Touring Lancashire in a Campervan: A Three-Day Adventure

Once again we are back at Easihire/Easicampers in Blackburn. We even have the same VW California Ocean, which is a bonus as it connects straight to my telephone!

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Over the past couple of weeks, a recuring thought kept coming to haunt me, ‘Why have we not done this before?’

As the days are getting longer and our last little road trip was such a success we have decided to have another weekend away touring our very own county and feel there is probably no better way to explore the beauty, history, and charm of Lancashire than by hitting the road in a campervan (I have done it on a motorbike many times, but that was more enjoying the roads than the view). With rolling hills, historic sites, and classic seaside towns, this three-day adventure takes us from Blackburn to Blackpool, stopping at some of the county’s most fascinating spots along the way.

Day One: Blackburn to Lancaster via the Trough of Bowland

Our journey begins in Blackburn, a town steeped in industrial heritage and surrounded by stunning countryside. After grabbing supplies from a local supermarket, set off north towards the Trough of Bowland, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The winding roads through the moors and valleys provide breathtaking views, perfect for a scenic drive.

Pendle Hill and the Witch Trials

As you travel towards Lancaster, a stop at Pendle Hill is essential. This area is infamous for the 1612 Pendle Witch Trials, one of the most notorious witch trials in England. The accused were taken to Lancaster Castle and tried for witchcraft, with ten of them ultimately hanged. You can visit the Pendle Heritage Centre in Barrowford to learn more about the history, or take a walk up the hill itself for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. If you choose to walk up Pendle Hill, you can do so from Barley where there is a large carpark, two public houses and a cafe also. Alternatively you can go up at the nick’ from Clitheroe or Sabden, Sabden also has two public houses and there is The Wellsprings on Pendle itself for food and refreshments. Either way you chose, do not be fooled because it is ‘just a hill’, be prepared for bad weather, you are in the Pennines and it can turn very quickly, but the walk particularly from the nick’ is splendid and the views breathtakingly beautiful. From the nick, allow at least a couple of hours to walk to the trig point, which is at the Barley end of Pendle Hill.

Click to learn more about the Pendle Witches

Lunch Stop: The Fleece in Dolphinholme

After soaking in the eerie history of Pendle Hill and a brisk walk from the nick to the trig and back, we continue our journey towards Lancaster, stopping for lunch at The Fleece in Dolphinholme. This historic inn offers a cosy atmosphere and a delicious menu featuring local produce—perfect for refuelling before the afternoon’s activities.

Exploring Lancaster

Once in Lancaster, a visit to Lancaster Castle is a must. This imposing medieval fortress played a key role in the infamous witch trials and has a fascinating history dating back nearly 1,000 years. After exploring the castle, we set off across the city to see the Maritime Museum.

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Where to Stay: For your first night, book a stay at Bay Gateway Holiday Park, a well-equipped campsite near Lancaster that accommodates campervans.

Day Two: Seaside Adventures in Morecambe and Fleetwood

Morning in Morecambe

Wake up early and head to the seaside town of Morecambe, famous for its stunning views over Morecambe Bay. Enjoy a morning walk along the promenade, take a photo with the Eric Morecambe statue, and perhaps grab a coffee at a seafront café.

Fleetwood’s Maritime Charm

Next, drive down to Fleetwood, a historic fishing port known for its rich maritime heritage. Visit the Fleetwood Museum to learn about the town’s fishing industry and stop by Freeport Fleetwood, an outlet shopping village for a bit of retail therapy. If you’re a seafood lover, Fleetwood is the perfect place to sample some of the freshest fish and chips in Lancashire.

Where to Stay: Spend your second night at Broadwater Caravan Park, a fantastic site in Fleetwood with great facilities for campervans.

Day Three: Classic Blackpool Fun

Morning Thrills at Blackpool Pleasure Beach

No trip to Lancashire is complete without a visit to Blackpool! Start your day with the thrills of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, home to legendary rides like The Big One, ICON, and the classic Grand National wooden rollercoaster. Check opening times and dates. With it being half term, it was open Friday, Saturday And Sunday from 11.00 until 17.oo. Book online too as it is usually far cheaper than turning up at the door.

Afternoon Promenade Stroll and Arcade Fun

Before an adrenaline-filled afternoon, we took a relaxing stroll along Blackpool’s famous promenade. Stopping off at one of the many arcades to play the penny slots—a nostalgic experience that’s fun for all ages and there are plenty of arcades on the magnificent Victorian piers too. There are so many tourist things to do and see in Blackpool. Madame Tussauds, Sealife, The Dungeons and lots of shows at the Winter Gardens, including Strictly, to name but a few. Even people watching while enjoying a local ale is worth an hour out of your day, there are definitely some sights to behold.

A Trip Up the Tower

Our last stop was a visit to the iconic Blackpool Tower. Don’t forget to take a walk over the famous ‘Comedy Carpet’ in front of Blackpool Tower on the promenade, filled with jokes and quips from so many comedians who have graced the theatres of Blackpool over the years.

You can take the lift to the top of the Tower for spectacular views of the coastline, or if you’re feeling brave, step onto the glass floor of the SkyWalk. The tower also houses the Tower Ballroom, perfect for fans of classic dance, and the Tower Circus, which has been entertaining visitors for over a century.

Heading Home

After an unforgettable three days touring Lancashire in our campervan, it’s time to head home with memories of stunning landscapes, historic sites, and classic British seaside fun and start making plans for our next adventure weekend. Stay tuned!

Final Thoughts

Lancashire is a county that blends history, nature, and entertainment seamlessly. Whether you’re fascinated by the dark history of Pendle Hill, love the tranquillity of the Trough of Bowland, or prefer the bright lights of Blackpool, this campervan adventure offers something for everyone. So pack up your van, hit the road, wrap up warm and explore the best that Lancashire has to offer!

Our thanks go once again to the people at Easihire/Eaiscampers at Blackburn for making our little adventure run seamlessly from start to finish.