Mainland Britain Castles by Campervan

Hire a campervan and discover the history of Mainland Britain at your own pace and in comfort of a home from home.

ENGLAND

Cornwall

  1. Tintagel Castle
    • History: This legendary cliff-top castle is associated with King Arthur and dates back to the 13th century, built by Richard, Earl of Cornwall. It’s known for its dramatic sea views and rich mythological history.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Trevalgan Touring Park near St Ives is well-rated for campervans.
  2. St Michael’s Mount
    • History: This medieval island castle and monastery has been inhabited since the 12th century. It’s connected to Cornwall’s maritime history and also has ties to the Mont St Michel in France.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Marazion Caravan and Motorhome Club nearby offers facilities for campervans.

Northumberland

  1. Alnwick Castle
    • History: Home to the Duke of Northumberland, this castle has been a residence since the 11th century and is famous for its appearances in the Harry Potter films. It’s also rich in military history.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Riverside Leisure Park offers campervan spots near Alnwick.
  2. Bamburgh Castle
    • History: Dating back to the Anglo-Saxon era, this stunning coastal fortress was the royal seat of the Northumbrian kings and has seen centuries of conflict with Scotland.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Budle Bay Campsite is near Bamburgh and offers campervan spaces.

Kent

  1. Leeds Castle
    • History: Originally a Norman stronghold, Leeds Castle was transformed into a royal residence by Edward I and later became a private home. It’s surrounded by lakes and stunning gardens.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Bearsted Caravan Club Site is ideal for those visiting Leeds Castle.
  2. Dover Castle
    • History: Known as the “Key to England,” this fortress has protected England from invasions since the Iron Age. It was fortified by the Romans, Normans, and during the Napoleonic wars and World War II.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Hawthorn Farm Caravan and Camping Park offers a peaceful spot close to Dover.

Devon

  1. Totnes Castle
    • History: A Norman motte-and-bailey fortress dating from the 11th century, Totnes Castle offers a glimpse into early medieval defenses and provides panoramic views over the town of Totnes and the River Dart.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Steamer Quay Caravan Club Site near Totnes.
  2. Powderham Castle
    • History: Located on the banks of the River Exe, Powderham Castle has been home to the Courtenay family since the 14th century. It showcases a mix of medieval and Georgian architecture.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Exeter Racecourse Caravan Club Site offers a good location close to Powderham.

Dorset

  1. Corfe Castle
    • History: This thousand-year-old castle was a royal fortress during the English Civil War, when it was besieged and partially destroyed. Its dramatic ruins now provide a haunting reminder of its history.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Norden Farm Campsite offers campervan facilities close to Corfe Castle.
  2. Sherborne Castle
    • History: Built by Sir Walter Raleigh in 1594, Sherborne Castle combines Tudor and Jacobean architecture. Its beautiful gardens and lake were designed by Capability Brown.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Monkton Wyld Court is a campervan-friendly site near Sherborne.

Cumbria

  1. Carlisle Castle
    • History: This medieval castle has stood on the Anglo-Scottish border for over 900 years, witnessing countless sieges and conflicts. It was a key fortress in the English defenses against Scotland.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Herdwick Croft Caravan Park near Bassenthwaite Lake is a scenic spot for campervans.
  2. Muncaster Castle
    • History: Dating back to the Roman era, Muncaster Castle is a striking country house that was expanded in the medieval period. It offers spectacular views of the Eskdale Valley.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Eskdale Campsite, located nearby, is perfect for campervan travelers.

Yorkshire

  1. Skipton Castle
    • History: One of the best-preserved medieval castles in England, Skipton Castle dates back over 900 years and played a major role in the English Civil War.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Gallaber Farm Campsite is a well-rated option near Skipton.
  2. Bolton Castle
    • History: A grand 14th-century fortress, Bolton Castle is famous for its role in the imprisonment of Mary, Queen of Scots. The castle is mostly intact and offers stunning views of Wensleydale.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Aysgarth Falls Caravan and Camping Park is located close to Bolton Castle.

Somerset

  1. Dunster Castle
    • History: Set on a wooded hill with views over Exmoor, Dunster Castle was initially a Norman fort. It was transformed into a lavish country house in the 19th century, with extensive gardens.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Minehead Caravan Club Site provides campervan facilities near Dunster.
  2. Farleigh Hungerford Castle
    • History: A lesser-known but atmospheric ruin, Farleigh Hungerford Castle was built in the 14th century and offers a glimpse into medieval life, including a rare chapel and tombs.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Bath Chew Valley Caravan Park, about 30 minutes away, is a peaceful site.

Essex

  1. Hedingham Castle
    • History: One of the best-preserved Norman keeps in England, Hedingham Castle was built around 1140 by Aubrey de Vere. It has hosted historical reenactments and events within its grounds.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Colchester Country Park is a nearby option offering campervan facilities.
  2. Colchester Castle
    • History: Built on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius, Colchester Castle is the largest Norman keep in Europe. It has served as a royal fortress and a prison.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Waldegraves Holiday Park on Mersea Island is a good option for campervan travelers.

Lancashire

  1. Lancaster Castle
    • History: A medieval castle and former prison, Lancaster Castle has been at the heart of English history, including during the Pendle witch trials and as a defensive stronghold since Roman times. On the way to Clitheroe Castle you can take in the journey taken by the Pendle Witches through the Trough of Bowland.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Bay View Holiday Park near Morecambe is well-rated for campervans and offers easy access to Lancaster.
  2. Clitheroe Castle
    • History: A small Norman keep overlooking the town of Clitheroe, this castle has served as a defense post for centuries. Its museum offers insights into the region’s history.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Riverside Caravan Park, located near the Forest of Bowland, offers a peaceful and gorgeous spot for campervans.

Norfolk

  1. Norwich Castle
    • History: Originally built as a royal palace for William the Conqueror, Norwich Castle has been a military stronghold, a prison, and now a museum and art gallery.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Deer’s Glade Caravan and Camping Park offers campervan facilities near Norwich.
  2. Castle Acre Castle
    • History: This Norman motte-and-bailey castle and nearby priory were built after the Norman Conquest. The site played a key role in the defense of East Anglia.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Kings Lynn Caravan and Camping offers nearby camping options with campervan facilities.

Surrey

  1. Guildford Castle
    • History: Dating back to shortly after the Norman conquest, Guildford Castle was used as a royal residence. Its tower offers panoramic views over Guildford and the surrounding countryside.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Chertsey Camping and Caravanning Club Site is within easy driving distance of Guildford.
  2. Farnham Castle
    • History: Built in 1138 by the Bishop of Winchester, Farnham Castle has served as a bishop’s palace and a defensive structure. The castle grounds are now open to the public.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Laleham Camping Club near Staines offers a good location for campervan travellers.

Wales

Gwynedd

  1. Caernarfon Castle
    • History: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Caernarfon Castle was built by Edward I in the late 13th century as a symbol of English dominance over Wales. It remains one of the most impressive medieval castles in Europe.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Coed Helen Holiday Park is a good option for campervans, close to the castle.
  2. Harlech Castle
    • History: Another of Edward I’s fortresses, Harlech Castle played a key role in the Wars of the Roses and offers panoramic views of Snowdonia and the sea.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Tyddyn Goronwy Camping Park, situated between Harlech and Barmouth, offers campervan facilities.

Pembrokeshire

  1. Pembroke Castle
    • History: The birthplace of Henry VII, Pembroke Castle was originally a Norman fortress and played a pivotal role in Welsh history. It overlooks the River Cleddau and has witnessed many sieges.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Redlands Touring Caravan and Camping Park is a campervan-friendly option near the castle.
  2. Carew Castle
    • History: Overlooking a tidal millpond, Carew Castle has Norman origins and was later transformed into a Tudor mansion. The castle has a rich history tied to both Welsh and Norman nobility.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Freshwater East Caravan Park provides campervan amenities and is close to Carew.

Ceredigion

  1. Aberystwyth Castle
    • History: This castle was built in the 13th century by Edward I during his campaigns in Wales. Although in ruins, it offers striking views of the sea and town, as well as a sense of medieval life.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Brynrodyn Caravan and Camping Park offers campervan accommodation near Aberystwyth.
  2. Cardigan Castle
    • History: Originally built in the 12th century, Cardigan Castle has been at the heart of Welsh cultural and military history. It’s known for hosting the first National Eisteddfod in 1176.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Riverside Camping, located near Cardigan, is a good spot for campervans.

Powys

  1. Powis Castle
    • History: Powis Castle was originally built in the 13th century by Welsh princes and later transformed into an opulent stately home. Its terraced gardens are renowned as some of the best in Britain.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Severn Valley Touring Park near Welshpool is a campervan-friendly option.
  2. Montgomery Castle
    • History: The ruins of this 13th-century castle overlook the town of Montgomery and offer fantastic views over the Welsh Marches. It was heavily involved in the defence of the Welsh-English border.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Lakeside Caravan Park near Montgomery offers campervan spots.

Denbighshire

  1. Rhuddlan Castle
    • History: Built by Edward I in the 13th century, Rhuddlan Castle was part of his campaign to conquer Wales. It’s situated on the River Clwyd and offers an impressive example of medieval military architecture.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Nant Mill Touring Park near Rhyl offers campervan facilities.
  2. Denbigh Castle
    • History: Another of Edward I’s fortresses, Denbigh Castle is perched on a rocky outcrop and boasts stunning views. It played a strategic role in the conquest of North Wales.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Sirior Bach Caravan Park is located near Denbigh and provides campervan spots.

Glamorgan (South Wales)

  1. Cardiff Castle
    • History: Located in the heart of Cardiff, this castle combines Roman, Norman, and Victorian elements. It has been a royal fortress and stately home and is one of Wales’s most iconic landmarks.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Cardiff Caravan and Camping Park, located within the city, offers convenient accommodation for those visiting Cardiff Castle.
  2. Caerphilly Castle
    • History: Caerphilly Castle is the largest castle in Wales and is famous for its impressive concentric design and extensive water defenses. Built in the 13th century, it was a stronghold in the war between the Welsh and the Normans.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Tredegar House Country Park Caravan Club Site is nearby and well-rated for campervans.

Carmarthenshire

  1. Kidwelly Castle
    • History: Overlooking the River Gwendraeth, Kidwelly Castle is a Norman fortress with a well-preserved structure. It played a role in Welsh-English conflicts in the 12th and 13th centuries.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Pembrey Country Park offers campervan facilities close to the castle and beautiful coastal surroundings.
  2. Laugharne Castle
    • History: This castle was originally built in the 12th century and was later converted into a Tudor mansion. It is famous for being the inspiration behind Dylan Thomas’s writing, as he lived nearby.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park is a scenic spot for campervans near Laugharne.

SCOTLAND

Edinburgh

  1. Edinburgh Castle
    • History: Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle has been a royal residence since at least the 12th century and has played a key role in Scotland’s turbulent history, including the Wars of Independence and the Jacobite Risings.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Mortonhall Caravan & Camping Park, located on the outskirts of Edinburgh, is a convenient base.

Aberdeenshire

  1. Balmoral Castle
    • History: The Scottish residence of the British royal family, Balmoral Castle was bought by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1852 and remains a royal retreat to this day. It’s known for its beautiful gardens and estate.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Ballater Caravan Park offers a great location near Balmoral.
  2. Dunnottar Castle
    • History: A dramatic ruin perched on a cliff overlooking the North Sea, Dunnottar Castle played a crucial role in Scottish history, including during the Wars of Scottish Independence and the English Civil War.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Stonehaven Queen Elizabeth Park, not far from Dunnottar, offers campervan facilities.

Argyll and Bute

  1. Inveraray Castle
    • History: The ancestral home of the Dukes of Argyll, chiefs of Clan Campbell, this Gothic-style castle dates back to the 18th century and is surrounded by stunning Highland scenery.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Argyll Caravan Park provides facilities near Inveraray Castle.
  2. Duart Castle
    • History: The ancestral seat of Clan Maclean, Duart Castle sits on the Isle of Mull and dates back to the 13th century. It has been restored and is open to the public for tours and events.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Shieling Holidays Mull offers campervan accommodation with stunning coastal views.
  3. Dunstaffnage Castle
    • History: This 13th-century fortress was once a major power base for the Lords of the Isles. Overlooking Loch Etive, it played an important role in Scotland’s medieval and Jacobite history.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Oban Camping and Caravanning Club Site offers campervan facilities nearby.

Perthshire

  1. Blair Castle
    • History: Blair Castle has been the seat of the Dukes of Atholl for over 700 years. It has seen many notable visitors, including Mary, Queen of Scots, and is famous for its stunning gardens.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Blair Castle Caravan Park, located within the estate, is perfect for campervans.
  2. Scone Palace
    • History: The crowning place of Scottish kings, including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce, Scone Palace is a site of immense historical importance. It was once the home of the Stone of Destiny.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Noah’s Ark Caravan Park in Perth is nearby.

Highlands

  1. Urquhart Castle
    • History: Overlooking Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic castles. It has played a pivotal role in Highland history, including during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Loch Ness Shores Camping and Caravanning Club Site offers a scenic base for campervan travelers.
  2. Eilean Donan Castle
    • History: Eilean Donan is one of Scotland’s most photographed castles, situated on a small island at the intersection of three sea lochs. Rebuilt in the 20th century, it’s a symbol of Scottish heritage.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Reraig Caravan Site, near the village of Balmacara, is close to the castle and offers campervan facilities.

Ayrshire

  1. Culzean Castle
    • History: A masterpiece of Scottish architecture, Culzean Castle was designed by Robert Adam in the 18th century. It features expansive gardens and cliffs overlooking the Firth of Clyde.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Culzean Castle Camping and Caravanning Club Site is located within the estate.
  2. Dundonald Castle
    • History: Built in the 14th century by Robert II, this castle was the birthplace of the Stewart dynasty. It’s situated on a hilltop with sweeping views of the Ayrshire countryside.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Craigie Gardens Caravan Park near Kilmarnock provides a good base for visiting Dundonald Castle.

Fife

  1. St Andrews Castle
    • History: The ruins of St Andrews Castle sit dramatically overlooking the North Sea. The castle was a bishop’s palace and played an important role in the Scottish Reformation.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Craigtoun Meadows Holiday Park, located near St Andrews, offers campervan-friendly accommodations.
  2. Falkland Palace
    • History: A favorite retreat of the Stuart monarchs, Falkland Palace is a Renaissance palace known for its beautiful gardens and association with Mary, Queen of Scots.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Lomond Woods Holiday Park in nearby Loch Lomond offers facilities for campervans.

Dumfries and Galloway

  1. Caerlaverock Castle
    • History: Famous for its unique triangular shape, Caerlaverock Castle was a stronghold of the Maxwell family and saw numerous sieges during Scotland’s conflicts with England.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Caerlaverock Holiday Park, located close to the castle, is perfect for campervans.
  2. Threave Castle
    • History: Built in the 14th century by Archibald the Grim, this island fortress sits on the River Dee and is accessible by boat. It served as a stronghold for the Black Douglas family.
    • Campervan Accommodation: Lochside Caravan Park, situated near Castle Douglas, offers excellent campervan amenities.

Key Notes for Campervan Travelers:

  1. England & Wales: The Caravan and Motorhome Club offers a range of high-quality campsites across the UK, many near historic sites. Consider joining if you’re traveling extensively in a campervan.
  2. Scotland: Wild camping is allowed in much of Scotland, but campervans need to follow specific guidance. Designated campervan parking areas are available in many scenic spots.

Blackburn                                                Preston                                    Edinburgh

1 Highfield Rd                                         165 Walker St                          1 Drovers Road
Blackburn Lancashire                              Preston                                    East Mains Industrial Estate
BB2 3AX                                                  PR1 2RR                                   Edinburgh
01254 495999                                         01772 886888                         EH52 5ND – 0131 322 6597

Wolverhampton                                      Wigan

New Manor Service Station                    44 Queen St
Parkfield Rd                                             Wigan
Wolverhampton WV4 6EL                      WN3 4HX

01902 491449                                         01942 778899

Image by Sophia Hilmar from Pixabay