A campervan road trip to Devon is the perfect way to spend a big weekend away. Devon offers visitors charming villages, spectacular coastlines, dramatic walks, and breathtaking beaches. South Devon, with its winding country lanes, is best explored in a smaller campervan, allowing you to uncover the county’s hidden treasures with ease.
Blast Off on a Devon Adventure
For this trip, we chose a 2-berth custom-made VW campervan, ideal for navigating both motorways and narrow country lanes. The campervan’s design maximises interior space, with a side and rear awning to expand your living area. Inside, you’ll find a versatile table and ample luggage space under the raised bed. With automatic transmission and air conditioning, it’s perfect for a summer road trip.
The Journey to Devon
Our route took us briefly down the M25, then onto the M3 as far as Basingstoke. From there, we joined the A303, which leads all the way into Devon. After merging onto the M5 south for about 5 miles, we continued on the A38 Devon Expressway. Follow signs for Totnes and Dartmouth to enter the magical South Hams region of Devon.
The drive is scenic and takes around three and a half hours, depending on traffic. We set off at about 1:30 PM and arrived in the South Hams near Kingsbridge by 5 PM.
Pass Stonehenge on Your Road Trip
This route takes you past Stonehenge, one of the wonders of the world. You can see the giant prehistoric stone circle from the road, but if you wish to visit, it’s best to book tickets in advance. Stonehenge is a must-see for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
First Stop: South Allington House
We spent our first night at South Allington House, a peaceful and secluded campsite. If you stay here, take the route through East Prawle village to avoid a long single-track lane.
Blackpool Sands: A Hidden Gem
The next morning, we headed north along the unspoiled South Devon coast, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We stopped for coffee at the stunning Blackpool Sands before continuing to the charming market town of Totnes. Totnes is known for its independent shops, eateries, and vibrant market, making it a must-visit on your Devon road trip.
Later, we drove back down the coast to Torcross, at the southern end of Slapton Sands. This shingle beach stretches for 2 miles and offers breathtaking views. We checked into the Camping & Caravan Club site at Slapton Sands, which is just a quarter-mile off the main road and overlooks the coast. The site is popular in the summer, so booking in advance is recommended.
Exploring Slapton Sands
After setting up our awning, we walked down to the beach for some sunbathing and a paddle in the sea. One of the best features of our campervan was the flexibility of the bed position. You can choose to sleep fully inside or extend the bed base out of the back under the awning.
In the evening, we took a short stroll to the 14th-century Tower of Collegiate Chantry of St Mary in Slapton. Next to the tower is the Tower Inn, a charming country pub with wooden floors, real ales, and excellent food. We enjoyed a delicious meal before returning to our campervan, falling asleep to the sound of waves lapping on the shingle beach below.
Returning Home
The following morning, we enjoyed a quick breakfast of coffee and croissants before strolling along the river path from Totnes toward Dartmouth. The journey back to London was straightforward, with the campervan handling both motorway cruising and narrow Devon lanes with ease. Over the 500-mile round trip, the campervan averaged nearly 60 mpg, making it both efficient and comfortable.
Why a Campervan Road Trip to Devon?
Devon is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway in a campervan. With its stunning coastline, charming villages, and scenic drives, it offers something for every traveller. Whether you’re exploring the beaches of Slapton Sands, wandering through Totnes, or admiring the views from Dartmouth, a campervan gives you the freedom to experience it all at your own pace.
If you’re looking to make the most of your free time, consider hiring a campervan and embarking on a Devon road trip. It’s an adventure you won’t forget!
