From Carndonagh to Craigavon, Dounby to Dumfries, there are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered right under our noses, cities, towns and villages that we may never have even considered visiting before.
One positive that we can take from the last few years is the surge in ‘staycations’. Instead of automatically booking a flight to another country when looking to get away on holiday, increasing numbers have decided to explore what was on the other side of a three hour drive instead of a three hour flight. But what about those driving electric vehicles? Is it a nightmare trying to find charging points?
The straight answer is no, it’s not. The rise in popularity of electric vehicles has meant there has been a steady increase in the amount of charging points throughout Ireland and the UK.
That being said, if you’re stuck for inspiration for where to go and explore this summer, here are a few of our favourite attractions that will ensure a great family day out, without the stress of trying to find an EV charging point.
Newcastle, Co. Down
The beautiful seaside town of Newcastle is a perfect place to explore this summer. Between the infamous Mourne Mountains and magical Tollymore Forest Park, Newcastle is perfect for those who love the outdoors. With multiple EV charging points, especially in hotel car parks, why not treat yourself to an overnight stay in the Donard, the Slieve Donard or the Avoca Hotel and recharge your batteries whilst your car recharges its battery also!
EV Chargers available
Donard Car Park (ESB Charging Station)
Downs Road (Tesla Destination Charger)
Downs Road (ESB Charging Station)
Armagh, Co. Armagh
The perfect place for a family day out, Armagh has so much to see and do for all the family. Armagh Observatory & Planetarium is ideal for astronauts young and old, and is only a few minutes’ drive away from the mythical Navan Centre & Fort, one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites. With EV charging points throughout the city centre, you really have no excuse not to visit!
EV Chargers available
The Palace Demesne, Friary Road (eCars Charge Point)
33 Linenhall Street (ESB Charging Station)
20 Cathedral Road (ESB Charging Station)
Cavan, Co.Cavan
Cavan is an underestimated gem, in our opinion. Cavan is the home of Killykeen Forest Park, a beautiful park perfect for a scenic walk or cycle. You can even get out on a boat or canoe on Lough Oughter and do a bit of fishing!
If a spa break is what you’re after, look no further than the stunning Farnham Estate Spa and Golf Resort, one of Ireland’s most popular Spa and Golf destinations with so many relaxing treatments to choose from. With an EV charging point just around the corner, you can relax to the max knowing your EV is fully charged.
EV Chargers Available
Farnham Estate, Dunbar Road (EasyGo Charging Station)
Farnham St, Abbeyland (ESB Charging Station)
14-18 Dublin Road (eCars Charge Point)
Pullamore Business Park (EasyGo Charging Station)
Dundalk, Co. Louth
Marshes Shopping Centre is a shopaholic’s heaven! From JD to Jack & Jones, Diesel to DV8, Starbucks to Subway, there is something for everyone. If you’re looking for a way to tire out the kids, there is fun for all the family to be found at Airbound Trampoline Park on Coes Road also. Open until 5pm Monday – Wednesday and 6pm Thursday – Sunday, your day out at Airbound will no doubt be one of highlights. With EV charging points close to both destinations, you can make memories this summer while your electric vehicle prepares to take you to your next destination!
EV Chargers Available
Rampart Lane (ESB Charging Station)
Irish Rail Dundalk Station (eCars Charge Point)
Stapleton Drive (ESB Charging Station)
M1 Whiterath (Tesla Supercharger)
Ayr, Scotland
Embrace all things Scotland in the picturesque town of Ayr. Take in the beautiful surroundings of Ayr Beach, one of Scotland’s best beaches. With Pirate Pete’s Family Entertainment Centre on the seafront also, children can enjoy the indoor soft play, mini golf and laser games while the adults enjoy a coffee and tray bake in the café.
Then step back in time in the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, and visit the Burns’ cottage where Robert Burns was born in 1759; a must see whether you are a die-hard Burnsian or brand new to the bard.
Ayr also has an impressive amount of EV charging points dotted across the town, making it the perfect destination for an EV road trip!
EV Chargers Available
Allison Street (Osprey Charging Station)
31 Miller Road (Chargeplace Scotland Charging Station)
46 Doonfoot Road (Chargeplace Scotland Charging Station)
Oban, Scotland
Whisky lovers listen up – Oban Distillery is a must see. One of the oldest distilleries in Scotland and one of the smallest with just two pot stills, Oban Distillery is home to the Oban 14 year old single malt whisky, among others. Why not explore some local history while you’re there and pay a visit to the very impressive McCaig’s Tower?
Again, with EV charging points spread across the town of Oban, you are free to explore without the stress of your EV charge running low.
EV Chargers Available
3 Tweedale Street (Chargeplace Scotland Charging Station)
Lochside Street (PodPoint Charging Station)
2 Railway Pier (Chargeplace Scotland Charging Station)
