Campsites UK – Your Quick Guide to Motorhome Stops

Planning a road trip across Britain? Knowing where you can safely park your motorhome makes the whole adventure smoother. This page pulls together the most useful advice from our guides so you can decide on the spot, stay legal, and keep costs low.

Legal basics for UK camping

First things first – you need to know what’s allowed. In England and Wales, wild camping is only legal in some national parks and on privately owned land with permission. Our article on "Camping in National Parks UK" breaks down the exact rules for each park, so you won’t get surprised by a ranger at 2 a.m.

If you’re driving a caravan or van, roadside parking is a common question. You can’t just pull over anywhere – many local councils treat a motorhome as a vehicle, not a camper. The guide "Can You Sleep in a Caravan on the Side of the Road" explains which road types are safe, how to spot signs that forbid overnight stays, and what alternative spots like service areas or designated laybys offer.

Laybys can be a budget‑friendly option, but they come with their own set of rules. Our piece "Is Overnight Parking Allowed in UK Laybys?" lists the signs to watch for, the best times to arrive, and safety tips like keeping lights off and locking doors.

Scotland is more relaxed thanks to the Land Reform Act 2003 – you can wild camp in most places as long as you follow the ‘leave no trace’ principle. Check out "Is Wild Camping Legal in the Scottish Highlands?" for the do’s and don’ts.

Saving money and finding the right spot

Camping doesn’t have to break the bank. "Discovering the True Cost of Camping Across the UK" gives a clear picture of typical pitch fees, equipment rentals and hidden extras. Look for off‑season discounts at popular sites and consider boondocking – staying off‑grid in a legal spot – to cut costs dramatically. Our comparison of "Boondocking vs. Camping in the UK" helps you decide which style fits your travel style.

Beach lovers, you’re not out of luck. While pitching a tent on a UK beach is tempting, there are local bylaws that may restrict it. The guide "Can You Sleep in a Tent on the Beach in the UK?" lists the safest beaches, the right gear to bring, and what you need to ask before setting up.

For van lifers, sleeping in the back of a van is legal in many places as long as you’re not parked in a prohibited area. Our article "Sleeping in the Back of a Van in the UK" gives quick checks – look for signage, avoid private driveways and always keep a low profile.

When you pick a campsite, think about facilities you actually need: water, power, waste disposal. Not every spot offers all three, and sometimes a simple wild spot with a fresh water source beats a pricey site with a shop you’ll never use.

Lastly, remember to respect the land. Whether you’re in a designated campsite or a remote hillside, pack out everything you bring in, keep noise down and stay on marked paths. Following these basics lets you enjoy the freedom of the road without hassles.

Use this page as a starting point, then dive into the individual guides for deeper details. Happy travels, and may your motorhome find the perfect spot every night!