The UK’s Best Driving Roads: A Rally Legend’s Perspective on Lake District Adventures in Performance Cars
For a decade, I’ve been immersed in the dynamic world of automotive performance, testing the limits of engineering and the thrill of the open road. This year, a unique opportunity brought together a legendary figure in motorsport, a curated selection of exceptional performance vehicles, and the breathtaking landscapes of the United Kingdom’s Lake District. It wasn’t just a drive; it was an expedition into the heart of what makes driving truly exhilarating, a journey that underscored the enduring appeal of well-engineered machinery on spectacular terrain.
The Lake District, a region synonymous with dramatic vistas and, admittedly, frequent rainfall, presents a unique canvas for automotive exploration. While the weather today is characteristically damp, we are more than equipped. Our convoy consists of three formidable performance cars, each boasting all-wheel-drive capabilities and the pedigree to match the occasion. Accompanying them are three drivers, two of whom possess resumes that read like a motorsport hall of fame.
Gathered outside the impressive M-Sport showroom at Dovenby Hall in Cumbria, a compelling trio awaits: a brand-new Aston Martin DBX S, a potent 717bhp behemoth; a sprightly, nearly new Toyota GR Yaris, packing a spirited 276bhp; and a classic, yet undeniably capable, 1989 Audi Quattro 20v, delivering a respectable 217bhp. This is precisely the kind of automotive gathering that could tempt a British rally champion, now a renowned rally test driver, rally team manager, rally team principal, and a significant figure in UK motorsport business, to embark on a special excursion. As of last June, his esteemed position as FIA Deputy President for Sport further solidifies his influence. Even on a Tuesday, the allure is palpable.
Malcolm Wilson OBE is a man whose schedule is perpetually demanding, and he doesn’t “turn out” for just anything. However, after engaging in conversations with him during our recent Britain’s Best Driver’s Car shootout, held both here in the Lake District and at M-Sport’s headquarters, I had a strong intuition that the Aston Martin might capture his attention. He’s a known admirer, having previously owned a DBX 707 and expressing his fondness for it. Furthermore, the road-going iteration of the spirited little Toyota, a vehicle his team has been fiercely competing against in the World Rally Championship for years, was also likely to pique his interest.
The inclusion of the Audi Quattro was, admittedly, a slightly more spontaneous decision. In fact, we’d already needed to give it a jump-start earlier this morning, a reminder of where its 12V battery resides (a small test for the truly initiated). Yet, Malcolm gravitated towards the Quattro almost immediately, bypassing the other two vehicles with an unspoken preference. It became clear he wasn’t inclined to switch drivers.
His son, Matthew Wilson – a world-class rally driver with multiple top-five WRC finishes to his name, and currently the team boss for the M-Sport Dakar team – and I exchanged a knowing glance and a shared chuckle. We then divided the remaining two machines between us. And so, our mission commenced: to discover the preferred routes and most cherished driving roads in the Lake District, as chosen by two of the region’s most passionate automotive enthusiasts.
While Autocar’s visits to this particular area are infrequent, recent road tests have reignited our fascination with its unique character. It’s precisely the kind of locale where in-depth local knowledge becomes invaluable, particularly when navigating the intricacies of avoiding crowds, cyclists, walkers, and the general flow of tourist traffic. The allure of experiencing these roads in a performance car and uncovering best driving roads UK secrets is immense.
The Journey Begins: A Quattro’s Command and the Aston’s Grandeur
Settling into the Aston Martin DBX S at the rear of our three-car procession offered the ideal vantage point to absorb the unfolding scenery and dynamics. The Audi Quattro had been idling for some time, diligently replenishing its battery. Malcolm, however, wasted no time in setting off. By the time we exited the M-Sport driveway, the distinctive rear of the Quattro had already diminished in the distance.
The iconic Audi Quattro, with its characteristic warble and composed demeanor, seemed to almost vanish from sight. Matthew, comfortable setting a keen pace in pursuit, immediately established the energetic tone for our exploration. This initial sprint set the stage for what promised to be an engaging exploration of performance driving in Cumbria and the wider Lake District driving routes.
Within moments, we found ourselves navigating the charming streets of Cockermouth. This wasn’t by chance. Malcolm rolled down the Quattro’s electric windows, offering warm greetings and waves to locals who responded with smiles, their faces lighting up further at the sight of his classic machine. He remains a beloved local figure, a testament to his deep connection with the community, irrespective of any potential objections from M-Sport’s neighbors regarding the motorsport circuit.
Our official route soon began to unfold. We headed south of town, passing through the hamlet of Brackenthwaite, and then journeyed alongside the imposing flank of Grasmoor and the serene shores of Crummock Water. The road here began to weave and undulate, a perfect prelude to more demanding sections. After a brief pause for some dynamic drive-by photography, we continued towards the picturesque village of Buttermere, skirting the lake and passing through Gatesgarth.
Despite being mid-November, the fallen leaves, piled high along the roadside, retained their vibrant yellows and greens. Within the hushed confines of the Aston Martin DBX S, I found myself subconsciously holding my breath at the approach of oncoming traffic, carefully modulating the car’s considerable power. It was evident that the Wilsons, father and son, were thoroughly enjoying themselves out front. At least, the resonant V8 soundtrack provided a compensating sensory experience. This initial leg highlighted the appeal of driving holidays UK and the sheer pleasure of piloting an all-wheel-drive sports car.
Conquering the Honister Pass: A Test of Nerve and Machine
Our destination was the Honister Pass, a truly awe-inspiring sight, even on this rain-soaked morning. Water streamed down the steepest sections of the road, and the landscape evoked imagery that J.R.R. Tolkien might have conjured. Enormous boulders littered the valley floor, as if placed by giants, and at the summit, the entrance to an old slate mine, now the Sky Hi Café, stood marked by weathered stone plinths.
“If this were tourist season, we wouldn’t be here,” Matthew explained as he procured our coffees. The pass becomes exceptionally busy with cyclists and mountain bikers – Matthew himself is often among them – and the road is notoriously narrow and serpentine. Nevertheless, it is undoubtedly worth the visit, provided one times their arrival judiciously.
During our brief respite, Malcolm shared a vivid memory from his childhood: collecting slate for the fireplace at his family home in Workington at the tender age of seven. He recounted, “They told my dad to keep the sliding doors of the van wedged open as we drove down, so we could dive out if the brakes failed!” This anecdote underscored the inherent risks and the respect these roads demand.
With a touch of reluctance, we persuaded Malcolm to relinquish the driver’s seat of the Quattro. “I owned two Quattro road cars when I was driving for Audi Sport in the 80s,” he reminisced, “but they weren’t 20-valve models like this. They had significantly more turbo lag; the power delivery was very much on or off, and you really had to wait for it. This one is so much better.” His assessment highlighted the evolution of performance engineering and the enduring appeal of classic Audi performance cars.
Shifting Perspectives: The Yaris’s Agility and the DBX’s Refinement
With Malcolm now at the helm of the DBX S for our descent down the eastern side of Honister towards Seatoller, the road widened, and its gradients and radii became more forgiving, allowing for swifter progress. We then continued through Borrowdale, heading north along the River Derwent. The panoramic views from the windscreen remained consistently epic, with the majestic peak of Scafell Pike visible from the driver’s side window. This segment emphasized the scenic beauty that makes driving scenic routes UK so rewarding.
However, the scenery soon transformed. The charming town of Keswick passed by, followed by a drive north past Bassenthwaite and Dodd Wood. At the northernmost tip of the lake, we turned northeast, charting a course towards Uldale and Caldbeck.
The character of the landscape shifted dramatically, resembling open moorland rather than mountainous terrain. The tourist traffic dissipated, and the road straightened for longer stretches, offering excellent visibility over crests. The absence of other vehicles was striking. It was evident that this was one of Malcolm’s favored test roads, judging by the acceleration of his pace, a clear indication of his familiarity with every nuance. It felt as though he had orchestrated the absence of potential impediments, such as farm trailers and slow-moving MPVs, that might typically be encountered around the next bend. The route presented fast, cambered corners and abundant gradients, ensuring a stimulating driving experience. Malcolm later admitted that this is precisely the route he utilizes to access the M6 to the east, bypassing the heavily congested A66. This segment was a prime example of performance driving enthusiasts seeking out challenging and rewarding UK road trips.
After a few exhilarating miles, we pulled into a spacious gravel roadside car park to swap vehicles once more. A few minutes later, we repeated the process to exchange impressions and insights. Malcolm expressed profound admiration for the Aston Martin, particularly its remarkable ability to render such a large, heavy, and fast vehicle remarkably benign and easy to control. He also held the Toyota GR Yaris in high regard, acknowledging its sheer driving fun. However, he voiced a slight reservation regarding the excessive amount of information and electronic “noise” that the Yaris bombards its driver with. “Who needs to know all that?” he questioned, reflecting a preference for a more focused driving experience. This discussion touched upon modern sports car technology versus a more visceral connection to the drive.
The Quattro’s Enduring Legacy and the Future of Driving
Both Malcolm and Matthew, however, were even more enthusiastic when discussing the Audi Quattro. They expressed disbelief at how perfectly its performance level felt suited to public roads, even decades after its production. They marveled at its sweet grip, precise steering, compliant ride, and balanced handling when a sufficient amount of speed was applied. Compared to modern vehicles, it exuded a palpable sense of aliveness. This sentiment resonated deeply, underscoring the timeless appeal of classic performance cars and the engineering principles that contribute to a truly engaging driving experience. The conversation naturally drifted towards the future of electric performance vehicles and their potential to replicate this tactile connection.
From our vantage point, it was a short drive back to M-Sport for both Malcolm and Matthew, their afternoons now punctuated by a few hours spent as impromptu petrolhead tour guides. I sensed, however, that neither of them minded the distraction. Their passion for automotive excellence and driving experiences was evident throughout the day.
This excursion wasn’t merely about showcasing powerful machinery on picturesque roads; it was a profound reminder of the intrinsic joy that arises when skilled drivers connect with exceptional vehicles on routes that demand and reward precision, nerve, and an appreciation for the sheer artistry of driving.
If you are inspired by the pursuit of the UK’s most exhilarating driving roads and wish to experience the thrill of performance driving firsthand, explore our curated selection of performance car rentals in the UK or discover bespoke driving tours designed for enthusiasts. Your next unforgettable driving adventure awaits.
