The Ultimate List of Unique Places to Visit in England for 2025
Looking for a slightly different holiday in 2025? Whether you’re a curious explorer, a nature lover, or a family ready for adventure, there are many hidden gems in England that you’ll knock over.
Skip the normal tourist spots and get stylish in your campervan. If you are looking for the best small campervan UK, or if you are planning on trying out camper rentals for the first time, you can easily book them through Jepson’s Holiday and make some unforgettable memories.
Let’s dive into the ultimate list of unique places to visit in England that you probably haven’t thought of!
Top Unique Places to Visit in England
1. Puzzlewood, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Imagine walking through a magical forest filled with twisted trees, moss-covered stones, and secret paths. That’s Puzzlewood! It’s believed to have inspired J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth, and when you visit, you’ll see why.
Puzzlewood is perfect for kids and adults and is a great day out. Book the motorhomes for hire in your nearby area and explore this dreamy place at your own pace.
Why is it special: Walks in the magical forest, movie locations, and a fairy tale atmosphere.
2. The Shell Grotto, Margate, Kent
Discovered in 1835, this underground passage is covered with millions of seashells. No one knows who built it or why, but it’s breathtaking. The wall patterns are attractive.
This is a great stopover while you have the Kent Coast to your motorhome hire. The city of Margate also features beautiful beaches and trendy cafes.
Why is it special: Mystic history and tunnels covered in seashells.
3. St. Nectan’s Glen, Cornwall
St. Nectan’s Glen is hidden deep in the forest near Tintagel and features a breathtaking 60-foot waterfall. They pass through magical paths, cross wooden bridges, and feel the peaceful energy of the place.
Cornwall is full of picturesque campsites perfect for nature lovers, so you can stay in your camper overnight.
Why it’s special: Sacred waterfall, peaceful vibes, and a secret woodland trail.
4. Portmeirion Village, North Wales
Well, it’s not technically in the UK, but it’s very unique and very close, so it’s worth mentioning. Portmeirion looks like a colorful Italian village with quirky buildings and beautiful gardens. You feel like you’re in the Mediterranean on your holiday!
Park your motorhomes for hire just outside and enjoy the peace and beauty of this hidden gem.
Why it’s special: Italian-style village in the UK with whimsical charm.
5. Derwentwater Floating Island, Lake District
The Lake District is already stunning, but have you heard of the floating island on Derwentwater? It moves across the lake, appearing and disappearing depending on the weather. Some even call it a ghost island!
Camping near the lake in one of the best small campervan UK makes for a cozy, fun-filled break.
Why it’s special: A mysterious floating island in a breathtaking lake.
6. The Forbidden Corner, North Yorkshire
This is one of the most interesting and unique places to visit in England. Forbidden corners are strange, stupid, amazing gardens filled with tunnels, mazes, and secret doors. It’s like the puzzle you go to!
Perfect for anyone with family or adventure. Drive through the motorhome and enjoy the nearby circular country campsite.
Why it’s special: A wild and wacky adventure garden that kids love.
7. Shanklin Chine, Isle of Wight
If you’re looking for a peaceful, beautiful spot, Shanklin China is it. It’s a deep, tree-filled gorge with waterfalls, plants, and glowing lanterns at night. A short ferry ride gets you and your campervan onto the Isle of Wight—then you’re free to explore.
Why it’s special: Natural beauty with a magical twist, especially at night.
8. Wistman’s Wood, Dartmoor, Devon
Wistman’s Wood feels like a fantasy world. The gnarled, moss-covered oak trees look like they belong in a movie. It’s one of England’s oldest and most mystical forests.
Pitch up your motorhome hire at a local site, lace up your walking boots, and set off on an unforgettable hike.
Why it’s special: Ancient woodland with an eerie and magical atmosphere.
9. Blakeney Point, Norfolk
Home to seals and rare birds, Blakeney Point is a nature lover’s paradise. You can take a boat trip to see seals lounging on the sandbanks—especially cute during the baby seal season.
A campervan holiday in Norfolk gives you the chance to wake up right by the sea.
Why it’s special: Wildlife, coastal beauty, and unforgettable seal sightings.
10. Dungeness, Kent
Dungeness is not in the UK. It’s a tangy desert with power plants, quirky homes, and incredible art. It’s strong and strange, but peaceful and inspiring.
Artists, writers, and photographers love this place. So you will be especially likely when you are looking for a place that is far from the leaking road.
Why it’s special: Wild, weird, and beautifully quiet coastal spot.
11. Kielder Water and Forest Park, Northumberland
Love stargazing? Kielder is one of the best places in Europe for this. With light and insufficient pollution, the stars are incredible. Visit the Keeler Observatory and see planets, galaxies, and shooting stars.
Park your small motorhome and spend the night under a star blanket.
Why it’s special: Stunning stargazing and peaceful forest escapes.
12. Alderley Edge, Cheshire
Alderley Edge is one of the most unique places to visit in England. It is famous for legends about hidden treasure, knights sleeping in caves, and magical cliffs. The views are amazing, and the walk is peaceful yet full of mystery.
It’s a lovely weekend getaway in your motorhomes for hire, with countryside pubs and cozy campsites nearby.
Why it’s special: Scenic cliffs and ancient local legends.
Why Travel in a Campervan?
Exploring England by campervan is one of the best ways to see all these hidden treasures. Here’s why:
- Freedom to go anywhere, anytime
- Comfortable and cozy sleeping space
- No need for hotel bookings
- Great for families, couples, and solo adventurers
- Park up in scenic spots for sunrise views
If you’re new to the world of van life, check out Jepson’s Holidays for reliable, family-friendly motorhomes for hire and the best small campervan UK options. You’ll get clean, well-equipped vehicles and helpful tips to make your trip amazing.
Final Thoughts
England is full of surprises. These unique places to visit in England show how magical their 2025 trip is, especially if they have the wheels of their own adventures. With motorhome rentals, your next vacation will be flexible, entertaining, and full of unforgettable moments.
Grab your bag, grab the key, and explore the unknown places with motorhomes from Jepson’s Holidays. What are you waiting for? The road is calling you!
FAQs
What are some hidden gems in the UK for campervan travel?
Puzzlewood, Whistman’s Wood, Forbidden Horns, and Poop are the best and lesser-known places for camper travel.
Is it easy to find a campsite in the UK?
Yes! The UK has many campers in the country, near beaches and in national parks.
Are these unique places family-friendly?
Absolutely! Places like The Forbidden Corner, Puzzlewood, and Blakeney Point are great fun for all ages.
Can I bring a camper van to the Isle of Wight?
Yes! You can take your camper van to the Isle of Wight on the ferry and explore locations such as Shanklin Chine and Ventnor.
Do I need a special license to drive a motorhome in the UK?
Most small campervans can be driven with a standard UK driving license. Always check vehicle size rules with the hire company.