10 Best Places to Park Overnight in the UK (Vanlife Guide)
The perfect spots for your next campervan adventure.
Introduction
One of the biggest joys of vanlife is waking up to a stunning view — and in the UK, we’re spoiled for choice.
But finding safe, legal, and beautiful places to park overnight can sometimes be tricky.
Here’s your ultimate guide to 10 of the best places to park your campervan overnight in the UK — whether you want wild coastline, peaceful forests, or buzzing vanlife communities.
1. Dartmoor National Park, Devon
Designated overnight parking areas
Open moorland views and rugged landscapes
Some areas allow “wild camping” in certain zones (check Dartmoor Authority guidelines)
2. Loch Lomond, Scotland
Stunning loch-side camping
Designated spots under the Camping Management Byelaws
Great base for hikes and boat trips
3. Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales
Free parking in some remote spots
Beautiful mountainous scenery
Great access to hiking trails and waterfalls
4. Northumberland Coast, England
Quiet beaches and fishing villages
Several campsites and a few tolerant laybys
Bamburgh Castle views if you’re lucky with your spot!
5. Snowdonia National Park, Wales
Epic mountain views and hidden lakes
Free or low-cost parking areas
Best for outdoor lovers and climbers
6. Lake District National Park, England
Some overnight car parks (low fee)
Dramatic mountains, serene lakes, cozy villages
Be mindful: wild camping in vans is less tolerated near towns — stick to rural car parks
7. Norfolk Coast
Flat landscapes and vast beaches
A mix of paid campsites and a few free coastal car parks
Great for birdwatching and long beach walks
8. Isle of Skye, Scotland
Wild, rugged, jaw-dropping scenery
Numerous small parking laybys and informal wild camping areas
Very popular in summer — arrive early!
9. Cornwall, England
Classic vanlife destination
Lots of campsites catering to campervans, plus free overnight spots inland
Gorgeous surf beaches like Perranporth and Sennen Cove
10. The Yorkshire Dales
Quiet, rolling countryside and stone villages
Farm campsites offer cheap overnight stays
Friendly locals often happy to point you to safe spots
Top Tips for Overnight Parking in the UK
✅ Always follow “Leave No Trace” principles
✅ Check for local council restrictions (some areas ban overnight parking)
✅ Use apps like Park4Night or Searchforsites to find safe locations
✅ Be discreet: no awnings, no BBQs, no noisy parties
✅ Support local businesses where you park (buy a coffee, shop local)
Final Thoughts
Vanlife in the UK is all about freedom — but respecting the places you stay is key to keeping our overnight parking options open.
From lochs to coastlines, there’s an adventure waiting for you around every corner.
When Campervan Bazaar launches, we’ll be adding even more guides to the best camping spots and hidden gems across the UK.
Adventure is just a parking spot away!
