Thanks to its comprehensive and well-connected motorway network, driving in the UK offers one of the simplest and most efficient ways to see the sights of this intriguing island.

What you plan to do will inform your route, but it’s worth being aware that, as in Ireland, the driver and all passengers in the front and rear must wear seatbelts. Children under the age of 11 must be in an age-appropriate car seat, and it’s illegal to use a mobile phone while driving.

For those planning to stay south, the M25 encircling London gives access to the surrounding countryside and routes to other cities and the coast. If you’re planning to venture further afield, the M1 connects the capital to the north-east of England. Alternatively, travel on the A1 to reach Scotland’s enchanting capital, Edinburgh.

The M4 unlocks the east, connecting London to Bristol and Bath as well as giving access to the beaches of Cornwall to the south, and Wales to the north. The M6 connects Birmingham in the Midlands to a number of major cities such as Manchester and Liverpool in the North West and beyond to the rolling hillsides of the Lake District.

In Scotland, the M8 links Glasgow in the west to Edinburgh in the east, and a number of other key destinations along the way. To experience the Scottish Highlands you can head to Inverness on the A9 from Perth. Driving the rugged west coast is a glorious experience, encountering stunning mountains and lochs along the way.

In Northern Ireland, the M2 and A6 form the quickest route between Belfast and Londonderry on the north coast. Those travelling from Dublin can drive via the M1 and A1 to reach Belfast in under two hours. To experience the wild beauty of Ballintoy, carry on past the capital along the M2, A26 and A44, all the way to the stunning Causeway Coast.

Roads in the UK are well-signed with directional information and motorway updates. Look out for fee-paying toll roads and if you’re driving into the centre of London, bear in mind the Congestion Charge and Low Emission Zone schemes.

Speed limits vary here depending on the type of road you’re driving on. On motorways and dual carriageways, the limit is 112 km/h and 48 km/h in built-up areas.

The UK is known for many things, including its idyllic countryside, cosmopolitan cities and eclectic cuisine. But there’s so much more to see, do and experience in this collection of four unique countries. Buckle up for the adventure of a lifetime when you rent a car in the UK and explore its treasure trove of attractions.

Soak up a rich and diverse culture

Venture through York’s 13^th century city walls to experience its medieval heart. This beautiful English destination boasts a unique charm, with narrow cobbled streets, crooked houses and an epic Gothic cathedral.

York Minster’s history dates all the way back to 1220 – wander through the soaring nave and if you dare, brave the 275 steps of its tower to experience incredible views of the city.

Leave Yorkshire behind and head north up the A1 towards Northumberland where you’ll find more castles than in any other English county. From magnificent Bamburgh Castle, towering 150ft above the sea, to Chillingham Castle, thought to be one of the most haunted in England, you can easily fill a day or two touring the ancient sites of this dramatic coastline.

Keep driving north to reach the Scottish border and beyond – whichever direction you choose you’ll be rewarded with beautiful scenery and if you’re lucky, a glimpse of wildlife roaming freely in the great outdoors.

Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit, looming above the Scottish capital in all its glory. While you’re in the city, stop off at Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano offering beautiful views of Edinburgh.

Indulge in unique cuisine

Building on its strong heritage, the UK today boasts a melting pot of cultures. This is reflected everywhere you go, from the shops and grocery stores to the bars and restaurants you visit.

Most of its major cities are awash with restaurants representing this cultural blend. Take your taste buds on a gastronomic adventure through London. From exotic street food stalls in Camden town to Michelin-starred European restaurants in Mayfair, there’s no shortage of cuisines to try in the capital.

Northern powerhouse Manchester is no different, with a new wave of contemporary eateries dishing up delicacies from all around the world.

For a traditional taste of the UK, enjoy award-winning fish and chips in Whitby, sample fiery haggis in a cosy Glasgow bistro, or maybe heat up with a steaming bowl of stew in Ulster.

Explore the capital cities

London, Belfast, Cardiff and Edinburgh are the UK’s dynamic capital cities. While they all boast thriving urban cultures, each has its own distinct flavour that makes them as unique as they are similar.

Car hire in these cities gives you the freedom to explore both the central areas and the districts that surround them. Museums, markets, restaurants, theatres – whatever your passion, these cities cater for it.

The four corners of the United Kingdom are packed with experiences and adventures just waiting to be discovered. Car hire in the UK gives you the freedom to explore more.