Looking for half-term holiday ideas that will keep everyone happy? A campervan holiday in the UK could be the perfect solution. Campervan holidays offer freedom, flexibility, and the chance to explore at your own pace, without the stress of booking multiple hotels.
Campervan and motorhome travel is becoming more and more popular, with families enjoying waking up somewhere new each day. Even better, you don’t need to travel far. The UK is packed with campervan-friendly destinations that are ideal for half-term breaks and offer something to keep all the family happy.
We’ve rounded up some of the best places to visit in a campervan this half-term, along with practical tips for first time campervan or motorhome drivers, and advice to help you enjoy a smooth, stress-free family road trip.
Why a campervan is perfect for a UK half-term holiday
Half-term breaks are short, busy, and can often be very expensive, but campervan holidays solve many of these problems.
- Flexible travel plans: you don’t have to commit to strict flight times and can set off and return when you need to fit around school and work schedules.
- Lower accommodation and food costs: because you’ll be staying and travelling in your vehicle, you won’t have to pay the inflated hotel costs that often soar around the school holidays. You also have the option to cook your own meals in your campervan or motorhome which could save you a lot of money compared to eating out every night.
- Family-friendly space: there are plenty of different types of campervans and motorhomes, all with varying amounts of space depending on what you need. You can easily pack things like bikes or surfboards if you’re planning on a more adventurous trip.
- Freedom to change plans: if the weather turns, as it often can in the UK, or the kids get tired, you can easily change your plans to suit your needs as you aren’t tied down to any restricted plans or accommodation timings.
Best places to visit in a campervan this half-term
North York Moors National Park, Yorkshire
One of England’s most varied national parks, the North York Moors is a combination of stunning countryside and dramatic coastlines. It covers around 26 miles of coast, including iconic harbour towns, fishing villages and the first Victorian seaside resort, Scarborough.
You could start in the quaint market town of Pickering, and follow a route to Thornton-le-Dale and Dalby Forst where 8,000 acres of woodland await to be explored on foot and by family-friendly cycling routes. From here, you can head to Goathland (with its station famous for featuring as Hogsmeade Station in the Harry Potter films) before finishing up at Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay, or Saltburn-by-the-Sea.
There are plenty of scenic viewpoints along this route, including those from Roseberry Topping, and well-placed campsites make this a brilliant campervan holiday.
View from Roseberry Topping, North York Moors
The North Coast 500, Scotland
Often described as one of the world’s most scenic road trips, the North Coast 500 is perfect for a longer half-term adventure. It’s over 500 miles of stunning Scottish scenery, including rugged mountains and sandy beaches, covering six regions in total.
The route takes in beaches, mountains, wildlife and historic villages across the Highlands. You can spot dolphins along the coast or explore castles in Sutherland. Wild camping is legal in Scotland but it is essential to be responsible and stick to local guidance. Families often opt for official campsites for added facilities, but wild camping is a great option to have if you’re wanting to explore off the beaten track
For more information on Scotland’s North Coast 500, including everything you need to create your road trip itinerary and top FAQs, check out our comprehensive guide here.
Scottish Highlands, NC500
The Lake District, Cumbria
The Lake District is a popular destination for a reason, and one of the best UK campervan destinations for families. With plenty of lakeside walks, boat trips, bike hire opportunities and cosy pubs to escape to after a day outdoors, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
The Kendal to Keswick route is particularly scenic, passing Windermere, Grasmere, and Thirlmere along the way. It’s also a great choice if your family is looking for something active and adventurous, with activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding to keep the kids entertained.
Buttermere, Lake District
Cornwall
Cornwall remains a top choice for families looking for half-term campervan holidays, offering lots of activities and some of the best coastal scenery in the UK. Base yourself near Newquay, St Ives, or Falmouth for easy access to family beaches, coastal paths and attractions like the Eden Project. You won’t be short of things to do!
With plenty of campervan parks and clifftop views, it’s easy to see why Cornwall is so popular with campervan and motorhome road trippers.
Newquay Beach, Cornwall
Tollymore Forest Park, County Down
For something a little different and further afield, Northern Ireland offers stunning scenery and plenty of adventure opportunities. Home to Tollymore Forest Park, which featured in Game of Thrones, you can explore around 1,500 acres of woodland, waterfalls, and walking trails. This wild spot of Northern Ireland is a great place to park up, take a walk, and admire your surroundings.
It’s a great base and not too far from must-see sights like Giant’s Causeway and Dunluce Castle, making it a great choice for a short but memorable half-term campervan break.
Castle towers at the entrance of Tollymore Forest Park, County Down
Eryri National Park, Wales
Eryri, or Snowdonia, is packed with mountains, lakes, and coastline, offering something for every type of family. Whilst climbing Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) isn’t for everyone, the Snowdon Mountain Railway provides a family-friendly alternative and there are lots of other adventurous activities on offer nearby.
There is also plenty of coastline to explore, with quieter beaches along the Llŷn Peninsula, and Adventure Parc Snowdonia offering surf lessons, zip line adventures, and indoor activities if the weather isn’t on your side.
With a wide choice of campsites dotted around the area, you can take your pick based on what attractions you want to be closest to.
Snowdonia Mountain Railway, Eryri National Park
First-time campervan driving tips
If it’s your first time behind the wheel of a campervan or motorhome it can feel daunting, but getting to know your vehicle first goes a long way.
Take it slow
A campervan holiday is about unwinding, so you don’t want to be rushing around. Drive at a relaxed pace and leave room in your itinerary for spontaneous stops and slower days.
Know your speed limits
Campervans and motorhomes can have lower speed limits than cars depending on their weight, so you should always check this before setting off.
Plan campervan-friendly routes
Use route planners that will highlight low bridges and narrow lanes so that you can be prepared and avoid a road if you need or want to. Knowing your vehicle’s height and width can save you a lot of stress and help to avoid any accidents.
Use mirrors and ask for help
Set your mirrors carefully and don’t be afraid to ask a passenger to get out and guide you when you are parking or reversing. Driving a campervan or motorhome can be very different to driving a car, especially if you aren’t used to the size difference.
Secure luggage properly
Having the extra space to bring more luggage is great, but you should ensure that it is all properly secured before you set off on your trip. Loose items can be distracting whilst driving, especially in a vehicle you aren’t used to.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to go in a campervan in the UK for half-term
The Lake District and Cornwall are both popular destinations for campervan holidays, especially amongst families over half-term. They are easily accessible by road and have lots of campervan sites and facilities to choose from.
Are campervan holidays good for families with kids?
Yes, they’re a great way to get away without having to venture abroad. They’re flexible, cost-effective and turn travel time into part of the adventure.
Can you wild camp in a campervan in the UK?
Wild camping is generally only legal in Scotland. Elsewhere, you’ll need to use campsites or land with permission.
Is it hard to drive a campervan for the first time?
Most drivers adapt quickly with careful planning, slower speeds, and good route choices. You should make sure you’re familiar with the vehicle before you set off on your trip to help avoid any issues whilst you’re driving.
Get covered for your half-term family holiday
Whether you’re borrowing a campervan or motorhome or sharing the driving duties, having the right insurance in place is essential. Dayinsure’s short-term cover gives you flexibility at an affordable price, making it perfect for half-term trips and weekends away.
With cover available from just one hour up to 30 days, you can enjoy your campervan holiday knowing you’re protected for exactly the time you need. Get a quote today and you can be on the road in minutes.
