1. The Lake District – A Classic Campervan Escape

For many, the Lake District is the ultimate UK campervan travel destination. With its winding country lanes, glassy lakes, and charming villages, it’s ideal for slow exploration. 

Start your trip around Windermere or Ullswater, where you’ll find campsites with lakeside pitches and modern facilities. Spend your days hiking scenic trails, enjoying a pint in a local pub, or taking a cruise on the water. 
If you’re new to driving a campervan, the Lake District’s compact routes and abundance of well-equipped campsites make it a stress-free introduction to van life in the UK.

2. North Coast 500, Scotland – A Road Adventure

Scotland’s North Coast 500 (or NC500) has quickly become legendary among UK campervan travel routes. 

Stretching over 500 miles of spectacular scenery, this circular route takes you through rugged coastlines, white sandy beaches, and historic castles. While it sounds like an epic journey, it’s surprisingly manageable for first-timers; just plan shorter daily drives and stop often to enjoy the views.

Must-see stops: Bealach na Bà pass (for breathtaking mountain views), Duncansby Stacks, and the turquoise waters of Achmelvich Bay.
Many campsites along the route cater to campervans and motorhomes, offering electric hook-ups and stunning sea views.

3. Cornwall – Coastal Charm & Surf Culture

Few regions capture the spirit of van life quite like Cornwall. Think cliffside drives, golden beaches, and laid-back surf towns.

Base yourself near St Ives, Newquay, or Penzance, and explore at your own pace. With countless beachside campsites and campervan-friendly facilities, Cornwall is perfect for first-time owners looking for that classic summer road trip.

Cornwall’s narrow lanes can be tricky in larger vehicles, so take it slow and plan routes carefully; but that’s part of the fun of UK campervan travel.

4. Snowdonia – Mountains, Lakes, & Adventure

If you’re after dramatic scenery and outdoor adventure, Snowdonia (Eryri) is a dream destination for your first campervan trip.

Park up near Betws-y-Coed or Llanberis and explore mountain passes, waterfalls, and serene lakes. You can even take the Snowdon Mountain Railway for stunning views without the climb.

There’s a growing number of UK campervan destinations in Wales that welcome first-time owners, offering easy access to walking routes, local pubs, and quiet places to park up for the night.

5. The Cotswolds – Idyllic Villages & Country Charm

A personal favourite here at Complete Campers, for a more relaxed pace, the Cotswolds are perfect for your first campervan road trip. Think rolling hills, honey-stone cottages, and peaceful country lanes, but never feeling too far away from the civilised world. There’s a great mix of campsites, from small farm stays to luxury glamping-style pitches, ideal for VW campervans or smaller conversions.

Spend your days wandering through picturesque villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Broadway, or Castle Combe, and enjoy a cosy pub dinner before returning to your camper under the stars.

6. The Northumberland Coast – Wild & Underrated

If you prefer somewhere quieter but equally stunning, Northumberland is one of the most underrated campervan destinations in the UK.

Drive along the coastal route from Alnwick to Holy Island (Lindisfarne), stopping at sandy beaches and ancient castles like Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh.
The roads are easy to navigate, and you’ll find plenty of peaceful spots to park up and wake to the sound of waves.

Final Thoughts

Starting your UK campervan travel journey can feel daunting, but the UK is one of the most camper-friendly places in the world. Before you hit the road:

• Book ahead - stay ahead of the crowd in peak season, especially for popular sites.
• Pack light - space is precious, even in larger vans.
• Learn your van - practice setting up, using your electrics, and refilling water before you go.
• Take your time - the best part of van life is enjoying the journey, not just the destination.