Where can you park a campervan overnight in the UK
Travelling in your motorhome or campervan - Where to park up overnight
Travelling across the UK in a campervan or motorhome is not just a mode of transportation; it’s a gateway to ultimate freedom and adventure. Campervans provide an unrivalled opportunity to explore the country at your own pace, offering the flexibility to adjust your plans if you feel like it and uncover hidden gems whenever inspiration strikes.
A key factor to consider when planning your campervan adventure across the UK is where to park your vehicle overnight. Choosing the right spot can enhance your trip, offering safety, convenience, and often a touch of local charm. Whether it’s a quiet countryside layby, a coastal view, or a designated campervan site, the right parking choice adds another layer of enjoyment to your travel experience. Below, we talk about safety and resources to help make it easier for you.
Overnight Parking Rules
It is super important you check local guidelines for overnight parking as each area will be dependant on their own rules. Here are some ideas as to what campervan hire customers should be aware of when looking to park up overnight.
Check Local Parking Restrictions: Before settling in for the night, ensure you are aware of any parking restrictions or rules in the area. Some locations may have specific regulations or time limits, and failing to note this and take action could result in fines.
Be Considerate of Others: Wherever you park, always be mindful of the local community. Keep noise levels to a minimum, avoid disturbing your neighbours, and ensure no litter or waste is left behind. Please remember that no toilet waste should be emptied other than at an appropriate waste disposal. A respectful approach helps maintain positive relationships with locals and motorhome hire companies.
Respect Private Property: If you wish to park on private land, always obtain the landowner’s permission beforehand. Be sure to adhere to any specific rules or guidelines they provide.
Choose Safe and Secure Locations: Prioritise well-lit, secure areas for overnight stays and avoid isolated or potentially unsafe spots. Some car parks or designated motorhome areas can offer added security and peace of mind. Its also helpful if you see other motorhome users in the area.
Follow the “Leave No Trace” Principle: When camping, especially in rural or natural settings, respect the environment by adhering to the “leave no trace” principle. Take all rubbish and waste with you and avoid causing any damage to the surroundings. The countryside is not a tip. It is there for us to all enjoy and basic principals should be adhered to.
Where can you park in the UK overnight?
Private Land
It is possible to park on private land, however you must have the land owners permission to do so. Places like pub car parks are the most popular. Usually this will involve the landlord/landlady providing their permission in exchange for you eating and drinking in their pub before staying overnight.
Public Car Parks
Parking up in your motorhome hire overnight in a public car park is possible. If this is allowed, the car park will show the rules for doing so and will give a charge. Make sure you pay up front so that you are not caught out when trying to leave. These car parks are usually by beach fronts.
Campsites
The safest way to park up overnight in our opinion would be to stay at campsites. These are specific locations for you to not only park safely, but have other facilities such as water and electric hook up. They also have places for waste disposal.
Wild Camping
The term wild camping sounds like a lot of fun. Usually this involves staying on public land or in the countryside. There are very few places this is allowed and you must check that it is possible before setting up. Generally this is not allowed to please make sure you check before staying anywhere as it could result in a fine.
Parking in residential areas
Parking your campervan or motorhome in a residential area is not illegal, however it can be frowned upon due their their size. Some councils in places have bought in local by-laws that do not allow campervans to park there. This would usually be in a tourism attraction area so its worth checking the area locally before setting up for the night.
Can you sleep in a motorhome on the road?
Again, it is not illegal to park on the road and go to bed. The campervan or motorhome should not be causing an obstruction and should be in a place that is safe for other vehicles to pass.
Where to find the best parking spots
- Searchforsites: We have recommended this before and regularly tell our customers to use it when they are embarking on their journey. This is a free resource but it is worth paying for the upgrade to get unlimited usage. Theis app and website has pub stops, campsites and free spots you can park up.
- Park4night: Another one we have recommended previously. This is a great free resource you can use on your mobile phone for picking out spots either whilst en-route or just as a last minute pick.
- Britstops: Britstops is a a resource that owners of farm shops, wineries, pubs and other excellent locations for you to stop at. It is not a free resource and you do have to pay for a yearly subscription, but if you are looking to hire a motorhome or campervan more than once a year, then this is a very good resource to have.
- Campercontact: This resource has over 50,000 motorhome sites and 3,500 of those are in the UK. Its a free resource but if you upgrade, you will be able to use it offline. They have an app you can download.