There’s no better way to soak up the British summer than from behind the wheel of your campervan. Picture the scenes: winding coastal roads, mountain backdrops, impromptu stops by wild swimming spots, and the freedom to chase the sun. For the adventurous, you simply can’t beat it.
The UK offers some unforgettable summer road trips, and whether you’re heading for the rugged Scottish Highlands or the golden beaches of Cornwall, a campervan opens the door to spontaneous exploration. Skip the airports and crowded hotels and start your adventure here, on home soil, with these 5 can’t-be-missed UK campervan trips.
The Top 5 Summer Campervan Trips in the UK
Campervan road trip packing list
Getting your campervan ready for summer
Why our converted VW campervans are perfect for adventure
Your summer campervan road trip starts here
From misty, moody highlands to southern shores, the UK offers endless possibilities for campervan holidays in the summer months. Here are five of the best trips that make for the ultimate summer trip.
Scotland’s answer to Route 66, the NC500 is a legendary 516-mile loop packed with dramatic coastlines, ancient castles, and wild landscapes. It’s perfect for travellers seeking remote beauty and wild camping opportunities. Summer brings long daylight hours and a real sense of freedom.
A campervan like the CamperKing Pursuit 4 suits such an iconic road trip down to a T, offering maximum storage, ideal for off-grid adventures carrying bikes, paddleboards, or hiking gear.
Find out more on the official NC500 website.
Winding through surf towns, sandy coves, and seafood havens, Cornwall’s coast is a road trip that never fails for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and families alike. From St Ives to Newquay, you’ll be spoilt for choice for campsites with sea views and plenty of detour-worthy stops.
The Cornish coast offers huge variety, so take the opportunity to do some research and build your own adventure, making your way through stop-offs like Penzance, Bude, and St Austell.
Learn more on the Visit Cornwall website.
Rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and world-renowned walking routes for when you need to stretch out your legs – this UNESCO-protected region is best enjoyed in the slow lane. Ideal for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers, the Lakes offer peaceful overnight spots and endless scenic views.
Routes like Kirkstone Pass, Honister Pass between Buttermere and Borrowdale, and Wrynose Pass are just a few options to add to your list. A sleek campervan conversion like our Santorini, with its full kitchen and cosy layout, makes the perfect base for early starts and post-hike refuels.
Just keep in mind that roads across the Lake District can be particularly narrow or steep, such as in the central and western fells, so do research beforehand and stick to routes you’re confident on.
Find out more on the Lake District National Park website.
The wilder and often quieter cousin to its Scottish counterpart, the Northumberland 250 is a coastal-meets-castle, under-the-radar route which is a goldmine for outdoor purists. Think rugged coastal trails, moorland gravel paths, and near-empty surf beaches. Whether you're trail running in the Cheviots, paddleboarding on the River Coquet, or cycling to Hadrian’s Wall, this is the kind of route that rewards the self-sufficient explorer.
Explore the official Nland250 website.
A dream for outdoor enthusiasts, this route blends mountain hikes with seaside relaxation. Conquer Snowdon (if you haven’t already, that is), then wind down with fish and chips by the beach in Abersoch. It’s rugged, varied, and stunning in the summer.
Wales, in general, offers a massive variety of campervan trips to explore. The Snowdonia 360 covers the recommended route around Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula, but you can also discover more through routes like the Cambrian Way, The Coastal Way, and The North Wales Way.
Find out more on the Visit Wales website.
Got your route planned, but wondering what to take on your campervan road trip this summer? Whether you're heading off-grid or campsite-hopping, this quick packing list will keep your camper organised, functional, and ready for the unexpected.
Here are some of the essentials to have on your campervan road trip packing list:
Looking to upgrade your setup? Browse the CamperKing Shop for campervan accessories designed for comfort, practicality, and style on the road.
Before hitting the road for a summer road trip, give your campervan a once-over to ensure it’s as ready as you are. Here's your essential pre-trip checklist to get ready for summer trips:
Whether you're planning mountain bike weekends or coast-to-coast treks, a well-prepped van is key to a hassle-free summer. If you’ve got any concerns before heading off, the CamperKing Service & Aftercare team can help give you peace of mind and get you on the road.
Built for life on the move, CamperKing campervans combine reliability with everyday comfort, perfect for those chasing trails, waves, or summits. Every van is hand-finished in the UK, with smart storage, power-ready systems, and flexible layouts tailored to real-world needs.
Whether it’s the ultra-versatile Monte Carlo, the sleek Portofino, or the gear-hauling Monte Carlo XL, you’ll find a model that’s as adventurous as you are. Looking for the perfect match for your next campervan trip? Explore our campervan range and find the van that fits your lifestyle.
Club CamperKing is a gateway to a growing community of like-minded explorers. Enjoy exclusive events, discounts on accessories, early previews of new van releases, and real-world advice from those who live life on four wheels. From weekend warriors to full-time vanlifers, Club CamperKing welcomes you.
Join us today and connect with a community driven by adventure.
This summer, the open road is calling from across the UK. With a CamperKing campervan conversion by your side, you’ll have the freedom to roam, the quality to rely on, and the community to share it with. Whether you're chasing remote trails or coastal sunrises, every campervan trip starts with the right van, the right kit, and the right crew.
Explore our campervans, join Club CamperKing, and shop adventure-ready accessories to make this summer one to remember.
Yes, it can – especially during peak sunshine or if parked in direct sun. To stay cool, open windows for ventilation, use blackout blinds, and consider portable fans or thermal window covers. Many CamperKing vans offer power options for cooling devices, ideal for summer escapes.
In the UK, you generally need permission to park overnight unless you're at a designated campsite or stopover point. Some lay-bys and pub car parks welcome overnight stays, but always check local signage or ask the landowner. Apps like Park4Night can be helpful for locating legal spots.
Wild camping isn’t technically legal in most of England and Wales, but might be tolerated in some areas if done respectfully. In Scotland, wild camping rules are more relaxed but you should always do your own research ahead of making plans. Always leave no trace, avoid blocking access, and stay discreet.
If you’re planning a one-off trip or just getting started, hiring is a great way to test the waters. But for regular adventures or long-term touring, buying a van, whether new or pre-loved, offers better value and full customisation. We offer both options with expert advice to guide your decision.