What Does the Overnight Motorhome Ban in Whitby and Scarborough Mean?

Motorhomes offer the freedom to roam and the opportunity to stay in some pretty amazing picturesque locations. But the flexibility they offer doesn’t necessarily mean you can do exactly as you please, when you please. Recent developments in North Yorkshire, particularly up on the coast in Whitby and Scarborough, have sparked national discussions about overnight motorhome parking in the UK. A ban on overnight parking for motorhomes has been introduced in these places, on a trial basis.

This edition of our blog explores the details surrounding this ban, the broader issue of motorhome parking in the UK and the regulations covering it.

The overnight motorhome ban in Whitby and Scarborough

In response to growing concerns around overnight parking, safety and the impact of motorhomes on local infrastructure, North Yorkshire Council implemented a trial ban in Whitby and Scarborough. Introduced earlier this summer (2024), the ban covers a number of popular spots in the two towns, particularly in locations where there’s been an increase in the number or frequency of motorhomes parking overnight. While the trial is set to last for around 18 months (a final decision on the implementation of permanent restrictions will be made in autumn 2025), it highlights a broader debate on how to balance the needs of tourists, local businesses and residents in popular places.

Why is there an overnight ban?

One of the key factors is the issue of overcrowding. Whitby and Scarborough attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, and many of them visit in motorhomes. With space quite limited in these popular towns, there have been concerns that overnight motorhomes could limit other visitors as well as negatively affect the local environment. In addition, they could even lead to safety issues, as motorhomes often park on streets where there are no designated spaces, blocking narrow roads or affecting healthy traffic flow by creating congestion.

Another concern raised was the lack of infrastructure (ie. amenities) to comfortably accommodate motorhomes which typically require facilities such as waste disposal points, fresh water and electric hook-ups. In some of Whitby and Scarborough’s most popular parking areas these things don’t exist, and there have been problems over hygiene and environmental issues.

This trial ban has not been without controversy, however. Some motorhome owners have put forward the argument that responsible camping should be encouraged and that adequate infrastructure, such as designated motorhome parking areas and service points, should be provided. They contend that motorhomes can be a valuable part of the local economy in Whitby and Scarborough, with many visitors spending money in shops, restaurants, and attractions.

The issue of Motorhome parking in general

Leisure vehicle parking has long been a topic of debate across the UK. As the popularity of motorhomes, campervans and caravans has grown and grown, towns and cities have faced increasing pressures around accommodating these vehicles.

Unlike cars, motorhomes are large vehicles that require a fair bit more space, so one of the key challenges is finding suitable places for motorhomes to park overnight. In many urban areas, there are very few designated spots, and this can lead to problems when motorhomes park in spaces not intended for them. It can cause disruption to traffic flow, create safety hazards and limit the availability of parking for other ‘legitimate’ visitors. To address the issue, some towns and cities have embraced motorhome tourism by offering designated parking areas with services for overnight stays, while others have imposed strict rules or complete bans.

In some cases, the alternative to legal motorhome parking spots is ‘wild camping,’ where motorhome users park overnight in locations where no facilities – or, crucially, permissions - exist. This has raised further concerns about environmental damage and disruption to local communities.

Wild camping in the UK

The legalities surrounding wild camping in the UK (in relation to motorhomes) can be confusing. Wild camping refers to camping outside of designated campsites, typically in rural or natural areas, where no official permission is granted.

In Scotland, wild camping is generally allowed in most areas of the countryside, as long as it is done responsibly and in accordance with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. There are notable exceptions (check online). However, in England and Wales, the situation is different, although some local authorities may be tolerant of responsible parking in some areas. For the most part, though, UK law is stricter, and wild camping is not permitted in areas where it could cause damage to the environment or interfere with the rights of others, or on land without the landowner’s permission. For motorhome users, this means parking overnight, illegally, in areas such as public car parks, roadsides or beauty spots. Local councils have the authority to issue fines or tow vehicles that are parked illegally, and many towns and cities have introduced bylaws to limit overnight stays in certain areas.

The future

The decision to ban overnight motorhome parking in Whitby and Scarborough reflects the growing need across the country for local authorities to regulate parking more effectively - especially during busy tourist seasons and in places that rely on great footfall. Councils are under pressure to balance the needs of motorhome tourists with those of their residents and businesses, and with deference to their environmental sustainability.

Some argue that the temporary Scarborough and Whitby ban is a necessary step to improve and preserve the quality of life for residents. Others call for a more balanced approach. Ultimately the ban is part of a broader trend in the UK, where towns and cities are having to grapple with increased vehicular challenges. As more and more motorhome users take to the roads over the coming years, it’s likely that we will see further developments.

Check out the amazing new and used motorhomes stock at Wandahome, South Cave, and perhaps even take your new vehicle for a sun up to Scarborough or Whitby… Just don’t park in the wrong place!