Hidden UK Escapes: Exceptional Family Caravan Sites Off the Beaten Path

Ah, the great outdoors! There’s nothing quite like packing up the caravan and heading off on a family adventure, exploring the hidden treasures of the UK. Whether you're a seasoned caravan enthusiast or a first-timer eager to experience the joys of mobile living, the UK is brimming with charming caravan sites perfect for families.

From the serene landscapes of the Lake District to the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, there’s a spot for everyone, offering a plethora of activities, stunning views, and a chance to reconnect with nature.

So, grab a cuppa, sit back, and let’s journey together through the best family-friendly caravan sites the UK has to offer, delving into the details, reviews, and all the jazz to help you plan your next unforgettable family getaway!

Here’s my top picks!!

1. Blakemere Touring and Holiday Park, Cheshire

Now, as a big fan of camping and travel, I found this park amazing, loads of nature walks, kids play areas, and just overall a lovely area!

Location: Cheshire

Perfect For: Families, Couples, Adventure Seekers

Want something simple yet adventurous for you and the family? Click here to find out more! Prices start at £40 a night through April-August

Blakemere Touring and Holiday Park is a versatile destination located in the heart of Cheshire. It offers a mix of relaxation and entertainment options suitable for families, couples, and adventure seekers. And with a rating of 4.6 it's a no brainer!

And with stunning old period houses, what's not to love?

- Over 30 independent shops

- Variety of dining options

- Activities like segway tours, bushcraft, and archery

- Outdoor adventure play park and miniature railway

- Dedicated dog area

Address: Chester Rd, Sandiway, Northwich CW8 2EB

For more information about this caravan park, please click here

2. Sandford Park, Dorset

With a collection of caravan pitches and lodges, this Parkdean has everything you need, and it's so close to the beach, for dogs, kids and families!

Location: Dorset

Perfect For: Families, Nature Lovers, Beach Goers

With different price options depending on where you want to pitch, how many people and when you want to go, click this link to find out more, prices from £99

Sandford Park is a serene getaway located in Dorset, ideal for families and those who love being close to the beach and nature. It offers a range of accommodations and is close to local attractions, making it a convenient option for those looking to explore the area.

A rating of 3.5 is good for me, the only thing i’d change, sometimes the caravan pitches aren’t the best! Too muddy!

Now who doesn’t love a beach, and a clean lovely one at that?!

- Proximity to beautiful beaches

- Variety of accommodations including caravans and lodges

- Indoor and outdoor pools

- Entertainment and dining options

Address: Willow Cres, Holton Heath, Poole BH16 6JZ

My boyfriend and I love Parkdean, for its kid friendly, family friendly and does a lot for couples as well, read my Parkdean review for more!

3. Woodland Waters, Lincolnshire

Somewhere very close to home for me! My stepdad loves fishing, and this place is great for camping by the lake, and they have fishing shops nearby, a lovely stay.

Location: Lincolnshire

Perfect For: Anglers, Nature Enthusiasts, Families

Prices may vary, so please click and see which plot may work for you! Prices however start from £25 for limited slots

Woodland Waters is a tranquil retreat in Lincolnshire, primarily catering to anglers but also offering a peaceful environment for families and nature enthusiasts. With its well-stocked fishing lakes and scenic surroundings, it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.

A rating of 4.4, which I am inclined to agree with, it helped its not far from me either!

One thing I really liked about this caravan site, is that everyone is really friendly, and the camping sites are really nice and clean and maintained.

- Well-stocked fishing lakes

- Scenic woodland surroundings

- Variety of accommodations including lodges and tents

- On-site bar and restaurant

Address: Willoughby Rd, Ancaster, Grantham NG32 3RT

For more information on this quite modest and quiet caravan/ camping site, please click here.

4. The Orchards Holiday Park, Isle of Wight

Ah, the Isle of Wight, stunning, simple, and full of beaches, nice local shops,and FIELDS, so a massive yes from me!

Location: Isle of Wight

Perfect For: Families, Couples, Beach Lovers

Prices are on the cheaper side, but getting there can be half the expense, so if you don’t mind the travel boy oh boy do I recommend this park! Unit per week start at £205

The Orchards Holiday Park is a charming destination located on the Isle of Wight. It’s an ideal place for families and couples looking for a beachside holiday, offering a range of facilities and accommodations to suit various preferences.

I'm an artist, wow!!

A rating of 4.6 out of 5 makes so much more sense when you see it has a pool, beaches, local shops, and is GREAT for price and kid friendly places.

- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools

- Award-winning park

- Proximity to beautiful beaches

- Range of accommodations including caravans and cottages

Address: Main Rd, Newbridge, Yarmouth PO41 0TS

For more information about The Orchards Holiday Park, please click here.

5. Whitehill Country Park, Devon

I also really like it when a caravan site has a swimming pool, I mean, it's right by the beach, but we all know the English sea can be a bit nippy!

Location: Devon

Perfect For: Families, Couples, Nature Lovers

Please click here for prices as they may vary! But prices do start from £205 per 3 nights

Whitehill Country Park, located in the rolling South Devon hills, is a family-run park offering a countryside retreat for families, couples, and nature lovers. With its range of accommodations and leisure facilities, it’s a great base for exploring the English Riviera.

I took this when I went, my boyfriend and I are BIG nature lovers, and Devon has plenty of this! Beautiful lakes, wildlife, lots of walks, it's perfect for people constantly on the go and on a budget!

A rating of 4.5, I do believe Devon is one of my absolute favorite places of all time.

- Countryside setting

- Outdoor heated pools

- On-site bar and restaurant

- Range of accommodations including caravans, lodges, and pods

Address: Stoke Rd, Paignton TQ4 7PF

Like the look and the idea of a nature and peaceful caravan park, well look no further, and make that booking!

6. Tattershall Lakes Country Park, Lincolnshire

Known as the caravan capital of the UK, Lincolnshire bodes well with beautiful lakes, great seaside attractions, and just fields and nature, on a small budget!

Location: Lincolnshire

Perfect For: Families, Adventure Seekers, Water Sports Enthusiasts

Now for a couple nights prices are a bit steep, at £200 plus, but I do believe it's worth it, as look at that view!

Tattershall Lakes Country Park is an action-packed holiday destination in Lincolnshire, offering a plethora of activities and entertainment for families and adventure seekers, especially those who enjoy water sports.

And not far, please enjoy Lincoln, less than an hour drive away, a nice historical city, which holds the Magna Carter!

A rating of 4.3, I can appreciate the place for its beauty, but I would recommend bringing your own food, but everything else is great

- Variety of water sports including jet skiing and wakeboarding

- Outdoor cinema and entertainment

- Spa and indoor swimming pool

- Range of accommodations including lodges and caravans

Address: 57 Sleaford Rd, Tattershall, Lincoln LN4 4JG

Now my mum actually is a big fan of caravan parks, so much so she works at one! For fun! And that’s where I get it from, and this is a BIG recommendation in my eyes, as Lincolnshire is stunning!

7. Cofton Holidays, Devon

Ah Devon, another one of my favorites, just pure fields, silence, and fun! With a great set of nature walks, and fishing!

Location: Devon

Perfect For: Families, Nature Lovers, Fishermen

From October half term ranging from prices of £333, it is a one pricer side for it is down south, but it comes with great deals, pick which one suits you best!

Cofton Holidays is a family-friendly holiday park in Devon, nestled within a picturesque valley. It offers a tranquil environment with lush landscapes, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers, families, and fishing enthusiasts.

And if you’re in Devon, please check out Clovelly, a beautiful nestled town on the coast of Devon, full of cobbles, local shops and beautiful beaches.

- Fishing lakes and outdoor pools

- Dog-friendly accommodations and facilities

- On-site restaurants and bars

- Range of accommodations including cottages and apartments

Address: Cofton Ln, Starcross, Exeter EX6 8RP

For more information, and if I have managed to persuade you! Click here!

8. Bunn Leisure, West Sussex, now known as Seal Bay!

So I picked this one out of reviews, it’s not one of MY favorites, I prefer something simple, but this caravan park really does excel in terms of service, rating, and accommodation, and the beaches are wow!

Location: West Sussex

Perfect For: Families, Beach Lovers, Entertainment Seekers

Based on a family of 4 for this september for 7 nights, beginning price is £429 for a standing caravan, now I do like the price, but it doesn’t include food or entertainment passes like some of the others, so please take this into consideration.

Bunn Leisure in West Sussex is a vibrant holiday park located by the sea, offering a range of entertainment options and facilities for families and those looking for a lively beachside holiday experience.

Please take into consideration I hiked this and was exhausted, but also, look at that VIEW

- Proximity to sandy beaches

- Live entertainment and kids’ clubs

- Indoor and outdoor pools

- Variety of accommodations including caravans and luxury lodges

Address: Warner's Ln, Selsey, Chichester PO20 9EL

Prefer a spring of entertainment, pubs and a nice beach life, this is the PERFECT place for it!

9. Parkdean Resorts, Various Locations

Now, there are so many to choose from, I thought this was only fair, have fun choosing, we love Parkdean!

Location: Various Locations across the UK

Perfect For: Families, Couples, Adventure Seekers

For £23 for two nights depending on location, we actually prefer Parkdean to Butlins, (well, more than the Skegness Butlins, more on that in another article!) We think it’s worth it!

Parkdean Resorts operates a range of holiday parks across the UK, each offering a unique experience catering to a variety of preferences, whether it’s a peaceful retreat in the countryside or an action-packed adventure by the seaside.

Now if you bring your own campervan, there's so many options, from tents, and so much more, for two nights with 4 guests, £23 is a no brainer!

- Rating of 4.3 across multiple locations

- Wide range of locations and settings

- Variety of accommodations and camping options

- Entertainment and activities for all ages

- Multiple dining and leisure facilities

Tempted? Well, good! Click here for more information!

10. Haven Holidays, Various Locations

Fun fact, one of my best friends used to work in the Haven in Mablethorpe as a waiter, he loved it!

Location: Various Locations across the UK

Perfect For: Families, Couples, Beach Lovers

For last minute deals, based on 4 people, 2 adults and 2 children aged 5-12 for 3 nights ranges from prices £199, what a steal!

Haven Holidays offers a collection of holiday parks situated in some of the UK’s most scenic coastal locations. Each park provides a range of accommodations and facilities, making it a suitable choice for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy the British coastline.

Mablethorpe isn’t for everyone, but I love Lincolnshire. Maybe I am biased, but I love it! I also love Haven, but is it my top, well, find out later!

Rating of 3.4, I can see why it's low, I’ve heard good and bad things, maybe it is a location thing?

- Beautiful coastal locations

- Range of accommodations including caravans and chalets

- Entertainment programs and outdoor activities

- Pools and leisure facilities

As you can see, many in the North!

Want to explore the magic of Haven? Well, wait no longer and camp and caravan away!

11. Hoburne Holidays, Various Locations

I also love caravan parks with a gated entrance, it feels a bit safer and more private, and this is one of those parks!

Location: Various Locations across the UK

Perfect For: Families, Couples, Nature Lovers

Pricing based on last minute deals,4 nights, from 2 adults and two children aged 5-12 years old, ranging from £213.

Hoburne Holidays offers a selection of high-quality holiday parks in stunning locations, providing a mix of tranquility and activity, suitable for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts.

Fancy a swim, well there's swimming parks in all the Hoburne locations, fun for family, friends and so much more.

- Rating of 4.1 out of 5!

- Scenic locations near beaches and countryside

- Entertainment and leisure facilities

- Variety of accommodations

Like the South, well, Hoburne just does that!

Now I hadn’t heard of this park since this summer, and I love it!

12. Ribby Hall Village, Lancashire

For those based in Lancashire, this really is one for you, it's nearby, cheap, and a hidden gem!

Location: Lancashire

Perfect For: Families, Spa Enthusiasts, Sports Lovers

Like a bit of luxury and a pricey holiday, well based on September 29th arrival for a week, 2 adults and 2 children aged 5-17 prices range from £865. I know, PRICEY!

Ribby Hall Village is a five-star holiday village in Lancashire, offering a diverse range of activities, luxury spa, and sports facilities, making it an ideal destination for families and individuals seeking a variety of recreational options.

Falling in love with Lancashire? Well Gawthorpe Hall, a historic Elizabethan House! But if you want to save your money, which i’d understand, just view my picture from the outside!

A rating of 4.6 doesn't sit right with me, for the price, I would expect more, but I guess you can bring pets?

- Award-winning spa hotel

- Sports and leisure facilities

- Family and adult-only accommodations

Address: Ribby Rd, Kirkham, Preston PR4 2PR

For those who need a well earned break, please click here and get your massage on!

13. Forest Holidays, Various Locations

Take caravaning to a whole new level with Forest Holidays!

Location: Various Forest Locations across the UK

Perfect For: Nature Lovers, Couples, Families

For example, based on a family of 4, two adults and 2 children, prices range from £130 a month, yes, quite a bit, but the one in Sherwood Forest, is amazing, and it’s not far from my new house!

Forest Holidays offers secluded cabins in the heart of Britain’s forests, providing a peaceful retreat for those looking to reconnect with nature, suitable for couples, families, and friends.

Please enjoy this picture I took of Sherwood Forest, you might remember from my Center Parcs review how much I loved this place, and it just makes me feel at one with nature.

I can’t find many other reviews, but I rate it 5 stars out of 5!!

- Secluded woodland cabins

- Hot tubs and forest views

- Pet-friendly options

Throughout the Midlands and the North, Forest Holidays gives you a chance to tuck in and relax!

Want to upscale your caravan and camping experience, we'll take this opportunity! Click the link and book here!

14. Kelling Heath Holiday Park, Norfolk

Nothing beats an area for the dogs, family and kids!

Location: Norfolk

Perfect For: Nature Enthusiasts, Families, Cyclists

Based on September 2023 prices, two nights for two adults in a campervan ranges from £74! You can bring dogs, and children to this amazing caravan stay, with play areas, woodland and kid friendly accommodation. It's one of my mums favorites, I should go shouldn’t I?

Kelling Heath Holiday Park is set amongst woodland and heathland in Norfolk, offering a natural retreat for families and nature lovers, with cycling trails and outdoor activities.

And if you’re wanting more of a challenge, try this walk near Raven Hall on Langley Marshes on the banks of the River Yare!

A rating of 4.6 is perfect for this high class but affordable caravan/ woodland lodge holiday park, which one are you choosing?

- Woodland lodges and pitches

- Cycling and walking trails

- Environmental conservation focus

Address: Weybourne Rd, Holt NR25 7HW

I’m booking my stay now, what about you?

15. Bluestone National Park Resort, Wales

For the mini travelers out there, they prefer a little bit more peace and quiet, and I know that's hard with kids! Look no further as Pembrokeshire is stunning and worth it!

Location: Pembrokeshire, Wales

Perfect For: Adventure Seekers, Families, Nature Lovers

Based on the adapted lodge, which sleeps 4 with 3 bedrooms for 3 nights, prices range from £570, so i’d get a booking now!

Bluestone National Park Resort is a 5-star resort in Wales, offering a range of outdoor adventures and relaxing activities, set within a beautiful national park, suitable for families and adventure enthusiasts.

Hello, Tenbuy.

- Rating of 4.9 for this luxury woodland resort

- Luxury lodges and cottages

- Waterpark and adventure activities

- Set within a national park

Address: Canaston Wood, The Grange, Narberth SA67 8DE

Take caravanning and camping to the next level with this stunning harbor nearby, surf, explore and shop in stunning Wales.

16. Shorefield Holidays, Hampshire & Dorset

Dorset and Hampshire are both equally stunning and I really do think everyone should go at least once.

Location: Hampshire & Dorset

Perfect For: Families, Beach Lovers, Relaxation Seekers

Pricing ranging from £296!

Shorefield Holidays offers a range of holiday parks in Hampshire and Dorset, close to beaches and the New Forest, providing a relaxing environment for families and those looking for a coastal retreat.

Remember, Dorset has stunning beaches and views, and look at that blue!

I can’t find other ratings, but I’m giving this one a 4.2 out of 5!

- Proximity to beaches and the New Forest

- Spa and leisure facilities

- Variety of accommodations

Address: Shorefield Rd, Milford on Sea, Downton, Lymington SO41 0LH

Obsessed? Same! Click here to book now!

17. Verdant Leisure, Various Locations

Fancy something a bit more secluded and off the beaten path, well Scotland and the North are all for it, and this place is just fantastic, and SO CLOSE to the beach!

Perfect For: Families, Couples, Outdoor Enthusiasts

Prices based on 14 nights, from £670, with a picnic bench, multiple bedrooms and a lovely location

Verdant Leisure offers bespoke holiday parks in scenic locations, providing a range of accommodations and outdoor activities, suitable for families, couples, and those seeking outdoor adventures.

If you’re up for travel, the Isle of Rum is stunning, chilly, but peaceful.

Rating 3.3 stars out of 5, apparently the cleanliness of the caravans are lacking.

- Scenic and tranquil locations

- Outdoor activities and entertainment

- Range of accommodations including lodges and caravans

Sorry, I know this isn’t the best map, I didn’t realize there was one quite south!

Prefer the North to the South? Well these caravan locations are perfect for you

18. Vauxhall Holiday Park, Great Yarmouth

Close to local pubs and amenities, this caravan park is perfect for beach lovers and entertainment seekers!

Location: Great Yarmouth, Norfolk

Perfect For: Families, Entertainment Seekers, Beach Lovers

Prices ranging from 3 nights in multiple locations, ranging from £129

Vauxhall Holiday Park in Great Yarmouth offers a lively and entertaining environment with a range of facilities and proximity to the beach, making it a popular choice for families and those looking for entertainment.

Great Yarmouth is home to a massive set of arcades, rides and fun for all ages, with a traditional pier and fun beach, what’s not to love!

- 4 stars out of 5

- Live entertainment and shows

- Indoor tropical waterworld

- Proximity to the beach

Right near the beach! It’s for people who like to explore, be adventurous and party! Address: Acle New Rd, Great Yarmouth NR30 1TB

Want a bit more of an up beat and loud holiday, this caravan park is for you! With loads of entertainment to choose from and local pubs and nightlife, it’s worth every penny for a good night out!

19. Wooda Farm Holiday Park, Cornwall

Cornwall is made of stunning beaches and a landscape of nature and history! With this 5 star Wooda caravan park, it's good for people who like to surf, for couples and families!

Location: Bude, Cornwall

Perfect For: Families, Couples, Surfers

Pricing based on 3 nights for 2 adults and bringing their own campervan, prices range from £102 and above!

Wooda Farm Holiday Park is located in Bude, Cornwall, offering stunning views of the coastline and countryside, and is suitable for families, couples, and surfers looking for a relaxing coastal retreat.

Please enjoy this stunning picture I took of the Cornish Coast!

- Rated 4.7 stars, WOW!

- Coastal and countryside views

- Range of accommodations including cottages and lodges

- Surfing and beach activities

Address: Farm Holiday Park, Wooda, Poughill, Bude EX23 9HJ

Want to see a different side to Cornwall, well, look now further, and surf to new historical sites and adventure!

20. Whitehill Country Park, Devon

Please look at this park map for more detail

Location: Devon

Perfect For: Families, Nature Lovers, Relaxation Seekers

Prices ranging from and based on two adults, two children and one dog, for a mid week break prices start from £250

Whitehill Country Park in Devon is set in rolling countryside, offering a peaceful and natural environment with a range of accommodations and facilities, suitable for families and those seeking relaxation in nature.

Just one of Devon's many stunning towns and landscapes, so captivating.

- 4.5 out of 5 star rating

- Set in rolling countryside

- Outdoor pools and play areas

- Variety of accommodations including caravans and lodges

Near the Pier and the beach this stunning caravan gives all, address:Stoke Rd, Paignton TQ4 7PF

Want to relax and explore Devon in your own time, please do, and click here to find out more!

Personal Review A Journey through the UK's Holiday Parks

Love wilderness and camping? Same! I hope the article helps!

I have traversed through various holiday parks across the UK, each offering its unique charm and experiences. However, a particular favorite of mine has to be a delightful park located in Devon. The serene landscapes, coupled with the warm hospitality, made my stay truly unforgettable. The park was a haven of tranquility and offered a plethora of activities that kept me engaged throughout my stay. The lush greenery and the pristine environment were a refreshing change, and the local cuisine was an absolute delight to my taste buds.

Conversely, I had a less than stellar experience at a park in Cornwall. While the park itself boasted a range of amenities and picturesque views, the overall value for the price paid didn’t quite match up. The cost of the stay seemed disproportionately high, leaving a feeling of dissatisfaction. The beauty of Cornwall was undeniable, but the experience was marred by the feeling that the same level of enjoyment could have been achieved at a more reasonable price elsewhere.

In contrast, a park in Lincolnshire also captured my heart with its rustic charm and array of outdoor adventures. The friendly locals and the diverse landscapes made every day a new exploration. It was a place where the rolling hills met the clear skies, creating a symphony of natural beauty that was soothing to the soul.

The UK has a way of making things look glum but stunning at the same time, YES

Where I used to live, Skegness!

While each park has its unique allure, the experiences in Devon and Lincolnshire were unparalleled in terms of enjoyment, relaxation, and value for money. Cornwall, with its undeniable beauty, fell short in providing a satisfying experience proportional to the cost incurred. The journey through these parks was a roller coaster of emotions, from the highs of breathtaking views and warm interactions to the lows of perceived value discrepancies. The adventures through these parks were enlightening, teaching me the importance of balancing expectations, value, and the pursuit of happiness.

Wrapping Up Your Journey Through the UK’s Best Caravan Sites

We stayed in Blackpool, and it was a lovely adventure, well, we stayed everywhere lol!

And there we have it, fellow adventurers! We’ve traversed the length and breadth of the UK, exploring some of the most enchanting caravan sites it has to offer. From the serene landscapes of Devon to the historic charm of Lincolnshire, each site has unfolded a unique tapestry of experiences, landscapes, and memories waiting to be made.

While some sites, like those in Devon and Lincolnshire, have stolen my heart with their picturesque settings and top-notch facilities, others, particularly a few down south in Cornwall, left a bit to be desired when it came to value for money. But hey, every place has its own charm and story to tell!

This was in Devon!

Remember, whether you’re a seasoned caravanner or a newbie embarking on your first caravan adventure, the journey is all about discovery, relaxation, and, most importantly, fun! So, pack your bags, hit the road, and find your own favorite spot among the myriad of caravan sites the UK has to offer. Who knows, maybe our paths will cross at a cozy caravan site somewhere in this beautiful country. Happy caravanning!

That's all for this post! If you've visited any UK caravan sites and discovered any hidden treasures or have tips to share, I'd be thrilled to hear about them. If you're in the process of planning a trip and have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. Assisting fellow travellers is always a pleasure, and I make it a point to respond to every email I receive (sara@sarajourneys.com). Until we meet again, journey safely!

P.S. For those curious to see more, you can find all our travel photos on the SaraJourneysMore Instagram page.