That sounds like an amazing road trip! Here’s a suggested Dorset motorhome itinerary based on your interests—beaches, castles, and relaxation—starting from Wigan at the motorhome hire firm.
Day 1: Travel from Wigan to Dorset
🚐 Drive to Dorset (approx. 5-6 hours) from the motorhome hire depot in Wigan.
⛺ Stay: Monkton Wyld Holiday Park (near Lyme Regis, great facilities for motorhomes)
Day 2: Lyme Regis & Charmouth – Fossil Hunting & Beaches
🏖 Lyme Regis Beach – A beautiful pebble and sand beach
🦴 Charmouth Beach – Famous for fossil hunting
🏰 Explore Lyme Regis town – Cobb Harbour, seafood restaurants
Day 3: Corfe Castle & Studland Bay
🏰 Corfe Castle – A stunning ruined castle with breathtaking views
🏖 Studland Bay – Sandy beach with dunes, great for walking and relaxing
⛺ Stay: Norden Farm Campsite (near Corfe Castle, motorhome-friendly)
Day 4: Lulworth Cove & Durdle Door – Stunning Coastline
🏖 Lulworth Cove – A gorgeous, natural bay with turquoise waters
🌊 Durdle Door – One of Dorset’s most famous landmarks
⛺ Stay: Durdle Door Holiday Park– ideal for all sizes of motorhomes
Day 5: Weymouth & Portland – Coastal Relaxation
🏖 Weymouth Beach – Sandy beach, great for a relaxing day
🌅 Portland Bill Lighthouse – Amazing sea views
🍽 Seafood dinner in Weymouth
Day 6: West Bay & Golden Cap – Jurassic Coast Walks
🏖 West Bay (Broadchurch filming location) – Dramatic cliffs and beach
🥾 Golden Cap Hike – Highest point on the South Coast, amazing views- just a little different to to the views you get in Wigan
Day 7: Return to Wigan
🚐 Head back home, stopping for breaks along the way in your hire motorhome.
Additional Tips:
Campsites: Book in advance, especially in summer
Parking: Some coastal spots have height restrictions—check before you go
Fuel: Plan fuel stops, as some rural areas have limited options. The motorhomes are heavier on fuel than regular cars so it will need a bigger fill up
Would you like more recommendations or alternative routes? 🚐✨
Exploring the Norfolk Broads from the Wigan motorhome hire company offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical grandeur. Here are some notable stately homes in the area, each accompanied by nearby campsites suitable for a hire motorhome:
1. Blickling Hall
A magnificent Jacobean mansion near Aylsham, Blickling Hall is renowned for its stunning architecture and expansive gardens. en.wikipedia.org
Nearby Campsite:
Norfolk Broads Caravan and Motorhome Club Site: Located approximately 4 miles from Blickling Hall, this site offers well-maintained pitches and modern facilities, making it an excellent base for exploring the Broads.
2. Felbrigg Hall
This elegant 17th-century country house near Cromer boasts beautifully preserved interiors and extensive parklands.
Nearby Campsite:
High Sand Creek Campsite: Situated about 5 miles from Felbrigg Hall, this campsite provides spacious pitches for your hire motorhome and easy access to both the stately home and the North Norfolk coast.
3. Holkham Hall
A grand Palladian mansion near Wells-next-the-Sea, Holkham Hall is set within a vast deer park and offers insights into England’s aristocratic heritage. visitnorfolk.co.uk+1vogue.com+1
Nearby Campsite:
Fakenham Racecourse Caravan and Camping: Located roughly 5 miles from Holkham Hall, this campsite offers a unique setting within the racecourse grounds, providing modern amenities and a tranquil environment. An ideal place to sit outside your hire vehicle watching the world go by
4. Sandringham House
The private country retreat of the British royal family, Sandringham House is nestled within 20,000 acres of Norfolk countryside and showcases exquisite gardens. visitnorfolk.co.uk
Nearby Campsite:
Sandringham Camping and Caravanning Club Site: Just 2 miles from the estate, this site offers excellent facilities for your motorhome from Wigan amidst woodland surroundings, perfect for a peaceful stay.
The Old Brick Kilns Caravan and Camping Park: Approximately 5 miles from Oxburgh Hall, this award-winning campsite offers top-notch facilities and a serene setting.
When planning your visit from Wigan to the Norfolk Broads, it’s advisable to contact the campsites in advance to confirm availability and ensure they can accommodate your hire motorhome. Enjoy your journey through the Norfolk Broads, where history and nature intertwine beautifully.
Contact your local branch in Wigan on 01942 778899 for more details on motorhome hire.
Exploring Wales in a hired motorhome from Wigan, offers a unique opportunity to visit various iconic film and TV locations. Here’s a guide to some notable sites, along with nearby campsites and dining options alternatively dine in your motorhome on the campsite and enjoy the al fresco life.
Portmeirion This picturesque village in North Wales served as the backdrop for the 1960s TV series The Prisoner. Designed in an Italianate style, its colourful buildings and scenic surroundings make it a must-visit. Just a 2 and half hour drive from Wigan in the motorhome from the friendly hire team.
Nearby Campsite: Tyddyn Llwyn Caravan Park Located in Porthmadog, this campsite offers facilities suitable for all hire motorhomes and is a short drive from Portmeirion.
Dining Option: Castell Deudraeth Brasserie Situated within Portmeirion, this brasserie offers contemporary Welsh cuisine in a historic setting.YouTube+5Wikipedia+5The Scottish Sun+5
Barry Island Famous for its role in the BBC sitcom Gavin & Stacey, Barry Island boasts beautiful beaches and a vibrant promenade. Fans can spot several filming locations, including Marco’s Café.
With Barry Island being the furthest on this trip from Wigan it may be worth starting here first then making your way North.
Nearby Campsite: Cardiff Caravan Park Located in Cardiff, this campsite provides motorhome facilities for all sizes of motorhome and is approximately a 30-minute drive from Barry Island.
Caernarfon Castle This majestic castle was featured in the Netflix series The Crown, particularly in the episode depicting Prince Charles’s investiture as Prince of Wales. Visit Wales
Dining Option: The Black Boy Inn A historic inn serving traditional Welsh cuisine in the heart of Caernarfon.
Tretower Court and Castle This medieval manor house has appeared in various productions, including A Discovery of Witches and The Libertine. Visit Wales
Nearby Campsite: The Dragons Back Located in the Black Mountains, this campsite offers basic facilities and stunning views.Visit Wales
Dining Option: The Bear Hotel Situated in Crickhowell, this hotel offers a renowned restaurant serving local produce.
Freshwater West This beach in Pembrokeshire was used as a filming location for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, serving as the backdrop for Dobby’s final resting place. Le Monde
Nearby Campsite: Celtic Camping Located near St Davids, this campsite offers open spaces suitable for motorhomes and stunning sea views.
Dining Option: The Shed Fish & Chip Bistro A popular spot in Porthgain, renowned for its fresh seafood offerings.
When planning your trip, it’s advisable to check the availability and booking requirements of campsites in advance, especially during peak seasons. Enjoy your cinematic journey through Wales!
Contact us on 01942 778899 to book your motorhome hire
Embarking on an Easter motorhome hire adventure from Wigan offers a delightful blend of festive activities and the freedom to explore picturesque destinations. Here are some top recommendations to make your journey memorable:
Winstanley Park Easter Egg Hunt Located in Wigan, Winstanley Park hosts an annual Easter Egg Hunt set within enchanting woodlands. Participants can enjoy crafting sessions, a trail filled with surprises, and meet the Easter Bunny. The event also features food stalls, free bouncy castles, and optional donkey rides. Please note, due to the woodland terrain, the trail may not be suitable for prams and wheelchairs. Tickets are required for both adults and children, with under 2’s entering free. winstanleyparkevents.co.uk
Care Choice North West Family Easter Egg Hunt On Sunday, 20th April 2025, from 11 am to 3 pm, join the free, fun-filled Family Easter Egg Hunt at the Eldervale facility in Wigan. This event promises activities suitable for all ages, making it a perfect family outing. Facebook
Sandringham Club Site, Norfolk For those willing to venture a bit further, the Sandringham Club Site offers tranquil woodland settings within the Sandringham Estate. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatching and exploring nearby sandy beaches. The campsite is motorhome-friendly and provides a peaceful retreat during the Easter holidays. campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk
Scarborough Club Site, Yorkshire Situated near the coast, this site offers easy access to beaches and the North York Moors National Park. It’s perfect for families looking to combine Easter festivities with seaside fun. The campsite accommodates motorhomes and provides a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable stay. campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk
Easter Campervan Hire If you haven’t secured your motorhome yet, we offers a range of campervans and motorhomes suitable for Easter getaways. With depots in various locations, including near Wigan, they provide flexible options to start your journey. Their vehicles come equipped with essential amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
Before setting off, it’s advisable to check the availability and book your spots in advance, as Easter events and campsites can fill up quickly. Enjoy your Easter adventure!
This trip took us from Wigan into the heart of Yorkshire, where we discovered the stunning landscapes of the Dales and the Moors. We based ourselves in Hawes, home of the famous Wensleydale Cheese, and explored Aysgarth Falls and Malham Cove. Moving east, we camped near Whitby, soaking in its gothic charm and indulging in the best fish and chips. A final stop in York allowed us to explore its medieval streets and the awe-inspiring York Minster. Yorkshire’s blend of rugged beauty and rich history made it a perfect motorhome destination.
Each of these motorhome trips from Wigan offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and relaxation, making for an unforgettable summer family holiday.
For more details on our motorhome and campervan hire from Wigan give us a call on 01942 778899
Starting from Wigan, our family motorhome journey took us north to the breath-taking Lake District. With our compact hire motorhome on wheels, we explored Windermere, Ambleside, and Keswick.
Highlights included a scenic cruise on Lake Windermere, hiking up Catbell’s for panoramic views, and a stop at the charming town of Grasmere for some traditional gingerbread.
Campsites like Park Cliffe offered excellent facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay. Evenings were spent around a firepit, soaking in the serene landscapes. A perfect mix of adventure and relaxation!
Hiring a motorhome is the best way to explore this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With small independent campsites and your bigger chain ones there is an abundance of different places to visit. Whilst in your hire motorhome visit places along the coast or inland towards one of the many lakes in this area.
Here’s a detailed road trip itinerary for your VW California T6 campervan adventure from Wigan, taking in some of the best waterfalls in Yorkshire. This route offers stunning scenery, great campsites, and plenty of opportunities for hiking and photography.
🚐 Yorkshire Waterfall Road Trip Itinerary
Start: Wigan (VW California Hire)
Pick up your campervan and stock up on supplies.
Ensure you have essentials: camping gear, maps, snacks, and a good playlist.
📍 Stop 1: Aysgarth Falls
Drive time: ~2.5 hours (via M6 & A684)
Location: Aysgarth, Wensleydale, North Yorkshire
Why visit? Famous for its three-tiered waterfalls and featured in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
Things to do:
Walk the Aysgarth Falls Nature Reserve.
Visit Bolton Castle, just nearby.
Enjoy lunch at the Falls Café.
🏕 Camping:Aysgarth Falls Hotel Campsite (near the falls, has good facilities)
📍 Stop 2: Hardraw Force
Drive time: ~20 min from Aysgarth
Location: Hardraw, near Hawes
Why visit? England’s highest single-drop waterfall, accessed via the Green Dragon Inn.
Things to do:
Have a drink at the Green Dragon Inn before visiting.
Walk to the Hardraw Scar gorge.
Optional hike up to Great Shunner Fell.
🏕 Camping:Bainbridge Ings Campsite (near Hawes, with showers and electric hook-ups)
📍 Stop 3: Cotter Force
Drive time: ~10 min from Hardraw
Location: Near Appersett, Yorkshire Dales
Why visit? Easy-access waterfall with a peaceful atmosphere.
Things to do:
Short scenic walk from the roadside.
Picnic stop with great photography opportunities.
🏕 Camping: Continue at Bainbridge Ings or Hawes Caravan Park.
📍 Stop 4: Cautley Spout
Drive time: ~45 min from Cotter Force
Location: Near Sedbergh, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales
Why visit? The highest waterfall in England above ground, with an epic landscape.
Things to do:
Hike up to the Howgill Fells.
Visit The Cross Keys Temperance Inn (historic pub serving great food).
🏕 Camping:Sedbergh Caravan Park.
📍 Stop 5: Janet’s Foss & Gordale Scar
Drive time: ~1 hour from Cautley Spout
Location: Malham, Yorkshire Dales
Why visit?
Janet’s Foss: A fairy-tale waterfall hidden in a woodland glade.
Gordale Scar: A dramatic limestone ravine with cascading waterfalls.
Malham Cove: A famous limestone cliff with spectacular views.
🏕 Camping:Riverside Campsite Malham.
📍 Stop 6: Lumb Hole Falls
Drive time: ~1.5 hours from Malham
Location: Crimsworth Dean, near Hebden Bridge
Why visit? A hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery.
Things to do:
Short walk from the road.
Explore Hebden Bridge, known for its artsy shops and cafes.
🏕 Camping:Hebden Bridge Camping.
📍 Stop 7: Scaleber Force
Drive time: ~40 min from Hebden Bridge
Location: Settle, Yorkshire Dales
Why visit? A stunning multi-tiered waterfall in a woodland gorge.
Things to do:
Easy access from the roadside.
Explore Settle’s market town.
🏕 Camping:Knight Stainforth Hall Caravan & Camping Park.
Final Stretch: Drive Back to Wigan
Drive time: ~2 hours back via the M65 & M6.
🏕 Campsites to Book in Advance
Aysgarth Falls Hotel Campsite
Bainbridge Ings Campsite (Hawes)
Riverside Campsite (Malham)
Hebden Bridge Camping
Knight Stainforth Hall Caravan Park
🎒 Road Trip Essentials
Good walking boots 🥾
Waterproofs ☔
Camera 📸
First aid kit 🚑
Snacks & drinks 🍏
Camping chairs & stove 🍽️
Maps & offline GPS 🗺️
🚀 Bonus Add-On Stops
Thornton Force (near Ingleton Waterfalls Trail)
West Burton Falls (a hidden gem near Aysgarth)
Hull Pot (largest natural hole in England near Pen-y-Ghent)
Final Thoughts
This 5-7 day road trip is perfect for a mix of adventure, scenic drives, and cozy camping. You’ll experience some of the best waterfalls in Yorkshire, with plenty of great stops for food, photography, and local attractions.
For details on our hire vehicle contact the team in Wigan
Introduction Wigan is the perfect starting point for an unforgettable motorhome adventure. With easy access to both the vibrant city life of Manchester and the breathtaking landscapes of the surrounding countryside, Wigan offers the ideal base for your road trip. Whether you’re into history, nature, or culture, there’s something for everyone just a short drive away.
Suggested Road Trip Destinations:
Rivington Pike: Just outside Wigan, this popular spot offers stunning views over the Lancashire countryside. A great spot for a hike and picnic. Learn more about Rivington Pike
Chester Zoo: Take a trip to one of the UK’s best-loved zoos. It’s perfect for families and animal lovers. ChesterZoo website
Lakeside, Lake District: A little further afield, but worth the drive for serene views and water activities. Discoverthe Lake District
Conclusion With a motorhome, you have the flexibility to create your own journey, making Wigan a fantastic launch point for exploring nearby attractions.
2. The Best Campsites Around Wigan for Your Motorhome Adventure
Introduction Hiring a motorhome in Wigan opens up a world of camping opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot in nature or a well-equipped site with plenty of activities, there are plenty of campsites near Wigan where you can park your motorhome and enjoy the great outdoors.
Recommended Campsites:
Wigan Caravan Park: Situated near the town, this site offers easy access to local amenities while still being close to nature. Wigan Caravan Park Info
Heath Wood Caravan Park: Nestled in a quiet corner of the Lancashire countryside, this peaceful site is perfect for unwinding. Explore Heath Wood
Billing Aquadrome: A popular, family-friendly park offering a range of facilities, including water sports. BillingAquadrome Details
Conclusion These campsites are ideal for enjoying your motorhome experience while being surrounded by beautiful landscapes and plenty of local activities.
If you’re thinking about hiring a campervan in Manchester, finding the right campsite is key to a relaxing trip. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-timer, these spots offer excellent amenities and proximity to Manchester’s beautiful countryside.
Suggested Campsites:
Manchester North Caravan Park: A well-equipped site with easy access to both Manchester and the surrounding countryside. More info here
Bents Green Caravan Site: Nestled in the stunning Peak District, perfect for walking and cycling. Find out more
Fallowfields Campsite: A family-friendly site located near the Lake District. Explore the site
Conclusion These campsites are ideal bases for your campervan trip , providing a blend of comfort, scenery, and adventure.
Friday 11am, we arrive at Easihire/Easicampers Blackburn, to pick up our home for the weekend, a magnificent Volkswagen California Ocean, sat glistening in the rain. So much for the hope of sunshiny days, but I can’t be down hearted, it is January and we’re in the North of England, Gods own county of Lancashire and we have planned an excursion o’er t’border to see them there folk in Yorkshire. Fingers crossed for better weather, but I’m not betting on it.
Wrap up, decent shoes or boots and nothing to worry about, we have food, heating and a vehicle to travel in, and we’re off before you know it!
Todays plan, an afternoon in Haworth & an Evening in Harrogate
There’s something magical about spending an afternoon in Haworth, immersing yourself in its rich history, before heading to Harrogate for an elegant evening. With the freedom of a campervan, this Yorkshire adventure blends heritage, relaxation, and scenic beauty into one perfect weekend.
Afternoon in Haworth: Walking in the Footsteps of the Brontës
Haworth is a place steeped in literary history. It is relatively local to where we live, merely an hour away, yet I have spent so little time here, sadly. I decided my wife and I would have a stop off here, and do the ‘touristy bit’. Never one to like crowded places, I was pleasantly surprised to find it busy, but nothing too bad, (maybe it being winter and a damp day put people off?).
Perched on the edge of the rugged Yorkshire moors, this charming village is forever linked to the Brontë sisters, who penned some of English literature’s most famous novels here. Arriving just after midday, I parked up and strolled along the cobbled Main Street, its quaint shops and tea rooms exuding timeless character.
A visit to the Brontë Parsonage Museum was essential. Wandering through the house where Charlotte, Emily, and Anne lived and wrote, I could almost hear the echoes of their creativity. Their original manuscripts, letters, and personal belongings painted a vivid picture of their lives.
From the museum, we ventured onto the Brontë Way, following the well-trodden path that inspired Wuthering Heights. The rolling moorland stretched out before me, its windswept beauty both haunting and exhilarating. A short fifty minute walk led me to the picturesque Bronte Waterfall, where we paused to soak in the tranquillity before making our way back to the village.
Before arriving in Haworth, we had made a reservation at Cobbles & Clay, a well renowned and delightful café where I enjoyed a strong Yorkshire tea and a hearty slice of parkin—a traditional ginger cake with a rich, treacly warmth perfect for a cool afternoon.
Evening in Harrogate: Elegance and Indulgence
From the rugged romance of Haworth, we made the short drive to Harrogate, a town synonymous with elegance and indulgence. As dusk closed in, the Victorian spa town twinkled under golden streetlights, and we strolled through the famous Valley Gardens, enjoying the crisp late afternoon air.
No trip to Harrogate would be complete without experiencing its spa heritage, so we headed to the Turkish Baths for the last evening session (that’s 18.30 and they close at 20.30). The warm, aromatic steam and the stunning Moorish architecture transported me to another world—a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.
Dinner called for a visit to The Ivy Harrogate, where we treated ourselves to a luxurious meal. The decadent surroundings, with their Art Deco-inspired interiors, perfectly complemented my choice of a rich steak accompanied by a glass of deep red Malbec.
A Night Under the Stars
With the campervan stocked and ready, I drove a short distance through beautiful countryside to Rudding Holiday Park, a campsite just over five miles outside of Harrogate. Nestled amongst rolling hills, it offered the best of both worlds—peaceful seclusion yet close to the town.
As we settled in for the night, wrapped in a blanket with a mug of hot chocolate each, we gazed up at a sky bursting with stars. The only sounds were the occasional hoot of an owl and the rustling of leaves in the gentle night breeze.
This day had been a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature—proving once again that Yorkshire never fails to charm.
Early start in the morning as we head off for a day in the Medieval city of York.
Night night!
—————————
Always the dilemma……do I cook breakfast or just stop off somewhere en route to York. We choose the latter, much easier and with that decision made we say good bye to Harrogate and make our way to the gorgeous city of York.
Vikings, History, and a Pint on the Shambles
York is a city that brims with history, charm, and an undeniable sense of adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone who loves a scenic stroll, this ancient city has something for everyone. If you’re planning a day trip, here’s how to make the most of your time, with a perfect blend of Viking history, medieval streets, and, of course, a well-earned pint along the way.
Morning: A Journey Back in Time at the Jorvik Centre
Our adventure began at the Jorvik Viking Centre, one of York’s most famous attractions. The immersive experience swept us back to the 10th century, when York was a thriving Viking settlement known as Jorvik. The moment we stepped inside, the sights, sounds, and even the scents of the Viking Age surrounded us. The centre’s state-of-the-art ride transported us through a faithfully reconstructed Viking street, complete with animatronic residents going about their daily lives. After the ride, we took our time to explore the impressive collection of artifacts, from weapons to household items, all unearthed from beneath the streets of York.
Leaving the Viking era behind, we took a stroll along York’s city walls, the longest medieval walls in England. The walk offers spectacular views of the city’s historic skyline, including the iconic York Minster. With every step, you’re quite literally walking through history, passing through ancient gateways like Micklegate Bar, which once served as the main entrance to the city. The walls provide a fantastic perspective on York’s layered past, from its Roman foundations to its medieval grandeur.
A Pint and a Bite on The Shambles
After working up an appetite, it’s time to stop at The Shambles, one of the most famous and picturesque streets in the world. With its overhanging timber-framed buildings, cobbled lanes, and charming shopfronts, it feels like stepping into a Harry Potter film (in fact, many believe it inspired Diagon Alley!). Here, you can find a cosy pub or café to refuel with a hearty lunch and a refreshing pint. Pub for us! A decent pint and a glorious steak and ale pie – a rare treat, I might add.
With our hunger satisfied, we spent the afternoon soaking in more of York’s treasures. York Minster, is awe-inspiring, an absolute masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Feeling energetic, we climbed the tower for breathtaking panoramic views (if you’ve been to Coventry Cathedral and done their steps, you’ll have an idea of what these were like). Alternatively, you can always visit Clifford’s Tower, the last remaining part of York Castle, where you can enjoy another impressive viewpoint over the city.
York is a city that effortlessly blends the past and present, offering an unforgettable day of exploration. From the Viking echoes of Jorvik to the medieval charm of The Shambles, every corner of this city tells a story. Whether you visit for history, culture, or simply a good pint in a centuries-old pub, York never disappoints.
Time sadly did not allow us to pop into the Yorkshire Museum and Gardens, a beautiful spot to relax and take in more of the city’s Roman and medieval history. The gardens provide a perfect place to unwind and relax, but not for us as we were off again, this time towards Malham Cove.
A Scenic Escape: York to Malham Cove
With our campervan prepped for a cozy overnight stay at Lodge Park, we set off on a journey filled with natural wonders, historic charm, and delicious food. Our little road trip, takes us now from York to Malham Cove and weaving through the Yorkshire Dales’ breathtaking landscapes. Leaving York behind, we took a leisurely drive west, watching the scenery transform from city streets to rolling countryside. Sometimes, the best adventures are right on your doorstep.
There is no way we can pass Skipton without stopping off for a light dinner. The Woolly Sheep is magnificent. I settled for the haunch of Venison and my dear wife chose the Pan Seared Sea Bass with a delicious Sauvignon. I really fancied a glass of Punta de Vacas Malbec or even better a bottle of Finca La Colonia, another Malbec, though I was also tempted with their Pinot Noir, but I can restrain myself occasionally and I am driving, so I settle for a diet coke. I have a bottle of Wanderer (such a fitting name) in the campervan, so maybe a glass whilst sitting out wrapped in a blanket once we reach Lodge Park, which is still about an hour away.
With our stomachs full and spirits high, the food and atmosphere was exquisite, we made our way to Lodge Park, our chosen spot for the night. Nestled in the Dales, this campsite provided a peaceful retreat, with just the right balance of comfort and nature. After setting up our campervan, we enjoyed a quiet evening under the stars, granted this time blocked by heavy clouds, but they were there above them. We recounted our day’s adventures over that glass of Wanderer I promised myself, before snuggling down for the night.
A Walk at Bolton Abbey
Waking up to the sound of birdsong, we set off early intent on exploring Malham Cove. However, before going to Malham, we make a delightful pit stop at Bolton Abbey only half an hour away. It is well worth it! Nestled along the River Wharfe, this historic estate offers stunning walking trails, ancient ruins, and a peaceful atmosphere. We opted for a riverside walk, crossing the famous stepping stones and soaking in the crisp Yorkshire air.
As lunch beckoned, we treated ourselves at The Devonshire Arms. This elegant country inn is known for its warm hospitality and excellent food. We indulged in a hearty meal featuring a magnificent Fish Finger Butty each – a well-earned reward after our morning stroll. The relaxed ambiance and beautiful setting made it the perfect lunch before continuing our journey.
Exploring Malham Cove
This awe-inspiring limestone formation is a sight to behold, its sheer cliffs and unique pavement leading to breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside. The short but steep climb to the top is worth the effort, offering a panoramic vista that stretches for miles. The Cove’s dramatic beauty has even made it a filming location for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, adding a touch of magic to our visit.
After soaking in the beauty of Malham Cove, we reluctantly packed up and began our journey home, we made a few spontaneous stops to admire the landscape and snap a few final photos. By the time we arrived back, we felt refreshed, recharged, and already dreaming of our next adventure. Maybe we really should explore more of our own home county – Lancashire, home of football history with clubs like Accrington Stanley and Burnley, the history of the Lancastrians and War of the Roses, the industrial revolution and we cannot forget Pendle Hill and the Trough of Bowland and it’s association with the Pendle Witches?
My Final Thoughts
Our trip to Haworth, Harrogate and on to York, then our final stop at Malham Cove and all the places in between was the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence. From the historic charm to the mouthwatering delights of all the eateries we visited, and the breathtaking scenery of the Yorkshire Dales, every moment was unforgettable. For anyone looking for a short yet fulfilling getaway in the heart of Yorkshire, this route is a must.
Our thanks has to go also to the people at Easihire in Blackburn, who without them our little road trip couldn’t have happened. The VW California Ocean campervan was amazing, such a joy to drive and had everything we possibly required in it, plus it was comfortable and warm at night too.