Category: Inspiration

The Yorkshire Coast is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, historic sites, and quintessential British seaside charm. With a motorhome as your travel companion, you can explore this stunning stretch of coastline at your own pace, soaking in the salty sea breeze, rugged cliffs, and scenic fishing villages. From golden beaches to charming towns, the Yorkshire Coast is a dream destination for motorhome enthusiasts. Here’s your guide from Long Way Round Motorhome Hire Yorkshire to the best spots to visit, along with the campsites that welcome motorhomes along the way.

Scarborough: The Queen of the Coast

Scarborough, the UK’s first seaside resort, is a delightful mix of old-world charm and vibrant seaside energy. Famous for its sweeping bay, sandy beaches, and historic landmarks like Scarborough Castle, this town is perfect for a motorhome base.

What to Do:

• Take a stroll along the Victorian promenade.
• Visit the Scarborough Castle and learn about its 2,500-year history.
• Spend time at the tranquil North Bay or the lively South Bay.

Best Campsite:

• Scarborough Camping and Caravanning Club Site Located just a short drive from Scarborough town center, this well-equipped site offers spacious pitches for motorhomes. Facilities include electric hook-ups, a shop, and Wi-Fi, making it an ideal spot to explore Scarborough while having all the comforts of home.

Whitby: A Gothic Haven

The picturesque town of Whitby is famed for its dramatic cliffs, cobbled streets, and, of course, its connection to Dracula. The town’s medieval abbey sits atop a hill overlooking the North Sea, and its quirky harbor is a sight to behold.

What to Do:

• Explore the ruins of Whitby Abbey, which inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
• Wander the narrow streets of the old town and visit Whitby’s many shops, cafes, and ice cream parlors.
• Walk along the picturesque Whitby pier.

Best Campsite:

• Whitby Holiday Park Situated just outside Whitby, this campsite offers stunning views of the countryside and is only a short bus ride to the town centre. The park has excellent facilities for motorhome users, including electric hook-ups and a fully equipped site shop.

Robin Hood’s Bay: A Hidden Gem

Robin Hood’s Bay is one of the most picturesque villages on the Yorkshire Coast. Nestled between steep cliffs, this village offers a blend of sandy beaches, historic buildings, and a rich smuggling history. It’s the perfect spot to park up and explore the surrounding coastline.

What to Do:

• Discover the village’s hidden coves and beaches.
• Learn about the area’s smuggling past at the local museum.
• Hike along the Cleveland Way, a national trail offering stunning views of the coast.

Best Campsite:

• Farsyde Farm – A unique cliff top campsite with stunning views. With pitches for motorhomes available, you’ll find a peaceful retreat just a stone’s throw from the beach. The site offers stunning views and easy access to both Robin Hood’s Bay and the nearby cliffs.

Filey: The Quiet Seaside Escape

For a more relaxed and less touristy experience, Filey offers a long, wide beach perfect for peaceful walks and family picnics. The town retains much of its traditional seaside charm, with well-preserved Victorian architecture and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

What to Do:

• Spend a day at Filey Beach, one of the finest on the coast.
• Walk along the Filey Brigg, a natural limestone peninsula, and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.
• Visit the Filey Bird Garden and Nature Reserve to see local wildlife.

Best Campsite:

• Filey Brigg Holiday Park Located just a short distance from the town and beach, this site offers excellent facilities for motorhomes, including hard-standing pitches and electric hook-ups. The peaceful park is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a great place to relax after a day of exploring.

Flamborough Head: Coastal Cliffs and Seabirds

For nature lovers, Flamborough Head is an unmissable destination. This striking stretch of coastline features towering white chalk cliffs, abundant seabirds, and dramatic views of the North Sea. Flamborough Head is ideal for those who love rugged coastlines and wildlife spotting.

What to Do:

• Visit the Flamborough Lighthouse, which has been guiding ships since the 17th century.
• Take a boat trip to see the puffins and other seabirds nesting along the cliffs (in season).
• Explore the nearby Bempton Cliffs RSPB reserve, home to thousands of seabirds.

Best Campsite:

• Flamborough Caravan Park Situated in a beautiful location near the cliffs, this campsite offers great facilities for motorhomes, including spacious pitches with electric hook-ups. It’s the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring the stunning coastline.

Saltburn-by-the-Sea: A Victorian Seaside Escape

Saltburn-by-the-Sea may not be as well-known as some of its Yorkshire cousins, but this charming Victorian seaside town offers a unique, laid-back atmosphere. The cliffs above the beach are perfect for walking, while the town boasts a restored pier, beautiful gardens, and an iconic funicular railway.

What to Do:

• Ride the Saltburn Cliff Lift, one of the oldest funicular railways in the UK.
• Visit the lovely Saltburn Woodland Centre and enjoy the surrounding nature reserve.
• Wander through the town’s delightful gardens and along the pier.

Best Campsite:

• Magpie Wood Skinningrove Just a short drive from Saltburn, The Magpie Wood offers Fantastic views and wildlife, within minutes walk from local amenities.. With spacious motorhome pitches and excellent facilities, it’s a great spot to unwind after a day exploring the local area.

The Yorkshire Coast is just an hours drive from our Harrogate motorhome hire base and offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and quintessential British seaside charm, all accessible at your own pace when you travel by motorhome. Whether you prefer the buzz of Scarborough or the tranquility of Robin Hood’s Bay, there’s a campsite and a stretch of coastline for every taste.

So pack up your motorhome, hit the road, and let the Yorkshire Coast reveal its secrets to you, one stunning view at a time.

Happy Travels!

If you’re considering a motorhome holiday, Yorkshire should be at the top of your list. This stunning region of England offers the perfect combination of picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and diverse outdoor adventures. From the rugged hills of the North York Moors to the rolling valleys of the Yorkshire Dales, there’s something here for every type of traveller. Not only that, but with easy access to the Lake District and the beautiful Yorkshire coastline, it’s no wonder that motorhome hire in Yorkshire is becoming such a popular choice. Here’s why motorhome hire Yorkshire should be your next road trip destination!

Ideally Located for Exploring the North York Moors

One of the highlights of a Yorkshire motorhome hire is the chance to explore the North York Moors National Park, a vast and rugged expanse of heather-covered moorland, deep valleys, and enchanting forests. This area is rich in history and natural beauty, offering some of the best scenic drives in the UK.

Start your journey in the picturesque town of Helmsley, where you can stock up on local produce before heading out to explore. Take a winding drive through the moors to the dramatic Whitby coastline, famous for its association with Dracula and its charming harbour. Or venture into the heart of the park to discover hidden villages like Rosedale Abbey, which feels like stepping back in time. With a motorhome, you have the freedom to explore these off-the-beaten-path locations at your own pace—perfect for those seeking a more tranquil and remote escape.

The Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales

Just a short drive from the North York Moors, the Yorkshire Dales is another must-visit region. Known for its beautiful limestone scenery, rolling hills, and charming villages, the Dales offer a slower pace of life, perfect for a motorhome getaway.

Start your adventure in the market town of Skipton, often called the ‘Gateway to the Dales’, where you can visit the famous Skipton Castle and explore the lively high street. From there, take a scenic route through the Dales, stopping in places like Malham, home to the iconic Malham Cove, a massive limestone amphitheatre with breathtaking views. For nature lovers, a visit to the famous Aysgarth Falls is essential—three stunning waterfalls that are a photographer’s dream.

One of the best things about hiring a motorhome in Yorkshire is the opportunity to enjoy the landscape from the comfort of your own vehicle. Whether you’re camping out in a quiet spot by a river or tucked away in a peaceful glen, you’ll find plenty of places to park and enjoy the tranquility of the Dales.

Harrogate… another gem

Harrogate is another gem in Yorkshire that’s perfect for exploring by motorhome. Known for its elegant Georgian architecture, lush gardens, and famous spa waters, this charming town offers a mix of history and relaxation. You can park up at one of the nearby campsites and spend the day strolling through the picturesque Valley Gardens or visiting the historic Royal Pump Room Museum, where you can learn about Harrogate’s status as a Victorian spa town. For a more leisurely day, head to Betty’s Tea Room, an institution in Harrogate, for a traditional afternoon tea. The town’s central location also makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions, such as the striking Fountains Abbey or the medieval ruins of Ripley Castle. With its blend of heritage, natural beauty, and plenty of places to park, motorhome hire Harrogate is a wonderful stop on any adventure.

A Short Drive to the Lake District

Yorkshire’s central location also puts you within easy reach of the Lake District, one of the UK’s most famous national parks. A mere couple of hours by motorhome, the Lake District offers a completely different yet equally stunning landscape of lakes, mountains, and forests.

For those looking to continue their journey of natural beauty, the drive through the Cumbrian countryside is nothing short of spectacular. You can park up at various lakeside campsites and immerse yourself in activities like hiking, boating, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere. Popular spots such as Lake Windermere, Ullswater, and Derwentwater are all easily accessible from the main roads. If you’re a fan of literature, make sure to visit the homes of famous poets like William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter, which are dotted around the region.

With a motorhome, the Lake District is just a stone’s throw away, allowing you to experience both the best of Yorkshire and the beauty of Cumbria without the hassle of hotel bookings or worrying about logistics.

Some of the most scenic seasides in the country 

Not all of Yorkshire’s charm lies inland—its coast is a treasure trove of scenic beauty too. From sandy beaches to dramatic cliffs, the Yorkshire seaside has something to offer everyone. If you’re a fan of coastal walks, you’ll love the stretch from Scarborough to Whitby, with its quaint fishing villages and panoramic views over the North Sea.

Filey is another hidden gem on the Yorkshire coast, with its long, sandy beach perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. For history enthusiasts, the seaside town of Robin Hood’s Bay offers a glimpse into the past with its cobbled streets and ancient cottages. Best of all, a motorhome allows you to explore these charming towns and hidden beaches with ease, camping out by the sea for a truly unique experience.

The Yorkshire coast is also famous for its fresh seafood, so make sure to stop by a fish-and-chip shop or local seafood restaurant for a meal to remember. With so many quiet spots to park up along the coast, it’s easy to enjoy the best of both worlds—seaside relaxation and the freedom of the open road.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply in need of a peaceful getaway, Yorkshire offers an ideal base for exploring the best of England. From the moors and dales to the coast and beyond, there’s no shortage of places to see and adventures to be had. Hiring a motorhome in Yorkshire gives you the freedom to experience it all at your own pace, with the comfort and convenience of your home on wheels.

So, pack your bags, pick up your motorhome, and hit the road in Yorkshire—your next great adventure awaits!

Understanding the Difference Between a Campervan and a Motorhome

Do you enjoy immersing yourself in nature and wild camping, or do you lean towards campsites located near urban areas to soak up the local culture? Whichever you prefer, both campervans and motorhomes offer excellent options for your adventures! The question is, which one suits you best?

In this guide, we’ll explore how a campervan differs from a motorhome. Both serve as mobile homes, offering a place to stay, sleep, and eat, allowing you to park wherever you wish to camp. However, various types of vehicles exist, and there are key distinctions between the two.

What is a Motorhome?

Many people often misunderstand what constitutes a motorhome. Typically, these vehicles provide a living space similar to a caravan and are built on an existing chassis. Unlike standard vans, motorhomes have taller and wider bodies, making them significantly larger.

Historically, motorhomes featured a partition between the living area and the driver’s cabin, but many modern designs have eliminated this separation. Now, they resemble self-contained living spaces that can travel.

Contemporary motorhomes generally include a bathroom, kitchen, and fixed beds. They are spacious and equipped with home-like comforts, such as separate showers, televisions, and climate control.

Types of Motorhomes

You can choose from several classes of motorhomes, including:

• Coach-built motorhome: This type combines two cabs to create a classic structure, built on a lightweight chassis with a body made from wood, aluminum, or fiberglass.

• Over-cab bed coach-built motorhome: This model provides sleeping space above the cab.

• A-class motorhome: The largest and often coach-built, these offer more luxury features like cocktail cabinets and electric fireplaces, typically making them the most expensive option.

• B-class motorhome: These include a combined shower and toilet.

• C-class motorhome: These have a coach-built body with an integrated cab.

Advantages of Motorhomes

• Size: Available in various sizes, ranging from 6m to over 10m, they’re ideal for families.

• More space: The design allows for greater living space, often including a front lounge and fully equipped kitchen.

• Insulation: Generally better insulated than campervans.

• Washing facilities: Larger size allows for separate bathrooms with showers.

• Layout: A longer wheelbase enables diverse layouts and spacious sleeping areas.

• External storage: Motorhomes often include additional storage options, including a “garage” for camping gear, with larger models featuring actual garages for small vehicles.

Disadvantages of Motorhomes

• Maneuverability: Larger size can make navigation difficult, especially on narrow roads to remote campsites.

• Driving license: Some models over 3,500 kg require a C1 driving license for UK residents.

• Camping options: Wild camping can be trickier with larger vehicles.

• Insurance: Typically more expensive to insure.

• Fuel economy: They consume more fuel.

• Height restrictions: Larger models, especially those with over-cabs, may struggle with height barriers like bridges.

What is a Campervan?

Campervans are built on a van chassis, modified from standard vans. They tend to be shorter and narrower, with less headroom than motorhomes.

To address the height issue, some campervans feature pop-up or expanding roofs that can be raised when parked, creating more headspace and sleeping room.

While campervans offer less storage than motorhomes, many have convertible seating that can be transformed into beds for sleeping.

Typical features of a campervan include fold-out beds, sinks, fridges, gas stoves, and limited storage, but they usually lack portable toilets and built-in showers.

Advantages of Campervans

• Driving: Easier to handle on the road and in campsites.

• Versatility: Can double as regular vehicles for commuting.

• Accessibility: Smaller size allows access to more wild camping spots.

• Insurance: Generally cheaper to insure.

• Fuel-efficient: More economical on fuel.

• Heating: Easier and quicker to heat in winter.

• Height: Pop-up models are about the height of a standard car, facing fewer height restrictions.

Disadvantages of Campervans

• Space limitations: Even long campervans are no longer than 7m.

• Limited layout options: Smaller size results in fewer configuration choices.

• Insulation needs: Require extra insulation, which reduces interior space.

• Not family-friendly: Space may be inadequate for families or multiple adults.

• Washing facilities: Usually lack bathrooms with showers or portable toilets.

• External storage: Limited external storage capabilities.

• Access: Accessing the interior may be challenging through double back doors.

When to Rent a Campervan vs. a Motorhome

Choose a campervan if:

• You’re planning a short camping trip, such as two weeks.
• You have a tight budget.
• You want to avoid parking restrictions or height barriers.
• You’ll be staying at campsites with on-site bathrooms.
• It’s just for couples who don’t need much space.

Opt for a motorhome if:

• You plan to camp frequently.
• You have a larger budget.
• You desire the luxury and comfort of home.
• You prefer not to use public or outdoor bathrooms.
• You need space for more than two adults and children.

Summary

We hope this guide clarifies the distinctions between campervans and motorhomes! While both vehicles offer unique advantages and disadvantages, with careful consideration, you can select the right option for your next camping adventure!

As a new motorhome owner or if you’re renting one for your next adventure, the experience can be a bit overwhelming. The prospect of driving a vehicle as large as a motorhome can seem quite intimidating. But don’t worry! This article provides essential tips and tricks for beginners, along with safety advice and more!

The Fundamentals of Driving a Motorhome

We recognize that operating a motorhome can be daunting. There’s plenty to remember, such as its height and length. This section will cover some key basics to boost your confidence.

Here are some important considerations when driving a motorhome:

Take Your Time: Don’t allow the dealer or anyone else to rush you into driving. It’s advisable to pick up the motorhome before the rental company closes, giving you time to learn about operating the vehicle.

Know Your Dimensions: Write down the height, length, and width of your motorhome. Being aware of these measurements will help you avoid low bridges and other potential issues during your travels.

Use a Motorhome GPS: It’s wise not to depend solely on Google Maps. A motorhome-specific GPS can help ensure a safer journey, guiding you away from obstacles like low bridges and narrow roads.

Adjust Your Seat and Mirrors: When positioning your seat and mirrors, make sure you have a clear view on both sides, including blind spots. Most motorhomes come with two mirrors; the lower one helps with blind spots. Adjust your seat for comfort, ensuring it’s not too far back or too close to the wheel and pedals.

Familiarize Yourself with Controls: Determine whether your motorhome has a manual or automatic transmission, and locate the gear shifts accordingly.

The best way to get comfortable driving your motorhome is to have a dealer or a trusted individual demonstrate how to operate it. They can walk you through the features and take you for a test drive to help build your confidence.

Gaining Confidence Behind the Wheel

Confidence is crucial when driving a motorhome. The best way to build this confidence is through practice.

Many couples travel together in a motorhome, but usually, one person drives more often. It’s essential for both partners to know how to drive the motorhome in case one becomes unable to do so. Make sure both drivers are covered by the motorhome’s insurance and have opportunities to practice.

Understanding Your Width

One of the more challenging aspects of driving a motorhome is mastering its width. You’ll need to navigate around obstacles like parked cars while ensuring you stay centered in your lane.

Typically, a motorhome is about 3 feet wider than a standard car. It’s important to recognize how the white lines on the road relate to a point on your dashboard. This will help you maintain proper lane positioning.

Use your mirrors to assess the gap when overtaking other vehicles. Consider adding wing mirror protectors if your motorhome lacks them.

Learning to gauge the width of your vehicle takes time and practice. Initially, it may feel unusual, but with experience, you’ll soon feel more comfortable staying within your lane.

Making Wider Turns

A common mistake among novice motorhome drivers is turning as if they were in a car. Remember that a motorhome behaves differently when turning. Be aware of the vehicle’s length and ensure you pull out sufficiently so that the entire motorhome can clear the turn.

As a general guideline, don’t begin turning until the rear wheels are aligned with the obstacle, like a curb or a post.

If you think you’ve turned too early, steer in the opposite direction before making your turn again.

Also, take it slow. Gradually building your confidence is key!

Be Aware of Speed Limits for Motorhomes

Motorhomes often have specific speed limits, particularly if the unladen weight exceeds 3.05 tonnes or if you’re towing another vehicle.

Here’s a quick overview of the speed limits according to the Gov.UK website:

Type of Vehicle	Built-up Areas (mph)	Single Carriageways (mph)	Dual Carriageways (mph)	Motorways (mph)
Motorhomes up to 3.05 tonnes	30	60	70	70
Motorhomes over 3.05 tonnes	30	50	60	70

In Summary

These tips will help you get started with driving a motorhome. While it can be daunting to handle one of these large vehicles for the first time, with practice and an awareness of road rules and your vehicle’s dimensions, you’ll soon feel like a pro behind the wheel!

Do I need a special license to drive a motorhome in the UK?

If the vehicle weighs under 3.5 tonnes, you can operate a motorhome in the UK with a standard driving license. There may be age restrictions based on the rental company and insurance policies. Having points on your license could impact the cost due to additional insurance requirements, though this isn’t always the case.

Can I park my motorhome anywhere overnight?

The simple answer is NO. However, the rules vary by country and season, with some areas being more stringent than others. It’s essential to check local regulations. In the UK, there are many designated motorhome parking spots. Some require reservations, while others allow for drop-ins.

How can I find appropriate campsites or overnight parking spots?

There are several apps and websites available, but we recommend Park4Night – a free app for overnight motorhome parking in the UK. While you can’t reserve spots through it, it provides all the necessary information about facilities, occupancy levels, and other helpful details. We managed just fine with the free version.

The Camping and Caravan Club, also offers discounts of up to 30% on some of their sites, including those in the Camping In The Forest program.

Where can I dispose of waste from my motorhome?

Most campsites offer facilities for disposing of grey water (from sinks and showers) and black water (toilet waste). After consulting experienced motorhome travelers, we kept the external grey water valve open most of the time and chose parking spots where a little wastewater wouldn’t be an issue. The runoff is surprisingly minimal, and if you’re only using it for a shower or washing a few dishes, the water is clean. While this might not be ‘best practice,’ it seems acceptable.

Many public restrooms have signs against toilet waste disposal, but we found that if the public restrooms were part of a parking area allowing overnight stays for motorhomes, it was usually fine to use their facilities for disposal.

The Park4Night app also includes this type of information in its listings.

What safety measures should I take when driving a motorhome?

Ensure your motorhome is loaded properly for stability, be mindful of height and weight limits, and take your time on the road. Practicing reversing and maneuvering in an open area before your trip could be beneficial.

How much does it cost to rent a motorhome?

As mentioned earlier, some companies have ‘hidden extras’ during checkout. Long Way Round Adventures includes everything in their flat fee:

• Fully Comprehensive European Insurance.
• Unlimited mileage.
• 24-hour UK/European breakdown assistance.
• A fully equipped motorhome with everything you’ll need for your holiday—just bring your food and clothes!

Renting a motorhome from Long Way Round is straightforward. Regardless of which vehicle you choose, there’s a single flat fee. The only variables are the season you want to rent in, and there’s a minimum rental period of either 3 or 5 nights, depending on the season.