Here in the UK, we’re lucky to have all manner of excellent motoring-inspired spots to visit by car. Whether you’re looking for a day-trip or something a little more substantial, there are all manner of places to aim for.
But where should you be heading for this summer if you’re looking for a car-based adventure? The good news is that we’ve got a great selection of tip-top places to check out.
Caffeine and Machine has quickly become one of to go-to motoring spots within the UK. While its first location is near Stratford-upon-Avon, it has quickly expanded and developed two more sites. The first, called ‘The Bowl’, is near Bedford, while its latest spot ‘The Hut’ is close to Petersfield on the south coast. It should mean that there’s one near to you.
At Caffeine and Machine, you’ll find all manner of motoring-themed merchandise, as well as food, coffee and other drinks.
Hot on the heels of Caffeine and Machine comes Baffle Haus, a motoring-focused coffee and food outfit with two locations in Wales. You’ll find ‘The Cedars’ not far from Abergavenny in south Wales, while ‘The Old Post’ is further west towards Barry.
The first has quickly cemented itself as a biker hotspot, while the second is ideal for drivers as it’s got a large car park. However, at each one, you’ll find high-quality food and drink, as well as a really cool aesthetic.
Goodwood is home to some of the UK’s top motoring events – including Revival and Festival of Speed – but even when these aren’t on, it’s still a great place to visit. For motorsport fans it’s worth heading straight for the history circuit as it’s easy to access – you can drive straight in and check out what’s happening on track.
Plus, at the Aerodrome Cafe, you’ll find a selection of drinks and meals to try while you watch planes – including Spitfires – take off and land at the nearby airfield.
Heading in a more northerly direction? Then check out the Motorist in Sherburn-in-Elmet, West Yorkshire. Like others here, it’s got a distinct motoring theme, with a large car park which is often packed with local car groups and other eye-catching metal.
The buildings surrounding The Motorist are also home to a number of car and motoring-related businesses, so it’s worth having a stroll around to see what’s on.
Along the popular A30 near Lifton on the way down to Devon and Cornwall lies Strawberry Fields, one of the top farm shops in the country. Here, you’ll find all types of local produce as well as a cafe and outside seating.
At certain times, you’ll find pick-your-own produce available and, if you’re not quite done with the Strawberry Fields experience, then you’ll find a second site near Buckfastleigh.
The British Motor Museum at Gaydon is well worth a visit if you’re a fan of all things four wheels. Here, you’ll find a staggering number of both classic and modern cars on display, with many unseen concepts there to check out in detail.
During summertime weekends, you’ll find all manner of events and interactive groups taking place at the museum, too.
If you’d like a more in-depth look at one of the UK’s most famous manufacturers, then head to Malvern, where you’ll find the ever-popular Morgan factory tour. Here, you’ll be able to get a closer look at how these cars are built and check out the blend of modern and historic processes used to create cars like the Plus Four and Supersport.
The Morgan factory tour does get booked up, mind you, so make sure to reserve a spot before you head there. However, even if you can’t take a tour, the recently refurbished cafe is well worth a visit.
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