TOURISM chiefs say they are not surprised to learn that the Humber Bridge crossing has been ranked the sixth most scenic drive in the UK.

The fifth-largest single-span suspension bridge is used by thousands of motorists on a daily basis for both work and leisure.

And while it costs £2.70 each way for cars to travel across the Humber Bridge, a national newspaper says the toll is 'worth it' to experience the views.

The Daily Telegraph has put the landmark in sixth place in a Top 10 of the most scenic driving routes in the UK.

Reacting to the news, Councillor Christine O'Sullivan, cabinet member for sport, leisure and culture, said: "We have some wonderful scenery in North Lincolnshire and I'm proud to live here.

"Surrounded by beautiful countryside, I'm not surprised the Humber Bridge has been voted the sixth most scenic drive in the country.

"Driving along the bridge, you can see for miles and witness breathtaking views on both sides of the Humber.

"And when people arrive in North Lincolnshire, they are in for a real treat as there's lots to see and do for the whole family.

"It's not only a great place to visit, but to live and work."

One North Lincolnshire resident used to driving around the region's roads is Barton Bike Night organiser Barrie Newton.

Mr Newton, who owns Newton Printing Services in Barton, said he agreed with the judges' views about the bridge route.

"It's great to be given that response from them because we've got some great views in North Lincolnshire," he said. "There's some brilliant sunsets across the Humber – when the sun is setting right there's no better view in the world.

"There is a chap who does photographs of sunsets over the Humber and they're quite amazing."

Mr Newton said he did a lot of driving and recalled other scenic routes across the region. "There are some nice rides up and through Burnham leaving Barton and towards Deepdale and across the Wolds," he said.

"Also down from Barnetby Top to Melton Ross there is a great scenic road along the top with some wide grass verges.

"You can see Hull and the four ferries at Killingholme through the good elevations there. The drive from Barton toward Croxton, Kirmington then across and down the side of the Humberside Airport is a nice run up to Caistor top. There is a hell of a road on that top – you can see for miles around.

"Burton-Upon-Stather towards Walcott and Alkborough over the hill tops there are some great views where the River Trent meets the Ouse.

"There are some lovely views over South Ferriby and Horkstow tops and there is a great ride along the Ancholme valley and Elsham top."

Mr Newton said he hoped the ranking would do lots to boost tourism in North Lincolnshire.

He added: "I do hope the ranking attracts more visitors to the region and that they appreciate how picturesque it is.

"I'm all for tourism – lots of people are impressed with the areas around the town and they say we are a friendly lot as well."

Beautiful B roads?

Do you have a favourite driving route in North Lincolnshire? Write to Viewpoint, Scunthorpe Telegraph, 4-5 Park Square, Laneham Street, Scunthorpe, DN15 6JH or email viewpoint@scunthorpetelegraph.co.uk