Top 5 UK road-trip destinations to Explore in a campervan

A worldwide vote by Rough Guides ranked Scotland the most beautiful country in the world, with England and Wales also ranking high on the list. The UK has some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world and what better way to explore them than in a campervan? 

In this post, we’ll cover some of the top destinations that are a must-see on your next UK road trip. 

The Lake District

There are few places more spectacular than the Lake District in North West England. There is so much to do from hiking, cycling, climbing to sailing. 

The best part is there are so many places to park your van, allowing you to explore the entire district in one epic road trip. Being out in the van will let you experience so much more of the beauty than you would in a hotel or tent. Nothing beats sitting in the back of the van watching the sunset over the lakes. 

While Windermere is the biggest of the lakes, Ullswater is the most beautiful. On its waters, there are plenty of watersports along with horse riding, fishing and biking as well as walking and rambling. 

2. The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds covers a huge area of South East England filled with quaint villages and rolling landscapes. It’s the perfect place to drive around on an adventure. 

Don’t be fooled by the winding villages that look like something out of Harry Potter, most have ample parking, many are free of charge or have very reasonable daily rates for your campervan. 

3. The Peak District

Britain’s first national park covers a huge 500 square miles and is a paradise for those who love being outdoors and exploring nature. It has tons of campsites to park your campervan with all the amenities you could ask for. 

It’s divided into two parts – the north is more windswept compared to the south, but both have popular walking trails.

If you’re into watersports, the peak district needs to be on your bucket list. There is a reservoir at Carsington Water that offers fly fishing, sailing, canoeing, and windsurfing. So don’t forget to pack your wetsuit! 

4. The Brecon Beacons National Park

In the heart of Wales, you’ll find the Brecon Beacons with its high grassy ridges and famous walking trails. But the truly unique feature the Beacons offer campers is caving at its southern borders. There are also amazing stargazing tours that you won’t want to miss.

Throughout your road trip across the beacons, you’ll find towns, villages and camping spots to stop and recharge on this adventure of a lifetime. 

5. Northern Lights, Scotland

When you think of the northern lights, you probably picture a snowy tour of Iceland or the North Pole, both of which can be out of reach of a vanlife budget. But tucked away on the northern coast of Scotland is a rare opportunity to see this natural phenomenon without leaving the UK. 

The best viewpoints are on the Caithness coastline, the Orkney Islands, Shetland Islands or the Outer Hebrides Islands.

Early in the year with the darkest nights is the best time to go. But remember your space heater for those cold nights of stargazing.

Planning a UK road trip in your campervan?

Let us know in the comments below and let’s create a full campervan travel guide!