Top 16 English Heritage Sites in the UK

While it’s natural to want to escape the UK for your next road trip, we often forget the beauty of our own country. 

With plenty of stunning heritage sites to explore, you can take in rolling hills, ancient monuments, and beautiful castles and enjoy plenty of culture, all from your own home. This offers a glimpse into the past, with buildings rich in history and beauty. 

We’ve compiled a list of the top English heritage sites in the UK, including everything from vast landscapes to must-see tourist spots. When planning your next motorhome adventure, you won’t want to miss these places on your trip!

If you’re looking to hire a vehicle, then look no further. Melling Motorhomes can help you embark on a trip you’ll never forget with our range of modern, luxurious motorhomes, equipped with all the essentials you need. 

1. Stonehenge, Wiltshire

A place full of magic and mystery, Stonehenge is a trip you need to make at least once in your life. 

One of the most well-known heritage sites in England, these prehistoric stones are unlike anything you’ve ever seen before; you need to experience them up close. It’s a particularly beautiful site to explore in the summer, when the sun descends against the stones. 

Nearby campsites: 

• Salisbury Campsite at Bake Farm: Peaceful and located on a farm, this is 25 minutes from Stonehenge. 
• Stonehenge Campsite and Glamping Pods: If luxury is more of your thing, this offers a beautiful stay for motorhome travellers. 

2. Hadrian’s Wall,Northumberland

Get lost in the English countryside and take in the wonder of Hadrian’s Wall during your road trip across the country. 

Built by the Romans nearly 2000 years ago, this wall stretches 73 miles from the River Tyne near Newcastle to the Solway Firth on the west coast (it’s no small monument to take in!) But the wall isn’t all there is to see; this site also houses Housesteads Roman Fort, built into the wall with the remains of the barracks, granary, and even the latrines. 

The sycamore gap, famous for its appearance in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, is a dramatic dip along the wall that makes for a great photo opportunity. 

Nearby campsites: 

• Herding Hill Farm Camping & Glamping Site: This five-star stay is bound to impress. It has its own petting farm, playgrounds, and shops and is located one mile from Hadrian’s Wall.
• Hadrian’s Wall Campsite: Less than a mile from the wall, this award-winning campsite offers scenic views, glamping facilities, amenities, and a shop on site!

3. Dover Castle, Kent

Who doesn’t love a good castle? As one of the UK’s most well-known landmarks, Dover Castle in Kent is a must-see.

Sitting atop the iconic white cliffs of Dover, it offers panoramic views across the English Channel. You can explore its 12th-century great tower built by King Henry II, walk across 80 acres of ground, visit the secret tunnels beneath the castle used during World War II, and plenty more!

We recommend visiting early in the year to beat the crowds. There is also free on-site parking for motorhomes. 

Nearby campsites: 

• Hawthorn Farm, Keat Farm: Located 4 miles from the port of Dover, Hawthorn Farm campsite offers a peaceful stay with 28 acres of landscape gardens, cafes, shops, and laundry facilities.
• Capel Battery: This unique campsite is situated at a historic World War II gun battery site. It has electric hookups for motorhomes, nearby pubs, and a beautiful view of the English Channel.

4. Whitby Abbey, North Yorkshire

If you love exploring enchanting ruins, then Whitby Abbey is the perfect spot for you (there’s also a nearby museum!)

Perched high on the East Cliff overlooking the North Sea, these gothic ruins are captivating and have inspired many artists, writers, and travellers in the past, such as Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

You can climb the 199 steps, leading from the old town up to the abbey. However, legend has it that you’ll never count the same number of steps twice! Why not test this theory out?

Nearby campsites: 

• Whitby Holiday Park: This cliffside site offers amazing views of the North Yorkshire coastline. It has 16-amp motorhome electric hookups and glamping pods. It’s also dog and family-friendly.
• Broadings Farm Caravan Park: Surrounded by lush greenery, this site is quiet and picturesque. It provides water and laundry facilities with panoramic views over the Esk valley and Whitby Abbey.

5.  Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire

This once-mighty fortress is one of England’s most fascinating mediaeval ruins, nestled in the heart of Warwickshire. 

Visitors can explore the castle and walk the grounds of the Elizabethan gardens, where the former queen once strolled. This castle was used as a fortress for the Normans in the 12th century, during the mediaeval Siege of 1266.

The best time to visit is during spring and summer, when the gardens are in bloom. The Kenilworth Castle Car Park is also motorhome-friendly.

Nearby campsites: 

• Mousley House Farm Campsite: This family-friendly campsite is close to Warwick and Kenilworth Castle. It has electric hookups, washing facilities, and plenty of land to explore.
• Somers Wood Caravan Park: This adult-only campsite is perfect for a couples’ road trip. Somers Wood has five-star facilities, including heated showers, Wi-Fi, and a nearby golf course.

6. Osborne House, Isle of Wight

Would you like to see this breathtaking building up close? Osborne House is truly a marvel, with its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.

Once a holiday home to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, it’s now open to the public to stroll through the lavish state rooms and private apartments. You can even relax on its own secluded beach!

History lovers will enjoy stepping into this gem from the past and admiring the Mediterranean influences. 

Nearby campsites: 

• Waverley Park Holiday Centre: This campsite is within walking distance of Osborne House, offering convenience. It offers a swimming pool, shower and laundry facilities, and plenty of food and drink options.
• Kite Hill Farm Caravan and Camping Park: This traditional farm campsite is set in 12 acres of fields and meadows. It offers electric hookups, cleaning facilities, playgrounds, and more! Osborne House is just a short drive away.

7. Eltham Palace, London

Eltham Palace is a truly unique stop located in the southeastern suburbs of London.

This former royal palace turned mansion, with its Art Deco style, combines mediaeval grandeur with 20th-century luxury. Visitors can take in the great hall, explore the moat, and walk through the sunken rose garden. 

Visit in autumn for a quieter visit or during winter for its festive events.

Nearby campsites: 

• Abbey Wood Club Campsite: Just a 7-minute walk to the Elizabethan line, Abbey Wood Club campsite is cosy and serene. This is dog and child friendly, with pitches suitable for motorhomes and modern facilities.
• Lee Valley Camping and Caravan Park: Located in Edmonton, this caravan park is nestled next to a beautiful lake with an 18-hole golf course, gym, cinema, and more! You can simply hop on a bus and head into central London.

8. Tintagel Castle, Cornwall

Escape to the seaside for your next motorhome adventure and visit the beautiful ruins of Tintagel Castle in Cornwall.

This mediaeval fortress stands next to the rugged coastline, offering breathtaking scenery. It’s said to be the birthplace of King Arthur, and it was built by Richard, Earl of Cornwall, in the 13th century. 

You can walk across Tintagel Footbridge, walk through the remains of the great hall, and step into Merlin’s Cave.

Nearby campsites: 

• Trewethett Farm Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite: This site provides clifftop views overlooking Bossiney Cove and easy access to coastal walks leading to Tintagel and Boscastle. It also has modern amenities and electric hookups.
• Trewethett Farm Club Campsite: Perched on a cliff, Trewethett Farm offers easy access to Tintagel and Boscastle. It offers pitches with electric hookups and modern facilities.

9. Carlisle Castle, Cumbria

Located in Cumbria, Carlisle Castle dates back to Roman England and resides near the western end of Hadrian’s Wall.

It’s a stunning visit for history enthusiasts, with links to Anglo-Scottish conflicts, William II of England, and Henry VIII. You can explore the castle’s many dungeons, towers, and turrets and visit the exhibition for an insight into its past. 

Nearby campsites: 

• Warwick Hall: Just three miles from Carlisle Castle, Warwick Hall offers motorhome pitches within the grounds of Warwick Hall’s estate. Here, you can go fishing, play tennis, and use the washing facilities. 
• Green Acres Caravan Park: This five-star award-winning park offers a peaceful adult-only stay. There are laundry facilities, sports halls, and dog walking areas, and it’s just 5.4 miles from the castle.

10. Rievaulx Abbey, North Yorkshire

Rievaulx Abbey, with its astonishing monastic ruins, is truly a sight you don’t want to miss. 

This is located in a picturesque valley near Helmsley and was once home to over 600 monks. Its stone arches and towering walls are a marvel up close, where you can explore the monastic quarters. 

You can also visit the on-site museum to look at old artefacts and learn more about its history. Try the famous 7-minute Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey Walk for breathtaking views.

Nearby campsites: 

• Wrens of Ryedale Touring Park: This family-run park is located on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors with plenty of pitches. It also has laundry facilities and Wi-Fi, and it’s under a 10-minute drive to either Kirkbymoorside or Helmsley.
• Church Farm Camping: Church Farm campsite offers a beautiful green backdrop and a simple set-up. Plus, Rievaulx Abbey is just a 20-minute drive away.

11. Tilbury Fort, Essex

Tilbury Fort, located north bank of the River Thames, is a testament to England’s evolving military architecture.

Its famous star-shaped design, alongside its intricate water gate, is a truly unique sight. Visitors can learn all about its Tudor beginnings in 1539 and its 17th-century transformation by military engineer Sir Bernard de Gomme.

You can also explore its exhibition centre and wander through the Victorian Magazine Tunnels.

Nearby campsites: 

• Thames View Camping: This campsite is perfect for a family stay, located near the Essex Nature Reserve and the iconic Coalhouse Fort. Amenities include eco-friendly facilities, a shop, a playground, and proximity to the River Thames.
• Lorkins Farm Caravan and Camping Site: An adult-only campsite, this is a quiet stay with pubs nearby. The Tilbury foot ferry is just a short car drive away from the site where you can get a ferry to Tilbury Fort.

12. Battle Abbey and Battlefield, East Sussex

Battle Abbey is a significant historic site, one where King Harold and William the Conqueror fought in the legendary Battle of Hastings in 1066.

By visiting this abbey, you can walk through the locations where the Saxons and Normans clashed, explore the abbey ruins, climb to the top of the mediaeval gatehouse, and plenty more! 

It’s an unforgettable trip, especially in October when the annual Battle of Hastings reenactment occurs. 

Nearby campsites: 

• Battle Normanhurst Court Club Campsite: This campsite is located near the 1066 trail in the midst of beautiful trees. It offers a play area, modern facilities, and dog-walking areas. 
• Meadowview Park: Less than 10 minutes from the Battle of Hastings site, this peaceful site is family-friendly and has plenty of motorhome pitches.

13. Wrest Park, Bedfordshire

Explore the stunning grounds of Wrest Park, a remarkable county estate in Bedfordshire spanning 92 acres of land.

Constructed between 1834 and 1839, the interior is just as beautiful as the exterior, with grand rooms inspired by the French Louis XV style. The gardens are just as beautiful, with influences from the 17th and 19th centuries. 

Guests can also enjoy amenities like a café and a children’s play area.

Nearby campsites: 

• Turnpike Farm Caravan Site: This quiet caravan site is perfect for those looking for a simple stay. It provides electric hookups, fresh water supply, and a toilet with a washbasin and is 7 miles from Wrest Park.
• Ashridge Farm Club Campsite: Located within a few miles of the A1, Ashridge Farm is around 20 miles from Wrest Park and a short walk from the historic village of Ashwell. It provides electric hookups, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and more!

14. Kenwood House, London

Do you love grand furnishings and exploring beautiful rooms that once housed the people of our past? If so, Kenwood House is the perfect heritage site for you.

This magnificent neoclassical villa stands on the edge of Hampstead Heath and has been home to several noble residents, including a Prime Minister, a Lord Chief Justice, and a Russian Grand Duke.

Visitors can take in a collection of masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Hals, walk its surrounding gardens, and explore its many rooms.

Nearby campsites:

• Aldenham Country Park: Just a 37-minute drive from Kenwood House, Aldenham Country Park is a great place for families. Small campervans are permitted on site. There’s also a farm and children’s playgrounds to enjoy.
• Lee Valley Camping and Caravan Park, Edmonton: As previously mentioned, this site has electric hook-ups, modern washroom facilities, and an on-site golf course. Transport links to Central London are located 15 minutes away.

15. Belsay hall, Castle, and Gardens

Residing in the heart of Northumberland is Belsay Hall, Castle, and Gardens. 

Built around 1370, these grounds showcase the Middleton family’s legacy with a combination of mediaeval architecture and Jacobean design. Belsay Hall is a beautiful Greek Doric-style building that offers elegance. 

The castle gardens elude serenity with their diverse array of flora. 

Nearby campsites: 

• Bolam West Houses Farm CL: Located just 3 miles from Belsay Hall, this campsite is set on a walled paddock on the farm. It provides electric hookups and dog walking areas and is surrounded by the Northumberland countryside.

16. Witley Court and Gardens, Worcestershire

This stunning historical site is a majestic stop that you need to add to your next UK road trip. 

Located in Great Wiley, Witley Court and Gardens provides insight into the grandeur of 19th-century English country estates of the past. Its grand porticoes and lavish interior are perfect for fans of Brigerton and period dramas, taking you back in time to this era. 

Visitors can explore the mansion ruins, stroll through the gardens, take a boat trip across the lake, or dine at the tea rooms. 

Nearby campsites: 

• The Cob House Countryside Park: This campsite is surrounded by stunning land and plenty of walking trails. It is around 6 miles from Witley Court. There are 21 motorhome pitches and lakes for fishing, an on-site cafe, animals, and washing facilities. 
• Tinkers Field: This secluded site is situated on a 16-acre farm and is 15 minutes’ drive from Worcester city centre. It has access to washing facilities and a cafe. They offer non-electric grass pitches suitable for motorhomes.

Explore the UK’s Top Heritage Sites with Melling Motorhomes

Imagine the joy of exploring on your own schedule, surrounded by lush greenery, and visiting all of the UK’s beautiful historic sites.

With Melling motorhomes, you don’t have to imagine. Our luxurious motorhomes for hire allow you to travel in comfort and style, giving you the freedom to explore without limits. 

Are you ready to turn your travel dreams into reality? Book your stay with us today and experience the open road like never before!