QuoteSearcher understands that families are always on the lookout for cost-effective holiday options. With the ongoing pandemic and travel restrictions, as well as the cost-of-living rising significantly, UK staycations have become increasingly popular, and campervan and motorhome trips are a great way to explore the country without breaking the bank.
To help our customers plan their perfect staycation in their campervan or motorhomes, we conducted extensive research on the top 10 UK staycation locations for trips that are affordable and beneficial for families.
Our research involved a comprehensive analysis of five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, social media mentions on Instagram and Twitter, as well as the use of relevant hashtags. We looked for locations that had the perfect combination of affordable accommodation options, plenty of activities for families, and stunning natural landscapes.
After careful consideration, we curated a list of the top 10 locations that offer the best value for money and a memorable experience for families looking for a budget-friendly staycation in the UK
Welcome to our guide on budget-friendly activities to do in the top 10 UK staycation locations for campervan and motorhome trips. We understand that family holidays can be expensive, but we have compiled a list of activities in each location that are cost-effective and perfect for families looking for a fun-filled, yet affordable staycation.
1. Costwolds
- Explore the villages – Take a stroll through the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds such as Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold.
- Cotswold Way – Take a hike along the Cotswold Way, a 102-mile long footpath that runs from Chipping Campden to Bath.
- Visit the Wildlife Park – Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens offers a fun-filled day for the family, with exotic animals and beautiful gardens.
2. Keswick – The Lake District:
- Derwentwater – Take a walk around Derwentwater, a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains.
- Castlerigg Stone Circle – Visit the Castlerigg Stone Circle, a prehistoric monument with stunning views of the surrounding area.
- The Puzzling Place – A unique attraction offering optical illusions, mazes, and puzzles that are sure to keep the family entertained.
3. North Coast 500 – Scotland:
- Beaches – Take a dip in the stunning beaches such as Dornoch Beach and Achmelvich Beach, perfect for a family day out.
- Explore the ruins – Visit the ruins of the Sinclair and Girnigoe Castle or the Dunrobin Castle, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the area.
- Gairloch Heritage Museum – A small museum with exhibits showcasing the history and culture of the area.
4. St Agnes – Cornwall:
- Coastal walks – Take a walk along the stunning coastal path from St Agnes to Perranporth.
- Visit the beach – St Agnes boasts a beautiful beach, perfect for a family day out with rock pools to explore and surfing lessons available.
- St Agnes Museum – Learn about the rich history of St Agnes at the local museum.
5. Hope Valley – Peak District:
- Mam Tor – Take a hike up Mam Tor, a hill with stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Castleton – Explore the village of Castleton, with its beautiful buildings, pubs and quaint shops.
- Cycle along the Monsal Trail – The Monsal Trail is a former railway line turned cycling and walking trail with stunning views of the Peak District.
6. Calgary Bay – Isle of Mull
- Visit the beach – Calgary Bay offers a beautiful white sand beach, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
- Explore the Calgary Art in Nature Trail – A beautiful walk through nature with art installations.
- Duart Castle – Visit the Duart Castle, the ancestral home of the Clan Maclean, with beautiful views of the Sound of Mull.
7. Durness – Scotland:
- Smoo Cave – Explore the Smoo Cave, a beautiful cave with a waterfall and natural pool.
- Balnakeil Beach – Take a stroll along the beautiful Balnakeil Beach, perfect for a family day out.
- Cocoa Mountain – Visit the Cocoa Mountain, a small chocolate shop with delicious handcrafted chocolates.
8. Bamburgh Beach – Northumberland:
- Visit the beach – Bamburgh Beach offers stunning views of Bamburgh Castle, perfect for a family day out.
- Bamburgh Castle – Visit Bamburgh Castle, with its beautiful architecture and fascinating history.
- Grace Darling Museum – Learn about the life of Grace Darling, a heroine of the sea at the local museum.
9. Great Yarmouth – Norfolk:
- Spend a day at the beach: Great Yarmouth boasts miles of sandy beaches that are perfect for a day out with the family. You can take a dip in the sea, build sandcastles, or simply relax on the beach.
- Visit the Time and Tide Museum: The Time and Tide Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of Great Yarmouth and its fishing industry. It’s a great way to spend a few hours, and admission is affordable.
- Go on a seal-watching boat trip: Head to nearby Horsey beach, where you can take a boat trip to see the seals basking on the sand dunes. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get up close and personal with these adorable creatures.
- Explore the Norfolk Broads: The Norfolk Broads are a network of navigable waterways that are perfect for a day out on the water. You can hire a boat for the day and explore the waterways at your leisure.
- Discover the historic town of Norwich: Just a short drive from Great Yarmouth, Norwich is a beautiful historic town that’s well worth a visit.
10. Grasmere – Lake District:
- Take a hike: The Lake District is famous for its stunning natural beauty, and there’s no better way to experience it than by taking a hike. Grasmere is surrounded by numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. One popular trail is the Coffin Route, which takes you through stunning countryside and provides fantastic views of Grasmere and the surrounding area.
- Visit the Wordsworth Museum: The Wordsworth Museum is located in the heart of Grasmere and offers a fascinating insight into the life and works of the famous poet William Wordsworth. Admission is affordable, and the museum also hosts regular events and exhibitions.
- Try some local delicacies: Grasmere is known for its delicious local produce, including Grasmere Gingerbread, which has been made in the village for over 150 years. You can also sample some local cheeses, meats, and other treats at the Grasmere Farm Shop, which offers affordable prices.
