Campervan Road Trip Through The Cornwall National Landscape
Read Time: About 19 minutes
Saint Agnes. Fabian Jones
If you want to find an ocean as blue as sapphire, beaches that look like they belong in the Mediterranean, and seafood treats fresh from a morning catch, then you best make your way to the Cornwall National Landscape. National Landscape is the new name for protected landscapes in England, and the Cornwall National Landscape contains 12 separate sections that make up one-third of the county.
There are 46 National Landscapes in the UK and our guides provide handy camping tips for each one. We suggest options for the best camping spots and campsites and convenient campervan hire locations. Its never been easier to book a campervan and a campsite and plan a holiday in one go. Use our guide to craft the perfect road trip through one (or more) of the stunning National Landscapes in England and Wales. You can also use our guide to find campervans for hire in the UK and the best campsites in the UK, so go ahead and plan the perfect road trip!
Trecombe Lakes rests in a quiet, magical woodland and lakeside location near vibrant Falmouth and the Helford River.
Cornwall, famed for its coastal charm, abundance of walks, and delicious cuisine, has more to offer than coastline and seafood. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a result of its mining history and it holds a range of natural and heritage features that draw in visitors and residents alike. It is the only protected landscape with 12 separate sections that make up almost a third of Cornwall (958 square kilometres). It is a perfect spot for dog-friendly escapes. Read on as we highlight the best things to explore in the Cornwall National Landscape.
The north coast sections contain dramatic headlands such as Tintagel and Pentire, with gorgeous extensive rolling dunes, and jagged cliffs while the south coast is softer and tamer, with heather-clad cliffs, tiny coves, and pretty fishing villages. Sparkling rivers like Helford and Fowey cut through the landscape winding past distinctive geological formations, spectacular stacks and mineral-rich rocks that have been mined for centuries. Bodmin Moor is the only upland area in Cornwall dominated by granite outcrops, with no large settlements, just characterful villages and small towns. With so much to explore, we recommend planning your holiday based on the attractions you prefer and the type of outdoor activities the travel group will enjoy.
The Lizard Peninsula is a must, and we recommend a hike or drive under 3.2 miles to Kynance Cove, a stunning little corner of Cornwall with plenty of caves that invite explorers and lovely clear waters. See here for our earlier piece about a road trip through the Lizard Peninsula.
Cadgwith, a quiet fishing village with whitewashed huts and cosy pubs filled with locals singing sea shanties, is a gorgeous starting point for the South West Coast Path and a fine base for exploring coves on the Lizard Peninsula, plus several beautiful Iron Age Villages. Falmouth, just 8 miles from Cadgwith, holds an array of attractions and amenities, including the Trebah Garden, a 26-acre subtropical ravine listed as one of the top gardens in the world. St Austell, northeast of Falmouth, is home to one of Cornwall’s big hitters - the Eden Project. If you prefer to avoid crowded cities, skip St Austell and head straight for Polperro, the prettiest fishing village in Cornwall. With horse-drawn buses, coastal pubs and stunning views. Surfers will love the fine waves at Perranporth and St. Agnes, globally recognized surfing destinations. St Ives, with Godrevy Lighthouse and other fab attractions, including the contemporary Tate St. Ives and the stunning Porthmeor Beach. There are plenty of gorgeous towns and villages within the Cornwall AONB, so go ahead and add your top picks to your itinerary.
Tregedna Farm Holidays lies nestled amid lush countryside extending as far as the eye can see yet affords quick access to the nearby cove of Maenporth.
Wander away from the towns and cities to big skies and attractive sceneries. Bodmin Moor, around 17 miles from Polperro, enjoys a unique landscape with several interesting attractions, including a former 1779 jail, the famous Domesday Book, and miles of empty, rugged moorland. Land’s End, the southwesternmost point on mainland England, is a hotspot for soaking in coastal views and dramatic cliffscapes. The restored Victorian Lost Gardens of Heligan featuring both tropical and traditional plants are ideal for a taste of historical horticulture. Gwithian Beach, famed for sweeping sands and excellent walks, is a lovely space for surfing.
Combining these towns and natural attractions creates a delightful space for campervan road trips through the Cornwall National Landscape. Uncover the historical richness, natural beauty, and cultural heritage of the Cornwall National Landscape.
- Where to Camp at Cornwall National Landscape
- Journey to Cornwall: Campervan Adventures From Birmingham, Manchester, Southampton, Bristol, and London
- From London to Cornwall: The Ultimate Campervan Road Trip Guide
- Campervan Quest: Mapping Your Path From Bristol to The Cornwall National Landscape
- Campervan Escapade: Your Route From Southampton to The Cornwall National Landscape
- How to Get From Birmingham to Cornwall's National Landscape in a Campervan
- Your Ultimate Campervan Road Map From Manchester to Cornwall's National Landscape
- Your Campervan Guide to Visiting The Cornwall's National Landscape
- Is Cornwall Campervan Friendly?
- How Long Does it Take to Drive The Cornwall Coast?
- Can You Swim in The Sea in Cornwall?
- Where Can You Sleep With a Campervan in Cornwall?
- What Type of Landscape is Cornwall?
- Glamping Cornwall
- Caravan Holidays Cornwall
- Tent Camping at Cornwall National Landscape
- Cornwall National Landscape Campervan Hire Cost
- We Hope Your Enjoy The Cornish National Landscape
Where to Camp at Cornwall National Landscape
It's high time for a Cornish caper, and we have you covered with our flexible itinerary, quick routes, and campervan hire locations. When all the adventuring is done, and the golden sunset skies signal the end of another glorious summer's day on the Cornish coastline, you'll need a quiet place to park your camper or pitch a tent. Take a peep at our campsite recommendations below. Melrose Farm Caravan Club Site, Tremble Valley Caravan Club Site, and Trevarth Holiday Park will make a tip-top addition to your itinerary. These sites are well-rated, offer comfortable and clean camping, and come equipped with the essentials for a stress-free stay. Read on, dear camper.
Merrose Farm Caravan Club Site in Truro
Merrose Farm Caravan Club Site, Truro
Welcome to Merrose Farm Caravan Club Site, a stunning 14-acre site with five camping areas comprising 177 touring pitches including hardstanding and seasonal pitches. Look forward to a warm welcome from the wardens, who will show you to your pitch and answer any questions. The campsite is conveniently located near several beaches, sleepy fishing villages and local attractions. Visit the Eden Project, St Mawes, Mevagissey, Portscatho, and many other attractions easily. The campsite has a range of excellent amenities, including a playground and play area for the kids, toilets and showers, a dishwashing area, wheelchair facilities, and the freedom to enjoy barbecues on your pitch.
Treamble Valley Caravan Club Site in Truro
Treamble Valley Caravan Club Site, Truro
Set in 36 acres of woodland park, Tremble Valley Caravan Club Site is a well-maintained, quiet campsite close to Newquay and Perranporth. Guests often call this one of the prettiest campsites in Cornwall National Landscape, and it's easy to see why. The site rests verdant woodland in a rolling valley, with spectacular views of the ocean, manicured pitches, and a secluded play area for the kids. Campers can find extensive dog walks, beautiful walking trails around the site, and plenty of wildlife around the campsite, including rabbits, owls, bats, and vultures. Enjoy stunning sunsets from your pitch after exploring local attractions like Newquay, several magnificent beaches, Holywell Bay, Crantock, and the National Trust Trerice Manor.
Trevarth Holiday Park in Truro
Trevarth Holiday Park, Truro
Nestled in the heart of Cornwall, Trevarth Holiday Park, just 5 miles from Truro, is a lovely family-run park with beautiful countryside settings and easy access to the coast. The family-friendly site rests in stunning countryside, a short drive from the coastline. A hard-working team will answer your questions and ensure the campsite facilities are spotless. Guests can pitch a tent or park a touring vehicle in one of two camping areas. One is designated exclusively for adults, while the other is perfect for families and couples. Guests can also look into booking a holiday home ranging from two to six berths.
Journey to Cornwall: Campervan Adventures From Birmingham, Manchester, Southampton, Bristol, and London
Getting out of the cities and into the countryside or the coastline can be somewhat of a task, especially if there’s a lot of traffic and frequented highway roads. We’ve created a list of routes from the most populated cities, making hiring a campervan easy. Hit the road in no time with our routes to the Cornwall National Landscape. Depending on the time at hand, our readers can use the faster routes or follow pretty back roads that meander through open countryside and sleepy villages. Read on to see if you can follow one of our routes from London, Bristol, Southampton, Birmingham and Manchester.
We advise our readers to keep pound coins while travelling around Cornwall, as many car parks have parking machines that do not accept parking app payments.
From London to Cornwall: The Ultimate Campervan Road Trip Guide
Cosmopolitan London is a beautiful city, brimming with rich history, globally recognized landmarks and plenty of culture. While living in London may seem like a dream come true for many, there’s bound to be a moment when even the fervent city dweller feels like escaping the concrete jungle for open green spaces, big skies, and a few days minus schedules and crowds. With a campervan hire in London, you’ll have the freedom to escape the densely populated capital for the coastline and the freedom to stroll through the Cornwall National Landscape. The drive time from London to Cornwall National Landscape takes around 5 hours and covers a distance of 283.4 miles, making it a better-suited trip for bank holidays and longer summer holidays. Readers with more time on their hands can hop on the A303, A30, and winding backroads, driving past sleepy villages hidden amid the green countryside. This route takes around 7 hours to complete and even slower in a classic camper!. Our London campervan locations include campervans in Enfield, where you will find a selection of campers ideal for exploring the Cornwall National Landscape.
Age: 25-70
Travel: UK Only
Gearbox: Manual
Not a VW but with programmable thermostatic heating and hot water no less and great to travel about in. Available for hire from Tottenham
From Bristol to The Cornwall National Landscape
Lanhydrock, Chris Johnson
Buzzing Bristol is an excellent base for campervan adventures and rests close to several designated National Landscapes. Your drive from Bristol to Cornwall will take approximately three hours via the M5 and A30 and cover 167 miles. Combine your holiday to the National Landscape with an exciting road trip through Cornwall. We suggest driving down to Cornwall on a bank holiday or the school holidays; however, our hardier readers may feel like making the trip over the weekend. Readers with more time to spare can detour from the busy roads to a quiet route through the Somerset countryside. Travel via the B3130 and the B3227, winding through quiet villages, lush fields, and peaceful woodland. Join the A39 and follow it into Cornwall. This route should take around four and a half hours. Hire a campervan in Bristol and speak directly with private van owners in and around the city. We recommend finding a campervan for hire on the city's fringes to make travelling from the settlement much more accessible.. Our Bristol campervan hire locations include campervans for hire in Temple Meads, campervans for hire in Lawrence Hill, campervans for hire in Barton Hill, campervans for hire in Kingsdown, campervans for hire in St Pauls, campervans for hire in Stokes Croft, campervans for hire in Harbourside, campervans for hire in Monks Park, campervans for hire in Horfield, campervans for hire in Westbury Village, campervans for hire in Southmead and campervans for hire in Henbury.
Your Route From Southampton to The Cornwall National Landscape
If you are heading of from Southampton and making your way down to Cornwall, coastal capers are the orders of the day,and the city’s excellent attractions provide plenty to explore nearby. Hire a campervan in Southampton and hop on the A303 and A30 and the drive to the National Landscape will take approximately 4 and a half hours and covers some 220 miles. If you want to take a longer, more scenic route, travel west through the New Forest, along the B3078. Drift along the A350 to Shaftesbury, the wind through the rural B roads to Honiton. Continue through Dartmoor’s heart, relishing the stunning scenery before reaching the Cornwall National Landscape, taking around hours to complete. This drive is best for school or bank holidays as it is quite far but of course watch out for traffic. Our campervan hire locations in Southampton include campervans for hire in Netley, campervans for hire in Ashurst, campervans for hire in Fareham, campervans for hire in Romsey, campervans for hire in Lyndhurst, campervans for hire in Cowes, campervans for hire in New Forest, campervans for hire in Winchester and campervans for hire in East Cowes.
How to Get From Birmingham to Cornwall's National Landscape in a Campervan
Swap the Birmingham crowds for the coastline of Cornwall's National Landscape by taking the M4 westwards, then M5 and A30. The journey should take 4 hours, extending over approximately 257 miles. If you prefer scenery and less crowded roads, hire a campervan in Birmingham and drive southwest through charming villages, admiring the relaxed pace and views of the lush countryside. Follow the A303, A30, and winding backroads, admiring the vistas and stopping for meals or walks along the way. The longer route takes around 7 hours to complete. Our Birmingham campervan hire locations include campervans for hire in Sutton Coldfield, campervans for hire in Halesowen, campervans for hire in Romsley, campervans for hire in Coleshill, campervans for hire in Clent, campervans for hire in Marston, campervans for hire in Hockley Heath and campervans for hire in Hagley.
Age: 25-70
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Manual
Smalls is a micro camper built inside a Nissan NV. Although small to drive, this van has a surprising amount of space making it a great option for first time van-explorers.
From Manchester to Cornwall's National Landscape
Marvellous Manchester, jam-packed with varied attractions and excellent road connections, is a fantastic base for adventuring. The city and metropolitan borough is well-located, with plenty of private campervan owners in and around the city. Book your campervan in Manchester and glide down the M6, merging with the M5, before following the route southwest until you reach the A30. This is the fastest route from Manchester to the Cornwall National Landscape, covering 328 miles in 351 minutes. For better views and less traffic-congested roads, hop on the A49 and follow quiet roads through Shropshire’s emerald lanes, enjoying the rustic charm of Herefordshire. Then hop on the A39 and make your way down to the coast, where the land kisses the sea. Our campervan hire locations in Manchester include campervans for hire in Rochdale, campervans for hire in Garstang, campervans for hire in Winmarleigh, campervans for hire in Great Eccleston, campervans for hire in Goosnargh, campervans for hire in Forton, campervans for hire in Heywood, campervans for hire in Ingleton and campervans for hire in Preston.
Age: 25-70
Travel: N/A
Gearbox: Automatic
Our beautiful VW DSG van for hire comes with everything you need to start your adventure. Look forward to comforts such as bedding, all kitchen equipment plus peace of mind.
Your Campervan Guide to Visiting The Cornwall's National Landscape
Portreath. Drew
We’ll help you plan an entire round trip to the Cornwall National Landscape, complete with campervan hire options, our recommended camping spots, and a compiled list of your frequently asked questions about a campervan holiday. Many travelers also find the convenient campsites in Bristol perfect for breaking up the journey to Cornwall or exploring the area on their way back. Hopefully, our answers will help you make informed decisions when planning your holiday.
Is Cornwall Campervan Friendly?
Cornwall is incredible for touring adventures, and there's no better way to admire the stunning scenery than behind the wheel of a campervan or motorhome. Miles of spectacular coastline, secret sandy coves and golden beaches. There are several beautiful campsites both in the countryside and the coastline that are ideal for touring vehicles and tents. School holidays are the busiest times of the year, so we recommend visiting if you can outside of these times.
How Long Does it Take to Drive The Cornwall Coast?
Driving along the entire Cornwall Coast can take 7 - 8 hours, depending on how many stops you make, the route and the traffic. Pair our Cornwall road with this itinerary through the Cornwall National Landscape,spend a week if you have more time to explore at your leisure. If you plan to follow the A30 and hop on various scenic routes along the coast, it may take longer, especially if you’re exploring attractions, partaking in activities or stopping for photos. The exact time to dive the Cornwall coast will vary based on your specific starting and ending points, plus how leisurely you travel.
Dropped Anchor Sea View Camping is a lovely spot for escaping the stress of modern life. Let out a sigh of contentment as you survey open.
Can You Swim in The Sea in Cornwall?
Of course, yes! you can swim in the sea of Cornwall. The region is famed for its stunning beaches and clear waters, making it an ideal space for safe swimming. Open water swimming or wild swimming has many benefits and is a great way to relax over the holidays. Famous shorelines include Fistral Beach in Newquay, St Ives Bay, and Porthcurno Beach.
Where Can You Sleep With a Campervan in Cornwall?
Widemouth Bay, R~P~M
You have several options for sleeping in a campervan or motorhome. Numerous campsites in Cornwall offer a range of facilities, including electric metres and farmer's shops. We’ve listed various popular camping locations in this article and invite our readers to find more campsites on the Camperbug Campsite page. You can filter your results using the accommodation icons at the top of the page. For more campsite options in nearby settlements, scroll to the end of the page and let the system select the best campsites near your selected campsite location.
What Type of Landscape is Cornwall?
Cornwall is home to a diverse and captivating landscape. Holidaymakers love exploring its rugged coastline, towering cliffs, secluded coves and expansive sandy beaches. The inland areas are characterised by undulating green hills, verdant valleys, and open farmland. Cornwall also boasts gorgeous moorland, particularly on Bodmin Moor, with granite Tors and remote, heather-covered expanses. Charming fishing villages, historic mining sites, and lush gardens create a characterful county with plenty to explore.
Glamping Cornwall
If you’re keen to upgrade your holiday or enjoy the comforts of a glamping abode, why not check out our glamping-friendly sites in Cornwall? East Thorne, a beautifully maintained glamping site in Bude, is a beautiful option for glamping holidays. Campers often rave about the serene atmosphere, the camping accommodations, and the site’s effortless access to a range of excellent local beaches. Enjoy hot tubs, outdoor kitchens, campfire Dutch ovens, and the private gardens. You can take your pick of a range of cottages and round houses for hire and find the perfect glamping abode for your stay.
For stress-free family yurt and roundhouse glamping, pack your bags and make your way to the friendly East Thorne campsite.
Well Farm is another fantastic site in Bude, offering comfortable stays in luxury pods tucked on an orchard of a working farm. The cosy pods boast ensuite bathrooms and rest a short stroll from the River Tamar, with Bude’s surf beach and the South West Coast path a 20-minute drive away. A handy outdoor terrace with a gas barbecue and hob is available at each pod, and the owners have included a microwave and toaster inside.
Caravan Holidays Cornwall
Pentire Point, Stevekeiretsu
As you travel in your campervan on road trip through the Cornwall National Landscaoe, we can suggest a range of excellent caravan-friendly campsites in Cornwall. Check out Higher Pentreath Farm Campsite, a laid-back, no-frills camping space overlooking Praa Sands beach. Take your pick of non-electric grass pitches for tents, motorhomes and caravans, and admire views across the azure ocean, sparkling in the summer sun. A beach and delightful mile-long Cornish beach beckons a few minutes walk away, and the campsite rests within the Cornwall National Landscape, ensuring serene settings and stunning vistas at almost every turn. The site has a range of amenities, including a laundromat, drying room, free Wi-Fi, and the freedom to enjoy campfires and barbecues on your pitch.
Valley Caravan Park is another fab site for tents, campervans and caravans. The site has a range of pitch sizes for all types of touring vehicles and offers the option of electric metres if required. There are a few hardstanding bases, so we recommend booking in advance, especially if you are travelling through during the summer holidays. Explore Polzeath and the surrounding area easily, or sit back on-site, soak in the views, and enjoy the facilities.
Higher Pentreath Farm Camp Site is a relaxed, back to basics campsite, looking out over the golden sands and azure waters of Praa Sands beach.
Dropped Anchor Sea View Camping is a quiet, relaxed camping space in an Outstanding Natural Beauty area. Experience an off-grid approach to camping with stunning ocean views and the only sounds of the farm next door to break the incredible peace. The site has 15 generous pitches and is equipped with individual fire pits and picnic benches for admiring the views of the ocean and across Mounts Bay. Log and kindling are sold on-site, and facilities include hot showers and toilets, chemical disposal, and recycling facilities.
Tent Camping at Cornwall National Landscape
Do you prefer the traditional approach to camping? We have some tremendous tent-friendly campsites in Cornwall. Orchard Springs Campsite is a great space for countryside camping with a tent. The 2-acre site rests on Bodmin's fringes, creating a rustic feel with green fields and a burbling stream running through the grounds. Head out to explore Bodmin's many attractions, or opt to laze on-site, using excellent facilities, including an on-site shop with the camping basics, plus homemade bread and pastries. A camper's kitchen with a fridge, freezer, microwave and ice blocks is also available. Guests can pitch a tent on optional electric grass pitches or try out the self-catering options, including a shepherd's hut and a two-bedroom mobile home.
Wide-reaching coast and countryside vistas, walks, and watersports are just some of the delights awaiting adventuring souls at the family-run Wideacres Camping site.
Wideacres Camping is a family-friendly site in Boscastle, a five-minute drive from the town and just 20 minutes by car from Crackington, Trebarwith, and Bude. Look forward to waking up to spectacular, sweeping views of coastline and countryside and peaceful countryside settings that encourage guests to unplug and recharge. The site accepts tents, motorhomes, and caravans, offering a choice of level grass pitches with optional electric meters. Follow the path directly from the campsite that connects to the footpaths to Beeny Cliff, or hop on the Valency Valley walk to Boscastle. If you prefer to remain close to the site, there is a handy bar ideal for evening meals. Chickens and cows roam in the fields next to the campers, and stunning sunsets are a given when you camp at Wideacres.
Coxford Meadow Campsite is a friendly and quiet site on the north Cornish coastline, just over a mile from Crackington Haven, with access to a lovely beach. The site rests in the Cornwall AONB and enjoys stunning countryside and ocean views, with plenty of open green space for play and stretching out in the sun. Take a five minute drive to the nearest beach, or take a mile and a half's drive to access the famous South West Coast Path. Campers can also explore Bude and Bocastle with ease. Pitch a tent on optional electric grass pitches, park your caravan or motorhome on a fully-serviced gravel plot, and unwind.
Cornwall National Landscape Campervan Hire Cost
Camel Estuary Padstow. Rob Hodgkins
If this is your first time hiring a camper or exploring Cornwall, you’re probably wondering how much a campervan will cost. Many factors come into play when considering the overall cost of a campervan rental. The duration of your holiday, the make or model of the campervan and the season of hire play an essential part in the pricing. If possible, consider travelling during off-peak seasons and booking a no-frills campervan to keep costs low. The more decked out the van, the higher the rental charges will likely be. Our owners also offer handy extras, like awnings, seating, and even additional tents, and adding these to your rental will indubitably increase the hire fee. Many owners also include the insurance fee in the rental costs, so check if insurance has been included in your hire before confirming a rental.
Charges for a campervan in Cornwall National Landscape start at £90 a night in the summer, and our models range from the classy T2s with oodles of classic charm to the more modern T5s and T6s.
We Hope Your Enjoy The Cornish National Landscape
We hope you have enjoyed our campervan road trip guide to the Conrwall National Landscape and that we have shown you some of the beauty on display. There are ideas for campsites ranging from tent-friendly spots to swish glamping locations with cottages and pods. We’ve also highlighted the fastest routes from the main cities and compiled a list of answers to your most asked questions about the Cornwall National Landscape. Grab a campervan for hire or jump in your car and embark on a truly memorable holiday. We hope our guide to the Cornwall National Landscape has relieved much of the stress of planning a holiday, whether a weekend escape or a summer holiday. Stay tuned as we dive into another landscape shortly and a previous area of outstanding natural beauty - the Arnside and Silverdale National Landscape.
Recent Blog Role
Back to blog listSome of the recent articles on Camperbug
A Complete Campervan Road Trip Guide to Charming Sherborne
Campervan Road Trip Guide Sherborne. We’ll explore Abbey Church, Sherborne Old Castle, Sherborne Castle and Gardens plus more in Sherborne.
Go Deeper (17 min read) →Best Campervan Road Trip Through Cairngorms National Park
Discovering the cairngorms national park: a campervan adventure through scotland's majestic highlands
Go Deeper (21 min read) →An Itinerary For A Campervan Road Trip Through Dorset
An itinerary for a campervan roadtrip through dorset
Go Deeper (16 min read) →