Best activity locations in the UK

The islands of the UK are alive with exciting activities that will get you closer than ever before to our world-beating natural wonders. From surfing and coasteering to horse riding and rock climbing, read our run down of some of the best locations to visit in your campervan if you’re looking for adventure.

No matter what type of holiday you’re looking for, it’s always important you have the right campervan insurance sorted before you head off. Give the team at Motorhome Protect a call and begin your action-packed break! 

Best for surfing - Saltburn-by-the-Sea, Cleveland, North Yorkshire

Whether you’re splashing about in the breakers or carving through the waves, the UK has a variety of surfing hangouts to choose from. One of the north-east’s best known surf spots, Saltburn-by-the-Sea is a great place for both beginners and the more experienced to get their salt water fix. It’s definitely chillier than its famous Cornish cousins but in the right conditions it can rightfully lay claim to providing a world-class surfing experience. Decent beginner waves are usually found on either side of the Victorian pier and the local crew are a friendly bunch if you need some pointers.

If you prefer fresh water and want to try out surfing in a very safe and reliable environment then why not try out one of the UK’s inland surfing destinations? The Wave at Easter Compton near Bristol offers safe, consistent waves every day of the year. Indeed, they say just one hour surfing at The Wave gives you as many rideable waves as eight hours at sea! You’ll be a surf dude in no time!

Best for kayaking and canoeing - The River Brue, Somerset

Gliding over calm river waters in a kayak or a canoe has to be one of the best ways to enjoy some peace and tranquillity when on your campervan holiday. Starting off in Brewham, Somerset, the River Brue will carry you past the famous town of Glastonbury before hitting the coast at Burnham-on-Sea. From a prehistoric village and Grade I-listed bridge to spectacular sites of scientific interest and nature reserves, this gentle route is packed with wonderful sights and sounds to discover.

Be aware that while you don’t need a licence to paddle here, many of the UK’s rivers, lakes and inland waterways do require you to have a waterways licence before taking to the water. GoPaddling has some excellent advice on this and further information on great places to visit for perfect paddling.

For rock climbing - Stanage Edge, Hathersage, Peak District

Another popular adrenalin pumping pastime that can be enjoyed throughout the UK is rock climbing. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the popular Peak District location of Stanage Edge is a great spot with fantastic views across the Dark Peak moors and the Hope Valley. Stretching for over a mile and up to 20 metres high in places, the vast and impressive spot has plenty to offer all abilities.

However, if you’re an absolute beginner then seek advice on the most suitable climbs. But if you’re still nervous about putting on your climbing gear, don’t worry it’s not a wasted journey. There are several pathways to the top that won’t require much courage or special equipment.

If you’re visiting the Peak District and are looking for ideas for places to explore in your campervan then look no further than the Motorhome Protect tour itinerary we recently put together. When we aren’t thinking of ways for you to save on your campervan insurance, we’re finding you the best places to explore in the UK’s incredible landscape!

Best for horse riding - Ceredigion, mid-Wales

Lying between the two national parks of Snowdonia and the Pembrokeshire Coast, the Welsh coastal county of Ceredigion can often be overlooked by those in a hurry. However, its network of bridleways, ancient tracks and quiet country lanes perfectly combine the spectacular mountain scenery of Snowdonia with the gorgeous sandy beaches of Pembrokeshire.

If you’re looking for inspiration to explore this stunning county on horseback then take a look at this information booklet put together by Ceredigion County Council. There’s bound to be a route to suit your interests and level of experience.

For skiing and snowboarding - Glenshee, Perth and Kinross

You don’t have to travel over to Europe this winter to indulge in a spot of après ski. If you fancy a ski trip closer to home then the UK has a surprisingly good selection of locations. There are five ski centres alone in Scotland, but one of the most extensive is Glenshee. With 3,504ft of mountain adventure, 25 miles of downhill runs, 22 lifts and 36 runs, the centre offers an amazing selection of terrain. Steeps and glades, open bowls and narrow gullies, no matter what your skiing or snowboarding ability you’ll have a great time here.

While the snow may be less reliable than in Europe, it’s much easier for many UK-based campervan owners to head to the Highlands on a whim if the forecast is right. Be aware the Scottish ski centres are often best late in the season. Ideal if you’re not limited to school holidays or have only a couple of days free.

If you do decide to go to Europe then campervan insurance from Motorhome Protect is a great option. Policies can include as an optional extra, unlimited European cover along with breakdown cover in the UK and Europe. So, you’ll never be stranded far from home!

Best for walking - The Lizard, Cornwall

In the UK you’re never far from a stretch of countryside or coastline where you can lose the crowds and get back to nature. So, choosing one spot to go walking in the UK is a virtually impossible task. But that said, in the far South West of England lies the stunning Lizard Peninsula. With nature reserves and award-winning beaches galore, Britain’s most southerly point is a great place to discover secluded coves, quaint fishing villages and a whole host of rare wildlife. It’s also part of the 630-mile South West Coast Path so if you want to keep on walking then there are plenty of options!

If you’re planning a visit elsewhere in the UK then take a look at our 10 wonderful walking routes. There’s bound to be one just right for you.

Best for wild swimming - Rydal Water, Lake District

If you’re looking for an activity that’s liberating, exciting, refreshing and completely free then look no further than wild swimming. The Lake District is a well-known hub for anything fresh water-related and is a haven for wild swimmers among many others. There are countless opportunities for wild swimming in the area but one of the best and quietest spots to take the plunge has to be the small but beautiful Rydal Water.

Read the Motorhome Protect essential guide to wild swimming. It covers everything you need from water safety and what to wear to great wild swimming locations and where to park up for the night.

Best for mountain biking - Coed y Brenin, North Wales

As the UK's first and largest dedicated mountain bike trail centre the forest at Coed y Brenin still retains its reputation as the premier mountain biking location. With all-weather routes for all abilities this iconic site is a must-visit for any bike enthusiast. From family friendly Green Trails like Yr Afon through to life-flashing-before-your-eyes Black Trails like the Beast of Brenin – many with spectacular views of Snowdonia. Confident riders will enjoy the Dragon’s Back, but gentler options include MinorTaur, a Blue Trail with a new loop extension.

If you’re unsure which trail to ride, then head to the Singletrack Zone at the Ffowndri skills area and bike park. Here you’ll clearly see the difference between the graded trails and examples of what you can look forward to out in the forest.

Best for golfing - St. Andrews, Fife

Known globally as the home of golf, if you’re a keen golfer then you have to travel to St. Andrews at least once in your lifetime for a hole or two. While a round on the Old Course isn’t impossible to get, if you aren’t having much luck then there are plenty of other suitable courses. Indeed, you could spend weeks in the area playing on the dozens of St. Andrews golf courses. Apart from the Old Course, highlights include Kingsbarns, the Castle Course, the Duke’s Course and the New Course.

Remember that if you’re travelling with expensive clubs you’ll need to protect your contents with campervan insurance. Call the team at Lancaster for a campervan insurance quote today.

Best for diving - Lundy Island, Devon

Lying just off the North Devon coast, Lundy Island was the first area in the UK to be named a Marine Conservation Zone. Just three miles long and half a mile wide, the waters around the island boast one of the most vibrant marine life areas in the country. With great visibility look out for lobsters, dolphins and whales, moon jellyfish, giant urchins, corals and grey seals. There are also 10 diveable wrecks worth visiting.

Best for wild camping – Glen Feshie, Cairngorms

For a true sense of freedom in the great outdoors, you really need to take your campervan off for a spot of wild camping. While simply pitching up away from designated sites is illegal in much of England, Wales and Northern Ireland, it’s a different story in Scotland. A night under the stars in remote Glen Feshie, with its stunning waterfalls and mountain views, really can’t be beaten.

It’s also home to one of the most successful rewilding projects in the country, so you’ll be able to spot a huge variety of wildlife from the comfort of your camper. It’s also the starting point for many great walking routes. When wild camping, always use your common sense when parking up and respect signs asking you not to camp. Also check guidelines in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Best for coasteering - Three Cliffs Bay, South Wales

For those who love mixing things up a little when adventuring, coasteering could be the sport for you. A mixture of swimming and climbing, this relatively recent addition to the world of outdoor pursuits is proving popular throughout the UK. However, for a spot with everything you could hope for, Three Cliffs Bay, on the south coast of the Gower Peninsula in Wales is the one to head for.

But beware, don’t go coasteering unprepared. To stay safe, you need the right kit, advice from locals on the best spots, and someone else to explore with. Better yet, sign up to go with a professional tour group.

Best for all-round family activities - Beechenhurst, Forest of Dean

Sometimes you just want a great family day out in your campervan with no need for a complicated sports kit. If so, this Forestry England activity centre in the heart of the stunning Forest of Dean is perfect for you. Beechenhurst boasts countless things to do to keep you all entertained for many hours. There’s a 12-metre high climbing tower, archery, a zipline and Go Ape, too, offering high-wire forest adventures.

The nine-mile Forest of Dean family cycle trail also goes through here and is a beautiful off-road ride suitable for the whole family. There’s also a huge play area with wooden and modern rides, frames, tunnels and bridges. A stunning artistic sculpture trail and a brilliant Gruffalo Spotters trail also begin here.

Protect your home on wheels with Motorhome Protect

Choosing campervan cover from Motorhome Protect is the best way to get your action adventure off to the ideal start. Our helpful team of insurance specialists are here to find you the cover you need at a great price.

Great benefits of campervan insurance arranged through Motorhome Protect can include:

• Cover for up to 365 days a year which can include foreign use.
• Cover for your campervan whilst you are converting it.
• Up to £3,500 of cover for your camping personal effects.
• Quotes available for customers with claims and convictions.

Get a quick quote for campervan insurance today.

Policy benefits and features offered may very between insurance schemes or cover selected and are subject to underwriting criteria. Information contained within this article is accurate at the time of publishing but may be subject to change.