The UK is a treasure trove of ancient history, particularly when it comes to Roman roads. These historic routes span across England, connecting sites of outstanding natural beauty and cultural significance. For those who love history and the great outdoors, camping near these ancient pathways offers a unique blend of exploration and adventure. In this article, we’ll take you through some of the best UK campsites for exploring ancient Roman roads, ensuring you have access to potable water, toilets, and showers along the way.
Camping Along Hadrian’s Wall
Hadrian’s Wall is one of the most famous Roman structures in the UK, stretching across Northern England. For those keen on immersing themselves in this slice of history, there are several campsites that offer a blend of comfort and proximity to the wall.
Hadrian’s Wall Campsites Overview
When camping along Hadrian’s Wall, you are stepping into a landscape that has remained relatively unchanged for centuries. The area offers a range of options from glamping units to wild camping sites. These campsites provide everything from basic facilities to modern amenities such as toilets, showers, and potable water.
Best Campsites Near Hadrian’s Wall
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Herding Hill Farm: Situated in Northumberland, this campsite provides a unique experience for history buffs. The site offers motorhome, tent, and glamping units. The campsite is well-equipped with showers, and toilets, and allows campfires. With herds of local wildlife and picturesque views, it’s the perfect base for day walks along the wall.
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Winshields Campsite: Located near the highest point of Hadrian’s Wall, this campsite offers spectacular views and easy access to the wall. The site has facilities for motorhomes, tents, and glamping units. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to explore the wall by day and enjoy campfires by night.
Exploring Hadrian’s Wall
From these campsites, you can walk sections of Hadrian’s Wall, visiting nearby museums and forts such as Vindolanda and Housesteads. These sites offer insights into Roman military life and the history of the wall.
Discovering Roman Roads in the South of England
The South of England is rich with Roman history, with ancient roads like the Fosse Way and the Portway winding through the countryside. This region offers a variety of campsites that are perfect for those eager to explore these historic routes.
Overview of Southern Campsites
In the South, you’ll find campsites that cater to a range of preferences, from wild camping in remote areas to club sites with extensive amenities. These sites are often nestled in areas of outstanding natural beauty, making them perfect for those who appreciate both history and nature.
Best Campsites Near Roman Roads in the South
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Blackland Lakes: Located in Wiltshire, this campsite is close to the ancient Roman road, the Fosse Way. The site offers facilities for motorhomes, tents, and glamping units. With toilets, showers, and potable water available, it’s a comfortable base for exploring nearby Roman sites such as the town of Bath.
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Oxon Hoath Park: Situated in Kent, this park offers an ideal camping experience near the Roman Portway. The site features glamping options, motorhome spaces, and areas for tents. With its proximity to historic towns like Canterbury, it’s a great location for day trips along the Roman road.
Walking Southern Roman Roads
These campsites offer easy access to trails and historic sites along Roman roads. Whether you’re interested in visiting ancient towns, walking through beautiful countryside, or learning more about Roman history, these campsites provide an excellent starting point.
Exploring East England’s Roman Heritage
The East of England boasts a wealth of Roman history, including the notable roads like Ermine Street. For those interested in delving into this rich past, there are several excellent campsites to choose from.
Overview of Eastern Campsites
Eastern England’s campsites range from basic wild camping spots to fully equipped club sites. These campsites provide necessary amenities such as toilets, showers, and potable water. They are often situated in close proximity to historic sites and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Best Campsites Near Roman Roads in the East
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Cherry Hinton Caravan Club Site: Located near Cambridge, this campsite is a great base for exploring the Roman road of Ermine Street. The site offers facilities for motorhomes, tents, and glamping units. With clean showers, toilets, and potable water, it ensures a comfortable stay.
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Colchester Camping and Caravan Park: This site is perfect for those wanting to explore the historic town of Colchester, known for its Roman history. The park offers a variety of accommodation options including motorhomes, tents, and glamping units. It features excellent amenities such as toilets, showers, and potable water.
Walking Eastern Roman Roads
These campsites offer easy access to walks along Roman roads like Ermine Street. You can visit nearby museums and historical sites to learn more about the Roman influence in the region. Enjoy a day walk through the countryside, followed by a relaxing evening at your campsite.
Camping in the Lake District: A Roman Adventure
The Lake District, known for its stunning landscapes, also has a rich Roman history. With several Roman roads and fortifications in the area, it’s a great destination for history enthusiasts.
Overview of Lake District Campsites
The Lake District offers a mix of campsites ranging from wild camping spots to well-equipped club sites. These campsites provide essential amenities such as toilets, showers, and potable water. They are situated in areas of natural beauty, providing breathtaking views and a peaceful environment.
Best Campsites in the Lake District
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Great Langdale National Trust Campsite: This campsite is situated in the heart of the Lake District and offers easy access to Roman roads and historical sites. It provides facilities for motorhomes, tents, and glamping units. With excellent amenities such as toilets, showers, and potable water, it’s an ideal base for your Roman adventures.
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Coniston Park Coppice: Located near Coniston Water, this campsite provides stunning views and easy access to Roman roads. The site offers a range of accommodation options including motorhomes, tents, and glamping units. It features well-maintained toilets, showers, and potable water.
Exploring Lake District’s Roman Roads
From these campsites, you can walk along ancient Roman roads and visit nearby Roman forts. The combination of the area’s natural beauty and rich history makes for an unforgettable camping experience.
Exploring the UK’s ancient Roman roads is a journey through time and nature. Whether you choose to camp near Hadrian’s Wall, in the South of England, in the East, or in the Lake District, you’ll find campsites that offer the perfect blend of history, comfort, and natural beauty.
These campsites provide essential amenities such as toilets, showers, and potable water, ensuring a comfortable stay. They are ideally located near historical sites and trails, allowing you to immerse yourselves in the rich Roman heritage of the UK.
By choosing the right campsite, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the thrill of exploring ancient Roman roads and the comfort of a well-equipped campsite. Pack your gear, plan your route, and set out on an adventure through the UK’s fascinating past.