Holidaying in 2024 and beyond is going to take planning and consideration when it comes to scenic campervan trips UK. While it’s easy to stick on the Sat Nav and take the most direct route to your Air BnB, it often means you lose out on some of nature’s real hidden treasures. Check out our list of the best campervan trips in the UK below and before you head off on your exciting adventure, don’t forget to check out our 6 top camping apps to download before you leave.
1. The North Coast 500 (Scotland)
The North Coast 500 is often described as Scotland’s ultimate road trip and is one of the best campervan trips UK. It offers a 500-mile journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. Starting and ending in Inverness, the route winds its way around the northern coast of Scotland, offering you a chance to experience the wild beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Highlands.
The NC500 takes in a variety of scenery, from the beaches of Caithness to the tranquil lochs and dense forests of Sutherland. As you drive, you’ll pass through quaint fishing villages, and ancient castles that tell the stories of Scotland’s turbulent past. The route also offers stunning views of the Wester Ross mountains, including the iconic peaks of Beinn Eighe and Slioch, and the coastline of the Assynt region.
One of the highlights of the NC500 is the opportunity to explore the lesser-known parts of Scotland, where wildlife such as red deer, golden eagles, and seals can often be spotted. The journey also takes you through areas of significant historical and cultural interest, such as the ancient burial grounds of Clava Cairns, the mysterious Pictish stones at Dunrobin Castle, and the famous battlefield of Culloden, where the last major battle on British soil was fought.
2. Atlantic Highway, North Cornwall (England)
The Atlantic Highway, also known as the A39, is a coastal route that runs through North Cornwall in England, offering a picturesque journey along one of the most stunning UK coastlines. The highway begins near Barnstaple in Devon and winds its way southwest through Cornwall, passing through charming seaside villages, and rolling countryside.
As you drive along the Atlantic Highway, you’ll be treated to views of the Atlantic Ocean, with its vast expanses of sandy beaches and wild surf, making it a popular route for surfers and beach lovers. It also passes through iconic towns such as Bude, known for its impressive sea pool and sandy beach, and Tintagel, famous for its legendary castle and its connections to the Arthurian legends. If you’re planning to stop overnight along the way, there are plenty of beautiful coastal camping spots where you can make the most of the sea views and surrounding scenery.
The highway also provides access to some of North Cornwall’s most beautiful natural attractions, including the Boscastle cliffs, Camel Estuary, and the Bodmin Moor, where ancient stone circles and historic landmarks can be explored. Along the way, you can stop at traditional Cornish pubs to enjoy local delicacies such as pasties and cream teas, or visit artisanal shops and galleries that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The Atlantic Highway is a gateway to the landscapes of North Cornwall. Whether you’re drawn to the wild beauty of the coastline, the quaint villages, or the rich history, the Atlantic Highway offers an unforgettable journey through one of England’s most cherished regions.
3. Llanberis Pass, Snowdonia (Wales)
Llanberis Pass, located in the heart of Snowdonia, Wales, is a mountain pass that offers one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the country. This road runs between the peaks of the Glyderau and Snowdon mountain ranges, creating a stunning corridor of beauty. The pass connects Llanberis with Pen-y-Pass, a popular starting point for those looking to hike to the summit of Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales.
As you drive through Llanberis Pass, you’ll be surrounded by steep slopes, waterfalls, and vast, open skies. The area is also rich in history and culture, with remnants of its industrial past evident in the old slate quarries that dot the landscape. These quarries were once a major source of slate for roofing across Britain and are now a testament to the region’s heritage.
The pass is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities, from challenging mountain hikes to rock climbing on the cliffs of Dinas Cromlech. The nearby Llyn Peris and Llyn Padarn lakes provide spots for kayaking and paddleboarding as well.
Llanberis Pass is not just one of the best campervan routes in the UK; it’s an experience that captures the spirit of Snowdonia. Whether you’re drawn to the idea of adventure or simply love the beauty of the scenery, Llanberis Pass offers an unforgettable journey through one of Wales’ most iconic regions.
4. Causeway Coastal Route (Northern Ireland)
The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland is a scenic drive that offers a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the region. This 120-mile route hugs the rugged coastline and provides views of the Atlantic Ocean as well as access to charming coastal villages and historic sites.
One of the most iconic stops along the route is the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique hexagonal basalt columns, formed by ancient volcanic activity. The route also passes by other natural wonders such as the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, where visitors can brave a crossing suspended high above the crashing waves below, and the Dark Hedges, a beautiful avenue of beech trees made famous by its appearance in popular culture.
Along the way, the route takes in the Glens of Antrim, a series of lush, green valleys that are perfect for hiking and exploring, as well as the historic Dunluce Castle, which perches dramatically on a cliff edge overlooking the sea. The journey also includes opportunities to experience Northern Ireland’s rich cultural heritage, with stops in towns like Ballycastle and Cushendun, where traditional music, local cuisine, and warm hospitality can be enjoyed.
The Causeway Coastal Route is a voyage through a landscape steeped in myth, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquillity, or a glimpse into Northern Ireland’s past, this coastal route offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of the region’s wild and windswept charm.
5. Bealach na Bà, Wester Ross (Scotland)
Bealach na Bà, located in the remote region of Wester Ross in the Scottish Highlands, is one of the most exhilarating and scenic mountain passes in the UK. This iconic road, which means “Pass of the Cattle” in Gaelic, climbs steeply from sea level to over 2,000 feet, offering dramatic hairpin bends and awe-inspiring views that make it a must-visit for adventurous travellers.
The narrow, winding road of Bealach na Bà is reminiscent of Alpine passes, with its sharp switchbacks and steep gradients. As you ascend, you’re treated to breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains, lochs, and the distant Isle of Skye. On clear days, the views from the summit are nothing short of spectacular, with sweeping vistas across the Applecross Peninsula and beyond to the Hebridean islands.
Originally built in the 1820s as a drovers’ road to bring cattle to market, Bealach na Bà is steeped in history and has retained much of its wild, untamed character. The road leads to the isolated village of Applecross, one of Scotland’s most remote communities, where visitors can enjoy the rugged beauty of the coastline, explore deserted beaches, and experience the warm hospitality of a traditional Highland village. If you prefer getting away from busier tourist spots, we’ve also rounded up some of the best quiet holiday destinations UK travellers can explore by campervan.
If you’re a keen adventurer, love hiking and other outdoor sports, or just want a reason to use all that new camping kit, this route is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Please note that this route can be arduous with lots of steep climbs and small roads. As such parts of it may not be suitable for caravans, motorhomes or anything larger than a standard VW T5 conversion.
6. Keswick to Kendal, Lake District (England)
The route from Keswick to Kendal in the Lake District is a scenic journey through some of England’s most picturesque and beloved landscapes. Travelling southward, this drive offers a quintessential Lake District experience, winding through lush valleys, past shimmering lakes, and beneath towering fells, capturing the region’s timeless beauty and charm.
Starting in Keswick, a vibrant market town nestled between Derwentwater and the Skiddaw mountains, the route leads you along the shores of Derwentwater, with opportunities to stop and enjoy peaceful walks or boat trips on the lake. As you continue, the road meanders through the Borrowdale Valley, known for its dense woodlands, craggy peaks, and the dramatic Honister Pass. This section of the journey offers breathtaking views and a sense of the rugged, untamed nature that defines the Lake District.
As the journey progresses, you travel through the bustling town of Ambleside at the northern tip of Windermere, England’s largest lake. The road then hugs the eastern shore of Windermere, with opportunities to stop and explore the lake’s many attractions, from historic houses to scenic viewpoints. The final leg of the journey takes you through rolling countryside and quaint villages before reaching Kendal, a historic market town known as the “Gateway to the Lakes.” Here, the town’s cobbled streets, castle ruins, and vibrant arts scene provide a fitting end to a journey filled with natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The Keswick to Kendal route is more than just a drive; it’s a journey through the heart of the Lake District, offering a perfect blend of breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventure, and rich history. Whether you’re drawn to the lakes, the mountains, or the cultural landmarks, this route offers a memorable exploration of one of England’s most treasured regions.
7. The Dragon’s Spine (Wales)
The Dragon’s Spine, also known as the Cambrian Way, is an exhilarating and challenging route that stretches from the southern coast of Wales to the northern tip, tracing the rugged spine of the country through the Cambrian Mountains. This epic journey, covering over 185 miles, takes travellers through the heart of Wales, showcasing its wild landscapes, ancient forests, and towering peaks.
Starting in Cardiff, Wales’ vibrant capital, the route quickly leaves urban life behind as it ascends into the Brecon Beacons National Park. Here, dramatic ridges, deep valleys, and the iconic Pen y Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain, set the tone for the adventure ahead. As you travel further north, the route passes through the remote and sparsely populated Cambrian Mountains, often referred to as the “Green Desert of Wales” due to their vast, unspoiled nature. This section offers a true sense of solitude and wilderness, with endless vistas of rolling hills, moorland, and ancient woodlands.
The journey concludes in Conwy or Llandudno on the northern coast, where the rugged mountains meet the sea, offering a dramatic finish to this unforgettable adventure. The Dragon’s Spine is one of the best campervan trips UK and it celebrates the natural beauty, rich heritage, and the indomitable spirit of Wales. Whether tackled on foot, by bike, or by car, the Dragon’s Spine offers an unparalleled exploration of Wales’ most awe-inspiring terrains.
Conclusion
These Campervan trips UK offer you incredible, views, untouched nature, and a chance to make memories that will last a lifetime. At camper_versions®, we create premium-built campervans designed to offer you all the comforts of home on wheels. All our campervans come with a 3-year conversion warranty as standard. What’s more, all our vehicles have a manufacturer’s warranty remaining, which varies depending on age.
If you’re interested in taking a drive on some of the best campervan trips UK, then contact us today and we’ll help you find a campervan that will bring you memorable holidays for years to come. If you’d prefer to try the experience before buying, our VW Transporter campervan hire gives you the chance to explore these routes in a fully converted campervan.