Ah, the quintessential British experience: A cozy pub nestled in a charming village, a pint of ale in hand, and lively conversation with the locals. But what if you could combine this delightful experience with the freedom and flexibility of your motorhome travels? Enter the world of motorhome pub stops! And it's not just pubs.
Garden Centers
Vineyards
Pub stopovers offer a unique way to explore the nooks and crannies of the UK while enjoying the comforts of your motorhome or campervan. Imagine pulling up to a picturesque pub, vineyard, or garden center in the heart of the countryside, parking for the night, and then stepping inside for a delicious meal and a chance to soak up the local atmosphere.
Here are some of the benefits of motorhome stopovers:
- Cost-effective: Stopovers can be a more affordable option compared to campsites, especially if you dine at the pub.
- Unique experiences: Pubs are often steeped in history and character, offering a glimpse into local life and culture.
- Convenient locations: Many pubs are situated in beautiful villages and towns, putting you right at the heart of the action.
- Social interaction: Pubs are a great place to meet friendly locals and fellow travelers.
- Not Just Pubs: Stopovers are not just pubs. garden centers, craft centers, farm shops, vineyards, and even truck stops.
However, it's important to remember some etiquette when using stopovers:
- Always call ahead: Don't just show up and assume you can stay. Courtesy is key!
- Be respectful: Park responsibly, avoid setting up camp outside and dispose of waste properly.
- Support the venue: As a gesture of gratitude for their hospitality, by enjoying a meal, drinks, or buying something from their shop.
- Be self-contained: Stopovers typically don't offer additional facilities like showers, toilets, or hookups. You will be fine if you have a toilet in your motorhome or campervan. There are a few that do offer hookups at a small fee.
To help you plan your motorhome stop-over adventure, there are several resources available:
- Websites: Several websites, like [Campsites.co.uk] and [UK Pub Stopovers], [campsites.co.uk], [campcation.com], [uncover Britain], [motorhomestopoverclub.com], list pubs that welcome motorhomes.
- Apps: Apps like Search for Sites* and Park4Night also have pub stopover listings. Britstops* (Be careful you have to pay for this)
- Guidebooks: Guidebooks like "The CAMC Guide to Pub Stops" offer detailed information on pub stopovers across the UK.
If you have a stopover planned remember the three rules.
1: Only take one spot.
2: Be courteous.
3: Only use the space overnight.
Farm Shops
We have stayed at some lovely pub stops and craft centers in the country, away from the big towns, cities, and busy areas. If you ask nicely, most pubs will allow you to stay overnight even if they are not listed on these apps or websites. Just buy a drink or a meal.
So, the next time you're planning a motorhome trip in the UK, consider incorporating a stopover into your itinerary. You might just discover your new favorite way to experience the best of British culture and hospitality.
Caravans are not allowed to stay at pub stops.
* Search for sites app is £5 a year fee to access more of the app. A free version is available.
Britstops is only available if you pay for it £35 (2024) a year which includes a downloadable app. The book is no longer printed.
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