Winter doesn’t mean having to stay put. At Quirky Campers, it’s all about embracing chilly mornings with warm mugs in hand, quiet evenings wrapped in blankets, and winter landscapes that make you pause and smile. It’s the Hygge-anuary promise to slow down, soak it all in, and balance crisp adventures with cosy comforts, from discovering hidden spas and steamy saunas to braving wild swimming spots at each stop along the way.

That’s exactly what this UK road trip is designed for: a scenic winter adventure through charming villages, tranquil lakes, cosy cafés, and soul-warming experiences. Whether you follow the whole route, dip in for a few favourite stops, or join along the way, every destination invites you to lean into warmth, wellbeing, and mindful adventure. Pack up your campervan, grab your favourite blanket, and commit to a winter full of Hygge, laughter, and little moments that make the season feel like a treat.

To help you make it happen, we’re offering 15% off seasonal discount campervans for trips between 26/12/2025 and 31/03/2026. Just use code HYGGE15 to join the Hygge‑anuary promise and turn your winter into a perfect mix of comfort, curiosity, and a little seasonal magic.

How long does the route take to complete?

The full route stretches roughly 350–400 miles, taking you from the Lake District down through the Yorkshire Dales, the Cotswolds, and into Somerset and the South Downs. While total driving time is around 8–10 hours, we don’t recommend doing it all in one go. To fully embrace the Hygge-anuary vibe, think cosy cafés, gentle walks, scenic stops, and campervan evenings. We recommend setting aside 7-10 days for the true adventure of a lifetime. Take it slow, linger at each stop, and savour comfort, warmth, and the simple pleasures along the way.

How much will it cost me in fuel?

Most campervans average 20–35 miles per gallon (around 4.4–7.7 miles per litre). For this north-to-south route, expect to spend roughly £70–£140 on fuel, depending on your campervan and driving style. For winter driving on winding country roads, it’s wise to budget an extra £50 for peace of mind and remember, part of Hygge is enjoying the journey itself.

What to bring for maximum Hygge

Packing for this road trip is all about warmth, comfort, and taking things slow. No need to cram in the kitchen sink, our campervans already do the heavy lifting. We have woodburners, indoor showers, fairy lights, projectors, and seriously cosy beds that you’ll want ’five more minutes’ in. Every van is a little different, so if you’re curious about what’s included, head to the individual listing for the full lowdown on features and facilities.

Fancy taking the Hygge vibe to the next level?

• Snuggly blankets and throws
  
• Hot drinks & travel flasks
  
• Comfortable layers
  
• Warm footwear
  
• Camera or phone for capturing the beauty of winter
  
• Books or journals
  
• Fairy lights or battery candles
  
• Snacks & local treats

First time hitting the road in a campervan? We get it. It’s tempting to bring everything ‘just in case’, but when it comes to vanlife, less really is more. Our complete campervan essentials checklist helps you pack everything you need and leave behind the things you don’t.

The road trip

Let’s hit the road. We start in the North and wander South, but there’s no right or wrong way to do this. Join halfway, flip the route on its head, pick out the stops that catch your eye, or take a detour just because it looks good. This road trip is all about slowing down, soaking up the views, and seeing where the road takes you. We’ll point you in the right direction, the adventure is yours.

1. Ambleside, Lake District

A charming town nestled between lakes and fells, Ambleside is full of cosy cafés, independent shops, and picture-perfect winter views.

Hygge activity:
Start with an afternoon tea at The Apple Pie Café, then enjoy a gentle stroll through the quaint streets with a hot chocolate in hand. For a refreshing winter boost, take a dip in Buckstones Jum, or if you’d prefer something warmer, head to Waterfall Spa at Ambleside Salutation to unwind and recharge.

Campsite:
Stybeck Farm – CA12 4TN
Wake up at Stybeck Farm near Keswick in the Lake District and step straight into stunning scenery. Campervan pitches sit on a working farm, with fields that gently lead to fells, crags, and lakes. Perfect for a slow morning stroll, fresh air, and winter tranquillity.

2. Grasmere, Lake District

Famed for its gingerbread and literary history, Grasmere is a quaint village with cobbled streets, historic cottages, and a serene lake, ideal for a slow, indulgent stop.

Hygge activity:
Step inside Dove Cottage (LA22 9SH), the iconic home of William Wordsworth, and get a glimpse of life in the Romantic era. Follow it with a peaceful lakeside stroll to soak up the surrounding beauty. Feeling adventurous? Take a dip in the calm waters at Fell Foot Park. Then, warm up and recharge the Hygge way at the Daffodil Hotel and Spa, treat yourself to a hot stone massage or indulge in a luxurious truffle oil full-body treatment.

Campsite:
Seatoller Farm – CA12 5XN
Settle in at Seatoller Farm, a family-run working hill farm in Cumbria with stunning views of the Borrowdale Valley and River Derwent. This back-to-basics site has no Wi-Fi or phone signal, perfect for switching off and embracing the wild, tranquil surroundings.

3. Hawes, Yorkshire Dales

A tiny village set among rolling hills, Hawes is renowned for Wensleydale cheese, local shops, and welcoming pubs.

Hygge activity:
Sample the famous local cheese at Wensleydale Creamery (DL8 3RN) and grab some treats for a cosy winter picnic back at your campervan. Adventure on to Janet’s Foss waterfall and pool for a refreshing paddle surrounded by fairytale scenery. Finish the day in true Hygge style with a soak in The Garage Spa’s thermal rooms or a relaxing treatment to warm up and unwind.

Campsite:
High Laning Caravan and Camping Site – LA10 5QJ
An idyllic, year-round campsite with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and countryside. Conveniently close to Dent village, it’s within easy walking distance of shops, pubs, and cafés, offering a warm welcome and a memorable stay.

4. Skipton, Yorkshire Dales

Known as the “Gateway to the Dales”, Skipton is a historic market town with a medieval castle, charming streets, and welcoming cafés.

Hygge activity: 
Step back in time with a wander around Skipton Castle (BD23 1AW), exploring its medieval walls and sweeping views. Slow things down with a gentle stroll along the canal towpath or through the bustling market streets, soaking up the village atmosphere. When you’re ready to get closer to nature, head to Stainforth Force, home to deep, clear pools and a rope swing that makes it well worth the visit. Finish the day on a high note with a luxurious visit to The Devonshire Spa, perhaps with a well-earned treatment, the perfect way to warm up and round off this stop in style.

Campsite:
Tarn House Caravan Park – BD23 3FF
Set in beautiful grounds near Skipton, it offers a welcoming reception, country store, and bar & restaurant. Perfect for a cosy countryside stay.

5. Snowshill, Cotswolds

A picture-perfect Cotswolds village with honey-coloured cottages, a historic manor, and artisan shops. The perfect stop off during a serene winter escape.

Hygge activity:
Spend the day wandering the cosy interiors of Snowshill Manor (WR12 7JU) and browsing local crafts nearby. As evening draws in, enjoy a mug of hot cider by the glow of a campfire. For a true winter reset, take a bracing dip in the River Teme before easing into the warmth of the wood-fired sauna at The Sauna at The Cottage, a perfect way to slow down and soak up the moment.

Campsite:
Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping – WR11 4TW
An official Dark Skies site, this campsite is stunning both day and night. Surrounded by walking and cycling trails, there’s plenty to explore, and being east-facing means you can enjoy magical sunrises or cosy evenings watching the sunset over the horizon after a day full of Hygge.

6. Bath, Somerset

Famous for Roman baths and elegant Georgian architecture, Bath is the perfect mix of history, spa indulgence, and cosy cafés.

Hygge activity:
Spend an afternoon in the rooftop pool at Thermae Bath Spa (BA1 1SJ), wrapped in fluffy towels and robes, then retreat to your campervan for a hot cocoa and a cosy evening of films and snacks. Follow that up with a refreshing splash at Warleigh Weir, now you’re relaxed and revitalised you’ll be ready to explore all Bath has to offer in its beautiful historic streets.

Campsite:
Lansdown Campsite – BA1 9BJ
A peaceful, off-grid spot on a family farm atop Lansdown Hill. Enjoy stunning countryside views, a quiet escape from the city, and cosy moments soaking up the winter tranquillity while still being close to Bath’s historic sights.

7. Alfriston, South Downs

A quintessential English village with historic streets, cosy inns, and peaceful countryside, perfect for slowing down and soaking up the scenery.

Hygge activity: 
Take a gentle stroll through the historic streets of Alfriston, then pause at the Smugglers’ Inn (BN26 5UE) for a warming drink and seasonal treats. Feeling brave? Head to Cuckmere Meanders for a refreshing wild swim or just a playful toe dip in its calm waters. Wrap up the day in true cosy-luxury style at Luna Hut Sauna, where the seaside views and soothing heat make every moment feel like a treat.

Campsite: 
Horam Manor Country Park – TN21 0YD
This peaceful, family-run site is set on a manor estate. With roomy pitches, scenic walking and cycling paths like the nearby Cuckoo Trail, and plenty of on-site leisure activities, it’s perfect for a cosy countryside getaway.

Vans to take (Hygge vibes included)

If this route has you dreaming of cosy mornings, slow adventures, and winter landscapes, now’s the perfect time to make it happen. With 15% off seasonal discount campervans for trips between 26/12/2025 and 31/03/2026, your winter getaway is closer than you think. Browse our winter-ready vans, pick your favourite, and use code HYGGE15 to turn those Hygge daydreams into a road trip you’ll never forget.