There are many delightful places to see in mainland Britain, ranging from historic market towns and serene waterways to beautiful seaside spots and stunning woodlands. However, the best UK islands to visit will also make great campervan destinations, with stunning vistas and plenty to do, these are touring destinations that are certain to provide memorable touring experiences.
You’ll find that roads on many of the islands are single-lane, with passing places. They are easy enough to navigate, provided you take your time and don’t follow the vehicle in front too closely, so you will have time to anticipate when to pull in. Be aware that in more remote parts, livestock roams freely.
Something worth highlighting is that when travelling with CalMac to Scotland’s West Coast islands, visitors are advised that for some destinations, they will be required to secure a pitch on the island for their leisure vehicle in advance of travel.
It is also recommended that you buy your tickets in advance, as on some routes, whether you’re in a campervan or motorhome, you are not allowed to join standby queues.
In this guide, we’re sharing our favourite British islands to visit, as well as offering advice on how to get there, what to do when you have arrived, and campsite recommendations.
The best islands to visit in the UK
Jersey, Channel Islands
Guernsey, Channel Islands
Isle of Wight, England
Lewis, Outer Hebrides
Harris, Outer Hebrides
North Uist, Outer Hebrides
Skye, Inner Hebrides
Mull, Inner Hebrides
Islay, Inner Hebrides
Arran, Scotland
Orkney Islands, Scotland
Shetland Islands, Scotland
Isle of Man
Isle of Sheppey, England
Rathlin, Northern Ireland
Anglesey, Wales
Jersey, Channel Islands
Wonderful coves and beaches, pretty villages and sports such as surfing, cycling, hiking and golf are just some of the reasons to visit the largest of the Channel Islands. Only 14 miles from France (see: the best campervan sites in France if you’re thinking of touring here), a world-famous zoo, a great TV detective and many historical attractions make this a superb touring destination.
How to get to Jersey
Condor Ferries has Poole to Jersey trips via Guernsey (4.5 hours). Alternatively, there are ferry sailings from Portsmouth (10 hours).
For more on taking a motorhome to Jersey, including restrictions, see www.gov.je.
What to do when you’re in Jersey
1 Jersey War Tunnels
Fascinating network of wartime tunnels with a superb exhibition on the island’s occupation by German forces during the Second World War.
2 Mont Orgueil Castle
Beautiful medieval castle positioned on Jersey’s east coast, with excellent views from the battlements, and a Tudor falconer with his own Harris’s hawk.
3 Beaches galore
There are so many beaches to enjoy! Our favourites are surf hotspot St Ouen’s Bay, secluded Plémont Bay and family-friendly St Brelade’s Bay.
Where to stay in Jersey
The Palms Campsite & Oasis Café/Bar is a well-maintained park with an onsite pool and licensed café. For added convenience, it’s only a short walk from the lovely beach at Grève de Lecq.
Alternatively, you could consider Rozel Camping Park. Situated a short distance from the picturesque harbour of Rozel, this attractive park provides touring pitches on four camping fields, and amenities include an outdoor heated swimming pool.
Guernsey, Channel Islands
A throwback to gentler times, where you can just kick off your shoes to explore hidden coves, sandy beaches and sparkling rockpools. History buffs can visit museums and fortifications from the Occupation. And don’t miss the superb restaurants in pretty spots like the capital, St Peter Port.
How to get to Guernsey
Condor Ferries’ Poole-Guernsey takes three hours. Sailings from Portsmouth take 10 hours. One- and two-hour crossings to Jersey are also available.
For more on taking a ‘van to Guernsey, including restrictions, see www.gov.gg
What to do in Guernsey
1 The Little Chapel
This wonderful chapel, decorated with pebbles, shells and broken china, is a testament to its builder Brother Deodat’s vision and religious dedication.
2 Cycling on Sark
The car-free island of Sark is less than an hour away by ferry. You can explore this gem, with its 40-mile coastline, by bicycle.
3 St Peter Port
Enjoy restaurants with views of Herm and Sark, and visit ancient Castle Cornet and La Vallette Bathing Pools.
Where to stay in Guernsey
Various restrictions apply when taking a motorhome to Guernsey – for example, you must be booked into a registered campsite, such as Le Vaugrat. For details of other regulations, visit gov.gg/motorhomescaravans.
Le Vaugrat Campsite is a five-minute walk from the beautiful north coast beach at Port Grat, this dog-free site provides spacious pitches and excellent amenities.
Isle of Wight, England
The Isle of Wight is all things to all people, with historic houses, sailing extravaganzas and bucket-and-spade beaches. Recently, it has gained something of a foodie reputation. It also hosts a legendary music festival. There’s great walking, theme parks and zoos, and it is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
How to get to the Isle of Wight
Wightlink routes include Portsmouth to Fishbourne (45 mins), Portsmouth to Ryde (22 mins) and Lymington to Yarmouth (40 mins). Red Funnel’s Southampton to East Cowes route takes an hour.
What to do in the Isle of Wight
1 Cowes Week
Head for Cowes on the north coast to see the world-famous sailing regatta. You can watch all the action from the shore at The Green and The Parade.
2 The Needles and Alum Sands
View the iconic chalk stacks known as The Needles as you take the chairlift down to Alum Sands, with its famous multicoloured cliffs.
3 Carisbrooke Castle
Visit historic Carisbrooke Castle, near Newport, to see where Charles I was imprisoned after the Civil War. You can also enjoy panoramic views from the Castle Keep.
Where to stay in the Isle of Wight
Whitefield Forest Touring Park is found on the island’s eastern side and within easy reach of Ryde and Bembridge. This park is set in charming woodland and has a modern amenities block.
Or you could consider Stoats Farm. This dog-friendly campsite is only a short walk from the coastal path between The Needles and Freshwater Bay. It offers visitors a well-maintained facilities block and an onsite shop.
Lewis, Outer Hebrides
There’s something otherworldly about this landscape, with its single-track roads (there are plenty of passing spaces!), sheep and traditional blackhouses. Discover the Hebridean Way, the 156-mile route crossing 10 islands and six causeways, or visit Uig Bay on the west coast, where the 12th-century Lewis chessmen were found. Hike along coastal cliffs and watch the pilot whales and dolphins out at sea.
How to get to Lewis
Take CalMac’s Ullapool to Lewis ferry (2 hours 45 mins). For an early crossing, stay at a site near Ullapool. You can also travel from Skye to Harris and drive north.
What to do in Lewis
1 Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
The 19th-century lighthouse at the island’s most northerly point stands at 121ft, above the 80ft cliffs. Prepare for stiff breezes and enjoy wonderful clifftop views.
2 Calanais Stones
These Neolithic stones date back 5000 years. The visitor centre is closed until 2026, so parking will be limited.
3 Mangersta Sea Stacks
On the west coast, these towering sea stacks have been shaped by geological activity and wave action. Breathtaking photo opportunities!
Where to stay in Lewis
Traigh na Beirigh Campsite is a wonderfully scenic, friendly campsite on Lewis’s east coast that provides pitches set amid grassy dunes and overlooking the wide, sandy shores of Reef Beach. Electric hook-up available. Tel: 01851 672 332
Another option is Laxdale Holiday Park, a small but welcoming park that is only 1.5 miles from the island’s main town, Stornoway. It offers pitches with electric hook-up, a quality amenities block and dishwashing and laundry facilities.
Harris, Outer Hebrides
Characterised by its many peaks, there’s a notable difference between Harris and Lewis, even though they share the same island. Journey south into Harris and you’ll find the flat moorland giving way to hills, including the 799m-high Clisham. Continue south for the majestic beaches, such as Luskentyre and Huisinis, where soaring eagles frequent the skies and whales and dolphins can be spotted in the waters.
How to get to Harris
Drive south from Lewis or take the CalMac ferry from Uig to Tarbert (1 hour 40 mins) or Leverburgh. Travelling from the southern Outer Hebrides, you can take the ferry from Berneray, North Uist, to Leverburgh (1 hour).
What to do in Harris
1 Luskentyre Beach
In an archipelago famed for its wonderful beaches, the miles of white sand at Luskentyre, with views toward Taransay, are something special.
2 Isle of Harris Distillery
Choose your designated driver and then enjoy a tot of Harris Gin or a dram of The Hearach at this Tarbert distillery. Behind-the-scenes tours are available from £20.
3 Harris Tweed
Treat yourself to the famous cloth at this family-run business with a worldwide reach. There’s a superb range to choose from.
Where to stay in Harris
Horgabost Campsite has a delightful beach location that is absolutely perfect for great swimming and superb views. The site has a good shower block and facilities, but note that there is no hook-up or Wi-Fi.
Talla na Mara allows you to choose from three pitches with electric hook-up. The community enterprise offers views over the Sound of Taransay. Great café/restaurant here, too.
North Uist, Outer Hebrides
Some say the further south you travel in the Hebrides, the better the beaches. You be the judge – you’ll find superb spots at Clachan Sands, Vallay Sands and Balranald, not to mention West Beach on Berneray. The topography is less hilly and characterised by the machair, a coastal grassland habitat only found here and in parts of Ireland. You’ll also have marvellous vistas – climb Clettraval for views of the St Kilda archipelago.
How to get to North Uist
CalMac runs ferries from Berneray to Leverburgh (1 hour) or Lochmaddy to Uig (2 hours). Or drive to South Uist for ferry options to the mainland from Lochboisdale.
What to do in North Uist
1 Berneray Island
Drive across the causeway to this small island, with its three miles of white sand at West Beach and machair grassland alongside.
2 RSPB Balranald
Birdwatchers will love this nature reserve, which is home to oystercatchers, dunlin, redshanks, lapwings, snipe and corncrakes.
3 Westford Inn
This award-winning pub is the only one on the island, so worth a visit to meet the locals. There’s good-quality pub fare and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere to enjoy.
Where to stay in North Uist
Balranald Hebridean Holidays is a smart, well-maintained campsite that is only a short walk from a pretty beach, in RSPB Balranald Nature Reserve. Excellent onsite food truck.
Skye, Inner Hebrides
Skye really stands out as one of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes. From the peaks of the Quiraing and the Old Man of Storr to the Fairy Glen and Fairy Pools, the island has magnificent natural beauty. If that’s not enough, there are castles such as Dunvegan, Dunscaith and Armadale to explore, and distilleries at Talisker and Torabhaig to discover.
How to get to Skye
Take the A87 through Kyle of Lochalsh and across Skye Bridge. CalMac has several routes: Mallaig to Armadale (20-45 mins), Loch Maddy to Uig (1 hour 45 mins) and Tarbert to Uig (1 hour 45 mins).
What to do in Skye
1 Fairy Pools
This remote but popular tourist attraction can get busy, but the network of pools and waterfalls is simply not to be missed.
2 Glenbrittle and the Cuillin Mountains
Glenbrittle Campsite is the perfect base for magnificent hiking and climbing. Use a guide or take local advice.
3 Dunvegan Castle
This ancestral home overlooks the waters of Loch Dunvegan and is the launching point for seal-watching boat trips. While here, be sure to view the formal gardens.
Where to stay in Skye
Glenbrittle Campsite is a wonderful, remote campsite (no Wi-Fi) in a magnificent location on Loch Brittle beach, surrounded by the spectacular Cuillin Mountains. Excellent onsite shop and café.
Mull, Inner Hebrides
Known as ‘Scotland in miniature’, this island has it all, from the peaks of Ben More and Beinn Talaidh to the beautiful towns of Craignure, Fionnphort and Tobermory. Mull is also a wildlife hotspot, home to eagles, deer, otters, seals, bottlenose dolphins and minke whales. You’ll find fine castles and forest parks, and the chance to get active in the great outdoors, with cycling, hiking and pony trekking.
How to get to Mull
Most visitors take the CalMac ferry from Oban to Craignure (45 minutes). You can also get to Mull from the Morvern peninsula via Lochaline to Fishnish (18 minutes) and from Ardnamurchan to Tobermory (35 minutes).
What to do in Mull
1 Tobermory Distillery
Stroll around Tobermory’s colourful harbour before stopping at the distillery for a drop of the signature unpeated single malt.
2 Fingal’s Cave
Take a boat trip from Tobermory to the Isle of Staffa to see its volcanic rock columns, population of puffins and magical Fingal’s Cave. Tours cost £97.
3 Duart Castle
The ancient fortified home of Clan Maclean juts out into the spectacular Sound of Mull. See the historic Great Hall and the Clan Exhibition. Tickets cost £12.
Where to stay in Mull
Spacious pitches and superb scenery are just some of the highlights of Pennygown Holiday Park, a centrally located campsite near Fishnish, which offers visitors peace, quiet and plenty of high-quality amenities.
Or there’s Port Nan Gael Campsite, is beautiful west coast campsite at Loch Scridain provides large pitches, superb coastal and mountain views, excellent amenities and an onsite pub.
Islay, Inner Hebrides
This delightful island, the southernmost of the Inner Hebrides, is famous for its peaty whiskies – there are nine distilleries here. Nature-lovers can encounter corncrakes, hen harriers, ospreys and eagles. It’s also known for the autumn geese migrations at Loch Gruinart. You’ll find superb beaches, such as Machir Bay, and coastal walks such as those at Port Ellen and Kintra.
How to get to Islay
CalMac operates ferries from Kennacraig, on Kintyre, to Port Ellen (2 hours 20 minutes) or to Port Askaig (1 hour 55 minutes).
What to do in Islay
1 Three Distilleries Pathway
There are three distilleries to discover on this four-mile cycle path from Port Ellen. Tours cost £22-£40.
2 Wildlife boat tour
Go wildlife spotting along the south-east coast, with the chance to see harbour seals, white-tailed eagles and bottlenose dolphins.
3 Loch Finlaggan
There’s plenty of fascinating history to be discovered at Finlaggan. The loch is home to three islands, and the inauguration of the Lords of the Isles.
Where to stay in Islay
Port Mòr Campsite has splendid views across Loch Indaal. Amenities include free Wi-Fi (ideal for simple access to the internet in a motorhome), toilets, showers and laundry.
Or you could consider the new 12-pitch motorhome-only area at South Islay Motorhome Stop in Port Ellen – it has toilet/shower facilities.
Arran, Scotland
Magnificent Arran, in the Firth of Clyde, counts a number of Corbetts and Marilyns among its peaks and many picturesque glens. Gentle walking can be found along the Arran Coastal Way, a 65-mile route with the chance to spot the island’s Big Five species – seals, otters, red deer, golden eagles and red squirrels. You’ll also find prehistoric standing stones, local distilleries, a castle and beaches galore.
How to get to Arran
CalMac operates a ferry service from Troon to Brodick (80 minutes), from Ardrossan to Brodick (55 minutes) and in summer, from Claonaig to Lochranza (30 minutes).
What to do in Arran
1 Hike to Goatfell
Take on Arran’s highest Munro with this 6.5-mile hill walk from Brodick to Goatfell – the views are simply amazing.
2 Island safari
Go wildlife spotting all over the island – golden eagles in Lochranza, red deer on the hills, otters at Kildonan and seals at Blackwaterfoot.
3 Brodick Castle
This 19th-century baronial castle’s interactive activities include a Victorian arcade, and gardens full of camellias and rhododendrons.
Where to stay in Arran
Bridgend Campsite is a pretty site that is just a short drive from the Machrie Moor Standing Stones, in delightful countryside, offering hardstanding and grass pitches.
Beautifully positioned on the south coast of the island, Seal Shore Camping is a small site that has wonderful views out to sea. Facilities include two shower and toilet blocks, and an onsite shop.
Orkney Islands, Scotland
This ancient group of islands offers brilliant walks over heather moors, as well as pristine beaches. It is also home to some of the finest prehistoric sites in Europe, such as Skara Brae and the Ring of Brodgar. Elsewhere, at the famous Scapa Flow, you can find out just how important the Churchill Barriers were during the two World Wars.
How to get to the Orkney Islands
NorthLink Ferries operates from Aberdeen to Kirkwall (6 hours), or Scrabster to Stromness (1 hr 30 mins). Pentland Ferries sails from Gills Bay to St Margaret’s Hope (1 hour 10 mins).
What to do in the Orkney Islands
1 Skara Brae
The village of Skara Brae – home to some of the best-preserved prehistoric houses in Western Europe – dates back some 5000 years. Tickets cost £14.
2 Italian Chapel
Visit this remarkable transformation of two Nissen huts into a beautiful chapel by Domenico Chiocchetti and fellow Italian POWs.
3 St Magnus Way
Take on this 58-mile walk on Mainland and Egilsay, inspired by Orkney’s patron saint. There are six sections, each offering a distinctively attractive landscape.
Where to stay in the Orkney Islands
Overlooking the bay, Kirkwall Bay Touring Park has spacious pitches with electric hook-up and is a five-minute drive from local shops and restaurants.
Or there’s Point of Ness Campsite. With fine views of the hills of Hoy and a short walk to Stromness, this site has level pitches with electric hook-up.
Shetland Islands, Scotland
This fabulous archipelago of some 100 islands (16 inhabited) is closer to Norway than Glasgow. The largest, Mainland, has access to other islands by ferry or causeways. Highlights include fantastic walking at the Cliffs of Eshaness and Muckle Flugga, wildlife at Noss National Nature Reserve, and in winter, the chance to see the magnificent Northern Lights, known as the ‘mirrie dancers’.
How to get to the Shetland Islands
NorthLink Ferries operates routes from Aberdeen to Lerwick (12 hours) and from Kirkwall on Orkney (7 hours 45 minutes) to Lerwick. Some crossings from Aberdeen stop at Orkney en route to Lerwick.
What to do in the Shetland Islands
1 Jarlshof Prehistoric and Norse Settlement
This Neolithic site has seen more than 4000 years of settlement, with discoveries such as Bronze Age houses and Norse longhouses.
2 The Shetland Pony Experience
Meet the Shetland ponies on Burra, a 25-minute drive from Lerwick.
3 Tangwick Haa Museum
Find out all about daily life on the islands at this museum, originally built in the late 17th century as a three-storey house for local landowners the Cheynes.
Where to stay in the Shetland Islands
Skeld Caravan Park and Campsite is a marina and waterfront site situated on the western side of Mainland, with multiple amenities, including a local shop at Bixter that sells fuel.
Cunningsburgh Touring Park is another marina-based site, a 15-minute drive south of Lerwick, with many onsite amenities including a kitchen, and excellent wildlife-spotting opportunities nearby.
Isle of Man
The Isle of Man blends natural beauty, rich history and unique culture in its rugged coastline, rolling hills and charming towns. History-lovers can visit ancient castles and the world’s oldest continuous parliament, Tynwald, or the Manx Museum. Enjoy scenic steam train rides, coastal hikes and wildlife spotting. With its Celtic and Norse past, the island is also home to fascinating heritage and stunning views.
How to get to the Isle of Man
Heysham, Liverpool or Cairnryan for the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company ferry.
What to do in the Isle of Man
1 Steam Railway
Travel through scenic countryside on a vintage steam train. A charming, nostalgic journey connecting Douglas with the island’s historic southern towns.
2 Peel Castle
Wander among the dramatic ruins of this splendid medieval castle overlooking the sea. Discover Viking legends, coastal views and centuries of Manx history.
3 Snaefell Mountain
You can climb up, or take the electric train, to the island’s highest point. On clear days, you’ll be able to enjoy panoramic views of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Where to stay in the Isle of Man
Set in beautiful Manx countryside, Glenlough Campsite is a family-friendly campsite that is a 10-minute walk from Union Mills village. For fans of the legendary motorbike races, it is also on the famous TT course, three miles from Douglas, the island’s capital.
Then there is Ballaugh Camping, a family-run site in the isle’s north-west. It’s surrounded by peaceful farmland and offers modern, spacious pitches.
Isle of Sheppey, England
Just off Kent’s north coast, the Isle of Sheppey offers a mix of seaside charm, wildlife and history. Ideal for birdwatchers, the island hosts reserves such as Elmley, rich in rare species and sweeping marshland views. Enjoy sandy beaches, coastal walks and family-friendly fun at Leysdown.
With historic ports such as Queenborough and Sheerness, and a relaxed pace of life, Sheppey makes the perfect laid-back escape.
How to get to the Isle of Sheppey
The A249 is the main road from the mainland, via the four-lane Sheppey Crossing. Walkers and cyclists can use the older Kingsferry Crossing, which hosts pedestrian paths and the railway line.
What to do in the Isle of Sheepey
1 Elmley Nature Reserve
Explore 3300 acres of marshland and spot rare birds, hares and wildflowers. A peaceful retreat offering walking trails and cycling routes with stunning views – for those of you who particularly enjoy taking to two wheels on tour, don’t miss our pick of the best campsites for cyclists, either.
2 Leysdown Beach
Head to this gorgeous sandy beach on the island’s east coast, complete with arcades, cafés and plenty of space to enjoy a classically British day out on the beach.
3 Blue Town Heritage Centre
Discover Sheppey’s history through fascinating exhibits and artefacts in this small museum and cinema near the town’s historic dockyard.
Where to stay in the Isle of Sheepey
A short walk away from the charming village of Rushenden, Leobay Campsite offers visitors splendid sea views, manicured grounds and modern facilities.
Another option with clifftop camping and spectacular sea views is Warden Springs Caravan Park, a superbly well-maintained site that also boasts a pool, large pitches and a beach just a stone’s throw away.
Rathlin, Northern Ireland
Rathlin Island, off Northern Ireland’s coast, is a gem, perfect for nature-lovers. Home to puffins, seals and dramatic cliffs, it offers stunning coastal walks. Its quiet charm makes this a peaceful escape from the bustle of the Antrim Coast’s other attractions. Explore the historic lighthouse, learn about shipwrecks and enjoy the sea views. Rathlin is a uniquely tranquil touring destination.
How to get to Rathlin
The ferry from Ballycastle takes 40 minutes, with options for foot passengers and limited vehicle transport. Visit the website for more about sailing schedules and to book your tickets in advance.
What to do in Rathlin
1 RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre
Visit the Seabird Centre in the 100-year-old ‘upside down’ lighthouse, to see puffins nesting, and fine views of the Irish Sea.
2 The Rathlin Trail
The scenic 4.8-mile walk leads from the harbour to the lighthouse, offering breathtaking coastal views. Or hire a bike from Rathlin Island Cycle Hire.
3 Rathlin’s harbours
Go seal spotting at Mill Harbour and Church Harbour. The harbour seals like to relax there, so it’s a great spot to observe them in their natural habitat.
Where to stay in Rathlin
Then there is Watertop Farm, a small, family-run campsite on a working farm, offering serviced pitches and modern facilities, a short drive away from Ballycastle.
Anglesey, Wales
Beautiful beaches, wild coastal paths, ancient castles and friendly little towns are just some of the draws to Anglesey, Wales’s largest island. Outdoor enthusiasts can walk and cycle along 140 miles of the Anglesey Coastal Path or explore nature reserves, while culture vultures can tour the island’s many historic sites and castles, including The Copper Kingdom..
How to get to Anglesey
The island is connected to the mainland by two bridges, both free to cross. The A55 North Wales Expressway takes you onto Anglesey via the Britannia Bridge. From the south, the A487 crosses the Menai Bridge.
1 South Stack Lighthouse
Explore dramatic cliffs, spot seabirds and enjoy stunning vistas from the 19th-century lighthouse. Perfect for photography, hiking, and a bird’s-eye view.
2 Beaumaris Castle
Discover this fine medieval fortress with its beautifully preserved walls and towers. Learn about Welsh history while wandering in the picturesque town nearby.
3 Newborough Beach
Walk the vast sandy shores of Newborough (Llanddwyn) Beach, which backs onto dunes and forest. Ideal for swimming, picnics and spotting wild ponies.
Where to stay in Anglesey
Making regular appearances in our Top 100 Sites Guide where it is voted one of the best motorhome sites in Wales, Tyddyn Isaf is a scenic site that provides visitors with direct access to fabulous Lligwy Bay, plus a shop, café and playground.
For fans of adults-only motorhome sites, the immaculate Bryn Ednyfed Caravan & Motorhome Park could appeal. It offers guests a good selection of spacious pitches, superb facilities and excellent views, located near the pretty little village of Caergeiliog.
For those of you who are thinking of heading to Europe instead, don’t miss our guide to how to get to Europe in your campervan either.
After some more inspiration for where to go for a longer campervan getaway? Then head to our Go Campervanning: Longer Getaways section for more great ideas!
Lead image: Alamy
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