Top Destinations For A City Break
We may be in the grip of winter, but that’s no reason to give up on your long weekends away in the caravan or motorhome. The UK has fantastic cities and towns to explore, with plenty to enjoy, whatever the British weather.
Our top picks are places that offer plenty for the whole family, from history and culture, to entertainment, restaurants and shopping. They’re also on or near to the motorway network, which is never a bad idea in the unpredictable winter months. When looking for campsites, you can find some find some absolute gems, located in town and close to the action. Many of the sites here are recommended by the main touring clubs, so do check any membership requirements and book well in advance.
Here are our top destinations for a quick winter break.
BRISTOL
This is our home town and believe us, there’s lots to do! Bristol has a thriving arts and cultural scene, brilliant galleries and museums, extensive city centre shopping and a great choice of restaurants and bars for most tastes and pockets.
The city’s harbour side location gives it a unique atmosphere and you’ll see signs of its maritime past as a major international port at every turn.
Site pick: Baltic Wharf Caravan Club
OXFORD
With its dreaming spires, plentiful cafes and restaurants, and fantastic galleries and museums (including the splendidly eclectic Pitt Rivers Museum), Oxford is a terrific place to explore over a long weekend.
There’s also good shopping and a vibrant entertainment scene which includes several theatres, some great music venues and the usual multi screens.
Site pick: Oxford Camping and Caravanning Club
BRIGHTON
If you’re looking for a fun city break by the sea, Brighton fits the bill. It’s a huge centre for music and the arts, and there’s plenty to explore, including the famous pier and the historic Lanes, with their small boutique shops.
Feeling hardy? How about a dip? Or at least a life affirming breath of sea air, walking along the elegant seafront or the Brighton Palace Pier (which the kids will love!)
Site pick: Brighton Caravan Club
LONDON
Take your caravan or motorhome and enjoy all the capital has to offer, minus its hotel prices. There are a number of permanent sites within the M25 boundary that are within easy reach of the West End via public transport.
London’s a great bet any time of year. From strolling along the South Bank to taking in a show, visiting its many museums and galleries to shopping ‘til you drop, there’s something for everyone, any time.
Site pick: Crystal Palace Caravan Club
YORK
Reputed to be Britain’s most haunted city, York nevertheless is a lively place with plenty to see and do. For any heritage fan its Heaven on Earth, with attractions including York Castle Museum, York Minster and interactive attractions such as The York Dungeon.
You can get a real flavour too of how things used to be, from travel at the York Railway Museum to how farming was done, courtesy of The Yorkshire Museum of Farming.
Site pick: York Rowntree Park Caravan Club
EDINBURGH
Edinburgh is a fabulous place to explore. Its skyline is dominated by its world-famous castle, the entertainment, shopping and restaurants are world class, and there’s no shortage of things to do in winter, thanks to the city’s many visitor attractions.
One great way to explore the city is via Edinburgh’s 101 Objects. This is a series of itineraries that will guide you around areas of the city, from one interesting sight / site to the next.
Site pick: Edinburgh Caravan Club
CARDIFF
Cardiff offers the wow factor in so many ways. It’s home to frequent international sporting events and concert tours and has marvellous shopping and nightlife.
Make sure you pay a visit to Cardiff Bay. The City has lovingly renovated its docks, which not only offer good restaurants, bars and shops, but are also adjacent to the opera house, Welsh parliament building and the permanent Doctor Who exhibition (near the BBC studios where its made).
Site pick: Cardiff Caravan and Camping Park
We hope you have a good time!