Just when you thought it was all over, with summer long gone and the nights drawing in, a spell of fine weather tempts you behind the wheel of your motorhome again for a final outing or two before winter sets in.
Just where to go for one of those quick motorhome trips fairly close to home depends, of course, in which part of the country you live. But one of the great things about the diversity of Britain is that, wherever you live, there are certain to be spots worth visiting for a long weekend or so.
Let’s consider just a few of them.
The South of England
Visiting the South of England in your motorhome offers a delightful travel experience, with a mix of stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, charming towns, and a rich cultural heritage.
The South of England is blessed with beautiful coastlines and sandy beaches. From the white cliffs of Dover and the Jurassic Coast in Dorset to the vibrant seaside towns of Brighton and Bournemouth, there are plenty of picturesque spots to explore.
The region is home to numerous historic landmarks that are not to be missed. You can visit iconic sites such as Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Salisbury Cathedral with its stunning spire, and the mystical ruins of Tintagel Castle.
Don’t forget the picturesque countryside! The South of England boasts idyllic countryside landscapes, with rolling hills, quaint villages, and lush green fields. Areas like the Cotswolds, the New Forest, and the South Downs National Park offer peaceful settings for leisurely drives, walks, and outdoor activities.
There are also vibrant cities with rich cultural offerings. Cities like London, Oxford, Bath, and Bristol provide a blend of history, art, music, and diverse culinary experiences.
The South of England is renowned for its beautiful gardens and parks. From the famous Kew Gardens in London and the stunning gardens at Hampton Court Palace to the exotic flora at the Eden Project in Cornwall and the magnificent gardens of Sissinghurst Castle, there are endless opportunities to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.
Spotlight on the New Forest
If you live in southern England, the New Forest National Park is a relatively short drive away from most places.
In all its autumn glory, the New Forest is awash with every hue of green, amber russet as the leaves begin to fall. An overnight stop at one of the many campsites within the National Park, lets you begin your walk at the best time of day – the early morning, as the mist begins to clear above wooded glades and open heathland. Kick softly through the fallen leaves lest you disturb a grazing deer.
From Longmeadow Campsite you may take a delightful 20-minute stroll through the forest to the village of Brockenhurst, which is at the very heart of the National Park
The Midlands
Visiting the Midlands in your motorhome offers a wonderful opportunity to explore a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty
The Midlands is home to several historic cities and towns that are worth exploring. Cities like Birmingham, Nottingham, Leicester, and Coventry offer a blend of rich history, vibrant cultural scenes, and modern amenities. You can discover historical landmarks, visit museums and art galleries, explore beautiful parks, and enjoy shopping and dining experiences in these urban centres.
The region is known for its architectural treasures that span different eras. From the grandeur of Warwick Castle and the medieval charm of Stratford-upon-Avon (Shakespeare’s birthplace) to the magnificent cathedrals in Lincoln and Lichfield, the region is rich in impressive buildings and structures.
While the Midlands is often associated with its urban centres, it also boasts beautiful countryside and picturesque landscapes. The Peak District, located on the southern edge of the region, offers stunning vistas, rolling hills, and delightful villages.
In addition, there are numerous canals, such as the Trent and Mersey Canal, that wind through the Midlands, providing opportunities for peaceful walks and scenic boat trips.
The Midlands offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring historic cities and architectural wonders to enjoying the region’s natural beauty and literary heritage.
Spotlight on Sherwood Pines Forest Park
One of the biggest publicly accessible forests in The Midlands is at Sherwood Pines Forest Park – and the open all year round Sherwood Pines Campsite is within its boundaries.
It’s in the East Midlands part of Nottinghamshire, near the village of Edwinstowe, between Ollerton and Clipstone.
This is the place where you might also want the kids to let off steam before the quieter days of winter by letting them take to the activity trails, hire a bike, swing through the play areas – or just run wild.
Wales
Wales is renowned for its magnificent landscapes, from majestic mountains and rolling hills to pristine coastlines and serene valleys. From Eryri National Park (formerly Snowdonia) to the Pembrokeshire Coast, there’s an abundance of scenic beauty to discover.
You can explore ancient castles, such as Caernarfon and Conwy, and delve into the stories of Welsh royalty and medieval times. Additionally, Wales has a strong sense of national identity, with its own language, traditions, and music
It is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, surfing, or wildlife spotting, there are endless opportunities for adventure. The country is home to Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, which offers stunning hiking trails.
The coastline provides ample opportunities for water sports and coastal walks. In fact, if you love coastal walks, the Wales Coast Path is a must-do experience. This 870-mile path encompasses the entire coastline of Wales, offering stunning views, hidden coves, and charming seaside towns.
Wales hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate its culture, arts, music, and heritage. From the Eisteddfod, a renowned Welsh cultural festival, to food festivals, music events, and sporting competitions, there’s always something happening in Wales.
Spotlight on The Gower Peninsula
The Gower Peninsula and the impressive sweep of Rhossili Bay are more than worth a visit at any time of the year. But autumn brings with it a certain sense of rugged urgency as the first of the winter’s squalls darken the endless skies and add a thrilling drama to the scene.
So, if you are within a day’s drive of the Gower, why not head your motorhome in the direction of Nicholaston Farm Campsite – a family-friendly working farm, with immediate access to the Gower’s marvellous coastline.
The North of England
If you live in the North of England, you are well and truly spoilt for choice when it comes to a quick motorhome trip to beat the oncoming winter.
The North of England is blessed with diverse landscapes that cater to different preferences. From the rugged beauty of the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales to the stunning Northumberland coast and the rolling hills of the Peak District, there is a wealth of natural beauty to discover.
The region is steeped in history and boasts an abundance of historical sites and landmarks. You can visit iconic places such as Hadrian’s Wall, York Minster, Durham Cathedral, and numerous castles and stately homes.
Springfield Farm offers one of the most scenic sites you might hope to find along the glorious coastline of Northumberland. Gaze out across open fields towards the North Sea’s Farne Islands, or drive the short distance north to Bamburgh Castle, or west into the Cheviot Hills to enjoy the best of a British autumn
If you enjoy outdoor activities, the North of England won’t disappoint. The region offers ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, watersports, and wildlife spotting. Whether it’s exploring the stunning trails of the Lake District, embarking on a coastal walk along the Northumberland coast, or indulging in water activities in the Yorkshire Moors and Dales, you’ll find plenty of adventures to embark on during your motorhome journey.
The North of England is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are worth exploring. These include the stunning landscapes of the Lake District, the historic city of Durham, the majestic Hadrian’s Wall, and the iconic Liverpool waterfront.
Spotlight on the Lake District
Lake Windermere may be bustling in the height of summer, but by autumn the crowds have thinned out appreciably and from Park Cliffe Motorhome & Touring Caravan Park, you can enjoy your own wide-open vistas of the Lake itself.
Scotland
Scotland has majestic mountains and tranquil lochs as well as picturesque coastlines and enchanting glens. Travelling in a motorhome allows you to immerse yourself in these natural wonders and explore remote areas that are often inaccessible by other means.
It has a rich history and vibrant culture that spans centuries. From ancient castles and historic ruins to traditional music and folklore, there is no shortage of fascinating heritage to explore.
If you love road trips, Scotland’s North Coast 500 is a must-do route. Often referred to as Scotland’s answer to America’s Route 66, this scenic journey takes you around the northernmost part of the country. You’ll encounter stunning vistas, charming villages, and iconic landmarks like the dramatic cliffs of Cape Wrath and the famous Dunrobin Castle.
Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, golfing, kayaking, or wildlife spotting, there are endless opportunities for adventure.
Scotland is, of course, renowned for its whisky production, and visiting distilleries along your motorhome journey allows you to learn about the fascinating whisky-making process and sample some of the finest spirits in the world. Additionally, Scotland’s culinary scene offers a diverse range of delicious dishes, including traditional haggis, fresh seafood, and delectable baked goods.
Spotlight on Loch Ness
You can stay at the Loch Ness Shores Camping and Caravanning Club Site. Situated on the banks of the legendary Loch Ness, the campsite offers a truly spectacular and unforgettable experience. Wake up to panoramic views of Loch Ness and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the surrounding landscapes. With direct access to the loch, you can enjoy leisurely walks along the shoreline or even try your luck at spotting the legendary Loch Ness Monster!
