For many UK motorhome owners, the joy of hitting the open road is all about freedom, exploration and discovery. But if you’re tired of the usual tourist traps and crowded campsites, it might be time to venture somewhere more unusual.

Here are some intriguing destinations you may not have considered for your next motorhome adventure …

Kielder Forest, Northumberland

Nestled near the Scottish border, Kielder Forest offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. It’s home to England’s largest forest and man-made lake and is designated as a Dark Sky Park — making it possibly one of the best places in the UK for stargazing.

There are a few wild camping spots and certified sites nearby, such as Kielder Campsite, which is motorhome-friendly. Days can be spent exploring forest trails, spotting wildlife (including red squirrels and ospreys), or visiting the Kielder Observatory for night-time astronomy sessions.

Lundy Island, Devon (via ferry and park-up in Bideford)

You can’t take your motorhome to Lundy Island, but it still makes for an incredible offbeat trip. Park your vehicle in Bideford or Ilfracombe and take a ferry to the island. With no cars, minimal internet and just one pub, Lundy offers the ultimate digital detox.

You’ll find dramatic cliffs, puffins, seals, and shipwrecks. Overnight stays are in cottages or bunkhouses, but you can return to your motorhome base the same day. It’s ideal for owners who want to mix a little walking and wildlife with their ‘van life.

Dungeness, Kent

If you’re seeking somewhere truly unique, Dungeness offers a landscape quite like no other in the UK. Often referred to as Britain’s only desert due to its stark shingle expanse and low rainfall, this headland on the Kent coast is an eerie yet captivating destination.

Abandoned fishing boats, quirky homes, and the looming silhouette of the nuclear power station create an almost surreal backdrop.

Despite its bleak appearance, Dungeness teems with life. The area is a haven for birdwatchers, with the RSPB Dungeness Reserve home to a variety of migratory and rare birds.

There are several motorhome-friendly sites nearby, including spots on Romney Marsh.

Dungeness is the ideal location for those who appreciate wild beauty, dramatic seascapes, and an unconventional atmosphere.

Isle of Mull, Scotland

While Skye tends to steal the limelight, Mull is a more tranquil and arguably more diverse option. With its multicoloured harbour at Tobermory, wild beaches, and regular sightings of otters, eagles, and even whales, it’s a dream destination for adventurous travellers.

You can take your motorhome over on the CalMac ferry from Oban, and wild camping is possible in many remote spots (respecting the Scottish Outdoor Access Code).

For a touch of culture, visit the ruined Duart Castle or take a boat to the sacred island of Iona.

Elan Valley, Wales

Often called the “Welsh Lake District,” the Elan Valley offers dramatic dam architecture, winding reservoirs, and forested landscapes. It’s less touristy than Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) or the Brecon Beacons but no less scenic.

Motorhome parking is available at the nearby, and the area is ideal for walkers, cyclists, and photographers. If you want to avoid crowds and appreciate Victorian engineering alongside natural beauty, this is the place.

Top tips for unusual motorhome trips

• Check access and height/weight restrictions. Many remote roads aren’t suited to larger motorhomes, so do your research beforehand.
• Plan for facilities. Some of these destinations lack full-service campsites. Be self-sufficient with water, power and waste disposal if you’re wild camping — and always follow the Leave No Trace principle.
• Go in shoulder seasons. Spring and autumn often provide the best balance of weather and solitude at these lesser-known locations.
• Respect local communities. Rural or isolated areas may have limited resources or concerns about motorhome traffic. Buy local, be courteous, and follow local parking and overnighting rules.

Final thoughts

Exploring the UK’s unusual destinations by motorhome is a rewarding way to see a different side of the country. Whether you’re marvelling at the stars over Kielder, soaking in the strange stillness of Dungeness, or driving through the lochs and hills of Mull, there’s no shortage of adventure — if you’re willing to take the road less travelled.

Are you ready to uncover the UK’s hidden corners from the comfort of your campervan?