Unlocking Britain’s Best Driving Roads: A Rally Legend’s Lake District Tour in Iconic Performance Cars
As a seasoned automotive industry professional with a decade of experience navigating the ever-evolving landscape of performance vehicles and driving experiences, I’ve come to appreciate the profound connection between exceptional machinery and breathtaking landscapes. The allure of a perfectly carved road, coupled with a vehicle engineered to master it, is an intoxicating blend. Recently, the opportunity arose to delve into this very essence, embarking on an unforgettable journey through the heart of England’s stunning Lake District, guided by the intimate knowledge of a true motorsport icon. This wasn’t just a drive; it was a curated exploration of the UK’s best roads, brought to life by a remarkable trio of performance cars and the wisdom of a rally legend.
The Lake District, renowned for its dramatic fells, shimmering waters, and, yes, its notoriously capricious weather, offers a unique canvas for automotive prowess. Our expedition coincided with a typically autumnal deluge, a fitting backdrop that only heightened the anticipation. Fortunately, we were exceptionally well-equipped for the conditions. Leading the charge was none other than Malcolm Wilson OBE, a name synonymous with rallying success, now a prominent figure in global motorsport governance. His presence elevated this excursion from a simple road test to an insightful masterclass in appreciating driving dynamics on challenging terrain.
At our disposal, assembled with meticulous care by the esteemed team at M-Sport’s Dovenby Hall headquarters in Cumbria, were three distinct yet equally captivating machines. First, the formidable Aston Martin DBX S, a 717-horsepower behemoth designed to blend opulent luxury with exhilarating performance. Piloting this grand tourer through the winding Lakeland lanes presented a fascinating proposition. Alongside it sat the spirited Toyota GR Yaris, a compact yet potent rally-bred hatchback boasting 276 horsepower, a vehicle that has captured the imagination of enthusiasts worldwide for its uncompromised driving focus. Completing the ensemble was a genuine piece of automotive history: a 1989 Audi Quattro 20v, its 217 horsepower a testament to a bygone era of rally-inspired performance, a car that, despite its age, held a special place in the heart of our guide. The prospect of witnessing these performance cars on UK roads was, to say the least, exciting.
The initial moments underscored Malcolm Wilson’s deep connection to the region and his enduring passion for classic performance. While the Aston Martin and the GR Yaris undoubtedly held their own allure, it was the venerable Audi Quattro 20v that immediately commanded Wilson’s attention. He made a beeline for its driver’s seat, a clear indication of his preference, and with a knowing smile, claimed it for the duration of our exploration. His son, Matthew Wilson, a highly accomplished rally driver in his own right and a key figure within the M-Sport Dakar team, and I exchanged amused glances, ready to take on the remaining steeds. The objective was clear: to uncover the best driving roads in the Lake District, as identified by those who know them intimately.
Our journey commenced on the outskirts of Cockermouth, a charming market town that served as our initial waypoint. Malcolm, with the windows of the Quattro rolled down, navigated through the town center with a practiced ease, his greetings to locals met with warm recognition and appreciative smiles. It was evident that despite his global standing, Wilson remained a beloved figure in his home county, a testament to his enduring legacy and community involvement.
As we ventured south, the landscape began to unfurl its majestic beauty. The road, mirroring the undulations of the terrain, snaked alongside the imposing flank of Grasmoor and the serene waters of Crummock Water. The autumnal foliage, a vibrant tapestry of yellows and greens, lined the roadside, creating a picturesque, albeit sometimes challenging, environment for our vehicles. In the Aston Martin DBX S, I found myself acutely aware of the car’s considerable size and power, managing its considerable reserves with a mindful approach, particularly when encountering oncoming traffic. Up ahead, Malcolm and Matthew, in their respective machines, seemed to be reveling in the freedom of the open road, their pursuit of driving pleasure setting a spirited tone for the day. The rich, resonant V8 soundtrack of the Aston, however, offered its own unique auditory delight.
The ascent towards Honister Pass was a highlight, revealing a landscape that felt almost prehistoric. Rain streamed down the steep gradients, enhancing the dramatic, Tolkien-esque atmosphere. Enormous boulders, seemingly dislodged by nature’s hand, littered the valley, while at the summit, the entrance to an old slate mine, now the Sky Hi Cafe, stood as a testament to the region’s industrial past. As Matthew explained, visiting during peak tourist season would render this narrow, serpentine road a far more challenging, and less enjoyable, proposition. He recalled his father’s childhood anecdote of collecting slate for their family home, a tale that underscored the adventurous spirit embedded within the very fabric of the Lake District. This was a prime example of understanding the nuances of driving in the Lake District.
Reluctantly, Malcolm relinquished the driver’s seat of the Quattro, sharing his fond memories of his Audi Sport days and the evolution of the iconic model. He spoke of the significant improvements in the 20-valve iteration, particularly the reduction in turbo lag and the more accessible power delivery compared to its predecessors. This historical perspective added an invaluable layer of appreciation to the driving experience.
The baton was then passed. Malcolm took the helm of the Aston Martin DBX S, Matthew assumed control of the Audi Quattro, and I, with renewed anticipation, slid into the driver’s seat of the Toyota GR Yaris. Descending the eastern side of Honister Pass towards Seatoller, the road gradually widened, its gradients and radii becoming more forgiving, allowing for a more spirited pace. We continued north, tracing the course of the River Derwent, with the majestic peaks of Scafell Pike offering breathtaking views.
Our route then shifted, leading us through the charming town of Keswick and onwards towards the more open moorland landscapes surrounding Bassenthwaite and Dodd Wood. As we turned north-east towards Uldale and Caldbeck, the character of the roads transformed. The dense tourist traffic receded, replaced by longer, straighter stretches with excellent visibility, punctuated by fast, cambered corners and invigorating gradients. It was here that Malcolm’s intimate knowledge of these WRC-inspired roads truly shone. His pace quickened, a clear indication of his comfort and familiarity with this terrain, a route he strategically employs to bypass the congested A66 en route to the M6. This segment offered a compelling demonstration of how understanding the local geography can unlock truly exceptional driving experiences, making it a standout among roads for driving enthusiasts.
After a series of exhilarating miles, we convened at a spacious gravel car park to swap vehicles once more, allowing for a direct comparison of impressions. Malcolm, ever the astute observer, lauded the Aston Martin DBX S for its remarkable composure and user-friendliness, especially considering its size, weight, and prodigious power. He also expressed his admiration for the Toyota GR Yaris, acknowledging its inherent fun factor, though he harbored reservations about the car’s overwhelming digital information display. “Who needs all that?” he mused, preferring a more analog connection to the driving experience.
However, it was the Audi Quattro 20v that elicited the most profound reactions from both Malcolm and Matthew. They were consistently impressed by how relevant its performance characteristics remained, even decades after its production. They marveled at its burgeoning grip, precise steering, compliant ride, and engaging handling, all of which came alive with just the right application of speed. Its raw, visceral feel, a stark contrast to the refined sophistication of modern machinery, resonated deeply. The enduring appeal of the Audi Quattro driving experience on these classic British roads was undeniable.
Our sojourn concluded with a short drive back to M-Sport, leaving Malcolm and Matthew to resume their demanding schedules, their afternoons enriched by an impromptu yet deeply satisfying role as unpaid petrolhead tour guides. The experience offered a profound insight into the symbiotic relationship between iconic vehicles, legendary drivers, and the unparalleled beauty of the Lake District’s driving routes. It reaffirmed my belief that the pursuit of the best driving roads in the UK is not merely about covering distance, but about experiencing the sheer joy of machine and landscape harmonizing. For those seeking to explore these very roads or find the perfect vehicle to tackle them, considering a consultation with specialists in performance car hire Lake District or exploring new car deals Cumbria could be the perfect starting point.
If you’ve been inspired by this journey and are eager to discover your own unforgettable driving adventures on the best roads the UK has to offer, we invite you to explore our curated guides and connect with experts who can help you find the perfect vehicle for your next exploration.
