Scenic Campervan Road Trip Guide to Helwell Bay, Somerset

Helwell Bay. Carolyngifford

It’s time for adventuring, and we’ve got another great stop to add to your campervan road trip through Somerset. Where are we going? The dreamy Helwell Bay, of course! This is the fourth stop on our journey through Somerset, so get ready for another easy-to-follow guide that you can adapt to best fit your holiday needs! For a quick recap, we kicked off in Bath and made our way through Cheddar and Glastonbury, so take a look at these earlier editions of our Somerset campervan road trip if you would like to include these destinations on your own road trip.

• Scenic Campervan Road Trip Itinerary Through Somerset

Hankering for a holiday with wild coastal beauty, hidden fossil treasures, and sea air that wakes your soul? Helwell Bay is the place to be. Tucked away near Watchet, this underrated gem is a wonderful spot to savour front-row sea views, enjoy a breezier, laidback holiday devoid of the crowds on tourist-heavy beaches, and unearth prehistoric fossils - all within comfortable distance of the charming little harbour town. Many fossil hunters and nature lovers choose to stay at nearby campsites in Somerset to wake up close to this stunning coastline. The sunsets here are fiery oranges and deep purples melting into the water. There's nothing quite like parking at one of our recommended campsites and watching nature put on a show. Buckle up for an adventure of wild coastlines and big skies. Let's go!

Helwell Bay. Pud43

Wherever your Somerset Campervan Hire begins, a drive to Watchet is a must! The town's gorgeous harbour is steeped in history and dates back over 1,000 years. Once a thriving port for coal and iron ore, this harbour is now a quaint, picture-perfect marina filled with boobing boats, independent shops, and cosy cafés. Keep an eye out for the famous Yankee Jack statue, dedicated to a local sailor who influenced sea shanties. One of the highlights includes a walk along the esplanade to watch the rise and fall of the tide and soak in gorgeous coastal views. Stop at Sam's Deli for pastry or grab some or tuck into some fish and chips at The Harbour Fish Bar. The car park at Harbour Road has large spaces ideal for campervans.

Next, head to the West Somerset Railway. A beautifully restored steam and diesel train takes you through 20 miles of stunning Somerset countryside. Hop on Britain's longest heritage railway and try to include a ride through the Quantock Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Even if you don't take a train ride, Watchet Station is a wonderful spot for railway enthusiasts to watch the vintage trains roll in and feel the nostalgia. Campervan-friendly camping is available at Watchet Station Car Park.

Moor Wood Campsite

Moor Wood Campsite

Minehead, Somerset

Per night prices in June, July and August
Tent, Campervan and Motorhome from £25

Minehead, Somerset

Escape to nature at our small, family-run campsite in Somerset, set within 4 acres of stunning countryside in the heart of Exmoor National Park. Surrounded by moorland, woodland, and coastline.

Park at Helwell Bay Car Park, just steps from the beach. Cook a snack in your van and watch the sunset over the Bristol Channel. If it's clear, you might even glimpse the coastline of Wales in the distance. You could also do this at Warren Bay campsite in Watchet (more details below).

Spend the next day hunting for fossils at Helwell Bay. This beach is part of the Jurassic Coastline and is packed with ammonites, brachiopods, and crinoids dating back over 200 million years. It's a natural time capsule where you can hold a piece of ancient history - thrilling! The best time to find fossils is during low tide, so check tide timings before you head out. Highlights include red mudstone cliffs and the freedom to take home prehistoric fossils and check out the dramatic rock formations. After your fossil hunting adventure, you can easily return to comfortable campsites in Weston-super-Mare to rest and plan your next day's exploration.

The cliffs surrounding Helwell Bay offer breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. The jagged cliffs and crashing waves below make this a fantastic spot for photography and quiet reflection. If you're up to it, take a scenic cliff walk along the coast towards Doniford Beach for even more wild, untouched beauty. Head there early for sunrise magic or late afternoon when the golden light hits the cliffs. After your morning of fossil hunting and walking, kick back on the beach, explore rock pools, and dip in the sea if you're feeling brave - but be warned, it's chilly!

Mendip Basecamp

Mendip Basecamp

Sandford, Somerset

Per night prices in August, June and July
Tent and Campervan from £18
Bell Tent from £90

Sandford, Somerset

Mendip Basecamp is a fantastic pop-up campsite for balmy summer adventures. Settle in for an off-grid camping experience in the heart of the stunning Mendip Hills.

Your campervan hire gives you so many options. You can laze on the beach or walk to Doniford Beach, just a short, scenic coastal walk from Helwell Bay. Doniford Beach offers a quieter, wilder atmosphere. It's another fantastic spot for fossil-hunting, birdwatching, and soaking in sea views. The beach's unique rocky landscape and red sandstone cliffs create a surreal, otherworldly beauty. Find seashells, driftwood, and even more fossils, and take stunning photos of rock formations and ever-changing tides. Fewer crowds mean you'll often have large stretches of beach all to yourself.

After soaking up the sea air, you can opt to lounge as long as you like or visit top attractions within 30 minutes to an hour's drive—perfect for a half-day adventure before returning to your campsite haven. Pop over to the Dunster Castle and Gardens, a National Trust gem, or the Quantock Hills National Landscape, famed for its wild moorland, ancient woodlands, and spectacular viewpoints. Steart Marshes, Kilve Beach, Exmoor National Park, Steart Marshes, plus the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway are also nearby.

Helwell Bay is a dreamy destination for road trips and a wonderful spot for those who love untouched nature, thrilling outdoor adventure, and jaw-dropping coastal scenery. Whether fossil-hunting, cliff-walking, or just breathing in the salty air, this road trip is packed with pure campervan magic.

• Camping in and around Helwell Bay
• Best Helwell Bay Campsites
• Campervan Hire Towns in Helwell Bay
• On Our Way from Helwell Bay

Camping in and around Helwell Bay

Helwell Bay. lassehadberg

If you love waking up to the sound of waves and the salty sea air, staying at a campsite in Helwell Bay is a must. This beautiful, often overlooked gem on the Somerset coast is a fossil hunter’s paradise, with looming cliffs, golden sands, and impressive rock formations perfect for seaside sojourns. While there aren’t many campsites in Helwell Bay, we highly recommend camping in Williton, Dunster, or Washford—all just a short drive away. These spots offer peaceful countryside stays with easy access to the bay’s stunning coastline. For a better idea of where to stay, check out our Helwell Bay campsites map. Bring your campervan, set up under the stars, and let the ocean views steal the show.

If you’re looking for the perfect base for exploring Somerset’s coast and countryside, check out our campsites in Williton. This charming village is mere minutes from Helwell Bay, making it ideal for beach lovers, fossil hunters, and coastal walkers. Nestled between Exmoor National Park and the Quantock Hills, it’s also a dream spot for hiking, wildlife spotting, and starry night skies. Whether you’re in a campervan, caravan, or tent, the campsites in Williton offer tranquil rural settings with easy access to the sea. When you are browsing our campsites, take a peek at campsites in Bishops Lydeard, campsites in Exmoor and campsites in Wellington for more options nearby.

Ebborways Farm

Ebborways Farm

Wells, Somerset

Per night prices in June, July and August
Tent and Campervan from £10

Wells, Somerset

Outdoorsy types of all ages and persuasions will find plenty to see and do around Ebborways Farm, a back to basics campsite nuzzle within the heart of Somerset's leafy greenery.

Looking for a storybook setting for your next camping escape? The campsites in Dunster put you right in the heart of one of Somerset’s most picturesque villages. With Dunster Castle’s towers looking down across ancient streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Additionally, you’re a stone’s throw from Exmoor National Park, making it perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife escapes. Whether you want coastal views or countryside quiet, the campsites in Dunster offer a blend of both. Set up your campervan, soak in the medieval charm, and browse our campsites in Minehead, campsites in Timberscombe, campsites in Luccombe, and campsites in East Anstey for cost-effective camping options near Dunster.

If you’re after a relaxing escape with quick access to both coast and countryside, peep our campsites in Washford. This charming village is just minutes from Helwell Bay’s fossil-strewn shores and the rolling hills of Exmoor, making it perfect for beachcombers and hikers alike. Explore the medieval ruins of Cleeve Abbey, take a ride on the West Somerset Railway, or simply relax in the lush green surroundings at one of 106 campsites within 40 miles of Washford on Camperbug. We also recommend searching for campsites in Watchet, campsites in Dulverton, campsites in Exford and campsites in Bampton.

Best Helwell Bay Campsites

If you’re looking for the perfect base to explore Helwell Bay, we’ve handpicked three beautiful campsites with stunning scenery, great facilities, and easy access to the coast. Stay at Warren Bay in Watchet for clifftop sea views, Burrowhayes Farm Caravan and Camping Site and Riding Stables in Minehead for a peaceful countryside escape with horse riding, or Minehead Caravan Club Site for a coastal retreat near Exmoor’s untamed beauty. Whether you want beachside beauty or countryside capers, these campsites in Helwell Bay make the perfect spot to park or pitch up, relax, and unwind.

Warren Bay in Watchet

Warren Bay, Watchet

Warren Bay is a hidden gem for campers looking for a coastal retreat. Perched above the sea, this campsite offers stunning clifftop views and direct access to the beach—ideal for those who love to explore rocky shores and hunt for fossils. It's a family-friendly site with great facilities, including electric hookups, hot showers, and a small shop. Nearby, you can visit Watchet Harbour, enjoy a scenic walk along the South West Coast Path, or take a trip to Dunster Castle. Whether you're into wild swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing by the sea, Warren Bay is the ideal spot to unwind.

Burrowhayes Farm Caravan And Camping Site And Riding Stables in Minehead

Burrowhayes Farm Caravan And Camping Site And Riding Stables, Minehead

Burrowhayes Farm Caravan and Camping Site is a fantastic choice for readers searching for a peaceful rural escape with a sprinkling of adventure. This charming site is in beautiful countryside, offering effortless access to Exmoor National Park. It is perfect for families and features spacious pitches, hot showers, and a well-stocked shop. For something unique, the site also has riding stables, allowing guests to enjoy a horseback trek through the scenic countryside (from Easter). Nearby, you can explore Minehead’s sandy beaches or ride on the West Somerset Railway.

Minehead Caravan Club Site in Minehead

Minehead Caravan Club Site, Minehead

Minehead Caravan Club Site blends comfort and convenience. Located just a short stroll from the seafront, this site is ideal for those who want to admire the beautiful coastal views and Exmoor National Park's allure. It's easy to settle in and relax with modern facilities, including clean showers, electric hookups, and a launderette. Explore the nearby sandy beaches or stroll through the picturesque harbour. Whether you're after beach days or countryside escapades, this campsite is the ideal base for your getaway.

Campervan Hire Towns in Helwell Bay

Helwell Bay is a fantastic destination for a campervan road trip, offering stunning coastal views, peaceful countryside, and the perfect balance of seaside exploration and countryside serenity. Campervans in Helwell Bay allow you to experience the beauty of a famous National Park, the charming village of Watchet, and nearby Helwell Bay beach. We recommend hiring a campervan in Timberscombe, Luccombe, or Bishops Lydeard, each offering convenient access to the bay while providing a relaxing atmosphere and plenty of scenic spots to discover. Alternatively, campervan hire Weston-super-Mare provides excellent coastal access and makes for a convenient base to explore this beautiful stretch of Somerset. Whether you're after a nature-filled holiday or a coastal drive, Helwell Bay is best found behind the steering wheel of a campervan or motorhome.

Helwell Bay. Ruth Sharville

Hiring a campervan in Timberscombe is a fantastic choice for those eager to embark on a memorable campervan road trip. Timberscombe offers the perfect starting point for exploring rolling hills, lush woodlands, and quaint villages. Its peaceful setting makes it an ideal spot to park, unwind, and plan your next adventure. When you rent a campervan in Timberscombe, you’re just a short drive away from Helwell Bay and Dunster Castle, with plenty of scenic routes waiting to be discovered. It’s where nature meets adventure, making it the ultimate base for your road trip. Take a look at 49 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Timberscombe, starting at £52 a night. We also offer more campervans for hire in Minehead, campervans for hire in Watchet, campervans for hire in Dulverton, campervans for hire in East Anstey and campervans for hire in Bampton.

Renting a campervan in Luccombe is the perfect way to start your campervan road trip through the Exmoor countryside. This charming village, tucked away near the coast, offers easy access to serene nature and coastal beauty. It’s an ideal base to explore Helwell Bay, and beautiful walking routes. When renting a campervan in Luccombe, you’re in a prime location for scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and coastal adventures. We have 49 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Luccombe from £80 a night. Check out our campervans in Exmoor, campervans in Dunster, campervans in Exford, campervans in Williton and campervans in Lynton.

VW T2 Classic Campervan in Taunton

VW T2 Classic Campervan in Taunton

Price Per Day: £120 in June, £135 in July, £150 in August.

Age: 25-70

Travel: UK Only

Gearbox: Manual

Alfred is a stunningly restored Westfalia camper. He has an awning, two camp chairs, electric hook-up, a mattress topper on the rock and roll bed, and is fully equipped with cutlery, plates, and pans.

Renting a campervan in Bishops Lydeard is an excellent way to kickstart your campervan road trip through the stunning Somerset countryside. This picturesque village is a gateway to the Quantock Hills, offering a perfect blend of peaceful rural charm and adventure. When you rent a campervan in Bishops Lydeard, you’ll have easy access to both Helwell Bay’s coastline and the historic sights of Dunster Castle. With plenty of scenic routes, tranquil spots, and outdoor activities nearby, Bishops Lydeard is the ideal place to immerse yourself in nature and explore Somerset at your own pace. Take a look at 55 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Bishops Lydeard, and explore a range of vans including gorgeous T2 models. We also recommend more campervans in Taunton, campervans in Wellington, campervans in Clayhidon, campervans in Bridgwater and campervans in Sampford Peverell.

Ford Campervan

Ford Campervan

Price Per Day: £140 in June, £140 in July, £140 in August.

Age: 23-75

Travel: Uk and Europe

Gearbox: Manual

Here is our recently converted Ford Transit Custom, beautifully fitted out for your next adventure. Inside, you’ll find a well-equipped kitchen with a fridge and gas cooker, making it easy to prepare meals on the go.

On Our Way from Helwell Bay

And just like that, our journey through Helwell Bay has ended. This guide has provided all you need for a stress-free adventure, including campsites and campervans that make exploring easy and exciting. But don't worry—we're not stopping here! We've got plenty more Somerset destinations to discover, and our next stop on the Scenic Campervan Road Trip Itinerary Through Somerset will take us into the beautiful Bossington. Stay tuned for more unforgettable adventures as we continue to explore this stunning corner of the UK.