Camping, Propane Availability and Fuel Prices in
Great Britain & Ireland
England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales
June - October 2010; updated April 2012
General information:
Overnight Locations:
The following information is intended to be an addition to the existing literature on places to camp overnight in Great Britain. It is by no means all-inclusive, but simply lists those places we utilized and can recommend to others. Britain does not have the extensive network of Aires or Stellplatzë that are available on the continent. Consequently, the excellent guide books to help us locate free or inexpensive places to overnight or to locate services are also unavailable. While to our knowledge free camping is permitted in all areas of Britain, finding suitable locations is difficult in southern England. Further north or in Ireland, Scotland or Wales, there is no difficulty.
In order to be able to access camping facilities and service points in Britain then, many travelers will decide to join either the Caravan Club (www.caravanclub.co.uk/) or the Camping & Caravanning Club (www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/). The two are very similar in costs and services. Your annual membership gives you access to various types of camping facilities that are either members only or give reduced rates at facilities that are open to the public. We chose the Caravan Club and listings below that are for club facilities will be designated by a CC notation.
Listings are shown alphabetically by the name of the nearest town. For England, county names are shown in parentheses. The numbers in parentheses indicate the (month/year) we were there.
GPS Coordinates: Both of the camping clubs utilize the British Postal Code system for location reference rather than latitude and longitude. Our Garmin GPS will accept these numbers and will get us very close to our destination; utilizing the local directions provided in the directory will then help us find the camp site. Both clubs also have downloadable files of GPS coordinates available, although care must be taken to set your GPS to the correct coordinate format to match these listings. There are also other listings available online that provide locations where others have stayed in a variety of GPS formats. So far we have had very mixed results using two such sets, with some excellent locations and others that we have been unable to find or found unsatisfactory. Hopefully they will become more useful in less heavily populated regions. Both of these were provided to us by other travelers so we cannot directly reference them here.
Propane (LPG):
RVs (like ours) with chassis mounted propane tanks may go to a different location or require different adapters than those with removable tanks.
Britain uses a bayonet type fitting for propane that is different from other countries. We had no problem picking up an adapter at a local RV dealer in England to connect our 1 3/4” Acme thread to the British bayonet fitting. The Acme is the standard fitting on FIXED propane tanks in the US. Removable tanks have different fittings. Note: England is a very good place to acquire propane adaptors of all sorts. You can easily outfit yourself with what you will need for propane access throughout Europe at most any caravan dealer.
Good website for locating fill points throughout UK is www.autogas.ltd.uk
Important: before you leave your home country, you should acquire an adapter that will connect to the inlet on your propane tank and then terminates in a pipe thread (of any common size) so that another fitting can be connected to the adapter. You should then obtain a 1 3/4” Acme adapter (if your tank does not already have this connection) for your first connection. Depending on which countries you visit, you should then be able to acquire a fitting that is used in a particular country once you are in that country and connect it to the fitting that fits your tank.
For an excellent article discussing propane systems and connection options Click Here.
For excellent information about propane adapters used throughout Europe Click Here.
Fuel Prices:
These prices are the average for what we paid in each country. We have a diesel engine; the diesel prices are actual. We have included the estimated prices for regular unleaded gasoline. All fuel prices are shown with both the actual local cost and with that cost converted into US Dollars and US Gallons.
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England:
Exchange rate in June/July 2010: one Pound to approximately $1.50 US. When we returned in October, rate was up to $1.60. When we returned in November 2011 and again in April 2012 it was $1.57.
Overnight parking regulations: Overnight stays in areas other than established campgrounds are allowed unless posted otherwise. However, in southern England finding an open piece of ground to park on is very difficult, so a camping club membership is advisable.
Fuel: Fuel prices vary and are generally posted clearly; and most fuel stations are manned. We have not seen the many automated locations we experienced on the continent. Diesel fuel is readily available and in summer 2010 prices ranged from £1.16 to £1.22/liter ($6.59 to $6.93/gallon); Regular gasoline prices run about £.03 ($.16/gallon) less than diesel. April 2012 Update: diesel ranged from £1.44 to 1.49/liter ($8.55 to $8.85/gallon); regular gasoline was about £.06/liter ($.035/gallon) less than diesel.
Propane: Propane is available at some fuel stops, although not nearly as frequently as in France or Belgium. Propane filling locations are self serve using the UK bayonet adapter. Price runs between £.65 to £.70 per liter ($3.69 to $3.97/gallon). Update: in April 2012, prices had increased to £.79 to £.82/liter ($4.69 to $4.87/gallon).
Location, Type/Cost and Description
Askrigg (N Yorkshire) Possible Overnight Free N54 20.568 W002 05.473 1600 ft.
Nice spot at the top of the moors next to the cattle guard, between Meeker and Askrigg; no services (10/10)
Atherstone (Warwickshire) Overnight Free N52 32.657 W001 33.067
We were aiming for the Hartshill Hayes Country Park, but it said no overnight parking; so we headed north up the same road, and found a maintenance yard on the left; quiet overnight but equipment came in starting about 8:30, although they didn’t seem to care. If approaching from Atherstone, it about 2/10 mile after the turn onto Witherly Lane away from the road to Oldbury. (7/10)
Breedon-on-the-Hill (Leicestershire) Overnight/Observed Free N52 48.443 W001 23.961
The church here is in a quiet, secluded spot with ample parking and we felt it should make a good overnight opportunity. (7/10)
Bromyard (Herefordshire) Overnight Free N52 13.394 W002 29.682
Stayed in parking lot of the Edvin Leach Old Church, an English Heritage Trust site in a quiet rural setting. Very interesting ruins of 11th century church on site. (6/10)
Canterbury (Kent) Overnight stopping
The New Dover Road carpark on the edge of town allows overnight parking. This includes dump and water, and use of the P&R bus into town -- a real deal. Follow signage; as you enter, take a ticket, then turn left prior to arriving at the height barrier. Closed on Sundays, so the first time we visited we stayed overnight at the pub next to the entrance. Updated (4/12)
Capel-le-Ferne (Kent) CC Overnight £8/night N51 06.773 E001 13.115
Camping Club Certificated Location near Folkestone; very quiet and lovely; electric included; water and dump available. (10/10)
Chedworth (Gloucestershire) CC Overnight £5.50/night N51 47.610 W001. 54.472
Camping Club Certificated Location at Denfurlong Farm. We had a very large, secluded open meadow surrounded by trees to enjoy, with water and dump. Very quiet. Farm shop on same property, with lovely ice cream. (6/10)
Dover (Kent) Overnight Free N51 07.245 E001 18.800
Coming out of the port, take the A20 going west for about ½ mile; it will pass apartment buildings on the ocean side; then find a turn left into parking areas along the street, the Marine Parade; they are free from 6 pm – 9 am. (6/10)
Dover (Kent) Possible Overnight Free N51 09.272 E001 17.894
Very large Tesco superstore on the A2 just west of town; open 24 hrs/daily; should be excellent for overnight (10/10)
East Garston (Berkshire) CC Overnight £8/night N51 29.599 W001 28.161
Caravan Club Certificated Location at Lorne Hill Farm, about 1 mile from the village; this is a lovely, quiet setting with 5 sites, in horse country; beautiful. (6/10)
East Hoathly (East Sussex) CC Overnight £8/night n/a
Broomfield Farm is a Caravan Club Site on Stalkers Lane about 1-1/2 miles east of the village. Sites are level and have electricity; water and dump nearby.(6/10)
Fowlmere (Cambridgeshire) Overnight Free N52 05.584 E000 03.245
Parking lot for the Fowlmere Nature Reserve (RSPB site) near town; quiet night among the birds. (7/10)
Frampton (Lincolnshire) Overnight Free N52 55.905 E000 01.061
The Frampton Marsh RSPB site is about 1-1/2 miles east of Frampton with a visitor center and a large parking lot near the marsh; plenty of walking and birding; quiet at night. (7/10)
Great Langdale (Cumbria) Overnight £13/night N54 26.627 W003 05.864
A Lake District National Park campground with toilets and water available. (10/10)
Hailsham (East Sussex) Overnight Free N50 53.085 E000 12.356
We spent the night in the parking lot of a group of small businesses, including an auto repair shop and an auto upholstery business, on A271. Businesses opened at 9 am. (6/10)
Hawes (North Yorkshire) Overnight Free N54 12.617 W002 22.224
Parked under the Ribblehead Viaduct, off the B6255 at the junction with B6479, about 10 miles south of Hawes. Numerous opportunities at this location. (10/10)
Horningsea (Cambridgeshire) CC Overnight £5/night N52 14.246 E000 11.205
Camping Club Certificated Location in small village; good spot to stay while visiting Cambridge. Quiet secluded spot in apple orchard. Water and dump. Leaving the village and heading north on A1134, about a mile north there was a nice layby that should make a good overnight stop. (7/10)
Harrowgate (N Yorkshire) Overnight Free N53 59.045 W001 29.936
Sainsbury’s parking lot; asked/received permission. Cannot say whether this is a company policy or local option. (10/10)
Horsham (East Sussex) Overnight Free N51 03.171 W000 18.466
Traveling west on A281, a short distance east of town, Horsham Business Park is on the left, with a large Camping World sign at the highway. Plenty of room and quiet overnight; we obtained permission from Hillier’s Garden Center, owner of property. (6/10)
Kingthorpe (Lincolnshire) Overnight Free N53 14.982 W000 16.810
Chambers Farm Wood Nature Reserve is south of town on B1202; atlas says Bardney Limewoods reserve. Signage begins after you turn toward Langton. (7/10)
Letton (Herefordshire) CC Overnight £5/night N52 06.671 W002 58.094
Camping Club Certificated Location next door to Swan Inn Pub; very quiet, however. Lovely field at side of house. If coming from the east, it’s a left turn directly after you pass the pub parking area entrance. Note that the pub has its own camping facility; the CL is next door, not at the pub. Water and dump. (8/10)
Little Horkesley (Essex) CC Overnight £5/night N51 51.665 E000 53.142
Camping Club Certificated Location near town; lovely quiet spot near orchards. Water and Dump (7/10)
Loughborough (Leicestershire) CC Overnight £5/night N52 45.645 W001 10.267
Camping Club Certificated Location in the courtyard of a small property near a canal. Worked okay, but not recommended; parked in vehicle area of farm yard and somewhat noisey. Water and dump. (7/10)
Ludlow (Shropshire) CC Overnight €3/night N52 19.445 W002 44.139
Camping Club Certificated Location on the edge of the village of Richards Castle; quiet field with sheep. (7/10)
Lutterworth (Leicestershire) CC Overnight £8/night N52 28.999 W001 12.840
Camping Club Certificated Location; do not recommend, as owner refuses to provide trash recepticles; otherwise a pretty and quiet spot. Electricity included. (7/10)
Market Weighton (E Riding, Yorkshire) CC Overnight £10/night N53 52.758 W000 44.427
Caravan Club Certificated Location east of York; electricity included; water and dump available (10/10)
Marske (N Yorkshire) Overnight Free N54 26.252 W001 51.642
At the meeting of roads at the top of the hill north of town; this is on the edge of military training grounds – be aware and look for red flags flying, which are a warning of activity in the area; no services (10/10)
Pateley Bridge (N Yorkshire) Overnight Free N54 07.460 W001 48.664
Private car park at Gouthwaite Reservoir off B6265 just outside town; asks for donations; nice views of water across the way; no services (10/10)
Penrith (Cumbria) Overnight Free N54 34.318 W002 55.698
Carpark for the Aira Force Waterfall (National Trust site), southwest of town on the A592. Pay and display; toilets (10/10)
Seaford (East Sussex) Overnight Free N50 46.062 E000 06.167
We parked right on the beach, along the Marine Promenade, just west of the Martello Tower; there is free 12-hour parking; quiet and clean. (6/10)
Sheen (Staffordshire) CC Overnight £5/night N53 09.664 W001 50.081
Camping Club Certificated Location in a large field near the farm. Water and dump available. Very quiet. Hard to get level, but the views are worth it. (7/10)
Tewkesbury (Gloucestershire) Overnight Free* N51 59.349 W002 09.472
In town, stayed adjacent to Bowling Club grounds, in a park & pay area, which was free(*) between 5:30 pm -8:00 am. Close to abbey and center of town. Surprisingly quiet at night. (6/10)
Upwood (Cambridgeshire) Overnight Free N52 25.550 W000 09.707
Wildlife Reserve outside Upwood, off Meadow Road; fairly good signage; very small, one rig only (7/10)
Wigmore (Herefordshire) Overnight Free N52 18.822 W002 51.172
We were looking for the parking area for the castle ruins in town, and came across this lovely playing field on the edge of town. Folks walking dogs and generally enjoying the area, but no one seemed concerned. Very quiet night. (8/10)
Winchester (Hampshire) Overnight Free N51 02.789 W001 14.752
We stayed in a View Point parking lot on the north side of A272 about 1 mile east of the junction with A31; this is a total of about 4 miles east of Winchester. Hard to get level, but peaceful at night; next to the South Downs walking trail. (6/10)
Wootten Bassett (Wiltshire) Overnight Free N51 33.348 W001 54.090
Slightly east of town at the Ballards Ash Sports Ground along the B4042 between Malmesbury and Swinden. Arrived at about 4:30 and groundskeeper was there; he gave permission, locked us in, and returned mid-morning the next day to let us out. Along a sports field with lots of room; dog walkers and joggers at various times. Very quiet; plenty of room. (6/10)
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Northern Ireland:
Exchange rate in August 2010: one Pound to approximately $1.55 US. The Republic of Ireland, the southern part of the island, uses the Euro, while Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom and uses the Pound.
Overnight parking regulations: Overnight stays in areas other than established campgrounds are allowed unless posted otherwise. We only spent a few days here, but wish we’d allowed longer. The roads are much better than in the south, and we have not seen the parking barriers that were a problem in the Republic. There are more nice laybys and picnic areas, and along the coast there are a number of parking areas at viewpoints that make excellent overnight stops.
Fuel: Fuel prices vary and are generally posted clearly; so far fuel stops have all been manned. Diesel fuel is readily available and should be about the same price as in England or Wales. During our brief stay, prices have ranged from £1.13 to £1.19/liter ($6.63 to $6.98/gallon); As in England, regular gasoline prices run £.01 to £.03/liter ($.06 to $.18/gallon) less than diesel.
Propane: As in England, propane is available at fuel stops. Propane filling locations are self serve using the UK Bayonet Connector. A helpful website to help you locate LPG locations in Ireland is www.ilpga.ie/.
Location, Type/Cost and Description
Limavady area (Derry) Overnight Free N55 06.737 W006 53.494
We left Derry on the A2, took the bypass around Limavady, and then took the B201 toward Coleraine. Shortly we took a turn north toward Downhill (marked Gortmore) which climbed up the hill. There were several possible pulloffs. We stayed on a gravel pulloff at the top of the pass, directly across from the paved road that went up to the communications tower (the tower interfered with our GPS, by the way; we picked up signal again after we left the next morning). A ways further on we came to the Gortmore Picnic Area (N55 08.938, W006 52.5688), a large pulloff with walks, picnic facilities, etc. This location gives a lovely view out over the straits, although it was much more exposed on a very windy night. (9/10)
Ballintoy (Antrim) Overnight Free N55 13.616 W006 17.476
Along the Causeway Road, east of town, there is a sharp turn toward the water marked White Park Rd; it leads to the Kinbane Head carpark; there are toilets and picnic tables. From here you can walk down to the castle ruins. No adverse signage. (9/10)
Murlough Bay area (Derry) Possible Overnight Free N55 12.535 W006 07.807
Follow Torr Head scenic road signage to Murlough Bay, it is a narrow and steep road; turn left just before the 3 Ton sign and drive along; nice wide spots good for overnight; very scenic. (9/10)
Broughshane (Antrim) Aire de Service Free N54 53.320 W006 12.120
Overnight camping provided; free dump; water available for small fee. Beautiful little spot in a lovely small town; billed as only Aire in all of the UK and Ireland. (9/10)
Glenarm (Antrim) Overnight Free N54 58.129 W005 57.175
Large unpaved parking area available; quiet night; right on harbor; level. There is a separate paved lot that is not so level and is located right on the main road. No services. Great spot. (9/10)
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Republic of Ireland:
Exchange rate in August 2010: one Euro to approximately $1.30 US. The Republic of Ireland, the southern part of the island, uses the Euro, while Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom and uses the Pound.
Overnight parking regulations: Overnight stays in areas other than established campgrounds are allowed unless posted otherwise. While many parking lots have height barriers, we had been told that it is easier to find places to wild camp in Ireland than in England and so far we have found this to be true.
Fuel: Fuel prices vary and are generally posted clearly; so far fuel stops have all been manned. Diesel fuel is readily available and is about the same price as we paid in France or Germany. It is considerably less than in England (by about $.75/gallon). Prices have ranged from €1.19 to €1.25/liter ($5.86 to $6.20/gallon); Regular gasoline prices run about €.08 to €.12/liter ($.40 to $.60/gallon) more than diesel.
Propane: As in England, propane is available at some fuel stops, although not nearly as frequently as in France or Belgium, and not as frequently in Ireland as in England. Propane filling locations are self serve using the 1 3/4” Acme thread, sometimes called the European adapter. This is the standard thread on American motorhomes with fixed tanks. Propane is more expensive here, with the price between €.85 and €1.00 per liter ($4.19 to $4.92/gallon). A helpful website to help you locate LPG locations is www.ilpga.ie/.
Location, Type/Cost and Description
Ballylongford area (Kerry) Overnight Free N52 34.185 W009 29.685
We spent a delightful night in the parking lot of the ruins of the Carrigafoyle Castle, right along the Shannon estuary. Very quiet at night, although lots of folks visited the ruins during the early evening. Birds, watching the tide come in; terrific! (8/10)
Ballyvaughan (Clare) Overnight Free N53 02.835 W009 08.412
Several miles south of town, on R480, there is a parking lot for the Poulnabrone Burial Tomb. Very busy during the day, but quiet at night; we needed a day off so we stayed two nights. No services. (8/10)
Burt (Donegal) Overnight Free N55 01.455 W007 26.046
We had followed the signs up to the stone fort (Grianan Ailigh) at the top of the hill, hoping to spend the night there. The official couldn’t let us, but directed us to a spot about 100 yards below the turn up to the site. It’s a side road, graveled where it meets the paved road, on the downslope side. It was terrific, and we spent two nights there, joined by a group of curious cows. (9/10)
Castlecove (Kerry) Overnight Free N51 46.196 W010 03.353
About a mile further west along the road there is a small road down to a pier; if you go too far you will come to the right turn toward Coad; you can turn around here! No services. (8/10)
Clane (Kildare) Overnight Free N53 17.576 W006 41.154
Spent the night in the parking lot of the pub The Village Inn; asked and got permission from the owner. (8/10)
Clifden area (Galway) Overnight Free N53 28.030 W010 01.964
South of town about 5 km there is a small turnoff to Errislannen Point and the Alcock-Brown Monument. Terrific views, no services. (8/10)
Clonmany (Donegal) Possible Overnight Free N55 14.606 W007 30.070
On the scenic route around the peninsula, the small road that goes over Mamore Gap, between Clommany and Dunree Head, has a very good pullout shortly before you reach the bottom of the hill, coming down the north side of the gap. (9/10)
Corlea (Longford) Overnight Free N53 36.752 W007 50.592
We spent the night outside the gates for the Corlea Trackway Visitor Center about 5 miles from Ballymahon; very quiet; this is a wonderful place to visit. We didn’t ask for any services, but the restrooms and some water should be available during the day. (8/10)
Dingle (Kerry) Overnight Free N52 10.399 W010 21.212
We were given permission to O/N at the Gallarus Oratory (which has free water), but later in the evening the owner came and told us the woman next door (who has a campground) comes late at night and pesters his guests. He suggested it would be better for us to go to the An Brothar Pub near Ballydavid, owned by a friend, who will welcome us. We did and it was quite pleasant; the owner and wife are very friendly and offered us breakfast in the morning. The pub is at N52 13.574 W010 18.439; he said all motorhomers are welcome there. We went back to the Oratory the next day and filled our water tank. (8/10)
Fahan (Donegal) Propane N55 04.679 W007 27.235
We wanted to top up our propane before entering Northern Ireland, knowing that our adaptor would be a problem there. This Topaz station used to be a Shell station, which is how it is still listed on the Irish LPG web site. (9/10)
Glen of Aherlow (Tipperary) Possible Overnight N52 25.239 W008 10.908
The visitor center is at the junction of R663/664 no adverse signage. Another location: also on R663 you should be able to overnight at the Lisvarrine cemetery. (8/10)
Kilbride (Wicklow) Overnight Free N53 09.247 W006 20.522 Elev. 1145 feet
East of Kilbride, R759 goes up over Sally Gap; a short distance before the top you will come to a parking area on the south side of the road, just below a small bridge; the coordinates are for this spot. After arriving, we looked a little ways back down the hill and found a nicer, more secluded spot perhaps 100 feet away. Lovely spot with nice views and a stream; no facilities. Another location: it would be quite possible to O/N a short distance north of the Sally Gap junction on the R115, tucked into the hillside on the east side of the road. (8/10)
Kinnitty (Offaly) Overnight Free N53 05.386 W007 38.951 Elev. 1000 feet
On R440 in the Slieve Bloom Mtns; pull off at spot with stairs and huge remains of brick oven. Lots of available spots on this road on both the east and west slopes of these mountains. (8/10)
Laragh (Wicklow) Overnight Free N52 58.169 W006 19.052 1238 feet
On L2038 (the military road south of town) about 3 miles out of Laragh, along the road that goes over into Glenmalure Valley, there is a pullout at the top of the pass. The pullout is just before the Shay-Elliott Forest Rec Area parking lot, which has a height barrier. No services. (8/10)
Newport area (Mayo) Overnight Free N53 54.700 W009 35.033
This is a tricky one. Heading west out of town on N59, in about 2 miles take the second small road to the north; it goes along the west side of Furnace Lough. After one mile there’s a rough/grassy pulloff on the right where you should be able to get level. Do not take the first small road, on the east side of the water; it goes over a very narrow bridge. We spent the night with sheep for company. Plenty of traffic on the little road, but no problem. Further along N59, between Mallaranny and Bangor, we saw several possible overnight spots. (8/10)
Quin (Clare) Overnight Free N52 46.880 W008 50.241
About 4 miles southeast of Quin there is a parking spot across the road from a cemetery and alongside a small pond. Lots of activity at the cemetery, but very quiet overnight. No services (8/10)
Robertstown (Kildare) Overnight Free N53 16.289 W006 49.092
There is a launch ramp at the canal in this town; we had hoped it would be more of an official area, but it wasn’t, and the parking area had a height barrier. We parked across the street, at a point when the road widens considerable before leaving town; it was quiet overnight. (8/10)
Skibbereen (Cork) Overnight Free N51 33.306 W009 15.788
As you enter town coming from the east on the N71 you’ll see a playground on the right; make a sharp right turn into the dead-end street beside it; plenty of parking; no adverse signage. Toilets available at the playground. (8/10)
Strandhill area (Sligo) Overnight Free N54 14.884 W008 34.389
Take the scenic road off to the right off R292 after you go through Ballysalare; it’s the road up the mountain, marked Knocknarea; we found a signed parking area on the right. Quiet. (8/10)
Stroove (Donegal) Possible Overnight Free N55 13.446 W007 00.836
On the scenic route around the peninsula, on a point overlooking Lough Foyle, a very nice paved parking/viewpoint area. Not level, but should be able to manage. (9/10)
Thomastown (Kilkenny) Overnight Free N52 31.350 W007 07.492
Viewpoint toward castle about one mile out of town on R700 to Inistioge; quite noisy in evening, but quieted down. No services. (8/10)
Tullamore (Offaly) Overnight Free N53 16.627 W007 29.255
Beside the canal, near downtown; €2.50 for all day; free between 5:30pm -9:00am and on Sundays; popular with motorhomers; water tap available. Surprisingly quiet at night; canal area is popular during the day. (8/10)
Tullamore Propane
Esso station on O’Moore Street, which becomes N80 going south out of town.
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Scotland:
Exchange rate in September 2010: one Pound to approximately $1.56 US.
Overnight parking regulations: Overnight stays in areas other than established campgrounds are allowed unless posted otherwise.
Fuel: Fuel prices vary and are generally posted clearly; so far fuel stops have all been manned. Diesel fuel is readily available. Prices have ranged from £1.15 to £1.25/liter ($6.79 to $7.38/gallon); Regular gasoline prices run about £.03 ($.16/gallon) less than diesel.
Propane: As in England, propane is available at some fuel stops, although not nearly as frequently as in France or Belgium. Propane filling locations are self serve using the UK bayonet adapter. Price runs between £.65 to £.70 per liter ($3.84 to $4.13/gallon).
Location, Type/Cost and Description
Aberfoyle Overnight Free N56 14.510 W004 34.281
West of town there is a road with no signage that goes on beyond the end of Loch Chon and heads toward Stronachlachar; shortly before the turn off to that location there is a nice pulloff on the south side, before the barrier; amazingly busy road, but quiet late at night. (9/10)
Ardersier Overnight Free N57 34.993 W004 03.341
Parking lot for the athletic field, across from the army base, along the road to Fort George; there is a beach further along this road, but there was no room on firm ground so we didn’t venture on. Large parking lot at the fort is posted no overnight. (9/10)
Balnacra Overnight Free N57 28.059 W005 21.295
Secluded pulloff on north side of road just east of town on Loch Dughaill. (9/10)
Coldbackie Overnight Free N58 30.097 W004 20.537
About 2 miles east of town along the A836 there is a small sheltered pulloff out of the way. No view, no wind! (9/10)
Cranshaws Possible Overnight Free N55 51.686 W002 31.952
Large open grassy area with tables beside a stream; on B6355 just east of Whiteadder Reservoir; looked perfect. (10/10)
Dornach Overnight Free N57 52.083 W004 01.888
Enter town from the west, turn right in center toward the golf course; go through the course, past the airstrip and towards the dunes and the water. Nice and quiet. (9/10)
Dunkeld Overnight Free N56 34.417 W003 33.753
Loch of Lowes Nature Reserve (RSPB) slightly east of town on A923; nice paved lot. (9/10)
Edinburgh Daytime parking area N55 56.860 W003 11.343
On Chambers Street, across from the Museum of Scotland, there is pretty good parking available; 4 hrs maximum, 2£/hour but free on Sunday. Close enough to walk to castle. Other than Sundays, it would be better to use one of the Park & Ride opportunities; parking is free and bus is 1.20£ return. (9/10)
Falkirk Overnight Free N56 00.142 W003 56.608
Parking area for buses, etc. for the Falkirk Wheel. Very quiet. No services at night. (9/10)
Fort Augustus area Overnight Free N57 09.569 W004 33.890
Take the B862 out of town, all the way to the top of the pass; there are laybys on both sides with terrific views; had to use blocks in order to get level; was so windy we left at 4:30 am and went about 2 miles further on, to N57 10.748 W004 32.305 where we found a large, quiet and protected layby; much better! (9/10)
Glenfinnan Overnight Free N56 52.296 W005 26.242
Immediately west of the visitor’s center there is a very nice carpark on the same side of the road; it’s at the start of the private road that leads under the viaduct. (9/10)
Glenshee Ski Area Overnight possibilities
Could probably stay in parking lot for ski area, but it is quite close to the road and exposed to winds; better would be to head south, below the summit; there are 2-3 good pulloffs some distance from the road (A93). (9/10)
Glentrool Village Overnight Free N55 05.586 W004 29.048
About 5 miles out of town, there is a road to Bruce’s Stone, the Robert the Bruce Memorial; at the end of the road is a nice parking area; there are other possible spots along the way. No services. (9/10)
Hawick Possible Overnight Free N55 25.359 W002 47.479
Large free public parking lot next to the river close to the woolen stores; time limit 60 hours; toilets. This is THE town in which to shop for real Scottish woolens; they still mill the wool and make the garments right here. (10/10)
Innerleithen Overnight Free N55 38.140 W003 03.361
Just north of town there is a layby on the east side of B709, below the golf course and next to a stream; we stayed there and then the next day noticed another opportunity on the east side just north of the golf course. (10/10)
Invergloy area Overnight Free N56 59.099 W004 52.403
Layby on A82 on Loch Lochy. (9/10)
Inverness Fuel and supplies N57 29.290 W004 13.279
Several DIY-type stores and an ESSO station with good fuel prices, just west of the roundabout with the A9 (9/10)
Jedburgh Overnight Free N55 28.605 W002 33.150
Parking lot below the information center, not the one next to the playing field, which is posted. (10/10)
Kirkwall (Orkney) Overnight Free N58 59.017 W002 57.780
Inexpensive Pay & Display lot, free after 5 pm. Nice and quiet; directly behind tourist information office. Toilets in TI building. (9/10)
Kirriemuir Overnight Free N56 40.352 W003 02.656
The Loch of Kinnordy Nature Reserve (RSPB) on the B951 west of town. (9/10)
Langholm Overnight Free N55 09.246 W003 00.027
Large parking lot beside the river; posted no overnight, but local said they aren’t enforcing it and there should be no problem; we had none and a trucker stayed the night as well. Toilets. (10/10)
Methleck Overnight Free N57 24.056 W002 13.330
Parking lot for the Haddo House; pay & display until 6:00 pm. There were gates at the entry, but never closed; no adverse signage. This area is well used by people enjoying the woods and path; it’s quite lovely. (9/10)
Newton Stewart area Overnight Free N55 00.337 W004 31.971
In town, turn east over the bridge and then left following the river; quiet woodland spot several miles upriver at an RSPB site in the Wood of Cree. No services (9/10)
Oban Overnight Free N56 25.894 W005 28.938
Street parking on the road out to the castle ruins; go past the ruins for parking in a residential area; be sure to park where you aren’t disturbing anyone. No services. No signage. (9/10)
Ratho Overnight Free N55 55.465 W003 22.767
Small town about half hour west of Edinburgh. We parked in a lot across the street from a church; currently there is a temporary sales office for canal moorings. It is about 4 miles beyond the Hermiston Park & Ride on the A71. (10/10)
Scapa Beach (Orkney) Overnight Free N58 57.749 W002 58.539
Nice quiet night along the beach; windy. (9/10)
Stirling Overnight Free N56 09.950 W003 54.568
Amazingly close to the city, just about two miles north, up on a hilltop following a country road that leads to Sheriffmuir; parking area, possible trail head. Another smaller area is about .8 miles closer to town. (9/10).
Stirling Excellent Mechanic N56 06.847 W003 55.463
Gray Commercials, owner is George, happy to work on American vehicles, very reasonable and just as nice as can be. Located at Spring Kerse Rd, FK7 7SN; 01786-479-225. Let us stay overnight and plugged in, had a water tap available. (9/10)
Stromness (Orkney) Overnight £14/night Ness Campground
Nice campground at the south end of town. Electric/water/dump included; showers and laundry available. (9/10)
Tarbet (Argyll, on Loch Lomond) Overnight Free N56 12.693 W004 41.995
Just north of town on A82 there is a forestry car park up a slight incline; next to Loch Lomond. No services. (9/10)
Tarbet area (Western Highlands) Overnight Free N58 21.831 W005 05.523
Pulloff just south of turnoff on A838. We stayed the night, but there is a better spot; go on across the bridge and come up the other side (going south) (9/10)
Thurso Overnight Free N58 35.900 W003 32.386
The Weigh Inn Lodge; asked permission to stay in their parking lot. (9/10)
Thurso Area - several spots for overnight along the road to Dunnett Head (9/10)
Tarland Possible overnight Free N57 07.185 W002 50.721
South of town, at the Tommaverie Stone Circle on the B9094; no adverse signs (9/10)
Ullapool Overnight Free N57 53.340 W005 08.410 (approximate)
As you leave town going south on A835, there’s a large unsigned pulloff on the right about halfway up the hill; plenty of room to maneuver to get level; paved. (9/10)
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Wales:
Exchange rate in July/August 2010: one Pound to approximately $1.50 US.
Overnight parking regulations: Overnight stays in areas other than established campgrounds are allowed unless posted otherwise.
Fuel: Fuel prices vary and are generally posted clearly; so far fuel stops have all been manned. Diesel fuel is readily available and seems to run about £.01/liter ($.06/gallon) higher than in England. Prices have ranged from £1.17 to £1.23/liter ($6.64 to $6.98/gallon); Regular gasoline prices run about £.03 ($.16/gallon) less than diesel.
Propane: As in England, propane is available at some fuel stops, although not nearly as frequently as in France or Belgium. Propane filling locations are self serve using the UK bayonet adapter. Price runs between £.65 to £.70 per liter ($3.69 to $3.97/gallon).
Location, Type/Cost and Description
Aberystwyth area (Ceredigion) Overnight/Observed – no GPS
Traveling west on A44 toward the town, after you pass Dyffryn Castell, take the B4343 shortcut to Devil’s Bridge; very shortly there will be a wide pulloff on the left; should be a good overnight spot (8/10)
Aberystwyth area Ceredigion) Overnight £5/night N52 32.876 W003 56.677
Ynys-fir RSPB centre. Site is a turn off A487 a short ways north of Dyfi Furnace; about 10 miles north of Aberystwyth. Quiet night; toilets available, and possibly water; we hoped to stay gratis; they wanted the donation. It was wet and not level. Suggest that Dyfi Furnace parking area might have been a better idea. (8/10)
Caerphilly (Caerphilly) CC Overnight €6/night N51 38.585 W003 12.835
Camping Club Certificated Location about 4 miles north of town. Lovely and quiet; water and dump but no electricity. Tricky to find, follow directions in the book or use GPS, not postal code. (6/10)
Crickhowell (Powys) Overnight Free N51 51.498 W003 08.130
Parking lot of the visitors center. Free between 6 pm – 8 am; hard to get level, but very quiet overnight. (6/10)
Denbigh (Denbighshire) Overnight Free N53 10.336 W003 22.748
Layby on the A525 about one mile south of town; lovely views and horses in the pasture. Quiet at night. (8/10)
Ffairfach (Pembrokeshire) Overnight/Observed Free N51 52.523 W003 59.356
Large parking area on the edge of the national forest, on the east side of town. No signage saying prohibited. Nice area. (7/10)
Hay-on-Wye (Powys) Overnight £2.50/24 hrs N52 04.343 W003 07.517
Long-term parking lot at top of hill in town, next to the tourist office; welcome to stay overnight one night in seven. Laundry facility nearby. Suggest arriving before noon; busy town. Along one side many spots for longer vehicles. (8/10)
Knighton (Powys) CC Overnight €6/night N52 19.695 W003 02.556
Caravan Club Certificated Location about 1 mile south of town; quiet area with sheep nearby and a charming owner/host. (7/10)
Llys-y-fran (Pembrokeshire) Overnight Free N51 53.063 W004 50.833
Country park with entrance next to town, along a reservoir. Nice park; we asked permission to stay, and were directed to a field just outside the gates that are locked at night. (7/10)
Maesybont (Carmarthenshire) Overnight Free N51 50.171 W004 05.504
Roadside layby on B4297 a bit north of town. Quiet overnight; no services (7/10)
Menai Bridge (Isle of Anglesey) Overnight Free N53 12.287 W004 14.385
Parking lot of the Bryn Celli Ddu Burial Chamber off the A4080 southwest past the entrance to Plas Newydd; posted no O/N parking in fine print on small sign, but had no problems. Very quiet. (8/10)
Pentrefoelas area (Conwy) CC Overnight £9/night N53 02.539 W003 39.409
Caravan Club Certificated Location off A5 about one mile west of Glasfryn; electricity included. Lovely location with views of the mountains to the west; cows as neighbors. (8/10)
St. Dogmaels (Ceredigion) Overnight Free N52 04.846 W004 40.768
We stayed in the abbey parking lot; quiet and with great views of the ruins. (7/10)
Tregaron (Ceredigion) Overnight/Observed Free N52 14.718 W003 55.024
The parking lot of the visitor center of the Cors Caron Wildlife Preserve should be very nice for an overnight; no adverse signage; bathroom facilities. Located about 5 miles north of town on B4343. There are several other pulloffs as you travel this road. (7/10)
Tregaron (Ceredigion) Overnight Free N52 12.004 W003. 50.927
Cym Berwyn Forestry Commission parking area about 5 miles east of Tregaron; as you go east on this beautiful though narrow road, it’s the first parking area you will come to. Nice spot on the bluff overlooking the valley to the west. Also, as you travel this road, there are many pull offs suitable for an overnight. (7/10)
Welshpool (Powys) CC Overnight €4/night N52 37.328 W003 09.260
Caravan Club Certificated Location roughly 2 miles south of town; quiet field. (7/10)
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