Isle of Whithorn Free Campsite

Starting in the South of Scotland we recently discovered one of our favourite beach side overnight parking spots, a breathtaking seaside setting, the Isle of Whithorn. Driving through the little harbour village to the end of the peninsula you will find a huge level car park owned by the Steampacket Inn which you pass on your way through only minutes before arriving at the car park. Here you are welcomed to park up overnight and truly enjoy all this little spot has to offer. When we stayed we were joined by fellow campervanners including cyclists who had pitched tents further back on the grass for the evening.

Rich in history this spot offers not only expansive ocean views but so much to see and do, much more than you would expect from such a quaint little harbour.

First let's cover where you stay then we will take you onto what you can do.

Recently levelled with a gravel base, you will find both flat and plentiful parking. The car park has plenty of huge wheelie bins for both general waste and recycling, which as we all know is a huge plus when travelling in a van…rubbish really does build up, doesn't it! Just outside the car park you will also find, a fresh drinking water tap, a FREE chemical waste disposal point for your toilet, along with a singular 24-hour toilet for those without facilities. All the facilities you could need when travelling in your van around Scotland.

Now we have to talk about the pub itself, without which this stay wouldn't be possible. The Steam Packet Inn is a traditional family owned village pub with two bars and outside harbourside seating. To ensure the continued use of this overnight spot we highly recommend a visit to the pub as a way to pay back for your stay. They offer an extensive menu which is fairly priced and the quality second to none. Plus incredible portion sizes which give exceptional value. I mean where else can you get an open lobster sandwich right by the sea for only £9! It has to be said though the jewel in the crown for us has to be the in-house micro brewed range of ales they sell both in the Pub and available as bottles or cans to take away. We tried a few whilst we stayed but the Summer Isle was our favourite.

If you want more then sea views and a stunning pub visit then don't worry, there is even more to enjoy.

From the carpark you only have to wonder a minute away for an almost 360 degree ocean view. With two bays directly opposite each other this is one of the only overnight spots we have found that offers beaches on both sides. If you enjoy cold water swimming, fishing or sea glass collecting, then you have found your heaven.

Alongside these natural delights you will also find St Ninians Chapel built in 1100 where you walk in the steps of hundreds of pilgrims from years before. In part ruin this chapel still holds the magical feeling left behind by all those who have passed through before. Rich in history the St Ninian chapel was built for not only local worshippers but also to serve as a resting place for pilgrims on their way through to the St Ninian shrine in Whithorn itself. St Ninian was Scotland's first saint who brought Christianity to Scotland way back in 397, dying in 431, Whithorn became his final resting place. To truly immerse yourself in the historically religious spot there exists a modern witness cairn where pilgrams and visitors are invited to leave stones which many have done in their hundreds. With either messages for those passed on or affirmations for what will be this sacred spot holds a feeling you often only read about in books. Christian or not, a prayer feels like it holds power in this sacred space.

Isle of Whithorn is more then just an overnight spot, its a whole adventure for the eyes, feet, heart and mind.

We hope you enjoy and make sure to check out our other posts for more amazing overnight spots not just in Scotland but across the whole of the UK.