Everything you Need to Know about Campervanning in St. Bees
Read Time: About 16 minutes
St Bees, Cumbria. Darrenfrazerphotography
We’re back with yet another fantastic stop along our Cornish road trip. To recap our adventures thus far, we kicked off our itinerary at Hadrian’s Wall, moving to the shimmering Ullswater, and then on to the famed and much frequented Keswick. We’ve rounded up the best places to visit, and encourage you to alter the itinerary to best suit your holiday. We’ll also dive into everything you need to know about campervanning in St. Bees and explore several exceptional camping spaces nearby.
Drive into St Bees. a cracking holiday spot for coastal capers and the only Heritage Coast between Scotland and Wales, by hopping on the A595, the A5086, or Regional Route 71. The drive should take no more than forty minutes and offer fantastic vistas along the way.
Cumbria Coastal Way. Shellyssnaps
Tucked on the Cumbrian Coast, St Bees is a much frequented spot thanks to its sprawling sandy beach and the memorable red cliffs of St Bees Head. The beach is fantastic for building sand castles, paddling, and pottering around rock pool. Admire sweeping views across the Isle of Man from the sandstone cliffs as wildflowers sway in the wind and varied fauna explore the windswept peaks.
The traditional 16th-century farm lies nestled at the tip of the lush Borrowdale Valley amid soaring fells, making it an excellent base for hikes and walks. The cheery, family-run Cumbrian farm offers campers the luxury of soaking in the spectacular scenery from the comfort of the spacious pitches or glamping units.
Use your campervan hire to rumble over to St Bees village and uncover rich history dating back some 1,000 years. Set aside an afternoon to explore St Bees Priory Church which dates back to 160, and potter around the charming main street while soaking in the atmosphere.We have many campsites in St Bees which are fantastic places to stay and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
- Is St Bees Worth Visiting?
- What is St Bees Famous for?
- What Is St Bees Head?
- Best Campervan Road Trip St Bees Head
- Camping in and around St. Bees Head Heritage Coast
- Which Sea is at St Bees?
- Is it Safe to Swim at St Bees?
- Campsites Near St Bees Head Heritage Coast
- Campsites at St Bees Head Map
- Tent Camping at St Bees Head
- Caravan Camping at St Bees Head
- St Bees Head Camping Cabins
Is St Bees Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Tucked on the stunning coast of Cumbria. St Bees Head blends natural beauty and historical significance, creating a charming space for adventures plus open-air frolics. The village itself is quaint, with traditional architecture and a welcoming atmosphere.
Fleswick Bay. Kaz.Roberts__Uk_Discovery
Outdoor adventurers are well-placed for walking and hiking, particularly along the Cumbria Coastal Way or the famous Coast to Coast Walk, which begins (or ends, depending on your direction) at St. Bees. Nature lovers can admire jaw-dropping views and spot a variety of seabirds like kittiwakes and fulmars.
River Derwent, Cumbria. Fantasticuknature
Sun yourself on the beach, or sit back and soak in glorious views while enjoying a picnic with plenty of seating available. Alternately, grab your binoculars to spot rare birds or take a walk along the coastline and admire the ocean views. There’s plenty to explore and vast skies promise an abundance of adventure for all ages. With gorgeous coastal scenery, historic landmarks, and iconic hiking trails, there’s plenty to keep all ages entertained. Visit St Bees for a relaxing coastal escape with excellent amenities and outdoor activities.
What is St Bees Famous for?
Ennerdale Water. Judepicsuk
St Bees is best known for its prominent headland, which serves as a paradise for birdwatchers with a miscellany of seabird colonies, including puffins and herring gulls. The village also holds one of the oldest schools in England, dating back to 1583, and a 12th century priory which is often admired as an architectural gem with its Norman-era stone carvings and peaceful surrounding. Swap sightseeing for sun, sea, and sand at St Bees beach,famed for its stretch of sandy shoreline and promenade. Explore this lovely coastal resort, and discover why visitors continue to flock to this charming village.
What is St Bees Head?
St Bees head is the only Heritage Coast between Scotland and Wales. Its imposing cliffs are a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and are home to the only colony of cliff nesting seabirds in North West England. The coastline includes St Bees head plus Fleswick Bay, which is tucked between the North and South heads. Fleswick is only accessible via foot or by the ocean, providing adventurous sports with a glorious stretch of coastline, yet untouched by a single motor vehicle.
Best Campervan Road Trip St Bees Head
Egremont Castle. Lakeland.Trek_Photography
Hop in your campervan and rumble around St Bees head, and you’ll discover a delightful location within the Lakes that combines nature, scenery, and a stack of exciting outdoor activities. Use our campervan hire St Bees page to scroll through a large selection of private owners, and browse various models with assorted features. We list 21 campervans within 60 miles of the town, and encourage hirers to shop around for the best prices. Find a campervan with a pop-top roof, or book a van with a heater if your adventures take place during a colder month of the year. We also have many pet-friendly vehicles, so you won’t have to worry about leaving your canine companions behind. We recommend searching for campervans in Whitehaven, Egremont, and Workington. When exploring St. Bees, you can also able to hire fabulous campervans in Cumbira to freely discover the area's stunning natural beauty at your own pace.
Age: 25-70
Travel: UK Only
Gearbox: Manual
Transit Custom camper comes with great amenities, good space, and a great driving experience. Perfect for those with wanderlust. Get off the beaten track and see the true British countryside.
Hiring a campervan in Whitehaven is perfect for exploring stunning landscapes of Cumbria and beyond at your own pace. With its convenient location near the Lake District National Park and the starting point of the Coast to Coast Walk, Whitehaven serves as an ideal base for outdoor adventures.Whether you're seeking a cosy retreat in the heart of nature or embarking on a road trip to iconic destinations, a campervan from Whitehaven is ideal for creating unforgettable memories while enjoying the comforts of home on wheels. With options ranging from compact vans to spacious motorhomes, there's a perfect vehicle for every traveller's needs, making it an exciting and convenient way to experience the beauty of the surrounding countryside. We have 73 campervans in Whitehaven starting at £60 per night, also grabbing campervans in Keswick for your St. Bees trip is a game-changer – you can wake up right by the sea if you fancy it.
Age: 25-70
Travel: UK Only
Gearbox: Manual
Welcome to our Luxurious Campervan, Reiver, equipped with all you need to have a fantastic trip. We hope that you will have a relaxing and memorable holiday in a much-loved, and carefully-used second home.
Egremont serves as an excellent starting point for outdoor enthusiasts and road trip aficionados.Enjoy the freedom to embark on a journey of discovery, from idyllic lakeshores to charming rural villages and rugged mountainscapes, and tailor your experience to suit your preferences and needs. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or an extended road trip, hiring a campervan in Egremont promises an unforgettable adventure filled with scenic beauty. Take a look at our selection of campervans in Egremont within 60 miles of the town, or browse through more campervan hire locations like, by scrolling to the end of the page. We also have campervan rentals in Cleator, campervan rentals in Dent, campervan rentals Beckermet, and campervan rentals Gosforth.
Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway. Ineverynookandcorner
Situated at the mouth of the River Derwent and bordered by the Lake District National Park, Campervans in Workington offers a prime location for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. From sandy beaches to rugged cliffs and charming coastal towns, the region surrounding Workington is ripe for exploration. We list 26 campsites in the town, and more in settlements nearby like: Campervans in Maryport, Campervans in Lamplugh, Campervans in Cockermouth.
Age: 25-70
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Manual
Apache is a our lovely Mercedes sprinter lwb high roof, that is ideal for adventuring entirely off-grid. The van boasts a litre water tank, full central heating, a hot shower, and all the mod cons for a relaxing road trip.
Camping in and around St. Bees Head Heritage Coast
Unplug and destress without the worry of an alarm clock or the pressures of the modern world with a campsite in St Bees. Our camping locations cater to every need, be it a quiet no-frills, tent-only site or a swish glampsite complete with hot tubs. Leave your overbooked schedule behind and spend a relaxing stay amid nature, sharing your space with like minded wanderers. We recommend searching for a campsite in Cleator Moor, Above Derwent and Silloth. When visiting St. Bees, you will also be based at an absolutely stunning campsite in Cumbria with fabulous sea views and a genuine outdoor atmosphere.
Bassenthwaite Lake. Kangan_Xue
Camping in Cleator Moor is a great way to immerse oneself in the rugged beauty of the Lake District's western fells. Surrounded by stunning countryside and picturesque villages, Cleator Moor is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in nature. Nearby attractions include the enchanting Ennerdale Water, one of the most remote and unspoiled lakes in the Lake District, ideal for hiking, wild swimming, and wildlife spotting. For history buffs, the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Egremont Castle provide a glimpse into the region's medieval past. Additionally, the nearby Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway offers a scenic journey aboard a historic steam locomotive through the breathtaking Eskdale Valley.
Derwentwater. Turbotom0104
Two towns within easy reach of Cleator Moor are Whitehaven, known for its Georgian architecture and historic harbour, and Cockermouth, birthplace of William Wordsworth and home to a charming array of shops, cafes, and galleries.Enjoy the splendour and rich heritage of the Lake District and let our campsites provide a welcome respite from the sightseeing. We currently list 198 campsites within Cleator Moor, and offer a filter feature to narrow down your campervan search according to your mode of transport. You can also find campsites nearby in Dent campsites, Egremont campsites, and Beckermet campsites.
Seven Acres Park rests within the stunning Lake District National Park, at the viewsome entrance to the enchanting valleys of Eskdale and Wasdale, ideally positioned for exploring an often overlooked part of this naturally beautiful national park.
Above Derwent provides easy access to some of the area's most iconic attractions. Explore the majestic Derwent Water, a shimmering lake surrounded by verdant woodlands and picturesque peaks, perfect for boating, kayaking, or simply enjoying a leisurely lakeside stroll. Nearby, the imposing slopes of Skiddaw beckon adventurers with challenging hiking trails and panoramic views across the fells. For a taste of history and culture, the charming market town of Keswick offers a bustling atmosphere, quaint streets lined with shops and galleries, and the renowned Theatre by the Lake. Campsites in Above Derwent promises an unforgettable outdoor experience, with a wealth of natural beauty and cultural attractions at your doorstep. With over 250 campsites within 30 miles of the Derwent Valley, you have plenty of options for resting your head throughout your Lake District escape. What's really great is that if you're planning to explore St. Bees, you can easily stay at a breathtaking campsite in Keswick and make day trips to enjoy the magnificent natural beauty around St. Bees – giving you the best of both the Lakes and the coast.
Trafford's Caravan Site is a roomy caravan site nestled in a picturesque area with jaw dropping scenery and quick access to viewsome walks to the shimmering lake of Bassenthwaite.
Look forward to a delightful escape to the tranquil shores of the Solway Coast, when you stay at a campsite in Silloth, with expansive views of the Irish Sea and the Scottish coastline at every corner. Situated in the picturesque county of Cumbria, Silloth boasts a serene atmosphere ideal for relaxation and outdoor adventure. Silloth Green, a spacious parkland featuring beautiful gardens, a putting green, and a miniature railway, is perfect for leisurely strolls and family picnics. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the nearby Solway Wetlands Centre, a haven for birdwatching and wildlife spotting amid the marshes and estuaries. Additionally, the historic Victorian promenade offers panoramic views of the sea and is an ideal spot for a scenic stroll or a refreshing ice cream. Explore nearby towns like Maryport, known for its maritime heritage and Roman history, and Wigton, a charming market town surrounded by rolling countryside and historic buildings. Visit our main page or more campsites in the UK.
Which Sea is at St Bees?
The Irish sea curves around St Bees and offers exceptional swimming for cold water swimming enthusiasts.One of its prime attractions is St Bees Beach, a lovely stretch of coastline with sweeping views across the Irish Ocean and the iconic St Bees Head.
Campfield Marsh - RSPB Nature Reserve. Mrsemilyandersen
Is it Safe to Swim at St Bees?
A fab coastal location entices swimmers who visit the village to take a dip in the Irish Sea. Open water swimmers adore the village, and there are plenty of other warmer swim spots nearby like Bassenthwaite, Wastwater, and Loweswater. The main St Bees Bay extends in a lovely southern sweep and is the most popular owing to its location near the South Head. During low tide the rock pools and red sand offer a delightful playground for the kids, and the sand is always accessible, barring 2 or 3 hours at high tide. There are two generous car parks, free public toilets, a kid’s play area, a handy hotel with a bar and easy access to cliff walks, including the start of the Coast to Coast walk. The beach slopes very gently and is generally free of hazardous currents, however, swimming is discouraged near the rocks of South Head. Pets are welcome to tag along with their well-behaved owners.
Campsites Near St Bees Head Heritage Coast
The Irish Sea. Njm_lawlor
With its stunning views of the Irish Sea and rugged cliffs, St. Bees provides a picturesque setting for camping escapes. Camping is a popular choice for holidaymakers, providing a means of enjoying spectacular views at a fraction of the cost of booking a hotel. Have a peep at our campsites in St Bees, offering pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, as well as modern facilities including showers, laundry, and a shop. Drop in at Whinfell Farm Camp Site for quiet camping in a lush meadow. Wild Wool Barn i is only open for 28 years a day, yet offers some of the finest views in the Lakes and the freedom to stretch out on a generous field with only nine pitches. Eskdale Campsite is a fabulous spot for camping within the Eskdale Valley. Camping in St. Bees promises a peaceful retreat surrounded by coastal scenery and the heritage of the Lake District, so read on to see why these camping locations may be ideal for our road trip.
Whinfell Hall Farm in Cockermouth
Whinfell Hall Farm ,Cockermouth
Whinfell Farm Camp Site is secluded, peaceful and pet-friendly, welcoming camping sorts who want to explore the western Lakes whilst enjoying the thrills of the natural landscape. Guests are well placed for exploring locations like Cockermouth, Buttermere and other big hitters in the Lake District, yet the scenic surroundings make it feel like you’re miles from the nearest road. The owners do not offer complex amenities of entertainment, and encourage guests to enjoy their own fun with the freedom to sit back around crackling barbeque grills when the mood strikes. A strict no noise policy at 10:30 pm ensures peaceful slumbers for all.
Wild Wool Barn Campsite in Carlisle
Wild Wool Barn Campsite, Carlisle
What better way to wake up than with sweeping views of Ennerdale Water from a quiet position within the Lake District? Wild Wool Barn is a cracking site for quiet camping. The friendly owner moved to the Lakes over 20 years ago and is well-versed with the local area, cheerfully providing pointers when needed. Make this hidden gem your home and spend glorious holidays in a tent-only camping space with pitches for only 9 tents. The site is only open for 28 days a year, and the lovely hamlet of Ennerdale Bridge has two pubs a short stroll from the gates. Guests are most welcome to enjoy barbeques on their pitches, while admiring the fantastic natural scenery.
Eskdale Campsite in Boot
Eskdale Campsite, Boot
Campsite Eskdale , a charming and picturesque camping space rests on an eight acre meadow in the gorgeous Eskdale Valley with the Hardknott Pass road a short distance away. Campers have access to three level meadows and a burbling stream adds a lovely touch to the settings. All plots are perfect for both tents and touring vehicles, with the option of electric metres plus car parking for most pitches. The village of Boot is a short scroll from the grounds, and offers three excellent pubs for the parched adventurer. Excellent facilities, including heated shower rooms, ensure a well-earned and restful break, enveloped by the lush sceneries of the Eskdale Valley.
Campsites at St Bees Head Map
Take a look at our campsite map detailing all locations within St Bees. Use our filter to refine your search, and find an exceptional space to rest your head for a night or more.
Tent Camping at St Bees Head
Wastwater Lake, Cumbria. offgrid_offroad
If you enjoy the traditional appeal of camping in a tent, go right ahead and camp under canvas with our massive selection of tent pitch supporting camping sites in St Bees Head. Seacote Park, enjoying excellent location on one of the most attractive stretches of coastline in the UK, welcomes tents on a mix of grass and hardstanding pitches. Seven Acres Park, tucked at the mouth of the enchanting valleys of Eskdale and Wasdale, is a hotspot for the outdoorsy types, and offers guests the option of pitching a tent on the edge of lakes with several fabulous walks nearby. There’s plenty of tent camping options in St Bees Heritage coast. It’s only a matter of finding the perfect space. We have tent pitch supporting campsites in the following towns near by St Bees Head for enjoying your road trip: tent pitch supporting campsites in Eskdale, tent pitch supporting campsites in Wasdale and tent pitch supporting campsites in Cockermouth.
Irton House Farm is a friendly, serene campsite enjoying a convenient position just five miles from local amenities in the picturesque village of Bassenthwaite. The site affords stunning vistas over the gleaming Bassenthwaite Lake and Skiddaw and rests a few minutes’ drive from a verdant wildlife park and an established distillery. The camping area rests on a lovely farm that rears award-winning Texel sheep, and offers heaps of space for campers to stretch out, and soak in stunning views of the gleaming Bassenthwaite Lake. Guests, especially young campers, can look forward to sharing the campsite with a range of farm animals like chickens and inquisitive sheep who are keen to have a nose around new campers. This campsite is ideally suited for nature and outdoor lovers who can head out for walks galore and uncover the spectacular scenery comprising of fells, lakes, mountains, and forests. Paths and trails cater to all abilities and ages and vary in difficulty and length. Biking folk can enjoy hours of uninterrupted mountain biking at Whinlatter Forest Park. At the same time, those with a passion for water-based antics can mosey over to Derwentwater for a range of pursuits ranging from trout fishing to kayaking. The site offers self-catering cottages equipped featuring wet rooms, accessible kitchens and level access. Those who want to savour a no-frills camping experience can set up camp on spacious grass plots with or without electric hook-ups. Dogs welcome.
Caravan Camping at St Bees Head
Loweswater Lake. Dickb0
Caravan camping is just one of the many wonderful ways of camping and we certainly have no shortage of campsites for caravan owners. Dockray Meadow Campsite, is a hidden gem and a top-notch spot for camera who want to sidestep the holiday crowds by camping by the lesser-known lakes that are by no means any less beautiful. Another great space for caravan camping is at Ellerbeck Farm on the fringes of Brigham. The site is peaceful and sheltered with two course fishing ponds, and tourist attractions like Keswick nearby. We have following towns that you can experience caravan camping around St Bees Head: caravan camping in Holmrook, Caravan camping in Ravenglass, caravan camping in Egremont and caravan camping in Cockermouth.
St Bees Head Camping Cabins
Hardknott Pass. Girl_About_World
St Bees Head camping cabins are a fantastic means of escaping the everyday while reconnecting with nature and a few home comforts at hand. Camping pods are warm, often with electricity and heating included, making it an ideal option for winter camping. Enjoy shelter from the elements whilst enjoying the thrills of unfurling your sleeping bag for a peaceful night’s rest. Parkgate Farm Holidays offers fully-insulated camping cabins with lovely private decked patios enjoying sublime vistas of the fells. Shepherds Views Holiday, a friendly, family-run site enjoys a fantastic position on a sprawling 210 acre farm, and provides a different feel to camping in spacious pods with a small heater, a self inflating bed and electricity.
Parkgate Farm Holidays is a serene campsite set on a quiet farm at the base of the Eskdale and Wasdale Valleys, in the Western Lakeland area of Cumbria. The friendly site provides spectacular views over the lush valleys and enjoys a convenient position a mere half an hour drive from the lively seaside town of Whitehaven.
For camping cabin-friendly escapes in Keswick, head on over to Lanefoot Farm and admire panoramic views of the Lake’s lush mountains while enjoying a barbeque outside your insulate pod. We have camping cabins around St Bees Head in following towns for you to experience the scenic surroundings: camping cabins Holmrook, camping cabins Keswick and camping cabins Bassenthwaite,
Wasdale. James.Beaumont_Furniss
We now conclude our holiday in St Bees, but look forward to an exciting new escape with the next part of our itinerary - Coniston.
As always, we’ve tried to provide a detailed Campervan Road Trip Itinerary for the Lake District , adding campsites in St Bees, campervan hire locations, and a look at the attractions in the area. We hope we’ve covered everything you need to know about campervanning in St. Bees. Our next stop is Coniston, a quiet village tucked amid the green landscapes of the Lake District. Keep your eyes on this blog for our next update.
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