By a UK van life writer who has explored every corner of the South West.
Introduction: Why the South West?
The South West of England is one of the most beautiful regions in the UK, offering a mix of dramatic coastline, rolling hills, and charming villages. For van lifers, it's a paradise—there are countless scenic routes, plenty of campsites, and a strong sense of community among travelers.
In this article, I'll guide you through some of the best campervan routes in Cornwall and Devon, sharing practical advice on where to park, what to see, and how to make the most of your time in this stunning region.
Route 1: The Cornish Coast Loop
Distance: 200 miles (round trip) Time Needed: 5-7 days Best For: First-time visitors, coastal lovers
Day 1: Plymouth to Penzance
Start in Plymouth, a vibrant city with a rich maritime history. Drive west along the A38, passing through the pretty village of Saltash. Arrive in Penzance by early afternoon.
Parking: Penzance has several car parks with van parking. The Penzance Harbour Car Park is convenient and offers views of the sea.
Take a stroll along the harbour and visit the National Maritime Museum Cornwall.
Day 2: Penzance to St Ives
Drive north along the A3073, passing through the village of Zennor. The road follows the coast, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic.
Hidden Stop: The St Ives Caravan Park has a quiet area for vans. It's away from the main tourist path, making it ideal for those seeking solitude.
Explore the St Ives Tate Gallery and walk along Porthminster Beach.
Day 3: St Ives to Land's End
Continue west to Land's End, the westernmost point of England. The drive is short but the scenery is spectacular.
Parking: Land's End has a car park with van parking. Be aware of the 24-hour limit during peak season.
Visit the Land's End Heritage Centre and walk to the iconic Cribba Point.
Day 4: Land's End to Falmouth
Drive south along the A39, passing through the villages of Sennen and St Just. Arrive in Falmouth by early afternoon.
Parking: Falmouth Town Car Park has designated van parking areas.
Take the National Maritime Museum and walk along the Kerris Beach.
Day 5: Falmouth to Truro
Drive north to Truro, the county town of Cornwall. The A39 runs along the coast, offering stunning views.
Parking: Truro has several car parks with van parking. The Truro City Centre Car Park is convenient.
Visit the Royal Cornwall Museum and walk along the River Fal.
Day 6: Return to Plymouth
Drive back to Plymouth via the A30. Stop at the village of Mevagissey for lunch.
![A winding coastal road in Cornwall with the sea visible below]
Route 2: The Devon Coast and Dartmoor
Distance: 150 miles (round trip) Time Needed: 3-4 days Best For: Hikers, nature lovers
Day 1: Exeter to Dartmouth
Start in Exeter, a historic city with a Roman past. Drive south along the A379, passing through the village of Ottery St Mary. Arrive in Dartmouth by early afternoon.
Parking: Dartmouth has a Dartmouth Town Car Park with van parking.
Explore the Dartmouth Castle and walk along the River Dart.
Day 2: Dartmouth to Widecombe
Drive north into Dartmoor National Park. The A381 runs through the heart of the moor, offering dramatic landscapes.
Hidden Stop: Look for the quiet area near the Widecombe-in-the-Moor village car park. Local farmers often allow van parking on their land for a small donation.
Take the Widecombe village walk and visit the St Petroc's Church.
Day 3: Widecombe to Exeter
Drive back to Exeter via the A38. Stop at the village of Tavistock for lunch.
Parking: Tavistock has a Tavistock Town Centre Car Park with van parking.
Visit the Tavistock Canal and walk along the Tamar Valley.
Route 3: The Jurassic Coast
Distance: 95 miles (one way) Time Needed: 3-4 days Best For: Geology enthusiasts, walkers
Day 1: Exeter to Lyme Regis
Drive east along the A35 to Lyme Regis, a charming seaside town famous for its fossil cliffs.
Parking: Lyme Regis has a Lyme Regis Car Park with van parking.
Explore the Lyme Regis Museum and walk along the Cobb (the famous harbour wall).
Day 2: Lyme Regis to Charmouth
Drive south to Charmouth, a quieter alternative to Lyme Regis.
Parking: Charmouth has a Charmouth Car Park with van parking.
Walk the Charmouth Coastal Path and hunt for fossils on the beach.
Day 3: Charmouth to Sidmouth
Drive east to Sidmouth, a genteel town with a pebble beach.
Parking: Sidmouth has a Sidmouth Town Car Park with van parking.
Visit the Sidmouth Museum and walk along the Sid Valley.
Day 4: Return to Exeter
Drive back to Exeter via the A30. Stop at the village of Ottery St Mary for lunch.
Practical Tips for South West Van Life
Parking Regulations
- Many council car parks allow overnight parking in designated areas, but always check for signs.
- During peak season (July-August), parking is often restricted—arrive early or use wild camping spots.
- Use the Park4Night app to find verified van parking spots.
Wild Camping
- Wild camping is generally discouraged in the South West due to its popularity and fragile environment.
- However, there are designated wild camping spots in some areas—check the Devon County Council or Cornwall AONB website for details.
- Always follow the Countryside Code: leave no trace, respect wildlife, and keep to footpaths.
Weather Considerations
- The South West is known for its unpredictable weather. Always check the forecast before setting out.
- Winter can bring snow and ice on Dartmoor—be prepared with snow chains and a scraper.
- Wind can be strong on the coast—secure loose items on the van.
Facilities
- Many campsites offer hookups for water, electricity, and waste disposal.
- Public toilets are available in most towns—look for the "Public Convenience" signs.
- Mobile signal can be patchy in remote areas—download offline maps before you go.
Safety
- The South West has a strong rescue service, but help can take time to arrive in remote areas.
- Always inform someone of your plans when hiking.
- Keep a basic first aid kit and know how to treat hypothermia.
Hidden Gems of the South West
1. Tintagel
Known as King Arthur's Castle, Tintagel is a dramatic ruin perched on the cliffs. The village below is quiet and perfect for van parking. Parking: The Tintagel Village Car Park has van parking.
2. Boscastle
A picturesque village with a history of flooding (the 2004 floods made headlines). The village is now fully restored and worth a visit. Hidden Stop: The Boscastle Caravan Park has a quiet area for vans.
3. Lundy Island
A remote island off the coast of Devon. Access is by ferry, and camping is allowed (book in advance). Parking: Not applicable—camp on the island.
4. Salcombe
A popular sailing town with beautiful beaches. Less crowded than other South West destinations. Hidden Stop: The Salcombe Caravan Park has a quiet area away from the main camp.
5. Dartmoor's Hidden Valleys
Beyond the well-known spots, Dartmoor has quiet valleys and tors that are perfect for wild camping (where permitted). Parking: Look for unmarked tracks near Becka Falls or Sourton.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your South West Journey
The South West offers a wealth of experiences for van lifers, from peaceful coastal retreats to challenging moorland hikes. By planning your route carefully, respecting local regulations, and being prepared for the weather, you can make the most of your time in this beautiful region.
Remember, the key to a successful van life journey is flexibility. Not everything will go to plan, but that's part of the adventure. Embrace the unexpected, stay safe, and enjoy the ride.
Whether you're a first-time van lifer or a seasoned traveller, the South West has something to offer everyone.
![A van parked beside a quiet beach in Cornwall with cliffs in the background]
