Autumn in the UK is a spectacular time for a family getaway, with vibrant foliage, crisp air, and scenic landscapes.
For the Johnson family—Emily, Mark, and their two children, Sarah and Jake—October half-term was the perfect opportunity to take a break from city life and explore the stunning Lake District in their VW campervan.
This family adventure through Cumbria's charming villages, rolling hills, and quiet lakes made for a memorable escape into the heart of autumn.
The Journey Begins: Lake District Bound
After packing up their VW campervan, the Johnsons headed towards one of the UK’s most beloved destinations—the Lake District National Park.
Famous for its breathtaking landscapes, the Lake District promised the family a variety of autumn adventures, from peaceful hikes to cool village visits. Their VW campervan became their cosy home on wheels, allowing them to explore at their own pace without the pressure of fixed hotel stays.
With its compact kitchen and comfortable sleeping areas, the campervan was perfect for the family of four. It offered flexibility, storage for all their hiking gear, and the freedom to wake up with a new view each morning.
The Top 10 Places the Johnsons Recommend in the Lake District
During their week-long trip, the Johnson family discovered some of the Lake District’s most iconic spots. Here are their top 10 destinations:
1. Windermere – Their first stop, where the kids enjoyed a boat ride on England’s largest lake, and the family walked along the scenic shoreline.
2. Ambleside – A charming village where they found a cosy café for a quick bite and explored Stock Ghyll Force, a spectacular waterfall nearby.
3. Grasmere – Known for its historic charm, the family enjoyed walking in the footsteps of William Wordsworth and sampling the famous Grasmere Gingerbread.
4. Coniston Water – A quiet lake perfect for a family picnic, followed by a leisurely paddle boarding session.
5. Buttermere – One of the highlights of the trip, the Johnsons hiked around the lake, surrounded by towering fells draped in vibrant autumn colours.
6. Keswick – A bustling market town where they stocked up on local produce for their campervan meals and wandered through quirky shops.
7. Derwentwater – Another picturesque lake where the family enjoyed kayaking and a scenic walk along the shore.
8. Scafell Pike – The adventurous family tackled a partial hike up England's highest peak, enjoying panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment.
9. Tarn Hows – Known for its postcard-perfect beauty, they spent a peaceful afternoon here, watching the autumn leaves fall.
10. Borrowdale Valley – Their final stop, where they set up camp for the night, nestled in a valley full of oak trees glowing with autumn colours.
Autumn Cooking in the VW Campervan
One of the unique pleasures of campervan travel is the ability to cook simple, hearty meals on the go. The Johnsons embraced the small kitchen in their VW campervan, creating delicious dishes with fresh local ingredients from farmers’ markets along the way.
Some of their favourite meals included:
1. Lentil and vegetable stew - Perfect for cooler nights, Emily used fresh carrots, potatoes, and leeks picked up from a market in Keswick.
2. One-pan spaghetti bolognese - Quick and easy, Mark cooked up this family favourite using locally sourced beef.
3. Campfire chili - The Johnsons enjoyed their chili outdoors, wrapped in blankets around a campfire near Buttermere.
They also dined out at local pubs, including a memorable stop at the Drunken Duck Inn near Ambleside, where they indulged in a classic Sunday roast.
In Grasmere, they found a delightful café that served homemade scones and cream tea, a perfect mid-hike treat.
Travel Tips for Your Lake District Campervan Adventure
For families planning their own autumn trip to the Lake District in a campervan, the Johnsons have some valuable tips:
1. Stay Flexible with Your Route - -While they had a rough plan, the family left room for spontaneous stops, allowing them to explore hidden gems like Tarn Hows and make unplanned visits to cosy pubs.
2.. Pack for All Weather - Autumn weather can be unpredictable, so the Johnsons made sure to bring warm layers, waterproof jackets, and hiking boots for muddy trails.
3. Stock Up on Local Produce - Farmer’s markets and local shops are abundant in the Lake District, offering fresh produce to enhance your campervan meals. Keswick’s market was a favourite for its variety of local goods.
4. Book Campsites in Advance - The Lake District is a popular destination even in autumn, so they recommend booking well-equipped campsites like Great Langdale Campsite, which offers great facilities and beautiful views.
5. Prepare for Shorter Days - With daylight hours fading earlier in autumn, the Johnsons planned their hikes and activities for the morning, leaving the evenings free for campfires and relaxation.
The Beauty of Autumn Campervan Travel
For the Johnson family, the freedom to park their VW campervan wherever they pleased made for an unforgettable trip.
Every morning, they woke up to a new view, from mist-covered lakes to golden forests. Their campervan provided a warm, inviting space to return to after long days of adventure.
The autumn colours added an extra layer of magic to their journey. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the Lake District trees were a constant reminder of the beauty of the season.
The family also delighted in spotting local wildlife—deer grazing in Borrowdale Valley and playful red squirrels in Grasmere were just a few highlights.
What to Look Out for on Your Own Campervan Adventure
If you're planning your own autumn campervan trip to the Lake District, keep an eye out for:
1. Wildlife - From red squirrels to birds of prey, autumn is a prime time for wildlife sightings.
2. Autumn Foliage - October is the perfect time to witness the changing leaves, especially in areas like Buttermere and Borrowdale.
3. Local Markets - Keswick and Ambleside are home to bustling markets where you can stock up on local produce and crafts.
4. Cosy Pubs - The Lake District is famous for its traditional inns, where you can enjoy a pint of local ale and a hearty meal after a long day of exploring.
Plan Your Own VW Campervan Adventure
The Johnson family’s autumn adventure through the Lake District is a testament to the joy and freedom that campervan travel can bring. From cooking hearty meals in their VW campervan to exploring some of the UK’s most beautiful destinations, they discovered the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and family bonding.
Whether you’re planning to explore the Lake District, head further afield to places like Snowdonia or the Peak District, or simply roam from one scenic spot to another, a VW campervan offers the flexibility, comfort, and adventure that every family needs. So, why not start planning your own family campervan road trip this autumn? Adventure awaits.
The CamperKing Team