The Best UK Destinations to Explore by Campervan This Year

One of the greatest joys of campervan hire is the freedom to go wherever the road takes you. Whether you are planning a long weekend or a full touring holiday, the UK is packed with incredible destinations that come alive when explored at your own pace. From rugged Scottish highlands to sun-soaked Cornish coves, here are the top UK spots worth adding to your 2026 campervan bucket list - all accessible from GDH Camper Van Hire in Blackburn.

1. The Lake District, Cumbria

The Lake District is one of the most popular destinations for campervan hire in the North West, and it is easy to see why. Just a short drive from Blackburn, this national park offers dramatic fells, glassy lakes, stunning walking routes and a wealth of dog-friendly trails. Whether you park up near Windermere or explore quieter corners around Ullswater, the scenery never disappoints.

• Perfect for families, couples and dog owners.
• Plenty of campervan-friendly sites throughout the park.
• Ideal for hiking, cycling and wildlife spotting.

2. The Yorkshire Dales

For those seeking rolling countryside, market towns and a slower pace, campervan hire in the Yorkshire Dales delivers it all. From the sweeping valleys of Wharfedale to the dramatic limestone scenery around Malham, this is one of England's most rewarding road trip regions. The Dales are also brilliant for cycling, so consider adding a bike rack to your hire for extra adventure.

• Outstanding natural beauty on your doorstep.
• Charming villages, local pubs and foodie stops along the way.
• Accessible from Blackburn in under an hour.

3. Cornwall

Few destinations rival Cornwall for a classic UK campervan road trip. The county offers dramatic coastal paths, world-famous surf beaches, hidden fishing villages and outstanding seafood. A VW campervan hire trip to Cornwall lets you follow the coast at your leisure, waking up to sea views and moving on whenever you choose. Sites like Perran Springs, Wooda Farm and Trethem Mill offer great bases for exploring.

• Stunning beaches and coastal walks throughout.
• Ideal for couples and families alike.
• A classic UK road trip destination well worth the drive.

4. Scotland and the NC500

For the ultimate UK campervan hire adventure, Scotland remains hard to beat. The North Coast 500 - Scotland's answer to Route 66 - winds through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe. Starting and finishing in Inverness, this iconic route passes mountains, sea lochs, ancient castles and white sand beaches. Glen Nevis, Fort William and Loch Ness are all highlights along the way.

• One of the UK's most iconic road trip routes.
• Superb for off-grid travel with solar-powered campervans.
• Multiple campsites and wild camping options en route.

5. Wales and Snowdonia

Wales is an outstanding choice for campervan hire closer to home. Snowdonia National Park delivers dramatic peaks, rushing waterfalls and pristine lakes, while sites like Nantcol Waterfalls, Gwern Gof Isaf and Fforest Fields offer memorable stopovers. The Welsh coast is equally rewarding, with Three Cliffs Bay on the Gower Peninsula regularly topping lists of the UK's most beautiful beaches.

• Incredible mountain and coastal scenery in one country.
• Brilliant hiking and cycling routes throughout.
• Short drive from the North West - ideal for a weekend break.

6. The Ribble Valley, Lancashire

You do not always need to travel far for a memorable escape. The Ribble Valley is a hidden gem right on the doorstep for those booking campervan hire in Lancashire. Rolling hills, ancient abbeys, market towns and riverside walks make this one of the North West's most underrated destinations. It is perfect for a short break or a first campervan trip.

• Ideal for a short weekend escape from Blackburn.
• Dog-friendly walking routes and quiet countryside roads.
• Great for first-time campervan travellers.

7. Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast

For something a little different, the Causeway Coast in Northern Ireland is one of the UK's most dramatic and rewarding road trip routes. From the Giant's Causeway to the famous rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede, this stretch of coastline is unforgettable. Sites like Rushin House Caravan Park and Ballyness offer excellent campervan bases along the way.

• Dramatic coastal scenery and world-class natural landmarks.
• Brilliant for photography, hiking and exploring.
• A unique and memorable UK campervan adventure.

Ready to Start Planning?

Whether you are dreaming of Scottish highlands, Cornish beaches or Lancashire countryside, GDH Camper Van Hire has the perfect van to take you there. Bertie and Boss - both VW T6 campervans - sleep up to 4 people, seat 4, are fully dog-friendly and come equipped with solar panels, bedding and kitchenette facilities from just £135 per day.

Optional extras including awning hire, bike racks and BBQ packs can be added to make your trip even more comfortable. Check availability and book online at GDH Camper Van Hire - your next adventure is closer than you think.