There are 262,000 miles of road in the UK – all just waiting to be explored by campervan. From mountainous peaks and rolling hills to lakes and lochs that go on for miles, the Great British countryside is a haven for new and experienced campervanners alike.
Campervan touring is becoming an increasingly popular way to spend a holiday and with more and more people opting for a staycation, it’s no surprise that there were 57 million bed nights spent in caravans, tents and motorhomes in 2017. A firm favourite of travel bloggers and editors, campervanning should definitely be on your travel bucket list.
Here’s our round-up of some of the best areas in the UK to visit in your tourer:
- North Coast 500
The ultimate road trip around Scotland’s simply stunning highland scenery, the North Coast 500 is fast becoming an absolute must-visit.
Covering 516 miles the routes takes you through outstanding coastal scenery and a wilderness packed with adventure and awe-inspiring nature. From mountains, moorlands and hidden hill lochs to Highland glens and deserted Caribbean style beaches right on your doorstep, this is a route that will never disappoint.
Travelling by campervan is a great way to discover this area of Scotland. With the freedom to go at your own pace and create your own itinerary, it’s relaxing and invigorating all in one go.
- Devon
Devon boasts two coastlines, two national parks, five areas of outstanding natural beauty, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO Geopark, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site…. I mean what’s not to love?
Its typically warmer climate makes it an ideal choice for the spring and summer months and with two cities, Plymouth and Exeter, you can combine urban exploring with pure uninhabited countryside. Probably best known for its beaches, you are never far from the coast - in fact Jacob’s Ladder beach in Sidmouth is a contender for one of the best beaches in the UK.
And if you are a Devon fan then you are in good company. Hollywood film director, Steven Spielberg, said: “I have never before been gifted with such an abundance of natural beauty.”
- Lake District
The Lake District is one of the UK’s top camping locations and also offers a multitude of different routes to explore in a campervan.
A location fit for former US presidents, business titans and Brad Pitt, the Lake District offers the perfect means of escapism from everyday life, one mile at a time. Spectacular driving routes include Windemere to Ullswater which tackles the highest mountain pass in the area or Whitehaven and Silloth which takes in some beautiful sandy beaches. With such untouched beauty, it is little wonder why the Lake District has been used as a location for many TV dramas including the recent ‘The Loch’ on ITV.
- Snowdonia
One of Wales’ three national parks, Snowdonia is a spectacular setting at any time of year and touring its mountainous scenery in a campervan is the perfect way to explore. Ideal for thrill seeking families, the UK’s biggest dedicated mountain bike trail centre, Bounce Below, is an underground playground in a former Victorian slate mine. You can also challenge yourself at the Bear Grylls Survival Academy, a must-go for adventurer families.
- Cheddar Gorge
Heading back down south, Cheddar Gorge in Somerset is a must visit location for campervanners. This limestone gorge in the Mendip Hills was named the second greatest natural wonder in Britain and is cared for by the National Trust. Driving through it by campervan is an absolute must-do and is the ideal way to kick off your tour of the area.
Somerset is a country of surprises. Wildflower meadows, beach waterfalls, underground reservoirs and of course delicious cheddar cheese, are just a few of the many things waiting to be discovered. And not forgetting the legendary Glastonbury which is made for campervan luxury!
If you are thinking of taking a caravan trip next year or are interested in learning more about motorhome holidays, then visit the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show at the SEC on the 6-9 February 2020. Tickets available here now.