Renting a motorhome gives the driver unparalleled freedom of movement, without the logistical hassle of having to organize hotel accommodation. This means that no part of the natural landscape is off limits. Perhaps there is no better way to make the most of this freedom than to head to Official Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), which are designated as Areas of Outstanding Scenic Beauty and are officially protected against development.
In England, AONBs are recognized as such by Natural England, an independent public body tasked with protecting and enhancing the country’s natural environment. This organization encourages the public to visit the field and become more involved in its surroundings.
If you’re a motorhome enthusiast planning to rent a motorhome this summer to visit the English countryside, here are five great destination ideas. All are official areas of exceptional natural beauty.
1. The Cotswolds
Often referred to as the “heart of England”, the Cotswold Hills stretch from southeast to northwest across six counties, including Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, and Gloucestershire. Famous for its picturesque towns and villages, built from local yellow limestone, the Cotswolds is the largest AONB in England, attracting visitors from around the world.
2. The Malvern Hills
The most popular free tourist attraction in the West Midlands is the Malvern Hills, which straddle both sides of the counties of Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Hereforshire. The area offers stunning views towards the Welsh Mountains and across the Bristol Channel and is an ideal country for motorhomes, with many camping facilities and parking areas. In addition to the countryside, the historic cathedral cities of Worcester, Hereford and Gloucester are within easy reach.
3. The Northumberland Coast
This AONB, stretching from Berwick-Upon-Tweed to Amble, is possibly the most impressive coastline in all of the British Isles. Northumberland’s windswept coastline is a hiking and beach lover’s paradise, with miles upon miles of spectacular beaches and rocky coves.
4. The North Wessex Downs
Spanning the highlands of Berkshire, North Hampshire and the Marlborough Downs, this entire area offers tranquil English countryside in its most unspoiled state of nature. Highland habitat borders dramatic lowlands and ancient forests. The area is dotted with charming rustic villages and farms and offers nature lovers an incredible wealth of beautiful walks. The paradise for bird lovers.
5. The Valley of Tamar
One of England’s last unspoilt drowned river systems, the Tamar Valley draws nature lovers from around the world to the confluence of the Tamar, Lynher and Tavy rivers in the Devon-Cornwall borderlands. The area has been cultivated for centuries and ancient remnants of agricultural practices throughout the centuries dot the landscape. Abandoned tin mines are scattered throughout the valley and are well worth a visit.