There’s something magical about spring in the South East of England. The hedgerows are blooming, the roads are drying out, and the countryside is bursting back into life. It’s the perfect time to head out in your Jaguar or Land Rover and rediscover some of the region’s most scenic routes.

Whether you’re behind the wheel of a dynamic Jaguar F-PACE, a go-anywhere Defender, or the fully electric Jaguar I-PACE, these spring drives combine winding lanes, coastal air, and countryside charm with plenty of opportunities to stop and soak it all in. Here are five of our favourite routes to enjoy this season – complete with model highlights to match each one.

Ashdown Forest Loop – For Woodland Wandering

• Route: Wych Cross – Forest Row – Hartfield – Nutley – Wych Cross

• Distance: Approx. 15 miles

Once the royal hunting ground of Henry VIII, Ashdown Forest offers some of the most peaceful spring roads in Sussex. Rolling hills, ancient trees, and wild ponies make this a charming loop for a Sunday drive.

In a Discovery, you’ll appreciate the elevated driving position and Terrain Response system, especially if you venture onto any unsealed roads or bridleway car parks. Prefer something smoother and sleeker? The Jaguar XF offers a cosseting ride with Adaptive Dynamics, ensuring comfort on twisty lanes.

Must-stop spot: The original Pooh Sticks Bridge near Hartfield, and afternoon tea at The Hatch Inn.

The South Downs Scenic Route – Chalk Hills and Hidden Villages

• Route: Lewes – Ditchling Beacon – Devil’s Dyke – Steyning

• Distance: Approx. 25 miles

The South Downs are picture-perfect in spring, with chalk paths winding through green hills and scattered wildflowers. Starting from the historic town of Lewes, drive west towards the panoramic views at Ditchling Beacon, and on to Devil’s Dyke and the village of Steyning. In the Jaguar F-PACE, the drive feels both powerful and precise, with features like Configurable Dynamics allowing you to tailor the car’s handling. Meanwhile, the Range Rover Evoque blends luxury with practicality – perfect for pulling into country pubs or heading off-track for a short walk.

Must-stop spot: Devil’s Dyke for sweeping views across the Weald and maybe even a springtime paraglider or two.

Kent Coast Cruise – For Sea Breezes and Open Roads

• Route: Whitstable – Herne Bay – Reculver – Margate – Broadstairs – Ramsgate

• Distance: Approx. 35 miles

If you’re craving salt air and wide horizons, this coastal run through Kent is ideal. Starting in Whitstable, follow the sea east through a chain of classic British seaside towns. The route offers long, open roads, pastel-painted houses, and historic piers.

For effortless cruising, the Jaguar I-PACE offers zero-emission driving with a whisper-quiet cabin, panoramic glass roof, and advanced navigation – ideal for locating scenic chargers along the coast. If you’re driving a Defender 90, you’ll enjoy tackling beachside tracks or exploring tucked-away walking routes along the cliffs.

Must-stop spot: Reculver Towers for a dramatic photo op, and lunch at The George & Heart in Margate.

Surrey Hills & Box Hill Circuit – For Curves and Climb

• Route: Guildford – Newlands Corner – Shere – Box Hill – Dorking

• Distance: Approx. 20 miles

A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Surrey Hills are a driver’s dream. The roads twist and turn through woodland, over hills, and past storybook villages like Shere. Finish your loop with the famous zigzag road up Box Hill.

The agile Jaguar XE comes alive on this kind of drive, hugging corners with its lightweight aluminium structure and low centre of gravity. For something more commanding, the Range Rover Sport offers confident cornering thanks to Dynamic Response, with enough room for hiking boots, a dog, and a post-drive picnic.

Must-stop spot: Box Hill’s viewing point – and maybe a National Trust coffee and cake to refuel.

Rye to Dungeness – For Big Skies and a Bit of the Surreal

• Route: Rye – Camber – Lydd – Dungeness – New Romney

• Distance: Approx. 30 miles

There’s nowhere quite like Dungeness – a stark yet beautiful headland with scattered fisherman’s huts, a lighthouse, and one of Britain’s only desert-like landscapes. This route begins in the charming medieval town of Rye and passes golden dunes at Camber before reaching the remote beauty of Dungeness. This one’s built for the Defender 110. Its rugged durability, electronic air suspension, and go-anywhere nature make it the perfect partner for a windswept day out. That said, the Jaguar E-PACE offers a more compact but equally capable drive for those who want a sportier, road-focused feel.

Must-stop spot: Explore the strange, atmospheric architecture of Dungeness, then warm up with fresh seafood at the Pilot Inn.

Spring Driving Tips:

• Use Eco Mode (available in both Jaguar and Land Rover models) for relaxed cruising and improved fuel efficiency.

• Make use of the panoramic roof – spring sunlight and scenic views turn every journey into an experience.

• Bring your camera – these routes are full of blossom-lined lanes, coastal vistas, and Instagram-ready pit stops.

Ready to Hit the Road?

There’s nothing like exploring the South East in spring, especially with the comfort, capability, and confidence of a Jaguar, Defender, Discovery or Range Rover. Whether you’re gliding through bluebell woods or exploring the coastline, these drives are the perfect excuse to turn off the sat-nav and enjoy the journey. 

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