Dream destinations: Brecon Beacons

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The Brecon Beacons National Park, situated in the heart of the Welsh countryside, is home to mountains, castles, moorland, waterfalls and plenty of wildlife. The region has been named a Dark Skies Reserve (making it ideal for a spot of stargazing) and a UNESCO Global Geopark.  

Covering 520 square miles, the national park comprises three distinct areas: The Brecon Beacons, the Black Mountains and the Fforest Fawr. 

There’s plenty to enjoy in this stunning part of the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing staycation spot to explore in a caravan or you want to pitch up at one of the best camping destinations in the UK – the Brecon Beacons has a lot to offer. 

Best walks in the Brecon Beacons

This stunning hiking destination offers routes with incredible mountain views for varying fitness levels. 

Pen y Fan is one of the most popular mountains to visit in Wales, making it one of the best but most crowded walks in the Brecon Beacons. We recommend the Pen y Fan horseshoe route, which offers a quieter and wilder hiking experience than the more trodden Pont ar Daf route. 

The ascent to Sugar Loaf Mountain (sounds like something out of a fantasy novel, right?) is another must-do hiking route. The five-mile route is suitable for all fitness levels and makes a great day out. 

Another fantastic option is the Llanthony and Hatterall Ridge route, which spans a moderate 4.5 miles. Enjoy breathtaking views and be sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy under the ruins of Llanthony Priory. 

Other activities 

Adrenaline junkies will feel right at home in the Brecon Beacons. There are plenty of activities to try out if you’re feeling adventurous, including horse riding, wild swimming,  cycling and watersports such as paddle boarding and kayaking. 

For the more daring explorers out there, this area is home to some of the best cave systems in Europe, which can be visited with an experienced guide. 

If you’d rather admire this area’s breathtaking natural beauty from afar, there are plenty of charming villages and quaint towns to explore. 

Literature lovers from around the world flock to the tiny town of Hay-on-Wye, affectionately known as the “Town of Books” where there are 20 bookshops to discover (there’s even one in the castle) and a great selection of pubs and eateries selling traditional fare and pints to see you through the day. 

Brecon, a market town situated on the edge of the National Park, is another great spot for an afternoon stroll and a pint to finish off the day. Other towns worth visiting include Crickhowell, Talgarth and Sennybridge. 

If you’re interested in the history of this region, pay a visit to Carreg Cennen Castle and Farm which dates back to the 13th century. Other must-see historical attractions include the Fourteen Locks Canal Centre, the Brecon Mountain Railway, and the Big Pit National Coal Museum. 

Best spots to pitch up in the Brecon Beacons

Because of its popularity with outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of spots to pitch a tent or park your caravan for the night in and around the Brecon Beacons. 

The obvious choice is the Brecon Beacons Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite. Other great locations include Pencelli Castle Caravan & Camping Park and Priory Mill Farm, a 16th-century farm-come-campsite. 

You can also enjoy wild camping (legally) at Brecon Beacons Wild Camping or opt for more luxury accommodation at Aber Glamping. 

 

 

Photo by Mike Erskine / Unsplash

Road trip the world without leaving the UK

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Planning a road trip to mark the end of summer? It turns out you don’t have to leave the UK to visit some of the world’s most famous international destinations (kind of). 

Many Brits are opting for UK-based staycations or caravanning or camping adventures due to airport chaos and cancellations. 

To help make choosing a destination easier (and a little more exotic), the team at LeaseElectricCar.co.uk have identified some must-see British locations that share their name with international hotspots. 

Of course, don’t expect these locations to bear any resemblance to their international counterparts beyond their name. However, they are still definitely worth a visit and offer a change of scenery from other popular UK holiday destinations.  

From Barcelona in Cornwall to Columbia in Tyne and Wear, why not make an international road trip the theme of your next touring adventure? 

Here are seven UK destinations with international counterparts. 

Moscow, Ayrshire

Sharing its name with Russia’s largest city, it’s been suggested that this Scottish hamlet got its name due to the prisoners and refugees that lived there during the Crimean War. 

Combine a visit to Moscow with a road trip around Scotland, and don’t forget to check out some of the delightful beaches around the coast. 

Barcelona, Cornwall

Nothing like the vibrant and lively cosmopolitan city in Spain, Cornwall’s Barcelona got its name due to a Spanish native who saved a famous resident from a shipwreck disaster in the 1800s. 

As one of the most picturesque counties in the UK, a trip to Barcelona is easily paired with a road trip along the Cornish coast. 

Egypt, Bradford 

Located in West Yorkshire, just a short distance from its North African counterpart, Egypt is thought to have been named in commemoration of Napoleon’s 18th-century invasion of its namesake. 

Although there’s not much to see in this tiny hamlet, the Yorkshire Dales is an area of outstanding beauty.

Florence, Staffordshire

Although you’ll find no Renaissance masterpieces here, Florence is a charming suburb that’s well worth the visit. 

However, it lies near the Peak District, which offers quite another kind of beauty. 

Combine your visit with some hiking or even wild swimming if you’re feeling adventurous. 

Palestine, Hampshire

It doesn’t have much in common with Jerusalem, and its name remains a mystery to this day, but this charming village is worth visiting if you’re heading to the south of England.

California, Norfolk

This quaint seaside town gets its name from some 16th-century gold coins that were discovered on its shores. The lovely beach is a great spot to take the whole family. 

Columbia, Tyne and Wear

Columbia is located in the town of Washington in the north of England, which was home to George Washington’s ancestors. Other areas in England that have transatlantic connections include New York in Tyneside and Cleveland in County Durham. 

 

 

Image credit: Hamish Duncan / Unsplash

New Road Life book to share campervan experiences

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A new book is set to be published next month that showcases the experiences of 35 people who have embraced the campervan lifestyle.

Road Life has been compiled by Sebastian Antonio Santabarbara and is described as “an inspirational guide to living and travelling on four wheels”.

Among those featured are talented craftsmen who’ve converted vehicles entirely from scratch and explorers who have perfected the art of travelling on a budget.

No two sets of circumstances are the same, with the stories covered as diverse as solo campervanners and families hitting the road together.

The lure of taking a step back from the trappings of modern life to embrace a simpler way of doing things that’s more in tune with nature is celebrated in the book.

Road Life demonstrates how what may seem like a dream can be turned into a reality through the eyes of those who’ve achieved it.

Author Mr Santabarbara is a seasoned traveller and expert on all things vanlife and alternative living.

He personally interviewed each of the people who contributed their stories to the book in order to get to the essence of their approach to life and travel.

As well as reading about their memorable experiences and the challenges they’ve had to overcome along the way, they’ve shared their knowledge too.

Find out which gadgets they’ve come to rely upon and the tips they’d like to share as a result of becoming seasoned vanlifers.

The contributors are made up of people from the UK, Portugal, Bulgaria, USA, Sweden, Japan, Czech Republic, Germany and Italy.

They represent a wide range of ages and some are travelling with pets, meaning there’s inspiration for people in a variety of circumstances.

Road Life will be published on September 6th in hardback, while Mr Santabarbara’s subsequent book, Van Life for Dummies, is expected later in the year.

 

Photo credit: Pexels/Kampus Production

Visit one of these Instagram-worthy islands on your next touring adventure

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The 30th of August is National Beach Day. To mark the occasion, the team at ShowerstoYou have discovered the most Instagrammable islands worldwide by researching how many hashtags each location had on the popular social media platform.

If you want to head a little further afield on your next caravanning adventure, consider planning a trip to one of these idyllic locations. If you do – we guarantee you’ll be the envy of all your social media followers.

Accumulating an incredible 76,086,685 hashtags, Bali secured first place as the most Instagram-worthy island in the world. With plenty of places to rent a campervan and numerous campsites dotted around the island, Bali makes a beautiful touring destination. 

Second place goes to Sicily, the historical island just off the boot of Italy. Home to a number of active volcanoes, Greek temples and exquisite beaches, Sicily is a must for anyone’s travel bucket list. There are pitching spots located throughout the island, so planning a route is straightforward. 

Coming in third place is Jamaica, the Caribbean island home to mountains, lush rainforests and reef-lined coast. If you want to enjoy the sun, sand and sea (and show off about it to all your followers), hop in a caravan and discover all that this island has to offer. 

Next up is Sri Lanka, an island country located in south Asia. Known for its beach resorts, national parks, wildlife and, of course, tea – Sri Lanka is undoubtedly one of the most Instagrammable locations in the world. Explore in your leisure vehicle to discover all of its hidden gems. 

In fifth place – and a little closer to home – is Mallorca in Spain’s Balearic Islands. Here you can explore sandy beaches, limestone cliffs and Moorish and Roman ruins. If you’re seeking a memorable touring destination with plenty of picturesque views and hiking routes along the way, head to Mallorca on your next road trip. 

Other notable spots that made the list include the Maldives, Sardinia in Italy, Santorini and Crete in Greece and Portugal’s Madeira. 

Martin Smith, the owner of ShowertoYou, commented on why he thinks island destinations are an increasingly popular choice for travellers:

“A vacation on an island provides people with the perfect opportunity for a fun adventure like scuba-diving or snorkelling, allowing them to explore the beauty of the oceans. Another great aspect of an island holiday is that due to most islands’ tropical locations, lovely weather is almost certainly guaranteed. And last but not least, booking an island trip means that people will be able to admire astonishing landscapes that can be found nowhere else, making their stay unforgettable.”

 

Image credit: marcociannarel / Shutterstock

Financial considerations when buying a caravan to live in

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The average house price in the UK has increased 9.8 per cent since 2021, putting home ownership out of the reach of many young people.

As a result, static and touring caravans and motorhomes are proving popular places to live.

Now, Shane Spence of Sell The Caravan has offered advice on the things to consider before purchasing a leisure vehicle as a residence.

Create a budget

The first step in the process is to decide on a budget as this will influence the size, model and make of the caravan you’re interested in.

Think about the options surrounding deposits, financing and buying a caravan or motorhome outright to come to the best decision for your circumstances.

Mr Spence said: “There are a range of financing options available to help you buy a static caravan and spread the cost over a period of time.

“In fact, static caravan finance is a common way to purchase a holiday home. When buying a static caravan simply ask the sales representative about static caravan financing options.”

Understanding caravan finance

Caravan financing works in the same way as other loans, meaning the lump sum is paid back over a period of time, usually in monthly instalments.

There are three ways it can be arranged:

  • A personal loan
  • A secured loan
  • A hire purchase agreement

Does VAT apply to buying a caravan?

VAT will appear separately on the invoice for your caravan, but will be included in the overall purchase price.

The seller is responsible for ensuring that VAT is paid and the current standard rate is 20 per cent of the cost of the unit.

Caravan purchase protections

Caravans bought with finance come with the same rights under UK law associated with buying anything on credit.

All hire purchase agreements are fully regulated and offer additional security to buyers.

 

Photo credit: Sarah Doffman

Combine caravanning and reading in these cities for book lovers

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What’s a more relaxing way to spend an evening than cosying up in front of the fire and getting lost in a good book? Although we’re more distracted than ever by the digital world, reading remains one of the nation’s favourite pastimes. 

As an ode to the country’s wanderlusting bookworms, the team at The Knowledge Academy has identified the cities with the best bookshops, libraries and public bookcases across the UK.

So if you’re a caravan enthusiast with a penchant for reading, why not make one of these cities for book lovers your next touring destination? 

Cambridge

Famed for being home to one of the world’s leading universities where literary greats like Lord Byron and Sylvia Plath studied, it’s no wonder Cambridge tops the list as the best destination for book lovers. 

Chock-full of bookshops and libraries, Cambridge is also a wonderful destination for caravanning and camping. Stay at the Cambridge Camping and Caravanning Club Site close to the River Cam, which is also one of the best spots in the UK to enjoy wild swimming. 

Edinburgh

The birthplace of Arthur Conan Doyle, Robert Louis Stevenson and Muriel Spark – Edinburgh is one of the best cities in the UK for avid readers. If you’re planning a touring trip to Scotland, the capital should certainly be on your itinerary. 

Wander Edinburgh’s cobbled streets and explore its numerous bookshops and libraries. Once you’ve had enough of the city, head to one of the country’s best beaches or hidden gems to enjoy a spot of secluded reading.

York

No literary bucket list of the UK would be complete without a trip to York. Known for its stunning architecture and surrounding Yorkshire Dales, the city is also home to charming bookshops to find your next novel. 

Once you’ve toured York and filled your bag with books, hop in your caravan and head to one of the best picnic spots along the Yorkshire Coast to immerse yourself in a story to the backdrop of the waves crashing against the shore. 

Oxford

Home to another of the world’s leading universities, the likes of Oscar Wilde, J.R.R. Tolkein and Lewis Carroll graced the streets of Oxford back in the day. It’s also where you’ll find one of the most famous libraries in the world, the Bodleian Library, making it the ideal destination for a literary-themed road trip. 

Surrounded by spots to pitch up and beautiful countryside to explore, why not combine your next touring adventure with a trip to one of the world’s most thriving literary capitals? 

Brighton and Hove

This seaside city is renowned for its liberal atmosphere which has given way to a culture and arts scene that makes it unique. 

In Brighton and Hove you’ll find numerous new and second-hand bookshops to explore, and you can combine your visit with a touring adventure around the southeast of England. 

 

 

Image credit:  Aaron Burden / Unsplash

Top locations for idyllic British sunsets

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You don’t have to stray too far from home to find great spots for caravanning and camping. 

The UK is brimming with tranquil staycation destinations. From Scotland’s best beaches in the north to idyllic hiking trails in Wales, to England’s stunning south coast and Northern Ireland’s hidden castles  – the UK offers something for everyone. 

There’s no better way to relax at the end of the day than by enjoying a picturesque view while the sun goes down. You don’t have to head off to exotic places to catch spectacular sunsets, as there are plenty of locations around the UK that’ll leave you breathless. 

Researchers at LeaseCar.uk have identified the top spots in the kingdom for watching the sun go down. Why not combine your next touring adventure with a sunset view to remember? 

Land’s End, Cornwall 

The most south-westerly point in the UK, Land’s End is perfectly positioned on the Cornish coast for catching dramatic sunsets. With plenty of leisure parks and campsites, Land’s End is a great place to enjoy panoramic views and a cliff-top stroll before bedding down for the night. 

Tenby, Pembrokeshire, Wales

Tenby is regarded as one of the most picturesque coastal towns in the UK, and it also offers perfect opportunities for sunset viewing. Watch the sun go down on the horizon from the beach or take an evening walk around the coast. 

Sandbanks, Dorset 

Situated on a small peninsula across Poole Harbour, Sandbanks is a stunning beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing and watching incredible sunsets. With plenty of family-friendly caravan parks nearby, this is a great location for a touring trip with your nearest and dearest. 

Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh 

There are plenty of reasons to make Scotland your next summer touring destination, and the sunset view from Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh is another to add to the list. 

An ancient volcano overlooking Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Hike up the hill in the early evening to catch a glimpse of the sun going down before heading back to the city to enjoy a refreshing pint on the Royal Mile. 

Kirkstone Pass, Lake District, Cumbria 

The Lake District’s highest mountain pass, the Kirkstone Pass is one of the best spots in the UK to catch a sunset that’ll be the envy of all your social media followers. The Lake District offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and reconnecting with nature to a backdrop of astonishing scenery, making it an ideal location for your next touring escapade. 

 

Image credit: Pete Godfrey / Unsplash

Discover the best camping destinations in Great Britain

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Camping has increased in popularity in the UK ever since Covid-19 travel restrictions caused Brits to seek out staycation destinations closer to home. 

There are many incredible locations across Great Britain to pitch up with a caravan or tent, which can make choosing where to go the most difficult part of planning a holiday. 

To simplify deciding where to go on your next holiday, the team at JetCamp have collected and analysed insights gathered from over 1,500 campsites and whittled them down to a list of the best camping destinations in Great Britain. Their choices were based on factors including average rating and popularity. 

Whether you’re seeking a cheap pitching spot for a family holiday or want to explore some of Britain’s favourite beaches, there’s a campsite to suit your needs.

Their research looked at camping destinations in England, Scotland and Wales, comparing those with a minimum of five campsites to find out which areas Brits enjoy the most.

England’s top contender was Truro in Cornwall which achieved an overall score of 9.7, also earning it the title of best overall camping destination in the whole of Great Britain. Securing second and third places were High Peak in Derbyshire and West Devon. 

Inverness snagged the chief spot for Scotland with an average rating of 9.1. In Wales, Brecon, located on the edge of the glorious Brecon Beacons National Park, took first place with an average rating of 9.4, followed closely by Caernarfon and Abergavenny, which both scored 9.2. 

Despite camping destinations in England and Wales outshining Scotland’s leading port of call Inverness, the country was rated the best overall camping location with visitors reporting the highest satisfaction levels across the board. 

England was the most visited country for camping (based on an index developed by the researchers), triumphing over Wales and Scotland to snag the top five spots according to popularity. 

However, it’s important to note that a destination’s popularity doesn’t reflect the experience that it offers. The most visited campsites and holiday parks in Great Britain were Great Yarmouth, Scarborough, Teignbridge, Newquay and East Lindsay, all of which cover large areas. 

If you’re seeking a memorable touring experience, consider looking at hidden gem campsites in some of the top destinations within each country. Particularly during the summer months, these locations mean you can escape the crowds while enjoying a more tranquil atmosphere.

 

Image credit: JetCamp

Jerba reveals its top tips for motorhome adventures

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Jerba Campervans has been sharing its tips on converting vans into leisure vehicles for a while, but now it’s offering adventuring advice too.

The employee-owned business, which specialises in VW conversions, is sharing hacks to improve motorhome and campervan journeys.

It aims to help holidaymakers cut down on stress and time spent on the less exciting aspects of the lifestyle.

There’s advice ranging from packing an essential survival kit to the best way to make the perfect slice of toast in a campervan.

And if you’re hungrier than that, Jerba’s even collated the best recipes to whip up in your leisure vehicle this summer.

Topics including making the most of storage boxes and fitting midge nets are also covered, which is fitting when you remember that Jerba is based in Scotland.

Steven Ingle, digital marketing specialist at Jerba Campervans said: “We are constantly trying to provide guidance and advice for avid campervan enthusiasts across the world.

“By using our bank of expertise, we’re certain that we’ve offered up some great hacks that will make life that little bit easier for those enjoying a campervan retreat.”

This travelling advice adds to the bank of videos Jerba has already uploaded to YouTube, which are designed to help anyone undertaking their own van conversion.

Jerba has racked up millions of views of its video content and has in excess of 8,000 followers of its channel.

Resources shared in the latest video include a selection of apps to help those heading off in a caravan, motorhome or campervan find a place to pitch up, enjoy a hill walk or scenic drive.

Mr Ingle added: “There has been great feedback on all of our videos so far. At Jerba, we want to provide people with quality vehicles while giving them expert knowledge to ensure the perfect holiday.”

Check out the latest video here.

The best beaches in the UK for swimming

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With the UK experiencing blisteringly hot temperatures, there’s no better place to be than by the seaside. 

In a recent article for the Guardian, Ella Foote, editor of Outdoor Swimmer magazine, shared her selection of the top beaches in the UK for swimming. Whether you fancy a long-distance swim or a relaxing dip – there’s a beach, cove or bay for every type of swimmer.

There are plenty of spots for pitching up in your caravan or motorhome along the UK coastline, so why not head to one of these coastal spots on your next touring excursion.

Southbourne, Dorset

This quiet Bournemouth beach features sandy shores and clear waters. 

Ideal for long-distance swimming, you can map your distance using the groynes that extend into the waters. 

From the beach, you can enjoy incredible views of the Isle of Wight and relax in one of the seaside pubs or restaurants once you’ve had your fill of the water. 

Hope Cove, Devon

You’ll find two bays at Hope Cove that are delightful locations to take a swim. The distance from the harbour across the bay is approximately 250 metres, making it ideal for getting in some lengths. 

Trearddur Bay, Anglesey

This charming bay in Anglesey offers plenty of opportunity for swimming and activities for the whole family, including sandy shores for building sandcastles and rock pools when the tide is out. It’s the perfect place to spend the day, so be sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the sand. 

Tynemouth Longsands, Tyne and Wear

Home to the Tynemouth Outdoor Swimmers, this beach has won awards for being one of the best in the UK. 

Take a swim at King Edward’s Bay, where you can enjoy views of a medieval priory and fortress. 

Portnaluchaig, the Highlands

Although it might not be the first place to come to mind, Scotland offers many great beaches to explore during the summer months. 

Portnaluchaig, located on the west coast, is a swimmer’s paradise. Its remote location means that you can often have the beach to yourself. 

With turquoise waters, white sand and magnificent rock formations, this is a fantastic spot to enjoy some wild swimming on your next touring adventure. 

Broadstairs, Kent

Broadstairs is a popular day trip for Londoners who want to escape the city when the weather warms up. 

With plenty of great spots for swimming, quirky shops and beach huts, this sheltered bay is a must for swimming enthusiasts. 

If you are planning on going for a swim, be careful with the tides around Kent as currents can be strong. 

Lansallos, Cornwall

Popular with locals, Lansallos is a charming hidden bay on the Cornish coast that almost disappears during high tide. For this reason, it’s important to check the tides before setting off. Once there you’ll find plenty of swimming locations, cliff walks and even a waterfall. 

Whiterocks, Portrush, Northern Ireland

If you love to get off the beaten track and explore the UK’s wild side, head to Whiterocks beach in Northern Ireland. 

Along with plenty of beautiful bays to swim in, visitors can also enjoy cliff walks with views of the ruined fortress, Dunluce Castle. 

Keep an eye out for wildlife such as dolphins, seals and seabirds too. 

 

Image credit: Magda V / Unsplash

Tips for staying cool on the roads during a heatwave

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The UK is experiencing what is arguably one of the best summers on record. That being said, many don’t enjoy temperatures above 30 degrees and the recent string of heatwaves is a cause for concern among climate experts. 

If you’re planning a summer road trip in your leisure vehicle this year, it’s important to find ways to stay cool while driving. Whether you’re heading to one of the UK’s hidden gem camping locations or setting off to a tranquil staycation spot – being prepared and ensuring safety is a must. 

The team at Select Car Leasing have shared some of their top tips for staying safe and fresh on the road. 

Drink lots of water

Staying hydrated is essential at any temperature, but during a heatwave, it’s important to drink plenty of water to replenish fluids lost through sweating. This helps prevent the driver or anyone else in the vehicle from feeling dizzy and dehydrated, which can increase the chances of an accident. 

Be sure to stock up on lots of water before setting off, or plan stops along the way where you can fill up.

Wear light and loose clothing

It may seem obvious, but wearing the right clothing can make a big difference when it comes to overheating and staying comfortable when driving in a heatwave. 

Dress in light, breathable clothes made with natural fibres, as this will help you stay cool throughout the journey. 

If you have leather seats, it’s a good idea to put down a blanket or a towel to prevent your skin from sticking to them or getting burnt.

Avoid travelling during peak times 

An easy way to avoid the worst of the day’s heat is to avoid travelling during the hours when the sun is at its strongest. 

Setting off during the early morning or the evening will not only help you avoid the hottest times of the day but also the busiest times on the road. This means you’ll also be less likely to get stuck in traffic.

It’s a good idea to make plenty of pit stops so passengers can stretch their legs, get some fresh air and hydrate themselves.

Pack an emergency kit in your vehicle

This is a must in any weather, but it’s even more essential in hot conditions. 

Be sure to carry a first aid kit, seatbelt cutter, wet towels, ice packs, a torch, additional food and water supplies and so on. This way, you’ll be prepared in case anything happens or if someone begins to suffer from heatstroke along the way. 

Park in the shade

To prevent damage to your vehicle’s engine and battery, be sure to park in the shade where possible. Doing so also means you won’t have to step into a boiling hot caravan when you’re ready to set off again. 

If parking in the shade isn’t always possible, invest in a quality sunshade for your window to prevent the vehicle from overheating in the sun.

 

Image credit: quokkabottles / Unsplash

Wild With Consent announces new partnerships

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Northumberland’s Wild With Consent concept has announced two new partnerships to help expand its offering that connects caravanners and motorhomers to remote experiences on private land.

It’s now working with Northumberland 250, the driving route that helps holidaymakers enjoy England’s most northerly county, and Northumberland Defenders.

The self-drive Defender camping company offers vehicles that sleep between two and four people, with pick-up points in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Each one is fitted out with a roof tent and all the necessities to get off the beaten track. The Defenders are bookable for a minimum of three nights.

Combining the three brands means visitors can access everything they need for a memorable trip to Northumberland, from planning the route to reserving a spot to pitch up.

Wild With Consent is now offering a selection of handpicked off-grid sites along the Northumberland 250 route, so you can enjoy a sense of tranquillity on this popular road trip.

The idea behind Wild With Consent is that those in self-contained leisure vehicles can experience remote locations away from the crowds without trespassing on private land.

Grace Fell, founder of the concept, visits each of the sites personally to ensure they meet her expectations and fit with the Wild With Consent ethos.

Sites have been selected on each of the five Northumberland 250 itineraries – Coast, Borderlands, Dark Skies and Country.

Among them are Newton Farm, with easy access to Beadnell Bay and the Ship Inn; West Learmonth, a livestock farm that has been in the same family for 120 years; and Scotchcoulthard Farm, on the edge of Wark Forest.

Having originally started in Northumberland, Wild With Consent has expanded its offering to other parts of the UK, with sites as far afield as Wales and Northern Ireland available to book.