As the world gradually reopens, so do our opportunities for taking a motorhome on an international holiday. The United Kingdom is a treasure trove of historical stories, picturesque villages and spectacular landscapes that makes for a road trip to remember.
For a country that’s smaller than New Zealand, the UK has a lot to say for itself. Steeped in centuries of rich traditions, with warm, welcoming traditional pubs and bars, and bursting at the seams with World Heritage national parks and prehistoric sites, the United Kingdom is a country that’s best enjoyed at your own pace – and there’s no better way to do that than in a motorhome.
See our Guide to buying an RV/Motorhome in the UK here!
Travelling under your own steam in Britain, Scotland, Wales and Ireland may not have occurred to you before, but with a vast range of campsites, chocolate box villages and historic castles and houses, taking your home on wheels around the country gives you the independence to explore your selected destinations at your leisure, whether you’re travelling on your own or as part of an escorted tour.
Worldwide Motorhome Holidays operates both small group and independent motorhome holidays to several countries including the UK. A fully-owned subsidiary of the Caravan & Motorhome Club, they have a team of UK specialists on hand to help you work out the best route to suit you.
NORTH COAST 500
Often regarded as one of the world’s ultimate road trips, this fantastic coastal drive takes you on a stunning journey of over 500 miles (830km), taking in some of the north of Scotland’s most arresting scenery. Rugged Scottish mountainscapes rub alongside white sandy beaches, with your route dotted with remote fishing villages you’re unlikely to find any other way. Whether you have five days or five weeks for this famous roadie, this is an experience you’ll never forget.
THE LAKE DISTRICT AND
YORKSHIRE DALES
If you’ve ever watched the Harry Potter movies, Snow White & The Huntsman, Calendar Girls or Peter Rabbit, you’ll know that the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales boast some idyllic scenery that will transport you to another world. There’s over 5000 miles (8,046km) of famous dry stone walls in the area, some dating back over 600 years.
Human settlement began in the Lake District – England’s largest National Park – at least five thousand years ago, when Pike o’Stickle and rocks from other mountains became the stone of choice for making axes and stone circles. These days, the area is a popular holiday destination, with multiple lakes, forests and pastures that are best explored on foot.
Camp next to Derwentwater Lake in Keswick for easy access to numerous tracks and trails; visit Hill Top, an incredible time capsule of Beatrix Potter’s life – and if the mood takes you, take a trip to Gretna Green, where you can run away to elope!
Head east to the Pennines and into the Yorkshire Dales, where you’ll feel you’ve gone back in time.Find out what inspired artists like Turner and the poet William Wordsworth at Bolton Abbey, and see the ruins of a 12th century Augustinian monastery before camping on the outskirts of historic York. From here, the world is your oyster as you step into the world of the Netflix series Bridgerton at Castle Howard, discover the birthplace of modern Christianity at York Minster – and make sure you leave time for afternoon tea at the infamous Betty’s Café Tea Rooms.
THE PEAK DISTRICT
Steep limestone valleys, beautiful tiny villages, haunting moorlands and some very famous foods all form part of the Peak District National Park’s history. The spa town of Buxton, England’s highest market town at 300m above sea level and located in the very centre of England, is famous for its mineral-rich water and spectacular architecture. With a campsite peacefully nestled in a nearby valley floor within walking distance to the town, this is the ideal spot to explore the rich, rolling countryside of this spectacular region. Explore the nearby stately home of Chatsworth House; enjoy a traditional almond flavoured Bakewell Tart in charming Bakewell, or simply take to the road to explore this delightful green region.
THE COTSWOLDS
Even the name conjures up images of picturesque villages and traditional marketplaces. Just a short drive from Stratford-upon-Avon, the 16th century birthplace of Shakespeare, the Cotswolds is the largest Area of Outstanding Beauty in England and Wales.While Castle Combe is officially the prettiest village in the Cotswolds, take some time to decide for yourself; it’s a tricky call!
Stock up the motorhome with goodies at the inviting open-air street market in Moreton-in- Marsh, before taking time out to view the baroque architecture and stunning art and tapestry at Blenheim Palace. From here, make your way to the famous city of Oxford, home to Britain’s oldest university.
BATH
Just over 100km from Oxford lies Bath, home of the writer Jane Austen and yet more amazing history. A World Heritage City, Bath has more museums per square mile than any other city. As part of a Worldwide Motorhomes Holiday tour, entry into the city’s ancient Roman Baths, built in 75AD as a religious spa complex, is included.
DEVON & CORNWALL
If you’ve never had a clotted cream high tea, this is your moment. This delicious cream originated in Devon as a way to separate the fat from milk to make butter. These days, it’s part of a traditional high tea in Devon and Cornwall, and an unmissable treat. England’s south-west is made for motorhome holidays. The rich ecosystem of the Eden Project in Cornwall is fascinating; located in a reclaimed china clay pit, this is a living theatre of plants and people. This care for the land is typical of the area, which has a history going back to Paleolithic times. Loved by surfers, anglers and historians across the world, Cornwall is truly a special destination. Head to Port Isaac, otherwise known as Port Wenn from the popular TV series Doc Martin; enjoy fish and chips by the water at Padstow, and watch a live performance at the Minack Theatre, a unique open- air theatre perched on rocky granite cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean.
LONDON
No trip to the UK would be complete without a visit to London. Whether you start there, end there or squeeze it into the middle of your trip, there’s so much to see and do in the Greater London region that it’s worth at least a few nights here. Head to the city centre to visit Buckingham Palace, The Tower of London or shop on Oxford Street; take in an opera at Covent Garden, see a musical at the West End, or take a stroll alongside the Thames… whatever you choose to do in this 2,000 year old city, you won’t be disappointed. The Elizabeth Line, the newest London rail line, stretches more than 100km from east to west London. With a campsite close to this line that’s just 20 minutes from central London, you’ll have plenty of time to explore at your leisure. Note that this campsite is very popular so make sure you book well in advance.
Worldwide Caravan & Motorhome Holidays operates both small group and independent tailor-made motorhome holidays to the UK (including Ireland and Scotland), Europe (including France, Germany, Italy and Croatia), Canada, USA, Southern Africa and Australia. They can also arrange individual package holidays, which include everything from motorhome hire, prebooked campsites, sightseeing and ferry crossings (including the Eurotunnel from UK to France), transfers and pre- and post accommodation.
In 2023, why not join their 38- day Best of Britain tour and enjoy the security of travelling with a local guide, along with the camaraderie created by shared experiences and the freedom to explore at your own pace during the day.
All tours offer exceptional experiences for your perfect motorhome holiday, and can be tailor- made for your personal preferences. For more information, visit
alanrogerstravel.co.nz
