited national parks in the UK. Not to mention one of the most photographed. Don’t forget your camera because there’s plenty of epic scenery in store. 

Ready to get inspired? Read on for our guide to the best road trips in the Lake District.

1-Day Grasmere to Windermere

Short and sweet, this scenic road trip in the Lake District takes in some of the park’s most iconic villages. Start in the enchanting village of Grasmere. Be sure to stock up on a few slabs of the village’s legendary gingerbread before you hit the road. From here, head to the A591 for a scenic lakeside drive. You’ll eventually reach the turnoff for Rydal, the village where beloved British poet William Wordsworth once lived.

Next on the agenda is Ambleside, a bustling town with handsome stone buildings and loads of shops, cafes and pubs. Park your cart and switch things up with a horse drawn carriage to Waterhead Pier. From here you can board a boat and enjoy a scenic cruise around Windermere, one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in England. Not to worry if you’re running short on time, or if the weather isn’t cooperating. You can always wind up your day with a scenic drive along the banks of Windermere.  

Another option is the short walk to Stock Ghyll Force, a cascading waterfall just outside the village. Visit in spring to see the surrounding forest blanketed in bright yellow daffodils.

2-Day Southern Lake District: Ravenglass to Drigg

Ideally you should allocate two days to complete this road trip. Though, if you’re short on time, you can squeeze all the highlights into 24 hours. Start in the friendly coastal village of Ravenglass. A side trip to the nearby Roman ruins is a great add-on for history buffs, if you have time. You’ll then set your sights on Wastwater, one of the deepest lakes in England. Get there before dark to enjoy a sunset walk.

Fuel up with a full English breakfast – you’re in for a big day if you’re going to summit Scafell Pike. From the top of the mountain, you’ll unlock spectacular views over the countryside. Allow around six hours for the roundtrip and don’t forget to pack lots of water and snacks. Continue on to the Wasdale Head Inn for a well-deserved pint.

Stay the night or continue on to the beachside village of Drigg. It’s set on the border of Lake District National Park and combines lovely views over the fells with easy access to one of Britain’s most beautiful beaches. Pristine and uncrowded, it’s the definition of a hidden gem.

3-Day North Lake District – Penrith to Whitehaven

At just over 70 miles, it’s best to spread this road trip in the Lake District over three days. The park is enormous and there’s loads to see, which is why we recommend tackling bite-sized sections. This road trip starts in the idyllic town of Penrith in Cumbria. Nestled in the Eden Valley, it’s a great place to spend the night and get ready for your road trip in the Lake District. Dig into a plate of piping hot Cumberland sausages and mash, then stock up on snacks like Kendal mint cake.

The next morning, buckle in for the drive to Keswick. Break up your journey with a hike up Helvellyn, a 712-metre-high fell with sweeping views over the countryside. If you’d rather not work up a sweat, climb aboard a historic steamer for a scenic cruise on Ullswater.

Kick off day two with breakfast in Keswick and a stroll around the town centre. Learn about the region’s graphite-mining heritage at the Cumberland Pencil Museum and shop for handmade souvenirs at the famous Keswick Market. Enjoy a stroll around Derwentwater before heading back to the village for a homecooked meal and a pint of local ale. The Pheasant Inn in Keswick is always a firm favourite.

Day three will take you from Keswick to Whitehaven. En route you’ll pass over the Honister Pass, one of the highest and most scenic roads in the country. Pencil in a guided tour of the Honister Slate Mine, before making your way to the charming village of Buttermere for lunch. Next stop is Whitehaven, a lively port town filled with beautiful Georgian architecture and wooden sailboats.

Hit the road in comfort

Now you’re all set with the best ideas for a road trip in the Lake District, it’s time to hit the road. Thinking about upgrading to a new set of wheels? We’ve got you covered. Use our car loan approval calculator to punch in your numbers and get an estimate of how much you can borrow, and what your repayments will look like.

Just enter your ideal loan amount, preferred repayment terms and your credit rating. We’ll do the rest. When you’re ready to move forward, we’ll connect you with the best lenders in the UK. Whether you have your sights set on Windermere, Whitehaven or somewhere in between, our goal is to get you into the driver’s seat faster.

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Mercedes W14 Formula 1 Launch Announced

Mercedes F1 Car

Mercedes has confirmed the launch date of their W14 car for Formula 1’s 2023 season. The seventh of the ten F1 teams to provide launch details, Mercedes has announced that the car will premiere on February 15 at Silverstone, in a bid to bounce back from an undeniably challenging 2022 campaign.

Mercedes W14 F1 – what we know

With competitors including Aston Martin, McLaren and Ferrari having revealed the launch dates of their cars for the 2023 season, F1 fans can now add Mercedes’ name to the roster of confirmed launch dates.

The 2022 F1 season provided a number of challenges for Mercedes following the implementation of new design regulations for the year. Their W13 car seemed unable to keep up with the pressure, having suffered from excessive ‘porpoising’ (bouncing), leaving drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell largely out of the competition for the first half of the season.

2022 marked the first year Mercedes failed to win a world championship since 2014, but the company has since confirmed that their new F1 W14 vehicle will come back better than ever, with the team having learned from the mistakes of last year.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff remains cautious, however, and has been quoted as calling for ‘realistic’ expectations for the 2023 season, given the fierce competition posed by the likes of Red Bull and Ferrari. Pre-season testing will get underway in Bahrain on February 23, with Hamilton and Russell continuing to drive for the Silver Arrows.

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Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

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Electric Car Sales in the UK Overtake Diesel

Electric car being charged at a charge point

Earlier this month, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) released their report on the UK car market. Amongst the most significant findings is the news that battery electric vehicles (BEVs) overtook diesel vehicles to secure their best ever monthly market share in December 2022.

With 32.9% of the market and a total of 16.6% for new car registrations, BEVs have surpassed diesel for the first time ever, and are now second only to petrol vehicles. In combination with the figures on HEVs (hybrid electric vehicles) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), this means that average new car CO2 (carbon dioxide) fell by 6.9% to 111.4g/km – the lowest in UK history.

SMMT Report – the overview

Whilst December 2022 was the biggest month in the UK market for battery electric car sales, plug-in hybrids saw a reduction in their annual market share to 6.3%. Hybrid electric vehicles also saw growth, and now make up 11.6% of the market. Diesel sales, meanwhile, plummeted by 38.9%.

The success of electric car sales in the UK is overwhelmingly down to fleets and business buyers. Although private buyers account for over half of all total vehicle registrations, they fall shy of the numbers of fleets and business buyers, who accounted for around 75% of all BEV registrations.

The best-selling electric car in the UK was the Tesla Model Y, followed by the Tesla Model 3 and Kia e-Niro. The Tesla Model Y also ranked as the third best-selling car overall, only after the Nissan Qashqai and Vauxhall Corsa (both of which also have electric models).

Why do private buyers account for so little of UK electric car sales?

Although there’s a concerted effort to ‘green’ Britain’s roads, this report from the SMMT demonstrates an overall reticence amongst private buyers to move to electric vehicles. Quite why private buyers are proving slower to transition to greener vehicles is explainable in a number of ways.

Grants

In 2021, the government announced a series of reductions to electric vehicle subsidy schemes. For example, in December of 2021, the Department for Transport laid out a reduction of £1,000 for buyers making use of financial incentives to fund the upfront cost of a new electric vehicle.

A concurrent reduction was also made to vehicular models eligible for government support, with a maximum limit of £32,000 set down from £35,000. For many private drivers, the initial purchase fee of EVs is prohibitive, which is why government grants and incentives have such a significant place in swaying consumer behaviour. Securing a car loan quote and car finance suited to individual driver needs provides a further way for motorists to invest in electric vehicles.

Charging infrastructure

There are also concerns over public charging infrastructure. According to the SMMT’s report, the government’s EV Infrastructure Strategy forecasts a need for 300,000 to 720,000 charge points in the UK by 2030. To hit 300,000 public chargers by that date, current installation should average at 100 new chargers installed every day, but the current figure is 23.

Supply shortages

Supply chains remain inconsistent – a fact which was also noted by the SMMT as impacting the UK’s overall car market – as a result of semiconductor chip shortages due to disruption caused both by the pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This disruption is expected to stabilise as 2023 unfolds.

The result…

Consumers are unlikely to make the switch to electric unless they can be certain that the necessary infrastructure is available, and anxieties about the current cost of electricity also impact overall EV private sales. Given the expensive initial price of EVs, concerns over the provision of public infrastructure, and fears over cost of living, the anxieties of private buyers regarding the move to EVs seem unlikely to be alleviated.

This certainly seems to be the position of Mike Hawes, Chief Executive at the SMTT, who urged the government to encourage the move towards EVs by continuing to invest in nationwide charging infrastructure. As the UK approaches the 2030 petrol ban, after which the sale of new petrol and diesel cars will be banned, the need to invest in UK-wide EV charging infrastructure will become ever more pressing.

Find out how we can help you make the move to electric

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Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

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Why New Car Registrations Are Growing in the UK

Man looking at buying a new car in a dealership

Recent data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has reported the fourth consecutive month of increased new car registrations in the UK, with a rise of 23.5%. This marks the strongest growth rate for the month of November since 2019.

What’s driving this rise in new car registrations, and what might it mean for both the UK new car sales market and car buyers more broadly?

What are the figures for UK new car registrations?

Despite the global motor industry’s struggle with supply chain issues, the UK’s auto market shows growth in new car registrations. This demonstrates its general resilience as well as a tentative increase in consumer demand.

Electric vehicles (EVs) continue to drive the rise in UK new car registrations, with registrations of battery EVs rising by 35.2%. This number accounts for more than one in five new cars in the month of November. It’s also the largest monthly share of the new car market held to date by EVs, at 20.5%.

Registration of plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) accounts for more than one in four new registrations, but nonetheless fell over the same period by 5.7%. Meanwhile, hybrids rose by 66.9% to comprise 11.2% total of the market. This reflects a move by fleet operators looking for emissions reductions and greater fleet flexibility.

Petrol registrations also expanded by 15% to make up 40% of the market, a notable fact given the UK’s commitment to net zero. Registrations by large fleets also grew by 45.4% year on year, with business registrations virtually doubling (though still constituting a small market share). Demand from private buyers also demonstrated a small expansion of 2.7%.

What might this mean for the UK new car sales market?

This growth in new car registrations indicates a tentative recovery for the UK market, but car sales still remain around 9% below equivalent pre-pandemic levels, even with this growth.

The growth in market share by EVs does indicate a rising preference for non-fossil fuel vehicles. However, the market share of new car registrations held by petrol cars remains almost double that of EVs. As such, Mike Hawes – CEO of SMMT – has urged the government to further invest in EV incentive schemes and build more electric charging infrastructure ahead of consumer need. This aims to incite more consumers to adopt greener vehicles and ensure that the country will meet its net zero targets.

Further recovery of the UK’s auto industry is anticipated in 2023, with current projections suggesting a 15.4% rise in market growth. However, with the cost-of-living crisis and concurrent rise in energy prices, there are still reasons to be wary of premature conclusions regarding the market’s stability. As consumers face higher costs for charging electric vehicles, there is a risk that this may cause the market to stagnate with a drop in demand for EVs. Given that EVs are driving the current rise in new car registrations, this drop would impact the market’s overall growth.

How might this affect car buyers?

It’s difficult to make any clear conclusions as to how this growth in new car registrations might impact car buyers. Certainly, the demand for EVs and hybrid cars is only likely to increase, backed by government commitments towards net zero.

The UK government has promised an investment of £12 billion towards a net zero target by 2030, and reaffirmed their commitment towards transitioning to 100% zero emission cars and vans in the wake of COP26. The roadmap for achieving this transition includes steps such as ending the sale of new petrol and diesel engine cars, with a complete ban in 2030, and ensuring that all new cars and vans are zero emission by 2035. There’s also greater investment (specifically a commitment of £5 billion) to infrastructure, manufacturing and R&D for EVs.

However, EVs remain more expensive at initial purchase, which – in combination with the aforementioned rise to cost-of-living – may make consumers more resistant to purchasing brand new electric motors.

How to finance a new electric vehicle

For drivers looking for a way to reduce their carbon footprint and upgrade their car at the same time, opting for an EV or hybrid is an ideal choice. However, it can be a costly move, which is where car finance comes in.

If you’re looking for an affordable, accessible way to purchase an EV, you can use our car loan calculator to see the kinds of finance agreement you may be eligible for. Alternatively, email one of our team at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

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Top 10 Cosiest Winter Road Trips in the UK

Scotland castle in winter

Road trips don’t have to be saved for the summer. With a reliable car and a good set of woollies, you can still enjoy winter road trips when temperatures drop. With so many incredible national parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and countless hidden gems to discover, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to winter road trips in Britain.

Ready to hit the road? To get you inspired, we’ve rounded up the top 10 cosiest winter road trips in the UK. From cheeky weekend getaways to full-on adventures, there’s something for every mood.

1. Chase the Northern Lights in Scotland

Scotland is breathtaking at any time of year, but the country really shines in the winter. It’s one of the best places in the UK to see the Northern Lights, an atmospheric phenomenon that sees solar winds light up the night sky in a rainbow of colours. It’s truly magical and the further north you travel, the better your chances of seeing the lights.

The Dunnet Head peninsula in Caithness is a wonderful place to chase the Northern Lights. It’s an unmissable stop on the legendary North Coast 500 road trip, aka Scotland’s Route 66. The 516-mile route starts in Inverness and loops around the North Coast of Scotland, taking in some of the country’s most stunning scenery along the way.

As the northernmost point on mainland Scotland, Dunnet Head has very little light pollution and the high latitude needed to view Aurora Borealis. Pack a flask of hot chocolate, head to the lighthouse and enjoy the show. Pro tip: do like the Scots and add a splash of single malt whiskey to your drink for extra warming power! While you’re in the area, destinations like Thurso Bay and John O’Groats also promise world-class Northern Lights viewing.

2. A magical escape to North Yorkshire

If you’re looking for fun winter road trips, North Yorkshire is a crowd-pleasing destination. Well-maintained roads make it easy to explore the North Yorkshire Coast and its heather-strewn moorlands. Soak in the seaside charm in Scarborough and pencil in the picturesque fishing village of Robin Hoods Bay. From here, you’re a stone’s throw from Whitby, the Gothic town that inspired Dracula. Venture inland to tick off sights like Goathland Station, which you’ll recognise as Hogsmeade from the Harry Potter movies.

3. Fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast is famous for bucket-and-spade fun. But did you know it’s also one of the best places for winter road trips? The rugged coastline looks all the more dramatic in the winter, when the winds are howling, and the sea is whipped up with white caps. Fossil hunt in Lyme Regis with zero crowds and warm up at cosy pubs in coastal towns like Swanage and Weymouth. There’s plenty to keep you entertained on rainy days, including attractions like the Tank Museum.

4. A shopping extravaganza in Brighton

Who says winter road trips have to be wet and wild? Head to Brighton and you can browse independent boutiques in The Lanes and pick up all kinds of treasures at stores selling antiques and vintage clothing. If you’re travelling with kids, attractions like Sea Life Brighton and the House of Illusions promise hours of entertainment.

5. Castle hopping in Wales

With hundreds of strongholds dotted across the country, it’s no wonder Wales is known as The Land of Castles. From postcard-worthy landmarks like Caernarfon and Conwy to kid-friendly fortresses like Beaumaris, there are Welsh castles for every occasion.

6. Beachbound on the Pembrokeshire Coast

The Pembrokeshire Coast may be synonymous with summer. But we’ll let you in on a secret – it’s gorgeous all year round. You might not be able to sunbathe but famous towns like Tenby, Saundersfoot and St Davids feel extra special without the summer crowds. Stretch your legs on the snow-dusted Wales Coast Path and warm up with a pint at a cosy country pub.

7. Christmas market crawl

Nothing captures the magic of winter quite like Christmas markets. You’ll find these enchanting events across the UK, making it easy to plan Christmas market winter road trips. The annual Oxford Christmas market pops up along Broad Street and looks like something from a festive fairy-tale. Shop for handmade gifts, listen to jolly Christmas carols and sip piping hot mugs of mulled wine.

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is bursting with festive charm. It’s one of the largest German-themed markets outside of Germany, which means there’s no shortage of sizzling bratwurst, sugar-dusted marzipan and spiced glühwein. Of course, no matter how chilly the weather, you’ll always see stalls selling ice-cold glasses of German wheat ale.

8. A creative escape to Lake District

Lake District has been mesmerising artists, writers and poets for centuries. Windermere is a great base for winter road trips to Lake District, with loads of adorable B&Bs, tea rooms and pubs to enjoy while overlooking the waterfront.

9. Over the sea to Skye

With the right rain gear, Skye is one of the most beautiful winter road trips. It’s moody and magical in the winter, with windswept hills, charcoal-coloured clouds and mist-shrouded beaches. If you’re willing to endure the cold temperatures and relentless rainfall, Skye is one of the best winter road trips. Even better, you’ll avoid the dreaded midges that can wreak havoc in the summer months.

10. UNESCO protected Giant’s Causeway

Zip across to Northern Ireland and discover the UNESCO protected Giant’s Causeway. It’s set at the foot of soaring basalt cliffs and features around 40,000 hexagon-shaped basalt columns. Pack your camera, it’s a spectacular sight in the water when the sea rages behind the enormous volcanic towers. The lively village of Bushmills is a great base for winter road trips to Giant’s Causeway. Local pubs have mastered the art of ‘Hot Bush’ tea made brown sugar, lemon, cloves and locally distilled Bushmills Whiskey. For something more indulgent, try a Hot Creamy Bush cocktail made with coffee, Irish cream and whiskey.

There are loads of destinations and experiences to choose from, so don’t hold back when it comes to planning winter road trips. Thinking about upgrading your car? Great idea! A reliable set of wheels will not only keep you cosy and comfortable on your trip, but it will also make your adventure as safe as possible. Use our car loan approval calculator to find out how much you can borrow.

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Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

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What are the Most Iconic Celebrity Cars in the UK?

Blue Aston Martin

When it comes to iconic celebrity cars, the list is long. Many British celebrities who are based in the UK and beyond are self-confessed motorheads. In this post, we’ll take you through some of the UK’s top celeb petrolheads before diving into the best celebrity car makes and models.

Who are the top UK celebrity car collectors?

A list of the most iconic UK celebrity cars wouldn’t be complete without acknowledgement of the top UK celebrity car aficionados – and you might find yourself surprised by the names on this list.

Rowan Atkinson

From Blackadder to Mr Bean, Atkinson has been a mainstay on British screens for a while – but he’s also a real motorhead with a love of classic cars. His collection includes vehicles like an Aston Martin DB2 and V8 Vantage, a McLaren F1, and a 1939 BMW 328.

Steve Coogan

Like Atkinson, Coogan has appeared on Top Gear a number of times and is just as much of a car enthusiast. As he’s the owner of such cars as a Porsche Carrera 4, a 1961 Jaguar E-Type, and an Aston DBS V8. We’d love to get a look in at Mr. Coogan’s car collection.

Chris Evans

The presenter is probably the UK’s top celebrity car enthusiast. With a passion for rare Ferraris and a collection including a 1963 Ferrari GTO, Rolls Royce Phantom, and even the original Chitty Chitty Bang Bang car. What’s more, Evans is such a motorhead that he created CarFest, the UK’s largest family fundraising festival that brings together fast cars, performances and a number of UK celebrities.

What are some of the top UK celebrity cars?

Aston Martin DB6 Volante

King Charles III has owned his Aston Martin DB6 Volante since 1970 according to Top Gear, and, being sustainability-minded, has even converted it to run on bioethanol produced from food waste – specifically surplus white wine and whey from cheese-making.

Bentley Continental GT

David Beckham has been seen driving around in his Bentley Continental GT, which also has fans in non-UK celebrities including Cristiano Ronaldo and Serena Williams. Combining luxury and speed, it’s easy to see why Becks is such a fan of this car. That said, he’s got a pretty neat collection of other makes and models – including a Rolls-Royce Ghost, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, and Lamborghini Gallardo.

McLaren P1

Lewis Hamilton may not be permanently based in the UK, but he’s a British sporting hero and a celebrity with a keen interest in cars – unsurprisingly, given his career as an F1 driver. He purchased the P1 when he left the McLaren F1 team – only 375 were ever made, making this a rare model. Hamilton also has other cars including a Pagani Zonda 760, 1966 Shelby 427 Cobra, and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Couple Black Series.

Ferrari F12

In actuality, Gordon Ramsay has a wide collection of Ferraris, including a LaFerrari Aperta, 812 Superfast, and 355 GTS. That’s not to mention the other makes and models in his collection, which include a Porsche 918 Spyder and McLaren 675LT.

Aston Martin DBS Superleggera

Paul Hollywood, of Great British Bake-Off fame, is a big petrolhead, and the Aston Superleggera is just one of the models in his car collection, which he mostly sold off in 2019 following a split with his ex. Currently, Hollywood owns the Superleggara, a Range Rover, and a Benetton F1 car. He also owns a number of motorbikes, as Paul is a particular fan of Ducatis.

Ferrari 275 GTB

Jay Kay, front man of the band Jamiroquai, is another motorhead on this list of celebrity car fanatics and has an extensive car collection to prove it. Alongside Ferrari’s classic sport coupe, Kay owns vehicles including a Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster.

Find the car of your dreams with My Car Credit

Whilst a classic McLaren or Mercedes Benz might be out of reach, My Car Credit can help you to secure car finance that’s both affordable and suitable for your needs. Discover your car finance eligibility online, and contact our team on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk or 01246 458 810 today to kickstart your car finance journey.

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Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

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*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

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10 Best British Road Trips for Staycations

British Seaside Town

International holidays are always a treat but if you’re looking for something fun, affordable and lowkey, nothing beats a staycation. With so many beautiful destinations at your doorstep, why not keep things local with British road trips? To get you inspired, we’ve put together a collection of our favourite road trip ideas, from castle hopping in Wales to fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast.

1. Castle hopping in Wales

With no less than 427 castles dotted across the country, it’s no wonder Wales is nicknamed The Land of Castles. From iconic strongholds like Caernarfon to hidden gems like Picton, a castle hopping road trip around Wales is one of the best British road trips for history buffs. 

2. Puffin hunting in the Shetland Islands

Every summer, thousands of puffins descend on the Shetland Islands to breed. Visitors from around the world flock to see the adorable birds, along with other species like razorbills, guillemots, shags, kittiwakes and fulmars. The Sumburgh Cliffs on the South Mainland peninsula is one of the best places to view puffins. There’s also a good chance to spot sea mammals, including dolphins, seals, porpoise and, if you’re really lucky, orca. Insider tip: Drive up to the viewing platforms at Sumburgh Head Lighthouse for uninterrupted views over the coast.

3. Chase waterfalls in the Yorkshire Dales

Throw on a little TLC and set off on a waterfall chasing adventure in the Yorkshire Dales. The Ingleton Waterfall Trail takes in a series of stunning cascades, including Thornton Force which cascades 14 metres down a moss-covered limestone cliff.

4. Admire wildflowers in the Peak District

When it comes to quintessential British charm, nowhere compares to the Peak District. While it’s beautiful throughout the year, spring sees the meadows carpeted in colourful wildflowers. The walking is spectacular, with routes for every age and fitness level. And of course, there are some incredible scenic drives to discover, making it a top destination for British road trips. Snake Pass is a must, climbing almost 1700 feet above sea level. Live out your favourite Pride and Prejudice moments at Chatsworth House and stop for a cream tea in the postcard-perfect village of Edale.

5. A winter escape on the North Coast 500

Nowhere does dramatic scenery quite like Scotland. The North Coast 500 takes in some of the most stunning landscapes in the Highlands. Start in Inverness and continue on to Loch Ness, where you’ll be amazed by the ink-blue water and mist-veiled mountains. If you have time, zip across to the Isle of Skye. Stay the night in a quaint fishermen’s cottage in Ullapool and be amazed by gleaming white-sand beaches in Wester Ross. Needless to say, you’ll pass plenty of cosy pubs on this British road trips route. Be sure to warm up with haggis, neeps, tatties and a dram of single-malt whiskey.

6. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

The Wild Atlantic Way stretches for 1500 miles along the coast from Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork. It’s worth taking your time on this road trip as the scenery is stunning. Take a dip in the crystal-clear water at Port Arthur Beach and learn to surf in the laidback seaside resort of Bundoran. Spend the night in Galway and check out the thriving arts and music scene before continuing on to the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher. Your last stop will be Kinsale, a picturesque town famous for its brightly painted houses, centuries-old forts and incredible food.

7. Sticky Toffee Pudding Pilgrimage in the Lake District 

The Lake District isn’t just a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also the birthplace of Britain’s favourite dessert – sticky toffee pudding. While there is some dispute over exactly where the treat was invented, Cumbria makes a pretty legitimate claim. The dessert features on menus across the county and is best enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla custard or even better, clotted cream.

The tiny village of Cartmel is a mecca for dessert lovers, with the best establishments using organic and locally sourced ingredients. Beyond sticky toffee pudding, the Lake District offers beautiful walking routes. Ideal for burning off the calories! Autumn is an especially beautiful time to plan British road trips to the Lake District. The changing of the seasons makes the landscapes glow in reds, yellows and golds.

8. Jurassic Coast

Travelling with kids? British road trips to the Jurassic Coast are a fantastic way to spend a week of the school holidays. This 95-mile stretch of Southern England will capture your imagination with long sandy beaches, towering cliffs and rolling green countryside. And of course, fossils galore. Lyme Regis is one of the best places to hunt for fossils. You’ll also find family-friendly museums and some excellent ice cream parlours.

9. Winnie the Pooh in Sussex

Another great road trip for kids, Ashdown Forest in Sussex transports you to Hundred Acre Wood. The little ones will squeal with delight as they explore the forest that captured the imagination of beloved British author, A. A. Milne. Play Pooh sticks by the river, gaze up at the towering Scots pine trees and indulge in afternoon tea at adorable Pooh Corner in Hartfield.

10. Wine tasting in Surrey

You don’t need to cross the Channel to France to enjoy award-winning wine. Vineyard hopping around Surrey is one of the top British road trips for wine lovers. The county is dotted with boutique vineyards where you can try amazing homegrown wines. Chalky soil and lashings of sunshine make the terroir virtually identical to the famous Champagne region in France. This makes for some seriously good sparkling. You can also expect to see plenty of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay on tasting menus.

Ready to hit the road? Whether you’re shopping for your first car or want to upgrade to a newer model, we have you covered with competitive finance plans from a variety of lenders. We’ll help you get approved for car finance, so you can pack your bags and enjoy the best British road trips. Want to be sure you’ll be accepted? Try our car finance eligibility checker to find out – without any impact on your credit rating.

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£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

When Will Self Driving Cars Be Available?

Self-Driving Tesla

Everyone loves the idea of sitting in the passenger seat as their car drives them to their destination. It’s like chauffeuring, but without the need to make small talk! Of course, it also sounds a little bit far-fetched.

Cars can’t drive themselves – yet, and people drive cars – for now. But whichever way you look at it, the future of domestic transport appears to be automated, especially after the ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles. So, when will self-driving cars be available?

They have been approved (sort of)

While a fully automated, self-driving vehicle may not be accessible to UK motorists, cars that allow drivers to take their hands off the wheel for extended periods were approved in April 2021. This is thanks to a technology called Automated Lane-Keeping Systems, or ALKS for short.

When ALKS software is activated, cars will automatically stay in their lanes up to speeds of 37mph. They can also brake if drivers don’t respond to a system alert within ten seconds.

But autopilot isn’t that close

However, self-driving as most people see it could be a long way off if the industry is anything to go by. Far from investing more money into the market, several of the early leaders have sold their automated divisions. For example, Woven Planet, a Toyota subsidiary, bought Lyft’s unit. Uber has flogged its self-driving section, too, with Aurora Innovation the buyers last December.

Tesla continues to be a great bastion of Level 5 autonomy though, so there is still hope of a breakthrough in the future. Currently, only shortcuts such as ALKS are ready to hit the market.

Bridge the gap with My Car Credit

Self-driving vehicles are not yet available, but when they are, we’ll be on hand to help with the finance side of things. Until then, you can bridge the gap by searching for a great deal for your next car with our expert help.

Whether you need a car finance poor credit deal or you want to know how APR works, we have the perfect tools. Contact us today to get the ball rolling on 01246 458 810 or enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

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  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!