Autumn is one of the best times to hit the road in a motorhome. The crowds of summer have thinned, the air is crisp and fragrant, the colours in woodlands are stunning, and there’s something deeply cosy about evenings under a quilt with a mug of something warm. Whether you’re camping with family, friends, as a couple, or in a big group, autumn offers magic.
Here’s how to make the most of it, top destinations, activities for different groups, and planning tips.
Top Autumn Camping Destinations in the UK for Motorhome Adventures
Autumn is a fantastic time to go camping because it has:
- Lower demand = better availability, often better pricing.
- Beautiful scenery, with autumn light and colours — great for photography, relaxing.
- Cooler weather makes campfires, cosy interiors more enjoyable.
- Less crowded so more peaceful, more chance of finding your own nook of nature.
We asked our campers what their favourite UK destinations are for Autumn camping and here are the top 7!
Let us know what your favourite places are to camp in the UK especially in Autumn!
Autumn Activities for everyone
Whether you are on a family holiday, or a couples weekend there are fun things to do in Autumn for everyone. Hire your motorhome that suits your group and find the best Autumn camping activities for you.
Family camping in Autumn
Keep things varied, mix indoor & outdoor; plan for shorter drives; have backup plans in case of bad weather.
Our families love Pumpkin-picking; nature scavenger hunts in forests; kayaking or canoeing on calmer lakes; visiting visitor centres or caves; campfire storytelling; roasting marshmallows; star-gazing if skies are clear.
For example a Family Trip: Lake District and Cumbria
Day 1: Pickup motorhome → drive to Windermere → lakeside paddle or boat trip.
Day 2: Hiking in Borrowdale → visit Grasmere.
Day 3: Visit caves or indoor activity if wet weather → cosy pub evening.
Camping with friends
Adventure or relaxation every friendship group will have their own priorities, some will prefer more ambitious hikes some may look for good food & drink and some may want scenic drives with relaxing evenings in nature.
We recommend road-trip routes (e.g. scenic passes in Highlands, or winding roads through Cotswolds); craft pubs, local breweries; foraging walks; bike rides; waterfall walks; photography (autumn light is great).
For example a Friends’ Adventure: Scottish Highlands Road Trip
Start from Edinburgh → Glencoe → onwards along NC500 sections (or similar) → photograph lochs, enjoy whisky distillery visits, wild swimming if brave.
Getting off grid as a couple
A romantic break with no modern distractions in nature, most couples are looking for a slow pacer; romantic spots, cosiness and privacy combined with beautiful views.
We recommend Lakeside stops; sunrise/sunset walks; gourmet picnic; scenic drives with photo-stops; enjoying local cafes in small villages; spa stops if possible.
For example a Couple’s Relaxation: The Cotswolds & Arboretum
Slow drive via scenic villages → stay near Westonbirt Arboretum → gentle walks, visit tea rooms, enjoy peace and quiet.
Camping in a big group
We often get big groups, booking 6 berth motorhomes or even multiple motorhomes to go out camping together. In this situation you need to plan for more logistics (size of motorhome(s), parking, shared meals); balance group activities with individual free time.
We recommend booking large pitched campsites; cooking together (group barbeque or shared meals); group hike or nature walk; games night around campfire; visiting larger attractions together (historic houses, nature reserves); maybe a local guided walk or tour.
For example a Big Group Mix: Peak District and Hadrian’s Wall
Several motorhomes or one large one → alternate long & short drives → mixture of hikes, historic sites, group meals, free days.
Practical Tips for Autumn Motorhome Travel
Autumn camping is quieter than summer peak seasons but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be prepared, it is still a good time to camp and other likeminded campers will be out enjoying the changing of the seasons. To avoid disappointment be prepared and make sure you are aware and respectful of your surroundings.
Book sites ahead Some campsites reduce services or close off in winter-transition, so check which are open.
Check facilities Make sure your motorhome is properly winterised (heating, insulation), that campsites have electricity hookup etc.
Be prepared for weather Autumn weather can change fast—pack waterproofs, warm layers, bedding, extra blankets.
Shorter daylight hours Plan your travel so you’re not driving too much in dusk or dark; aim for earlier evening stops.
Wildlife & nature safety With leaf cover, wildlife moves more; be careful on roads; for walks, stick to paths; check local guidance.
Leave no trace Autumn doesn’t excuse mess; respect campsites, woodlands etc.
If you’re considering a motorhome trip this autumn, this is the time. Whether with the family, friends, just the two of you, or in a larger group, there’s something uniquely magical about the season. Priory Rentals has motorhomes ready, so pack warmly, plan smartly, and let autumn do its thing.
Bonus tips – Autumn Camping Spots That Stay Open Year Round / Late Season
- Meathop Fell, Cumbria – part of Caravan Club’s touring sites; great access to lakes and tranquillity. The Caravan Club
- Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire – good base in the Cotswolds; beautiful villages nearby. The Caravan Club+1
- Cheddar, Somerset – walks, caves, plus towns with amenities for wetter days. The Caravan Club
