Here at Quirky Campers, people often ask us: When’s the best time of year to hire a campervan in the UK? And yes, summer is the obvious answer – long days, barbecues on the beach, endless school‑holiday fun. But here’s the thing: if you want the real campervan sweet spot, it’s all about September.

Once the school holidays are out of the way, the UK transforms. The roads are calmer, the beaches stretch out with space to spare, and even the most popular campsites suddenly have that chilled, easy‑going vibe. Add to that lower prices, warm seas, and evenings that are made for fairy lights and a glass of something bubbly in your van – and you’ve got yourself the ultimate travel recipe.

September is also when the UK shows off some of its quirkiest and most magical traditions: pigs roaming free in the New Forest during pannage, harvest festivals in sleepy villages, and star‑strewn skies that you just can’t see in the height of summer. It’s like the country takes a deep breath after the chaos of August, and you get to enjoy it all from the comfort of your very own home on wheels.

So pack your bags, choose your dream van from our fleet of handcrafted beauties, and get ready to see why we believe September is campervanning’s best‑kept secret – the perfect month for an unforgettable UK campervan holiday.

Ready to book your September getaway? Check out our full range of campervans for hire!

Ten Reasons Why September Is The Perfect Time To Travel

September is often called the best time to travel the UK, especially if you’re exploring by campervan. The summer rush has faded, so you can enjoy quieter roads, scenic campsites, and unspoilt national parks without the crowds. The weather often stays pleasantly warm, making it ideal for coastal walks, outdoor cooking, and cosy evenings in your campervan with the woodburner roaring and a steaming hot cup of tea. With schools back in session, attractions feel more relaxed, and you’ll often find better value on pitches and parking. Add in the first hint of autumn colour and the freedom of campervan life, and it’s easy to see why September is the perfect time for a UK road trip.

1. Off-Season Freedom

Schools are back, the crowds have vanished, and suddenly you’ve got the beaches, trails and villages (almost) to yourself. For campervanners, that means no queues, easier parking, and first pick of the best pitches.

2. More Adventure for Your Money

Campervan hire and campsite fees are usually cheaper after August. So you can snag that gorgeous quirky conversion you’ve been eyeing up – without the summer price tag.

3. Just-Right Weather

September is the Goldilocks month: not too hot, not too cold. The sea is still warm from summer, mornings are crisp (perfect for a van-side brew), and evenings are cool enough for fairy lights and blankets.

4. Festivals Galore

Music, food, vintage cars, harvest fairs – September is bursting with events. With your campervan parked nearby, you can wake up right next to the fun instead of battling for hotels or taxis.

5. Quirky UK Traditions

Ever seen pigs roaming free in the New Forest during pannage? Or camped under a meteor shower in Exmoor? September is full of “you had to be there” moments – and having a campervan means you actually can be there.

6. Less Midges and Mozzies

If you’ve battled Scottish midges in July, you’ll know what we mean. By September, they’ve mostly gone, so you can cook, stargaze and chill outside your camper without the buggy aftermath.

7. Room for Spontaneity

Want to stay an extra night by the sea? Take a detour to a country pub? September’s quieter vibe makes it easy to change plans on the fly. And with a campervan, you’ve got everything you need with you.

8. Travel That Feels Good

Fewer crowds = less pressure on hotspots, and local businesses love your off-season custom. Campervanning in September isn’t just more fun – it’s more sustainable too.

9. Nature’s Glow-Up

Autumn colours start to creep in, sunsets get even more dramatic, and the landscapes feel fresh after summer. Park up in the Lakes, Yorkshire Moors or Highlands and just… soak it in.

10. Quieter Road Trips

Iconic routes like the North Coast 500 or the Cornish coast are way less hectic. That means less time in traffic and more time enjoying the views from your rolling tiny home.

Need more info? Why not read our comprehensive blog on what it’s really like to hire a Quirky Campervan?

Unique Only-in-September UK Experiences

Travelling the UK by campervan in September means you have the freedom and flexibility to travel to some of the most unique UK experiences. From natural and historic wonders to festivals, wildlife and astronomy events, there are plenty of things you can only experience by travelling in September and what better way than by campervan?

• Heritage Open Days (England) – Early/mid-September: Hundreds of historic sites open for free. Tour a castle by day, camp by the coast by night.

• St Ives September Festival (Cornwall) – Mid-to-late September: Two weeks of arts, music and seaside buzz. Park up on the Atlantic Highway and dip in and out of events.

• Goodwood Revival (West Sussex) – Mid-September: Vintage fashion, classic motors and racing. Your campervan = retro sleepover.

• Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival (Suffolk) – Late September: Seafood, local producers and demos. Stock your van pantry like a pro.

• Blackpool Illuminations (Lancashire) – Late Aug onwards: September nights are perfect for a sparkle-soaked promenade drive.

• New Forest Pannage (Hampshire) – Sept–Nov: Free-roaming pigs hoover up acorns to protect the ponies — a charming, ancient tradition to witness on woodland drives.

• Red Deer Rut (Richmond Park & beyond) – From late September: Watch (from a safe distance) as stags posture and roar; brew tea while dawn mists lift.

• Stargazing Nights – September skies: The Perseids peak in August, but September brings darker skies and top-tier stargazing. Pack a blanket and a flask.

UK Off-Peak Campervan Travel Tips

Travelling in the UK’s shoulder season (late summer into autumn) is one of the best ways to see the country in a quieter, more atmospheric light. Here are our top tips for making the most of a September or autumn campervan adventure:

• Book ahead, but leave room for spontaneity: Popular campsites still fill up on weekends, so secure key spots in advance. But keep a night or two unplanned- some of the best memories come from stumbling across a hidden campsite, scenic lay-by, or coastal pub with overnight parking.

• Plan around daylight: In September, the days shorten quickly. That means earlier sunsets for magical golden hour drives and campfire evenings. Just make sure to time hikes and outdoor activities to finish before dusk for safety and the best views.

• Pack smart layers: Autumn in the UK can mean sunshine one minute and showers the next. A merino base layer and waterproof jacket keep you comfortable without bulky packing. Many Quirky vans come with heating, insulation, and hot water, so you’ll stay snug no matter the forecast.

• Be road- and rain-ready: The shoulder season can bring wetter weather, so it’s worth packing essentials like a head torch, quick-dry towels, and a doormat to keep mud and sand out of the van. Good tyres and a flask of tea never go amiss on country lanes.

• Choose compact for more freedom: A smaller campervan gives you flexibility to navigate narrow lanes, tuck into village car parks, and pull over at scenic lay-bys where bigger motorhomes simply can’t fit. Perfect for impromptu picnics and photo stops.

• Travel responsibly: Leave no trace by using official waste disposal points and refilling water at campsites. Shopping at farm shops, markets, and independent cafés along your route not only supports local communities but also fills your van with seasonal treats.

Top UK Off-Season Spots That Shine in September

When it comes to UK road trips by campervan, travelling off-peak in September is a game-changer. The crowds thin out, prices often dip, and the landscapes take on a golden autumn glow. Whether you’re chasing coastlines, castles or countryside, these destinations are at their very best during the shoulder season. Here are our favourite places for off-peak UK travel by campervan:

Northumberland Coast & The NLAND 250
Think vast empty beaches, windswept castles and some of the darkest skies in England. The NLAND 250 driving route links it all together, with quiet lay-bys for overnight stops and welcoming pubs for hearty meals after a day of exploring.

Devon & Cornwall via the Atlantic Highway (A39)
This coast-hugging road is an icon for UK campervan road trips, and in September, it feels wonderfully serene. The sea is at its warmest, surf breaks are quieter, and you can park up above a beach to wake to gulls and salt air without the summer crowds.

The Cotswolds & English Wine Country
September is harvest time in the vineyards, making this a deliciously seasonal stop. Combine tastings with strolls through golden-stone villages and restock your van pantry at farm shops. It’s a dream destination for a foodie campervan holiday in the UK.

Eryri/Snowdonia & the Cambrian Mountains (Wales)
After September rain, the waterfalls roar to life, and the walking trails are far less crowded than in summer. Base your van by a lake, hop on a steam railway, or climb a peak when the weather clears—the big skies and rugged beauty of Wales shine in autumn.

Norfolk & Suffolk
Perfect for off-peak campervan trips, this stretch of East Anglia offers salt marshes, windmills and migratory birdlife. September is also prime time for seal-spotting boat trips, before retreating to your van for a cosy night near the coast.

The New Forest (Hampshire)
The New Forest comes alive with colour in autumn, and September marks the ancient pannage season when pigs roam freely to feast on acorns. Woodland drives, traffic-free cycle routes and nights parked under beech trees make this a magical shoulder-season stop.

The Peak District & Yorkshire Dales
Heather moorlands fade to rich autumn tones while limestone valleys and market towns invite slow travel. Stock up on baked goods from a local bakery and park your campervan with sweeping views—there’s no better way to savour this corner of northern England.

The Causeway Coastal Route (Northern Ireland)
This dramatic road trip combines basalt cliffs, rope bridges and cinematic Game-of-Thrones landscapes. September mists add atmosphere, while quieter campsites mean you can fully enjoy one of the UK’s most spectacular coastal drives without the summer squeeze.

Five Brilliant Road Trips to Take in September

September is one of the best times for a UK road trip by campervan. The roads are quieter, campsites more relaxed, and the landscapes painted with the first hues of autumn. It’s also a sweet spot for off-peak UK travel, with mild weather and fewer crowds at attractions. Whether you’ve got a weekend or a full week to spare, these five September campervan itineraries offer a perfect mix of scenic drives, cultural highlights and memorable park-ups.

Atlantic Highway Sampler (3–5 days)
Route: Barnstaple → Bude → Tintagel → Padstow/Newquay
This legendary stretch of the A39 is made for coastal UK campervan road trips. Think surf breaks, fresh seafood, and dramatic cliff walks. Mix up your nights between serviced campsites and cliff-top park-ups (where permitted) to wake up with sea views.

Northumberland Castles & Coast (3–4 days)
Route: Warkworth → Dunstanburgh → Bamburgh → Holy Island (with Chillingham/Alnwick detour)
September is ideal for exploring Northumberland’s empty beaches and towering castles. At night, park your campervan at a certified Dark Sky site for some of the UK’s best stargazing- without the summer light pollution.

New Forest & Solent Loop (2–3 days)
Route: Brockenhurst → Beaulieu → Lymington → Keyhaven
In September, the New Forest comes alive with pannage season, when pigs roam freely to feast on fallen acorns. This loop combines woodland cycling, coastal walks and evenings in pub gardens. Park under ancient trees or near the Solent shoreline for a mix of forest calm and seaside charm.

Norfolk Big Skies (3–4 days)
Route: Wells-next-the-Sea → Holkham → Blakeney → Cley → Happisburgh
Known for its vast horizons and wild coast, Norfolk is at its most peaceful in September. Witness migratory birds at dawn, wander salt marshes by day, then tuck into fish and chips at dusk. There are plenty of small campsites and rural stopovers that welcome campervans, making this an easy off-peak UK travel choice.

Cambrian Way, Wales (4–6 days)
Route: A470 spine through Brecon Beacons → Eryri/Snowdonia → slate valleys
This epic north–south route is often called the backbone of Wales. In September, waterfalls flow after rain, the mountains are quieter, and the views stretch for miles. Park up by lakes, hike a summit when the weather clears, and soak up the rugged beauty of rural Wales from your campervan base.

Need More Road Trip Inspo? Check out the Top UK Road Trips Blog Here!

Why Off-Peak Campervanning Is the Greener Way to Travel

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly UK road trip, September and the shoulder season are the perfect time to hit the road in a campervan. Not only do you get quieter roads, emptier beauty spots, and cheaper campsites, but you’ll also be doing your bit for sustainable tourism. Here’s why off-season campervan travel is better for the planet (and for you):

Ease the pressure on nature and places you love
Travelling off-peak helps reduce the impact of overtourism in the UK, especially at coastal car parks, national parks, and narrow country lanes. By choosing September, you’ll enjoy iconic beaches, trails, and viewpoints with fewer crowds – and give wildlife and landscapes a break.

Keep communities thriving year-round
Exploring the UK in the off-season helps local economies beyond the July–August rush. Campsites, cafés, farm shops, and attractions all appreciate visitors at quieter times. Your pint in a country pub or bag of apples from a market stall helps support rural communities year-round.

Travel lighter, tread softer
Eco-conscious habits make campervan travel one of the most sustainable ways to explore the UK. Opt for smaller, fuel-efficient vans, refill your water bottles, and stock up at zero-waste or refill shops. Stick to designated overnight spots, follow “leave no trace,” and choose local produce over imports – small changes add up.

Discover our top all-electric campervans for sustainable travel!

FAQs: September & UK Campervan Travel

Is September really the best month to hire a campervan in the UK?

For many travellers, yes! September offers quieter roads and campsites, shoulder-season prices, and the perfect mix of summer warmth and early autumn magic. Enjoy warm seas, golden beaches, and long evenings for stargazing, plus wildlife highlights like the red deer rut starting in late September.

What’s the UK weather like for campervans in September?

Typically mild, with average daytime highs of 14–19°C depending on the region. Pack layers and a waterproof, and relax – most Quirky vans have heating and insulation to keep nights snug.

Will everything still be open in the UK in September?

Mostly, yes. Attractions may shift to autumn hours, but cafés, pubs, and many campsites remain open through October. It’s wise to check ahead, especially mid-week in rural areas.

Are there midges or mosquitoes in September?

Midges fade after August, especially outside Scotland’s Highlands. Mosquitoes are usually less active as nights cool, but a little repellent goes a long way.

Can I go wild camping in a campervan?

In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, there’s no general right to park overnight outside campsites -always seek landowner permission or use approved stopovers/aires. Scotland has different access laws, but motorised camping still requires permission. Stick to official sites for peace of mind.

What’s the best length for a September road trip?

From a long weekend to two weeks works well. With a campervan, slow travel is the secret: fewer bases, more time exploring each area and soaking up off-peak UK travel vibes.

Do Quirky Campervans have heating and hot water?

Many Quirky vans do! Heating and insulation are September MVPs – check each listing to find your perfect cosy setup. Check out all the campervans with Showers and Heating here!

Is Campervan Travel Family-friendly in term-time?

Absolutely. Younger kids love the rolling “home” routine, and outside school holidays, you’ll find quieter attractions, easier parking, and more relaxed days.

Can I take a Quirky campervan to Europe in September?

Yes! Many vans are Europe-ready (insurance and breakdown cover included). September is ideal for France, Spain, or Portugal – warm but off the summer heatwave, with fewer crowds.

What are the rules for ferries and low-emission zones in September?

Measure your van for ferry bookings and check LEZ/ULEZ charges for city stops. Planning ahead keeps your trip smooth.

How do I stay dry and tidy in changeable weather in a campervan?

Little tricks like a door mat, microfibre towels, a collapsible washing line, and a boot tray make campervan life breezy, even when the weather isn’t.

What Should I Cook in A Campervan in September?

One-pan heroes are perfect: gnocchi with pesto and tomatoes, sausage & bean cassoulet, veggie curry with naan. Breakfast burritos fuel early autumn hikes or coastal sunrise stops.

What about insurance and mileage?

Insurance is included in your booking for Quirky Campervans. Mileage is included at 160 miles per day. Beyond that, miles are charged at 20 pence per mile. All details are in the van listing – daily mileage, excess, coverage, and optional extras. At Quirky Campers, transparency is part of the journey.

Why September Is the Ultimate UK Campervan Month

September is when UK campervan travel really shines. Quieter roads, calmer campsites, shoulder-season prices, and stunning seasonal scenery make it the sweet spot between summer buzz and autumn cosiness. Nature is at its best, from red deer rutting in the parks to misty morning coastlines, and the whole country feels like it’s ready for your adventure.

Ready to hit the road? Choose your dates, pick your perfect Quirky campervan, and unlock off-peak season magic.

Book your September UK campervan adventure today – your keys to off-peak magic are waiting!