The travel bug hit me at an early age. I have been very lucky to have travelled all over the world during my life. Sometimes for business, sometimes purely for pleasure. Yet, it was not drinking a beer in the shadow of the Sydney Opera House that gave me the bug. Nor was it whale watching off the Canadian coast. No, my love for travel started with much humbler beginnings, my grandparent’s caravan. As a tribute to that love they inspired, here are some of the best caravan parks in the UK.
While you’re here, check out some great hidden gem destinations in Scotland for post-quarantine escapes, and read about road-tripping idyllic North Wales.
As far back as I can remember they would take me (and later my sister and cousin) away at least a few times a year. We would head off with their Swift hooked up to the back of the Volvo estate and we would head off on an adventure. From Scotland to Wales, from Land’s End to Sandringham – a close to home trip that always delivered – we toured the country and even now, I have many fond memories of the different sites we went to.
Caravan Club members their entire life, my grandparents loved showing us the sights. Taking every opportunity to get out and about. I will never forget being allowed to help put the awning up or learning how to pitch a tent within its safe confines. The thrill of sleeping out on my own.
Rise of the Staycation
It was these moments that instilled a love of travel in me, and with Covid-19 still ransacking the world, I think it will be these sorts of staycations that many families will be turning towards as restrictions start to ease.
Even once international travel is permitted, I predict there will be a rush of people eager to escape into the sun. All the hotels, villas and resorts will be fully booked and teaming with holidaymakers. That doesn’t strike me as being a nice relaxing way to escape and unwind. So, with that in mind, let’s look at the top five UK caravan sites that you can look forward to visiting later this year.
Saint Agnes Beacon – Cornwall
A small site in a stunning location makes Saint Agnes Beacon the perfect location for a camping and caravan holiday. With just 103 pitches and a no tent policy, this is one of the premier caravan sites in the UK. St Agnes town is a short and easy walk away, while the St Ives coast gives a glimpse of true Cornwall beauty.
If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with the family, or a romantic break for the two of you, then this quiet little caravan site is always a winner.
Sandringham – Norfolk
This caravan site makes the list for many personal reasons but also because there is a lot to do and see in the surrounding area, making it a simple, yet fascinating option for a short getaway.
With 138 spots for caravans and motorhomes only, this caravan site is right on the doorstep of one of the premier residences of the Royal Family. Sandringham House is often open to the public, but of course is closed when any of the family are in residence. A great day out and full of British history.
This caravan park is in a stunning location offering long woodland walks and the town of King’s Lynn lies just down the road if you need to do some shopping. The site itself boasts a land train and an adventure playground to keep the little ones entertained too.
Grantown-On-Spey – Scotland
This is a far more modern camping affair offering 130 different pitches for holiday makers and the bonus of high-speed broadband and fibre optic connections. Allowing you to bring a little bit of luxury with you.
That said, with all the stunning walks that are on offer, not to mention the beautiful little namesake town just down the road, you will likely be out and about more than you will be surfing the net or streaming from Netflix.
Cartref Caravan and Camping – Shrewsbury
Whether you are a first time caravanner or an experienced head looking for an idyllic little getaway, then the Cartref caravan site is the place for you.
The small site is a cosy setting, offering just 46 pitches, it even has a separated ‘Adults only’ area with 11 pitches that allow those looking for a child free break the peace and quiet they seek. Not far from the Welsh border, Cartref has several different amenities that only serve to strengthen its charm.
A great location for those with a passion for history, as there are a great many places nearby that hold great historical appeal, from the listed buildings in Shrewsbury to the Ironbridge gorge.
Bunree – Scotland
There is something magical about Scottish scenery. From the hills to the lochs, seen in misty rain or glorious sunshine. It is a delightful country, and the caravan site at Bunree is a shining example of everything that makes Scotland such a beautiful place.
Located almost at the foot of Ben Nevis, this 99-pitch camp and caravan site boasts lots of natural wildlife. It even offers you the chance to pitch right on the water’s edge. Wake up every morning to the breath-taking sight of Loch Linnhe.
There is no shortage of nature trails to explore either. One trail takes you through Glencoe, site of the infamous 1692 massacre of Clan MacDonald of Glencoe.
The Ultimate Relaxing Break for the Whole Family
Ultimately, there is something old-school relaxing about going on a camping and caravan holiday in the UK. I wouldn’t trade my memories for the world. To this day, the sound of rain pattering on the roof instantly takes me back to those leisurely holidays filled with memories, adventures and cosy nights playing cards while the rain fell around us.
With camping holidays seeing a renewed surge in popularity among families of all ages, it is refreshing to think of all the memories that are being created. Not to mention all the fabulous British scenery that is being explored.
There is an undeniable beauty to the British countryside. From the moors to the dales, from Kent to Cornwall and up into the highlands. The rich culture of Great Britain is once again being discovered by those embracing the power of the staycation.
Did we miss one of your favorite caravan parks in the UK with this list? Tell us about it in the comments or on Twitter!
