A Simple 3–5 Day Campervan Itinerary (Starting from Trowbridge, Wiltshire)
Thinking about your first campervan trip but not sure where to go?
The good news is — you don’t need to travel far to have a brilliant escape. Starting from Trowbridge, you’re perfectly placed for a mix of countryside, coast and some of the UK’s most scenic routes.
Here’s a simple, flexible 3–5 day itinerary that works for first-time travellers and can be adapted depending on how much time you have.
Day 1: Trowbridge → Cheddar Gorge & Mendip Hills
Pick up your campervan in Trowbridge and head west towards the Mendip Hills — your first taste of freedom on the road.
Cheddar Gorge is one of the most dramatic landscapes in the South West, with winding roads, steep cliffs and plenty of places to stop and take it all in.
Why it works:
Easy first drive (around 1 hour)
Impressive scenery straight away
Great confidence-builder for first-time drivers
Spend the afternoon exploring, then settle in at a nearby campsite for your first night.
Day 2: Mendips → North Devon Coast
Today is where the trip really opens up.
Head towards North Devon — think wide beaches, rugged coastline and that proper “escape” feeling.
Top areas to aim for:
Croyde
Woolacombe
Ilfracombe
Take your time on the drive — this is where a campervan really comes into its own.
Evening tip:
Park up near the coast and enjoy a simple dinner with a view.
Day 3: Explore the Coast (or Stay Put)
No packing. No rushing. Just a full day to enjoy where you are.
Walk the coastal paths
Spend time on the beach
Explore local villages
Or simply relax
This is the point where most people realise how different this kind of travel feels.
Day 4: Optional Detour via Exmoor
If you’ve got 4–5 days, take a slower route back via Exmoor.
It’s quieter, more remote, and full of those “pull over and take it in” moments.
Rolling hills
Wild ponies
Big open skies
It’s a completely different feel to the coast — and a perfect contrast.
🚐 Day 5: Return to Trowbridge
Take your time heading back.
Stop where you like. Take the scenic route. Grab lunch somewhere you hadn’t planned.
That’s the beauty of it — you’re not tied to anything.
⏱️ Short on Time? (3-Day Version)
If you only have a long weekend:
Day 1: Trowbridge → North Devon
Day 2: Full day exploring coast
Day 3: Return via scenic route
Simple, but still incredibly rewarding.
💡 Why This Route Works So Well
No long drives on day one
A mix of landscapes (gorge, coast, moorland)
Flexible depending on time
Ideal for first-time campervan users
Most importantly — it feels like a proper break without needing a complicated plan.
🔗 Planning Your First Trip?
If you’re still working things out, you might also find these useful:
🎯 Ready to Try It?
Once you’ve got a simple route in mind, everything starts to feel much more achievable.
👉 Check availability and start planning your trip from Trowbridge