England campervan hire
The Cotswolds Circuit - Honeymoon Edition
An area of outstanding natural beauty, the Cotswolds is a lovely place to explore in your campervan. You'll see cities like Bath, famous for its tourist spots and a long, rich history that has been very well preserved. You'll also see smaller, lesser known but no less fun places like Burford and Chipping Campden. The weather tends to be a little kinder than here up North, and if you travel at the right time you might return home with a tan (or sunburn, if you aren't careful...)
Spend your honeymoon exploring manor houses, museums, and the rolling countryside hills that make up the Cotswolds. Along the way you'll discover hidden cafes that serve the best afternoon tea you've ever had, have your breath stolen away by the scenic views atop a hill, and do all of it in a home-away-from-home campervan.
This guide takes you on a whistle-stop tour around the Cotswolds. All recommended campsites are dog friendly and remain open throughout the winter months. We have provided campsites for every stop, but by its nature, a lot of the campsites are fairly close to one another. If you don't mind a slightly longer drive for your days out its possible to only stay at a couple of campsites on your trip.
1st Stop - Chipping Campden
Bowbrook Caravan and Camping 88.6 miles, 1 hr 37 mins
Your honeymoon kicks off in Chipping Campden, a quiet town south of Birmingham with a history dating back to the 14th century. The high street is filled with independent shops, so have a look around for some souvenirs!
Created by a talented American horticulturalist, the Arts and Crafts inspired Hidcote Manor Garden has plenty to offer, from the manor house to its historical chapel. The beautiful gardens also have a secondhand bookshop and a cafe that serves hot drinks all day.
Also influenceed by Arts and Crafts is Snowshill Manor. It was the home of Charles Wade, a creative and eccentric collector who decorated the manor with all sorts of little trinkets. Explore every hidden corner and rare collectible in the manor.
Broadway Tower is surrounded by almost 200 acres of quintessential English countryside. With a museum, cafe and a deer park, there's hours of fun to be had - not to mention the nuclear bunker you can explore!
It's usually busy at Batsford Arboretum, so buy your tickets in advance to guarantee entry to this fascinating place. Dogs are welcomed here, provided they're on short leads, so you can roam the expanse of rare trees and plants together.
With views across the Vale of Evesham, Dovers Hill is an ideal destination for a country walk. It was the original site of the Olympics. It's honoured by the annual Cotswolds Olimpicks, where guests of all ages can have fun.
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Bowbrook Lodges
Pershore
Worcestershire
WR10 2DX
info@bowbrooklodges.co.uk
01905 783192
Description
This back-to-basics campsite is located next to a quiet, babbling brook. Nestled in the Cotswolds countryside, here you get starry night skies unbothered by light pollution and clear birdsong in the mornings.
The walks in this area are unparalled, and you can pick from any number of walks from a ramble up to Bredon Hill to just wandering around and admiring Pershore's Georgian architecture.
On the outside, Croome Court, home to the 6th Earl of Coventry, is your average old-fashioned manor house. Inside it's walls is a completely different story, with modern art on the walls and new exhibitions often unveiled here.
Pershore Abbey is one of the landmarks of this town. It's a beautiful building and you really have to stand in awe of it for a little while. If you want to learn more, the abbey offers guided tours where you find out about the building's long history.
Amenities
Shower and toilet block
Free wifi
Washing-up area
Electric hardstanding pitch
Dog friendly
2nd Stop - Cheltenham/Gloucester
Regents Park Stansby Touring Park 25.8 miles, 36 min
Cheltenham has held the title of 'holiday town' since the founding of its mineral springs in 1716. It's also known as the most complete Regency town in England.
The royal connections to Sudeley Castle date back over a thousand years, being the last private castle to have buried a Queen. Nowadays the castle and its grounds are open to visitors, where you can wander through the immaculate castle gardens.
Along the north-eastern border of Cheltenham is Cleeve Hill. Its status as the highest point in Gloucestershire means the view from its peak is unrivalled - and the perfect place for a honeymoon photoshoot. If you prefer bike rides to hikes, head down to this thrilling bike park.
Opening in 1825 and the largest park in Cheltenham, Pittville Park is a popular scenic dog walk. The Grade II listed site also has a spectacular room known as the Pump Room, which you can go and look round if it isn't in use.
Gloucester is a cathedral city just south of Cheltenham. There's tons of culture and activities to do, and endless places to explore!
The Gloucester Docks are probably the city's biggest, most well-known attraction. Over the past few decades it's iconic warehouses have become shops, exhibits, and apartments, creating a bustling atmosphere you can lose yourself in.
The frivolity of early 1700s England is encapsulated by Painswick Rococo Garden , with it's over-the-top structures and flamboyant blooms. It also boasts art exhibits and an outdoor theatre during warmer months.
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Reddings Road
The Reddings
Cheltenham
Gloucestershire
England
GL51 6RS
N/A
07940 545061
07944 105239
Description
With easy access to Cheltenham and a park and ride just five minutes away, this small family-run campsite is the perfect base to explore Gloucester from. The site's facilities are excellently maintained, and both dogs and BBQs are welcomed here.
As Gloucestershire's premier art gallery, The Wilson is chock full of fine art and unique exhibitions that'll have you thinking outside the box.
The limestone rock formation of Devil's Chimney earned its name from its peculiar shape. Nobody really knows where it came from or how it came to be, and its shrouded in legend. Visit it yourself, and see if you can figure out why it's there...
We've saved this bit for last, because its one of the most fun and fascinating parts about visiting Cheltenham. If you visit Cooper Hill at the right time of year, you'll catch the traditional Cheese Rolling event, held every year around springtime. Yes, you heard that right - cheese rolling. It has an interesting - and occasionally downright hilarious - history, so if you get the chance make sure you go!
Amenities
Toilet and shower block
Dish wash and laundrette
Hardstanding pitch with electric
Free wifi
Dog friendly
3th stop - Cirencester
Mayfield Park 17.4 miles, 22 min
Here we are in the Capital of the Cotswolds, Cirencester! This market town has honey coloured buildings, narrow cobbled streets and loads of places to shop. It's been around for a while, with history dating back to before the 6th century!
With 8 acres of beautifully crafted gardens, Rodmarton Manor-- holds the title of being the last house to be made entirely in the traditional Arts and Crafts style, in the early 20th century. Today it houses the descendants of Rodmarton's original owners, and you can explore the house and gardens to your heart's content.
Cerney House Gardens is a walled Victorian garden that just oozes romantic charm. Its old fashioned style and hidden location will steal your breath away, and the best part? Dogs are welcome here!
If you don't have any dogs coming along with you then you can spend an afternoon at the magical Elemental Sculpture Park, with ten acres of lush forest filled with unique sculptures to discover. Stop off for a break at the park's tearoom, which serves hot drinks and delicious cakes.
You could spend days at Cotswolds Water Park and still not run out of things to do! Cycling, walking, swimming, birdwatching... the list goes on. Not to mention the annual black tie ball held here every autumn!
There's an art gallery, classes to learn a new creative skill and even a hostel at Brewery Arts Centre. Check the website to see what's on when you visit, as it can change dramatically from month to month!
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Mayfield Park
Bagendon
Cirencester
GL7 7BH
enquiries@mayfieldpark.co.uk
01285 831301
Description
Mayfield Park is a family-run campsite located on the outskirts of Cirencester, with fabulous views across to Churn Valley. Their attention to detail and friendly approach is part of why they are so highly reviewed online! You can take scenic country walks right from the park into the surrounding area of outstanding natural beauty, or take the 5 minute drive into the centre of Cirencester.
Cirencester was born from the ashes of the Roman town Corinium, and it's history and archeology waits for you to discover it at the Corinium Museum. Book your tickets and learn all about how the Capital of the Cotswolds came to be!
Behind the Market Place and Parish Church hides Cirencester's award winning jewel - the Abbey Grounds. In Medieval times the land housed a huge abbey, but today only one building remains. Now you can stroll through the land, spot wildfowl, and have a picnic.
Cirencester Park was once a military base, hospital, deer park and stage of a Glenn Miller concert - obviously not all at the same time! Today it's a popular tourist attraction with well behaved dogs welcome to come along.
Amenities
Toilet and shower block
Hardstanding pitch with electric
Disabled faciliies
Free wifi
Dish wash and laundrette
Dog friendly
4th stop - Bath
Boyd Valley Lake 35.8 miles, 1 hr
Bath is regarded as one of the most beautiful, historic cities in England, and for good reason! The largest city in Somerset, Bath was named after its famous Roman baths - some of which are still operational today. It's honey coloured Georgian architecture will enchant you, and have you feeling like a Jane Austen character spending the season in the city! There's plenty of modern things to amuse yuorself with too, like the immensely popular Prosecco Boat Trip.
The city of Bath meant a lot to Jane Austen, and it influenced her writing a lot. Learn about her life and work and just how closely it intertwined with Bath at the Jane Austen Centre.
With audio tours, a restaurant, and a museum of its own, there's more to the Roman Baths than meets the eye - though it's certainly a beautiful place to see! It's essential to visit the city's namesake whilst you're here in Bath, so go and plan your visit!
The Circus is a ring of townhouses with three entrances built in the Georgian era. It's one of Bath's most identifiable places and a must-see for many tourists. These days it's the location of some high end shops and restaurants, so you can have a decadent afternoon out!
One of England's best known historical sites, Stonehenge is a marvel of human achievement. Thousands of years ago, with hardly any tools, a group of people dedicated years of their lives to building this monument for reasons modern society are yet to decipher. See it for yourself and decide which theory you believe.
For a day of luxury and relaxation, visit Britain's original thermal spa. Thermae Bath Spa has natural, mineral rich waters that will leave you feeling rejuvinated. You could chill out in the outdoor rooftop pool, spend some time in the invigorating Ice Room, or hang out in the steam rooms!
RoRecommended camp site
Site name and details
Boyd Valley Lake
Golden Valley Lane
Bitton
Bristol
BS30 6NY
boydvalleylake@gmail.com
07927364170
Description
Boyd Valley Lake is a back to basics campsite just outside Bath. The surrounding scenery has to be seen to be believed, and the fishing lake lets you keen anglers have a whale of a time! If you'd like a more luxurious stay, the site offers two bell tents for an unforgettable glamping experience.
Bath Abbey is a beautiful building, with well preserved history and an awe inspiring interior. If you are religious, you might like to check the website and see if there's any services on that you would like to attend.
Over the picturesque River Avon you'll find the equally stunning Pulteney Bridge, with its unique design and classic Georgian architecture. Both sides of the bridge have shops in them, so see what you can find in them over the water!
Acres of ancient parkland are waiting for you to explore it at Dyrham Park! You can take a guided tour of the place or go on a self-led adventure. The 17th century Dyrham House has a secondhand bookshop in its basement, exhibitions to look round, and conservation studio tours.
Amenities
Toilet and shower block
Cycle hire
Fishing available
Dog friendly
5th stop - Malmesbury
Plough Lane Caravan Site 16.3 miles, 28 min
Malmesbury is England's oldest borough. It is a quiet market town with a 12th century abbey still in use today, and a charming, thriving high street. Along the River Avon you can take a variety of scenic riverside walks, many of which are suitable for four legged friends too!
With a history spanning almost a thousand years, Chavenage House proved it's modern acting chops when it 'played' the part of Trenwith in the hit BBC show Poldark. The house is open to the public and offers guided tours around the house and gardens.
Explore over 2500 species of trees from around the globe at Westonbirt Arboretum! There's more adventure to be had beyond the leaves - you can journey up the Treetop Walkway or have a bite to eat at the cafe.
Around 65,000 people visit Malmesbury Abbey every year to see the 12th century beauty with their own eyes. Admission is free, but if you'd like to help out you can visit the cafe or bookshop!
Malmesbury's rich history is all detailed at Athelstan Museum. It captures every aspect of life, from architecture to textiles to artwork and music. They host events all year round, so visit the website and see what's on!
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Plough Lane Caravan Site
Kington Langley
Chippenham
Wiltshire
SN15 5PS
enquiries@ploughlane.co.uk
01249 750146
Description
Plough Lane is an award winning, adults only caravan site. It's located on the countryside edge, so you can have the beautiful surroundings but still get phone signal. Several shops and pubs are only a one mile walk away, too!
Bowood House & Gardens is like something out of a children's fairytale. The Italian inspired gardens radiate colour all year round, and the beautifully maintained Georgian house is what dreams are made of. If you're looking for a place to take some romantic pictures together, this is it!
Often named as the prettiest village in England, Castle Combe has a rich history and is regularly used as a film set. Take a guided tour if you like, but otherwise spend an afternoon wandering around the village trying the various pastries sold by the bridge.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that a route guide of the Cotswolds must be in want of a country house. Lacock Abbey is one such house with plenty of personality - and if you've seen Pride and Prejudice you'll recognise it! Today the house is open to visitors, and has a cafe where you can stop for a snack.
Part of the Stonehenge World Heritage Site, Avebury is the perfect blend of Cotswolds architecture, winding countryside walks, and a baffling ancient stone circle that experts are yet to decipher. And nearby you can find Silbury Hill, the largest artificial mound in Europe. No-one knows why its there, either - can you figure it out?
Amenities
Electric harstanding pitch
Toilet and shower block
DIsh wash and laundrette
Free wifi
Disabled facilities
Dog friendly
6th stop - Burford
Cotswolds Camping 51.8 miles, 1 hr 9 min
Dubbed the 'Gateway to the Cotswolds', Burford is a town with lots of personality (and beautiful buildings). The town centre has loads of independent shops to have a mosey around, and even a medieval bridge that's still standing strong today!
Oxford is only a 30 minute drive away, and while it's not technically part of the Cotswolds we still highly recommend you make time to stop here. If you aren't careful, you'll spend days exploring the beautiful architecture and tourist attractions the city has!
Set over 160 acres of parkland, Cotswold Wildlife Park is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the Cotswolds. The park is divided into four parts, each dedicated to different animals. There's also a beautiful garden, carefully maintained by a team of gardeners!
Originally built in the 1430s, the ruins of Minster Lovell Hall-- is an interesting place to look around and explore the surrounding area. It's located next to the River Windrush and has a variety of countryside walks you can take!
The Brian Sinfield Gallery is a stunning celebration of Cotswolds artists and their work. You'll spend hours gazing at the beautiful paintwork, and tilting your head trying to parse the more abstract works!
The Burford church of St John the Baptist is almost 900 years old. By now you should be familiar enough with the Cotswolds to recognise the signature building style, but it's beauty will still leave you breathless!
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Cotswolds Caravan and Camping
Spelsbury Rd
Charlbury
OX7 3LL
info@cotswoldscamping.co.uk
07983 852296
Description
Cotswolds Camping is a cosy, back to basics site with an ideal rural location that isn't too far from places like Oxford. Those who love hiking will be glad to know that the site has access to fancy footpaths, bridleways and woodland walks, so you’ll be able to get right to the rambling! The local village, Charlbury, has some lovely farm shops so make sure to stop by while exploring the area.
With a miniature railway, a butterfly house, a walled garden and a maze, you could spend your whole trip at Blenheim Palace and still not run out of activities or places to explore! And that's not even everything - the palace itself offers tours, and there's several walks you can take around the gorgeous palace grounds.
If you're looking for somewhere to spend a couple of nights in luxury while on your honeym oon, Heythrop Park is the place. Recently refurbished, the hotel has an adjacent golf course that you can spend a sunny day gallivanting around.
Crocodiles of the World is the UK's only crocodile zoo, with under-water viewing, talks, animal encounters and feeds throughout the day. You'll be face to face with endangered species of some of the most dangerous predators on Earth, in a safe and fun environment! There's even a gift shop, if you'd like to buy a funky souvenir.
The magical Wychwood Wild Garden has roots stretching back to the 1860s. It's 12 acres of beautiful woodland, ponds and flowers, guaranteed to take your breath away. If you're travelling in spring this garden is a must visit - watching the blossoms gently drift down to rest in the water with the ducks is an experience you don't want to miss!
Amenities
Hardstanding electric pitch
Toilet and shower block
Disabled facilities
Dog friendly
7th stop - Chipping Norton
Cotswold Hills Country Park 6.8 miles, 13 min
Affectionately known as 'Chippy' by locals, Chipping Norton is located on the highest point in the Cotswolds. You're definitely ending your journey on a high note!
Many different people have called Chastleton House their home in its 400 years of life, from the man who invented croquet to a murder mystery writer to a journalist, and countless others among them. Discover the history of this house and explore the stunning grounds that surround it with the guided tours offered here. There’s even a behind-the-scenes tour that takes you through the ongoing conservation efforts that are yet to be put on display!
There’s over 5000 years of history at Rollright Stones. The stones themselves are made up of three different monuments, the oldest originally built by prehistoric humans! Today they are cared for and preserved by a team of passionate volunteers. Try to count the stones - traditionally it’s impossible - or visit as the sun sets and stargaze!
Over 55,000 people visit the Theatre Chipping Norton every year. This little theatre oozes charm, and the people who run it are passionate about the arts, putting their heart and soul into every performance. If you have an evening to spare, it won’t be wasted here!
Recommended camp site
Site name and details
Cotswold Hills Country Park
Hook Norton Road
Chipping Norton
Oxfordshire
OX7 5TE
info@cotswoldhillscountrypark.co.uk
01608 644 860
Description
Located on the outskirts of Chipping Norton, this quiet campsite will make sure you have everything you need for a luxurious stay on the last leg of your Cotswolds adventure. It's surrounded by beautiful countryside and fields that are perfect for walking the dog through!
Avid thrifters will fall in love with Station Mill Antiques. The huge, rotating collection of stock is well laid out, so you can experience the joy of exploring every corner without being overwhelmed by stuff or accidentally knocking over an expensive collector’s piece. Just make sure you don’t buy too many trinkets and treasures – it needs to fit in the van, after all!
Chipping Norton has an assortment of countryside bike rides for you to get stuck into. There are routes for sightseeing, fitness, and leisure – whatever you’re in the mood for, really! And if you didn’t bring your own bikes along, don’t worry – there’s a bike hire place nearby.
Founded in 2006, the Jaffe and Neale Bookshop and Café is a cosy, bustling hub of tasty cakes and books that you can’t put down. They value great customer service and ensure that every visitor is well taken care of. Book lovers will definitely leave here with a new read – or fifteen!
Amenities
Dog-friendly
Hardstanding pitch with electric hookup
Toilet and shower block with disabled facilities
Dish wash and laundrette