Top Places To Visit In The UK & Ireland in 2024

Every year our hearts are warmed and our imaginations stunned when we travel to destinations across the UK & Ireland. Albeit the region is small, it is filled with magnificent wonders and unique places. We’ve spent the last 15 years exploring the UK & Ireland in a Bunk Camper campervan, and now, on the brink of 2024, we are getting ready to visit some amazing destinations.

So, if you are planning to road trip more in 2024, or you’re interested in discovering new, fascinating places to visit, then join us as we count down the top 10.  

10. Ullswater, The Lake District

In at number 10 is Ullswater, The Lake District. Known for its beautiful destination, this area in the Lake District is filled with outdoor activities and nature walks making it the perfect place to visit if you’re wanting to get away from it all. Escape to the stunning Lake District in 2024 and leave all your worries at home, as you drift into the calm way of living that exists at Ullswater.

From wildlife watching to historical sites, you will find that there is something for everyone in Ullswater. The perfect campervan destination, Ullswater has a range of campsites to choose from, all closely located to lakes and stunning mountain scenery.

9. The Cairngorms, Scotland

The beautiful Cairngorms in Scotland attracts hundreds of Bunk Campers guests every year. The Cairngorms is the UK’s largest national park, so rest- assured you will never fall short of outdoor activities from hiking to mountain biking.  To accompany the outdoor activities, The Cairngorms is known for it’s stunning landscapes including Caledonian forests, lochs and moors.

The Cairngorms is home to one of the Dark Skys Parks. Add this destination to your bucket list and get ready to stargaze in a remote location with only the stars, the dark night sky and your travel buddies with you.

8. North Yorkshire, England

North Yorkshire in England, as a timeless appeal, with its rich history and natural beauty attracting thousands of visitors year after year. The beauty stretches from the historic cites and towns to the beautiful countryside. Road trip through North Yorkshire in 2024 and visit York, Harrogate and Scarborough. Afterwards, drive to The Yorkshire Dales and The North York Moors National Park.

For a deeper exploration, make see to add the UNSCO World Heritage Site Fountains Abbey to your travel list while in North Yorkshire. This stately home has beautiful gardens filled with museums, galleries and cultural events.

7. Galloway and Southern Ayrshire, Scotland

Galloway and Southern Ayrshire, in southwest Scotland, has an element of compelling natural beauty that will leave you wanting to explore more of the surrounding area. Enjoy a coastal drive or walk through the coastal areas of Galloway and Southern Ayrshire. The landscape is so picturesque with rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming harbors.

Ayrshire is the birthplace of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. If you’re a fan of Burns or a general poet fan then you might want to visit the Birthplace Museum in Alloway and learn about his childhood home and the beautiful gardens that surround it.

6. Strangford, Northern Ireland

Strangford in Northern Ireland is growing as a popular destination year after year. Add the beautiful Strangford Lough to your 2024 destination list. The lough is the largest sea lough in the British Isles. With tranquil waters and diverse wildlife, you could spend all day at Strangford Lough and still feel like you could spend more time.

Located close by is Castle Ward, a National Trust property. Castle Ward is a stunning mansion dating back to the 18^th century and its architectural design combines both Georgian and Gothic styles. From the mansion you can enjoy panoramic views of Strangford Lough. Another National Trust Site is located close by, Mount Stewart House and Gardens.

5. Dorset, England

If sandy beaches and coastal towns are what you are searching for in 2024, then Dorset should be top of your 2024 travel list. Dorset is home to a large part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geological significance. This coastal area is filled with fossils, rock formations and beautiful beaches.

Make sure to add the iconic landmarks of the Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove to your list. Durdle Door is a natural limestone arch, and Lulworth Cove is a picturesque horseshoe-shaped bay with crystal-clear waters. Both landmarks offer stunning views and excellent photo opportunities.

4. Belfast, Northern Ireland

An upcoming travel destination in Northern Ireland, Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland and home to an inspiring culture and history. Belfast ranks high on your list as it’s continual development in the art and attractions sector attracts both domestic and international tourists. Recongised by National Geographic as one of the ‘cool’ places to visit in 2024, taking the second spot on their ‘2024 cool list.’ From the Titanic Experience museum to the Game of Thrones filming locations, and all of the distilleries in between, Belfast is the hub of fun and hope.

The centrality of Belfast and the compact nature of Northern Ireland’s landscape make it both easy and accessible to travel from Belfast to the outer countryside and seaside towns in a very short period of time. Music fills the city of Belfast. Home to Van Morrison and Stiff Little Fingers, Belfast is filled with musical talent. And if it’s live music you are looking for, you will never struggle to find it in Belfast.

3. Ben Nevis, Scotland

In at number 3 is Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles. From this area of Scotland, you can enjoy some spectacular scenery. On a bright, clear day you can see across the Scottish Highlands and enjoy a beautiful view of mountains, valleys and lochs. At the foot of Ben Nevis mountain, you will find the Glen Nevis Valley with flowing rivers and waling trails.

For a more off the beaten track experience, add The Bev Nevis Distillery to your travel list. This Distillery is one of the oldest in Scotland. Here you can enjoy a guided tour and taste the local single malt Scotch whiskies.

2. Waterford, Ireland

Voted in The New York Times ‘places to go’ list for 2023, Waterford is filled with a rich history and vibrant atmosphere. As Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford was first founded by the Vikings. Today, the city is still filled with medieval architecture and historic landmarks. Add Reginald’s Tower to your list and discover the oldest civic building in Ireland.

Situated on the southeast coast of Ireland, Waterford is home the UNESCO Global Geopark which includes dramatic cliff coves and stunning landscapes. And amongst the gorgeous scenery, Waterford is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The locals in Waterford, have a kind spirit and enjoy meeting the new faces of visitors who roam the city every year.

1. Donegal, Ireland

A current hidden gem in Ireland, but not for long. Donegal is arguably one of the most beautiful places on earth. Ranked the 4th best region to visist in the world by Lonely Planet, Donegal is home to over 100 beaches, and part of Ireland’s wonderful Wild Atlantic Way driving route, Donegal should be top of your travel list for 2024.

Donegal is located in The North of Ireland and is easily accessible from our Belfast depot, in Northern Ireland. As the northernmost Irish county, Donegal has a warm that can’t be found elsewhere on the Island. Walk along cliff edges, enjoy fresh seafood, and spend days adoring the unspoiled coastal views. Culture and heritage dominate the lands of Donegal, so prepare to leave Donegal with not only scenic memories but lessons of the history and tradition of the land.