Summer is finally here, and if you are itching for an escape that doesn’t involve cramped airport queues or rigid hotel itineraries, a road trip is the ultimate answer. Opting for a campervan hire gives you the keys to total freedom. You can wake up to the sound of crashing waves, enjoy your morning coffee with an unobstructed cliffside view, and change your destination on a whim.
The UK is home to some of the most jaw-dropping coastal drives in the world, making it the perfect playground for a home on wheels. If you are ready to pack your bags and hit the tarmac, here are the absolute best scenic coastal routes to explore this summer.
3 Best Scenic Coastal Routes to Visit in a Campervan Hire
Here are the 3 best scenic coastal routes in the UK to enjoy in a campervan:
1. The North Coast 500, Scotland
Often dubbed Scotland’s answer to Route 66, the North Coast 500 (NC500) is a legendary 516-mile loop that starts and ends in Inverness. It tracks the untamed, dramatic northernmost edges of the Highlands.
Expect to pass white-sand beaches that look like they belong in the Caribbean (though the water temperature will quickly remind you they aren’t!), fairy-tale ruins like Dunrobin Castle, and the staggering, winding mountain passes of Bealach na Bà.
- Best for: Photographers, wild scenery lovers, and castle hunters.
- Top Tip: The roads can get notoriously narrow and steep. While you might be tempted to track down the most luxurious motorhome on the market with all the high-end amenities, make sure you choose a vehicle size you feel entirely comfortable navigating on tight single-track roads with passing places!
2. The Atlantic Highway, South West England
If your idea of a perfect summer involves surfboards, local pasties, and coastal sunrises, the Atlantic Highway is calling your name. This stunning stretch of the A39 runs from Barnstaple in North Devon down to the bustling surf hub of Newquay in Cornwall.
As you cruise along, you’ll be treated to rolling green hills on one side and the glittering Atlantic Ocean on the other. Make sure to pull over at Bude for a dip in its famous sea pool, and don’t miss Tintagel Castle, the birthplace of King Arthur, which clings dramatically to the rugged cliffs.
- Best for: Surfers, families, and beach lovers.
- Top Tip: Cornwall is popular during the peak summer months. When researching premium motorhomes hire options, look for a model with integrated bike racks so you can easily skip the beach parking traffic and cycle down to the hidden coves.
3. The Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales
Wales boasts some of the most underrated coastlines in Europe, and the roads wrapping around the Pembrokeshire Coast are nothing short of spectacular. Driving from Amroth up to St Dogmaels, this route treats you to a patchwork of dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden sea caves, and colorful harbour towns like Tenby.
Take your time exploring St Davids—the UK’s smallest city—and spend your evenings parked up at a local coastal campsite watching the sunset over the Celtic Sea. It’s a slower-paced, deeply peaceful alternative to some of the busier UK routes.
- Best for: Wildlife spotters (keep an eye out for seals and puffins!) and coastal hikers.
Making the Most of Your Summer Road Trip
Before you pick up the keys to your campervan hire, here are a few golden rules to keep your summer trip smooth and stress-free:
- Know Your Dimensions: Always keep a note of your vehicle’s height and width on the dashboard. It will save you from some serious panic at low bridges or tight country lanes.
- Pack for All Seasons: It’s a British summer, after all. You might find yourself in shorts and flip-flops at noon and reaching for a cozy fleece and a rain jacket by 4 PM.
- Book Your Campsites Early: Wild camping rules vary across the UK. Summer slots fill up months in advance, so secure your overnight bases ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
There is a magic to exploring the UK coastline on four wheels. It forces you to slow down, appreciate the view, and enjoy the journey just as much as the destination. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly campervan hire or dive into premium motorhomes to travel in absolute style, the coast is waiting for you. All you need to do is pick a route, grab a map, and hit the road!
FAQs
Do I need a special license for motorhome hire?
Not usually. A standard UK car driving license allows you to drive most standard campervans and motorhomes under 3.5 tonnes.
Can I go wild camping along these coastal routes?
Wild camping is generally legal in Scotland if you follow the Outdoor Access Code, but it is illegal in England and Wales without the landowner’s permission.
Which is the best motorhome option for a road trip?
An “A-Class” integrated motorhome is typically the most luxurious, offering spacious layouts, fixed island beds, full kitchens, and premium washrooms.
Is summer a good time for a UK campervan hire?
Yes! Summer offers the best weather and longest daylight hours, though roads and campsites will be much busier, so booking ahead is essential.
Are these coastal routes safe for large motorhomes?
Yes, but routes like the NC500 have very narrow, single-track sections. Take it slow and use the designated passing places to let others by.