Explore Some of the UK’s Most Historic Places

With an abundance of historical places to visit across the UK it can be a challenge to choose where to begin. Let us guide you on a path of discovery with our hand-picked selection of destinations that promise not just sightseeing, but a profound educational experience.

The Holy Island of Lindisfarne, Northumberland

This tidal island off the Northumberland coast has incredibly important links to early English Christianity and is unlike any place you’ll have visited before.

In 635AD, an Irish monk named Aidan (Saint Aidan) founded a monastery on the island, right in the heart of the Northumberland kingdom, which dominated in the 7th century. From the continuing establishment of the monastery to the tales of Viking raids, Lindisfarne has endless stories to uncover.

You can drive along the long causeway to Holy Island, but you need to pay attention to the tidal times so you don’t get caught out. Once on the island, there’s plenty to explore, including the priory ruins and the museum, where you can learn all about the island’s history. You’ll want to take your camera to capture the small, remote islands’ individuality.

Nearest Club Site: Beadnell Bay 

Canterbury, Kent

The city of Canterbury in Kent is teeming with history, with some of the oldest Christian structures in England to explore.

Canterbury Cathedral is one of England's most famous and oldest Christian structures and is unmissable. Open year-round, it is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with St Augustine’s Abbey and St Martin's Church.

Other historical attractions in Canterbury include the city walls, built by the Romans in 270AD and the remains of Canterbury Castle.

Nearest Club Site: Canterbury

Nottingham

Nottingham is a city with lots to boast about, including being home to one of the most famous legends in the world.

You’ll want to visit Nottingham Castle to learn all about Robin Hood and his Merry Men. The castle is also home to several other galleries and exhibitions, where you can learn about everything from Nottingham’s lace industry to its history with alabaster.

Those interested in more of Nottingham’s rich history can visit Belvoir Castle, Newark Castle, Wollaton Hall and Newstead Abbey.

Nearest Club Site: Nottingham

Salisbury, Wiltshire

The remains of Old Sarum, the ancient city where Salisbury’s original cathedral once stood, can be seen directly from our Salisbury Club Site.

Old Sarum is just the tip of Salisbury’s historical attractions. The Neolithic site of Stonehenge is around a 20-minute drive from our Salisbury Club Site. The megalithic stones are one of England’s most popular attractions.

Salisbury Cathedral, St Thomas’ Church and The Guildhall are just a few other places of historical interest to add to your itinerary.

Nearest Club Site: Salisbury 

Scarborough, North Yorkshire

Sitting within the North York Moors National Park, the town of Scarborough has Viking origins and plenty of history to unearth.

The remains of Scarborough Castle sit high on headland with panoramic views of the coast. Explore what remains of the stronghold, accompanied by an audio guide which will tell you all about the castle's turbulent 3,000 year history.

The gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey, while not technically in Scarborough, are around a 30 minute drive from the Club Site and well worth it. It’s not hard to see why ruins inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

Nearest Club Site: Scarborough

Sandringham, Norfolk

Sandringham Estate, home to our Sandringham Club Site is one of the most popular historical sites of interest to visit in Norfolk.

Sandringham House, owned by the British Royal Family, is open to visit from March through October, but check the official website for up-to-date information. Sandringham Church dates to the 16th century and is worth stopping by on your visit to the estate.

Other historical attractions in Norfolk include Felbrigg Hall, Holkham Hall, and Muckleburgh Military Collection.

Nearest Club Site: Sandringham

Loch Ness, Inverness

Scotland’s most famous loch is surrounded by the myth of the Loch Ness Monster (Nessie) and is a breathtaking location for a camping break.

The Loch Ness Centre should be your first stop to learn about the legendary story revolving around Nessie, first sighted on August 22, 564. Take a walk through 500 million years of history to uncover secrets, history, and fascinating scientific research.

Inverness Castle, Urquhart Castle, the Culloden Viaduct and Culloden Battlefield are some other recommendations of places to visit.

Nearest Club Site: Loch Ness Shores

Folkestone, Kent

The famous White Cliffs of Dover were used for defence in both World Wars. There are a few attractions to visit in this part of Kent to explore the areas wartime past. The Secret Wartime Tunnels underneath Dover Castle have a long past, serving as army barracks, headquarters and even a hospital at different points in history. In the Second World War, Fan Bay Deep Shelter was built in just 100 days. Descend 125 steps on a guided tour to learn all about the shelters place in history.

The Battle of Britain Memorial, South Foreland Lighthouse and Fort Burgoyne are just a selection of other places to visit around Folkestone.

Nearest Club Site: Canterbury 

Barnard Castle, County Durham

This part of County Durham has endless history to unearth, including a UNESCO World Heritage Site, fascinating ruins to explore and museums.

From our Barnard Castle Club Site you can walk to the remains of Barnard Castle itself which overlooks the Tees Gorge. The 11th century ruins hold many secrets and are a great way to fill a few hours near the campsite.

Other attractions to visit include the Bowes Museum, Bolton Castle, The Living Museum of the North and the Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre.

Nearest Club Site: Barnard Castle

Clent Hills, West Midlands

Camping anywhere within the West Midlands puts you within driving distance of some of the most magnificent castles and most interesting museums in the UK.

Warwick Castle offers one of the best historical experiences for families in the UK. There’s something for everyone, from learning about the castle's history to enjoying live reenactments and the largest bird of prey show in the UK. Those feeling brave can even head down into the dungeons to meet the castle’s resident plague doctor.

Kenilworth Castle, the Black Country Living Museum and Cadbury World are just a few other attractions across the West Midlands and Warwickshire which make brilliant days out for the whole family.

Nearest Club Site: Clent Hills