Best Drives

Tan Hill, England: home of the UK's highest pub

Why go

Locals expect at least 15 days of snow each winter at this isolated spot high in the Pennines. It often covers the heather moorland above the deep valleys of the Dales National Park.

What to do

In the snow, this spectacular landscape creates wonderfully wild country for bracing hill walks (or snug drives in your car).

Even better, warm up next to the fire in the 400-year-old Tan Hill Inn, Britain’s highest pub. It stands alone at 1,732ft (528m) on top of Swaledale, where it needs its own electricity generator.

Inside, warm yourself amid exposed beams and flagstone floors with hearty homemade food. The Inn often becomes Britain’s highest live music venue too. Not-too-shabby acts playing here have included the Arctic Monkeys, Mark Ronson and The Levellers.

Where to stay and eat

Tuck into warming pies or lasagnes at the Tan Hill Inn (01833 628 246), then choose between smart en-suite rooms, a simple bunkroom… or even outside camping.

How to get there

Find Tan Hill in the big empty bit of Yorkshire on the map between the M6 and A1M. It’s a two-hour drive from Manchester. Beware that the nearest town, Kirkby Stephen, is an 11-mile drive. Take the winding moorland road between Langthwaite and Barras. You can’t miss the pub: there are no other buildings for miles.

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Images: Alamy, Getty

The route