Bradford Council Allows Overnight Campervan Stays at Three Scenic Locations

Bradford Council has announced that campervan and motorhome visitors can now stay overnight at three designated beauty spots in the district. 

According to an article by The Telegraph and Argus, the council has identified specific locations where self-contained motorhomes and campervans are permitted to park for a maximum of two nights, aiming to encourage tourism while maintaining environmental protections.

The designated sites include the car park at the Cow and Calf Rocks in Ilkley, the main car park at Penistone Country Park in Haworth, and Eaves car park on Baildon Moor. 

Each location has limited capacity, allowing only two or three vehicles in front of designated signage. 

Penistone Country Park is expected to be particularly popular due to its proximity to landmarks associated with the Brontë sisters, including Top Withens, a site believed to have inspired Wuthering Heights.

Overnight visitors must adhere to specific regulations, including a two-night stay limit with no return allowed within five nights. 

Only self-contained campervans and motorhomes equipped with their own toilet facilities are permitted, as the sites do not offer amenities. 

To protect the natural environment, a Public Space Protection Order remains in place, prohibiting the use of barbecues, fires, sky lanterns, and fireworks.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, Planning, and Transport, said: “We are delighted that we’ve been able to offer overnight parking for self-contained motorhomes and campervans at these three places.”

“We hope that they will encourage visitors to come and enjoy exploring our district which has so much to offer, especially this year as there will be more events taking place across the district while we are the UK City of Culture for 2025,” Alex added.

Carolyn Mitchell from CAMpRA, a group set up to promote motorcaravan tourism, said: “It’s wonderful to see a council recognising the importance of motorcaravan tourism and making provision for overnight parking in some of their most important tourism destinations.”

“CAMpRA are delighted to have been asked to assist Bradford City Council to set up these, and hope local businesses will appreciate the extra income these visitors will bring,” Carolyn added.

This initiative highlights the growing recognition of motorcaravan tourism within the outdoor hospitality sector, supporting both local businesses and the preservation of key natural attractions while boosting tourism in the district.