Discover the Best Road Trips in England with Camper Vans
Unveiling the stunning beauty of England is a journey that beckons adventurers to explore its diverse landscapes, historical sites, and charming towns. The best way to embark on this adventure is by hitting the open road in a camper van, offering the freedom to curate your own itinerary and immerse yourself in the breathtaking countryside. From the rugged coastlines to the rolling hills, from quaint villages to bustling cities, England has it all. In this guide, we’ll dive into five essential road trips that showcase the essence of England, complete with key stops, route details, and ideal places to stay with a camper van.
Dorset and the Jurassic Coast: A Geological and Coastal Marvel
Route: Bournemouth ➔ Swanage ➔ Lulworth Cove ➔ Durdle Door ➔ West Bay ➔ Lyme Regis
Prepare to step back in time as you embark on a road trip along the mesmerizing Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the southwest of England. Begin your journey in Bournemouth, a lively seaside town, and set your sights on Swanage, where the Swanage Railway offers a nostalgic steam train experience. The route then winds its way through Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, two geological wonders that offer stunning coastal views and unforgettable photo opportunities. As you head to West Bay, you’ll find yourself amidst the towering cliffs featured in the hit TV series Broadchurch. Conclude your journey in Lyme Regis, a haven for fossil hunters and a charming town to explore.
Places to Stay: Park your camper van at the Woodyhyde Campsite near Corfe Castle for an authentic camping experience amidst nature. Alternatively, the Durdle Door Holiday Park provides stunning views of the coastline.
The Cotswolds: Quintessential English Countryside Charm
Route: Chipping Campden ➔ Broadway ➔ Bourton-on-the-Water ➔ Lower Slaughter ➔ Bibury
Step into a storybook as you traverse the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds, a region renowned for its honey-hued stone villages, rolling hills, and charming market towns. Begin your journey in Chipping Campden, where you’ll be greeted by historic architecture and vibrant gardens. Continue to Broadway, often referred to as the “Jewel of the Cotswolds,” before reaching Bourton-on-the-Water, known for its low bridges and serene river. As you meander through Lower Slaughter, you’ll encounter a tranquil escape, followed by the postcard-worthy village of Bibury, featuring the iconic Arlington Row cottages.
Places to Stay: The Broadway Caravan and Motorhome Club Site offer a convenient base near Broadway. The Riverside Caravan Park in Bourton-on-the-Water provides a serene riverside setting.
The Lake District: A Serene Retreat Amidst Nature’s Masterpieces
Route: Windermere ➔ Grasmere ➔ Keswick ➔ Buttermere ➔ Ullswater
Nature enthusiasts and tranquility seekers will find solace in the idyllic landscapes of the Lake District. Start your journey at Windermere, where the largest natural lake in England invites you to take a boat trip or simply enjoy the serene views. As you continue to Grasmere, you’ll be following in the footsteps of the poet William Wordsworth. Keswick offers a blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, while the tranquil beauty of Buttermere is a must-see. Conclude your road trip at Ullswater, where you can embark on a scenic lake cruise.
Places to Stay: Park your camper van at the Castlerigg Hall Caravan and Camping Park near Keswick for stunning views. The Ullswater Caravan Camping site provides direct access to the lake.
Northumberland: A Historical and Mystical Expedition
Route: Alnwick ➔ Bamburgh ➔ Holy Island of Lindisfarne ➔ Hadrian’s Wall ➔ Kielder Water
Embark on a journey through time as you explore the historical wonders of Northumberland. Begin in Alnwick, home to the stunning Alnwick Castle and its enchanting gardens. Proceed to Bamburgh, where Bamburgh Castle perches majestically atop a cliff overlooking the North Sea. The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, accessible via a causeway, offers a spiritual and tranquil experience. As you continue to Hadrian’s Wall, you’ll witness a remarkable Roman fortification. Conclude your road trip at Kielder Water, Europe’s largest man-made lake, surrounded by a sprawling forest.
Places to Stay: Set up camp at the Haggerston Castle Holiday Park near Berwick-upon-Tweed. The Herding Hill Farm Campsite near Hadrian’s Wall offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The Yorkshire Dales: Rolling Hills and Quaint Villages
Route: Skipton ➔ Malham ➔ Hawes ➔ Aysgarth ➔ Reeth
Immerse yourself in the postcard-perfect landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales, where rolling hills, limestone formations, and charming villages await. Begin in Skipton, known for its medieval castle and vibrant market. As you continue to Malham, you’ll encounter dramatic natural formations like Malham Cove and Gordale Scar. Hawes offers the opportunity to sample delicious local cheeses at the Wensleydale Creamery. Proceed to Aysgarth to witness the stunning Aysgarth Falls, and conclude your journey in Reeth, a picturesque village nestled amidst the dales.
Places to Stay: The Riverside Campsite in Malham provides a tranquil setting by the River Aire. Park your camper van at the Usha Gap Campsite near Reeth for stunning views of Swaledale.
Conclusion
Embarking on a road trip through England in a camper van offers a unique and immersive way to experience the diverse landscapes, rich history, and charming villages that this enchanting country has to offer. From the rugged coastline of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast to the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales, each road trip presents its own set of wonders and delights. So, fuel up your camper van, pack your sense of adventure, and set off on a journey of a lifetime through the captivating landscapes of England.