The UK has a long and rich literary legacy, encompassing epic fantasy novels, classic romantic literature and gripping crime thrillers. Readers have been turning the pages inspired by the landscapes around them for years. For avid book lovers, what better way to pay homage to your favourite books and authors by embarking on a road trip to explore the very spots that ignited their imaginations?

This meticulously researched and crafted route navigates a selection of must see literary locations across the Midlands and the South of the UK. Whether you choose to take this route forwards, backwards, or at your leisure over weekends across a whole year, we hope you embrace your own creativity in making this route your own.

So grab your bookmarks and pick your campervan, as this promises to be the ultimate UK Book Lovers Road-Trip. Packed with filming locations, recommendations for local walks, delightful eateries and of course independent bookshops, consider this your complete guide to literary adventure across the UK.

How long does the route take to complete?

Coming in at around 538 miles long, this almost circular route from start to finish would take around 12 hours to complete. We don’t suggest completing this route in a few days, as not only will you miss all the marvellous places to be discovered en-route, but it would also be extremely tiring. To fully immerse yourself in this experience, we would recommend setting aside at least 7-10 days. This gives you time to explore not just our suggestions, but the surrounding areas and making your very own itinerary around the guide below. Feel free to change up the route, taking it apart and putting it back together again as suits you.

How much will it cost me in fuel?

A typical campervan will average around 20-35 miles per gallon which equates to about 4.39-7.69 miles per litre. To complete the whole circular route, you’ll be looking to spend anything between £150-£200 on fuel, however, we always recommend setting aside an extra £50-£100 in your budget as there are some roads and rough terrain which may equate to a lower mileage per litre. RAC has a useful mileage calculator, so you can work out the cost for your specific vehicle.

Puzzlewood – Forest of Dean

The Inspiration for JRR Tolkien’s Mirkwood

“All that is gold does not glitter,

Not all those who wander are lost;

The old that is strong does not wither,

Deep roots are not reached by the frost.”

― JRR Tolkien, The Hobbit

Puzzlewood is a magical woodland located within The Forest of Dean. This mysterious and magical place has long inspired writers and artists alike. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit both contain deep and mysterious forests; Mirkwood and Lothlorian are both said to have been directly impacted by Tolkein’s experiences in Puzzlewood, wandering through the ancient twisted trees it’s easy to see why. Puzzlewood is also said to have inspired the Forbidden Forest from JK Rowling’s Harry Potter series, and was used as the filming location for scenes in the Star Wars movies, and many other films and TV series.

Read – The Hobbit – JRR Tolkien

The original tale of a Hobbit from the Shire. Tolkien’s first foray into Middle Earth was initially sold as a children’s book, the adventures of Bilbo Baggins there and back again is a fantastic read for all.

Eat – The Art Of Coffee

As the name suggests, this is a cafe that takes coffee seriously. This family owned and run cafe in the picturesque town of Coleford serves organic and fair trade coffee alongside delectable brunches and lunches during the day. In the evening it transforms into a cocktail and piano lounge bar.

Visit – Puzzlewood Visitor Attraction

Puzzlewood is open for visitors from the beginning of February, weather permitting. Take in the unique scenery, visit the puzzlewood cafe and stop for family fun in the Puzzlewood playground.

Shop – Hay-on-Wye

Hay-on-Wye could have a whole section to itself, this town is known as the Town of Bookshops, with bookshops for every genre and a book for every reader, it’s the perfect destination for book lovers.

Walk – The Forest of Dean

The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are filled with walks of every length for those wanting to explore the surrounding areas. There is an abundance of wildlife and verdant forests where you can get your walking boots nice and muddy, take along a pair of binoculars to spot some of the famous local bird life. Check out the Forest of Dean website for full details and trail guides for the local areas.

The Malvern Hills, Worcestershire

Inspiration for The Chronicles of Narnia by CS Lewis

“Wrong will be right, when Aslan comes in sight,

At the sound of his roar, sorrows will be no more,

When he bares his teeth, winter meets its death,

And when he shakes his mane, we shall have spring again.”

― C.S. Lewis, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Great Malvern has a long and dedicated history of literary connections. The beautiful scenes of Great Malvern were allegedly the inspiration, not just for the magical land of Narnia discovered by the Pevensie children through the wardrobe, but also for the rolling hills of The Shire from JRR Tolkein’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Our favourite fantasy landscapes might look very different if not for the inspiring landscapes they both witnessed here. There are plenty of hikes around this area of outstanding beauty, including the ‘Gas Lamp Trail’ which follows the old fashioned gas-lamps that still light the roads. Do they lead to another world? Well, you never know.

Read – The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe – CS Lewis

CS Lewis’ classic tale of the world within the wardrobe. Perfect for children and adults alike, don’t forget to pick up a copy before taking to the hills to see the landscapes that inspired the books!

Eat – Mac & Jaqs Cafe Malvern

A quaint independent cafe serving delicious artisan coffee and tasty cakes, as well as breakfast and lunch made with locally sourced food. Tucked away in the town of Great Malvern close to shops and theatres this light and airy cafe is a must visit!

Visit – Great Malvern

Great Malvern is home to great cafes, restaurants, pubs and independent shops, there’s also plenty of the old fashioned gas lamps to be seen and plenty of CS Lewis Landmarks, including the CS Lewis Plinth, Plaque and the Mr Tumnus Bench for a nice sit down after all the walking.

Shop – The Malvern Bookshop

A beautiful antiquarian second hand bookshop. Nestled in the town of Great Malvern, it boasts five rooms of rare and high quality second hand books for you to browse to your heart’s content.

Walk – The Malvern Hills Literary Walk – Lewis Loop

A circular walk from Wyche Cutting, taking in the stunning summit of the Worcestershire Beacon and following the Gas Lamps of Narnia past what is known as Lewis and Tolkien’s favourite pub The Unicorn Inn all the way into Great Malvern. This was a guided walk as part of the 125 year anniversary but is still a delightful stroll taking in the literary sights of the area.

Stratford-Upon-Avon – West Midlands

Birthplace of Shakespeare

“I like this place, and could willingly waste my time in it.”

― William Shakespeare, As You Like It

No literary road-trip would be complete without a mention of the Bard. Stratford-Upon-Avon is a beautiful place to stop over, still retaining its mediaeval charm from its roots as a market town, it’s now a thriving metropolis with plenty to see and do. Step back into history by visiting the stunningly preserved mediaeval homes including Shakespeare’s birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and the Trinity Church.

Read – Hamnet – Maggie O’Farrell

A beautifully written novel inspired by the story behind Shakespeare’s most famous play, Hamlet, the untold life of his wife Agnes and their grief for their son, Hamnet.

Eat – The Fourteas Tea Room

Take a break at the Fourteas Tea Room and Brasserie, where you can order delicious afternoon teas, sandwiches and cakes with vegetarian and vegan options. The food is all home cooked and locally sourced. A great location to dine surrounded by memories of a slower time, listening to Vera Lynn and Glen Miller.

Visit – Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

The ancestral home of Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s wife. Wander through the quaint cottage gardens, take in the orchard and learn about the history of a cottage built over 500 years ago, and still standing strong today.

Shop – The Shakespeare Bookshop

Don’t be fooled, this bookshop doesn’t just stock Shakespeare, with an amazing range of books, for kids and adults, fiction and non-fiction it’s a must visit for bookworms. Owned by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, an independent charity, it’s full to the brim with goodies to browse.

Walk – Stratford-upon-Avon Circular

A circular walk that follows the glorious River Avon starting at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and taking in all the major literary historic sites in the town.

Oxford – Oxfordshire

Setting of Phillip Pullman’s His Dark Materials

“The place you fight cruelty is where you find it, and the place you give help is where you see it needed.”

― Phillip Pullman, The Amber Spyglass

The gothic architecture and cobbled streets of Oxford can be recognised in many books, including works from Lewis Carroll, JRR Tolkein, Dorothy Sayers and Oscar Wilde, more recently the city was brought to life in Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials, starting with the The Northern Lights, following the main character Lyra through the City of Oxford. Be sure to visit the Ashmolean Museum, The Covered Market and Christchurch College, all amazing examples of the varied history and vibrancy of the city. While you’re there, why not take a punt along the river, traditionally punted by students at the universities. There are bookshops a plenty, tucked into the narrow alleyways around the city perfect for the explorer bookworm!

Read – His Dark Materials – Phillip Pullman

Philip Pullman’s most famous work, His Dark Materials is the trilogy of books starting with The Northern Lights that follows Lyra and her daemon as they adventure through their own world and others.

Eat – Vaults & Gardens

Great coffee, great food, and a fantastic location. A socially positive and ecologically minded cafe in the heart of Oxford offering breakfast, lunch and cream teas.

Visit – The Bodleian Library

One of the most beautiful and most famous libraries in the world, the Bodleian is famous for its collections. They also run exhibitions, talks and special events so check what’s on before you go!

Shop – Gulp Fiction Books

An independent bookshop, bar and coffee house, this bookshop located in Oxford’s Covered market is an absolute gem of the book world. With books for everything from romance to mystery you’ll be able to spend hours browsing the shelves while sipping a delicious coffee or glass of vino.

Walk – Oxford City Wall Walk

Take in the glory of Oxford City’s mediaeval walls with this lovely short walk taking in the sights of the city. Many of the remains of the original city wall survive today in remarkable condition, definitely a must for anyone interested in the city’s history.

The Roald Dahl Museum, Buckinghamshire

Museum of the Flushbunkingly Gloriumtiousness of Roald Dahl’s Books

“I will not pretend I wasn’t petrified. I was. But mixed in with the awful fear was a glorious feeling of excitement. Most of the really exciting things we do in our lives scare us to death. They wouldn’t be exciting if they didn’t.”

– Roald Dahl, Danny the Champion of the World

Located in Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire, this museum is dedicated to the life, times and work of Roald Dahl. A fantastic literary location for the whole family, there’s always events and workshops running, check out the museum to see all your favourite Roald Dahl characters and learn about writing and storytelling along the way.

Read – Danny the Champion of the World, Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl’s swashbuckling tale of Danny and his adventures with his Father, as together they take on the rich and evil local land-owner Mr Hazell.

Eat – Matilda’s Cafe and Bistro

A locally owned and run cafe and bistro on Great Missenden High street. Matilda’s serves delicious breakfasts, lunch and dinners all with vegan and vegetarian options.

Visit – Great Missenden

Great Missenden is the village where Roald Dahl lived, wandering around its lanes you can see many of the locations that inspired his tall tales. Pick up a free trail guide from The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre for The Village Tails and The Countryside Trail so you don’t miss a thing.

Shop – Chapter Two Community Bookshop – Chesham

This adorable community bookshop sells a range of second hand books in their cute Chesham location.

Walk – Angling Spring Wood

Take a walk in the local woodlands that inspired many of the stories of Roald Dahl. Make sure to check the website before visiting for events and guided walks that will show you the wonderful flora and fauna of the area.

Lavenham, Suffolk

Harry Potter Filming Location

“When in doubt, go to the library”

–J.K Rowling – Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

The quaint and picturesque village of Lavenham oozes magical charm. Just wandering around the cobbled streets lined with timber-framed crooked houses is enough to make anyone feel like they’ve stepped into another world. This village is incredibly historically important and contains some of the most well preserved mediaeval structures in Britain. Take a stroll around the village taking in the fascinating structures, great sights of interest include the Lavenham Guildhall, Little Hall and Lavenham Church.

Read – Harry Potter Series by JK Rowling

The world-famous tale of the boy wizard, perfect for the whole family to gather and read together.

Eat – Lavenham Blue Tearooms

The perfect spot for an afternoon tea, Lavenham Blue Tea Rooms offer towering piles of cakes and sandwiches and bottomless tea for the tired visitor to the village. Decorated in classic British tea room decor, it’s a refuge of good food and good vibes.

Shop – Byron and the Bard

A brand new independent bookshop in Lavenham Village, locally owned and operated it describes itself as being a ‘Magical bookshop filled with wonderful things’ offering books and games for children and adults.

Walk – Lavenham Railway Walk

A scenic and relaxed walk along the historic railway lines through Suffolks prettiest countryside. Starting at the Guildhall in Lavenham and finishing at the Melford Hall car park.

Ashdown Forest – East Sussex

The Home of Winnie-The-Pooh by A.A Milne

“You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

– A.A Milne, Winnie-The-Pooh

Ashdown Forest is best known as the inspiration for A.A Milne’s children’s series Winnie-The-Pooh. You can take a walk through the magical Hundred Acre Wood and play Pooh sticks from the one and only Pooh Stick Bridge. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the homes of Pooh’s woodland friends! Ashdown Forest itself is a stunning area of natural beauty, with plenty of walks and wildlife to keep everyone entertained.

Read – Winnie-The-Pooh – A.A Milne

The original tale of the bumbling bear we all know and love. Follow Pooh and his friends through their fantastical adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood. Perfect for families and adults alike.

Eat – Duddleswell Tea Rooms

The perfect spot for tea and cake after a long walk. Duddleswell Tea Rooms are located to the South of Ashdown Forest and provide tea, coffee, cakes and sandwiches for hungry explorers.

Visit – Ashdown Forest Visitor Centre

Check out the Ashdown Forest Visitor Centre for a wealth of information about the forest walks and what events are happening. They also have information about the best walks in the area and where to find the best Winnie-The-Pooh spots!

Shop – The Bookshop – East Grinstead

A little out of the way in West Sussex but well worth a visit. This bookshop is the quintessential British bookshop. Stocked full of gems of the literary world, with a host of friendly booksellers to help you find the perfect read.

Walk – Ashdown Forest

Ashdown Forest is a true haven for walkers, with routes long and short, there’s a trail to suit every age and ability. Whether you’re a hardened hiker or a teeny toddler. The Pooh Walk is perfectly suited to those who want a smaller stroll but still want to see the wonders of the forest. It takes in The Enchanted Place and The Sandy Pit from AA Milne’s Winnie-The-Pooh novels so there’s plenty of sightseeing along the way.

Box Hill, Surrey

Setting from Jane Austen’s novel Emma

“Emma had never been to Box Hill; she wished to see what every body found so well worth seeing.”

–Jane Austen, Emma

Box Hill is a beautiful spot nestled in the Surrey Hills. Known for being the picnic spot from Jane Austen’s Emma, its natural beauty and steep incline make for a fun and rewarding trip. There’s plenty to see and do in the local area and if you’re feeling up for a real challenge, cyclists come from miles around to try their strength at The Box Hill incline.

Read – Emma – Jane Austen

Jane Austen’s classic novel Emma tells the story of a young heiress and her meddling ways into the love lives of those around her, it is one of the most adapted novels by the author. Not only has it been adapted into several movies and TV series, it also inspired the 90s movie Clueless, take a peek into the original to find out why!

Eat – The Cafe at Box Hill

Reward your hard work with a stopover at the cafe on the very top of Box Hill, this National Trust cafe serves tea, cakes and hot and cold food with gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options available.

Visit – The Old Fort, Box Hill

One of thirteen forts constructed to protect London from invasion, this site is free to visit and an easy walk from Box Hill. Take in the spectacular views across Surrey on the walk before you explore this historic site.

Shop – The National Trust Second Hand Bookshop – Box Hill

A walk, a coffee, a snack and a bookshop al in one, this is the best of literary tourism. Take a look around the second-hand books in this national trust shop, the selection varies but you’re sure to find a bargain amongst the books, and the proceeds all go to helping the protection of National Trust sites.

Walk – The Box Hill Hike

The classic Box Hill Hike is eight miles in total, a circular route that takes in the best Box Hill has to offer, from spectacular views, excellent country pubs for refreshments and of course, the view from the top.

Lyme Regis, Dorset

Location of Jane Austen’s Persuasion

“Let us never underestimate the power of a well-written letter”

Jane Austen – Persuasion

A sunny seaside town with literary persuasions, Lyme Regis is a historic port town that appears not only in Jane Austen’s Persuasion but more recently as a filming location for the new adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory.

Read – Persuasion by Jane Austen

Austen’s novel of love lost and found again is a classic of all time and perfect for romantics, the novel takes in many areas across the UK including Bath, and memorably on a fateful trip to Lyme Regis.

Eat – Good Food Cafe, Deli and Bakery

Located in the heart of Lyme Regis, this locally run independent cafe serves good food all day long. They’re passionate about local produce and high quality snacks, lunches and afternoon teas. With a fabulous range of vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options it’s Lyme Regis staple.

Shop – Lyme Regis Bookshop

A fantastic independent bookshop that’s been serving booklovers for over 40 years. This seafront bookstore stocks a wide range of books for adults and children, fiction and nonfiction. Check out their displays for books by local authors for a true taste of the area.

Walk – The South West Coast Path

Take a walk along the Lyme Regis section of The South West Coast Path for a spectacular sea side walk that takes in the best of the town as well as the stunning cliffs and beaches along the coast.

Quirky Campers Recommended Campsites

A selection of campsites found by Quirky Campers and selected especially for this blog. These campsites are all campervan friendly and are verdant, green spaces that allow you to enjoy your campervan travels in peace a quiet.

Highland Holidays Monmouth

Location: Highland Holidays Monmouth, New Mills, Monmouth, NP25 4TY

A campsite that takes you back to nature, this picturesque site is nestled in the Wye Valley a stone’s throw from all that the Forest of Dean has to offer.

Warren Farm, Malvern Hills

Location: Warren Farm, Brockhampton Park, Bringsty, Worcester, WR6 5TB

A small, peaceful campsite, where you can pull up and retreat into the wilderness. This site takes it back to basics with facilities but more than makes up for it in charm, location and peace and quiet.

Shire Camping, Warwick

Location: Shire Camping, Oxhill, Warwickshire, CV35 0RD

This idyllic spot has everything you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist track. Off-grid camping at its very best, this site is peaceful, beautiful and secluded. With spectacular views all round, no matter where you park up you’re sure of waking up to one hell of a view.

Toilets | Showers | Tents and Campervans Only | Fires Allowed | Pet Friendly

Valley Farm Campsite, Oxford

Location: Valley Farm Campsite, Lane House, Eynsham Road, Farmoor, Oxford, OX29NL

An oasis of calm just a short drive away from the hustle and bustle of Oxford. This Farm Campsite surrounds you with glorious views of the Oxfordshire countryside. This site is family friendly and pet friendly, and even has two adorable donkeys you can say hello to!

Home Farm Camping and Glamping Site, Buckinghamshire

Location: Home Farm, City Road, Radnage, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP14 4DW

Perfect for family holidays and short breaks, this lovely campsite is located in the outstanding beauty of the Chiltern Hills, perfect for day trips to Oxford, Great Missenden and the rest of Buckinghamshire.

Brighthouse Farm, Suffolk

Location: Brighthouse Farm, Melford Road, Lawshall, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP29 4PX

Get ready to relax and unwind at this tranquil farm campsite nestled in the Suffolk countryside. With large non-regimented grass pitches you’ll feel like you have the place all to yourself. There’s plenty of facilities available and panoramic views of the surroundings.

Earth Camp, East Sussex

Location: Earth Camp, Cinder Hill, North Chailey, Lewes, BN8 4HR

This happy, holistic campsite is one for those looking for a bit of community, a singsong around the campfire and an atmosphere of welcome and fun. A peaceful family-run campsite, this is a great spot for families and pets alike.

Etherley Farm, The Surrey Hills

Location: Etherley Farm, Leith Hill Lane, Ockley, Surrey, RH5 5PA

An informal and back to basics campsite on a working farm in the Surrey Hills, perfect for escaping the city. This campsite allows you to pick your own pitch, so you’re able to tuck yourself away from the crowds or up close to the action, whatever you prefer you can be sure of a warm welcome and a great view.

Shop On Site | Family Friendly | Fires Allowed | Pubs Nearby

Hobby Farm, Dorset

Location: Hobby Farm Holidays, Bluntshay Ln, Bridport, DT6 6RJ

Hobby Farm is a small, adults only campsite in the rural countryside of Dorset. This peaceful location is ideal for those seeking some tranquillity during their road-trip. Hobby Farm is a relaxing and calming location with plentiful walks nearby to enjoy and explore Dorset, and an onsite lake for fishing.

Choose Your Cosy Campervan

As all book lovers know, there’s nothing better than curling up by a roaring fire in your favourite reading nook with a really good book. This carefully curated selection of Campervans are all about the cosy, cabin feel, giving you the peace and quiet you need on your travels to get stuck into the pages.

KELPIE

EDINBURGH

This Edinburgh based cosy cabin on wheels is an instant win of anyone who hires her! The woodburning stove will keep you toasty warm for all your Scottish adventures. There’s plenty of space in Kelpie, with beds for 3 people and enough space for up to 3 dogs, nothing better than a dog to keep you warm while you’re reading!

ATLAS

EAST DEVON

Atlas is the van to whisk you away to the South Coast. It’s easy to fall in love with this spacious, beautifully crafted campervan, the wooden interior is kept cosy with a woodburner, the back seats fold out into a massive comfy bed, there’s space for 2 adults and one child in this stunning camper. Leave the back doors wide open on warm summer nights to fall asleep gazing out at the stars over the sea.

CAT BELLS

GREATER MANCHESTER

Cat Bells is the ultimate book lovers campervan, the lush green sofa is perfect for curling up with your book, and the wood burner at the ready to keep you toasty while you snuggle under a blanket, pop the kettle on and make a cuppa because you won’t need anything else with Cat Bells as your campervan.

YONDER

SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Yonder lets you wander far and wide in absolute comfort. With space for two adults and one child, this stunning, spacious campervan is as equipped as a hotel room. The beautiful wood panelling gives Yonder the homeliest feel, the wood burner can warm up your frosty toes after a long days walking and exploring, while you cook a delicious dinner in the fully equipped kitchen.

SPLINTER

SOMERSET

Imagine a wood cabin in the middle of a verdant green forest, with a roaring fire in the wood burner, brass furnishings, then add some wheels and you have Splinter. One of the most beautiful vans you’ll ever see, Splinter comes equipped with everything you need for trips long and short, whether you’re taking a weekend escape or embarking on a fully loaded road-trip, Splinter will be the perfect companion.

FIREFLY

EAST HAMPSHIRE

The light and airy Firefly is a cosy camper with a whole lot to offer. This lovely conversion has everything you could need for a road trip extravaganza. The wooden interior is so welcoming you’ll never want to leave. The ideal camper for two, this little beauty is ready whenever you are.