Campervan - July 2019 PDF

Tested: The entry-level Sunlight Cliff 600
campervanF R E E D O M T O E X P L O R E
July 2019 ●
❯❯ £4.25
Enjoy the vanlife

Take a staycation this summer!
Enjoying
z Camping in Wales
z Wildlife spotting in Arran
z Fell running in the Lake District
Adventure Hired! Campers

>
07
9 772054 409023
One intrepid solo Discovering off-the- The Salt family build

camper explores Europe beaten track USA by RV their own five-berth ‘van
2019
...basically, this is BOOK YOUR TEST DRIVE

“ campervan living
& RECEIVE A FREE
BLUETOOTH® SPEAKER*
at its best
Martin Dorey, Campervan Guru ” Visit the Randger website or call the
freephone number for more details
www.randgeruk.co.uk 0800 026 7777

Full Vehicle View The Find A Book A Read The Watch The Find Us On
Speciication eBrochure Centre Test Drive Latest News Latest Videos Social Media
*Terms & Conditions apply. For full Terms and conditions please visit www.randeruk.co.uk/terms-and-conditions
Editor's note | Welcome
Hello
Contributors
Lorain Behrens
Andrew & Rona
Bromley
Will Hawkins
Hazel Hutchinson
Carol Kubicki
Cameron McNeish
Clive Mott
Lois Parker
Chris Salt
Mike Trippitt
Claire Tupholme
Fantastic
Mike Waterman
subscr iption offer
See page
A
very warm and sunny welcome to this anniversary this year? We headed
28
month's instalment of all things campervan! to France to grab a sneak peek of its
The summer really is a wonderful time of year, VW-based anniversary campervan and
and not just to be out and about exploring our the all-new Mercedes Sprinter James Cook...
beautiful countryside in your campervan. It's also when Keep your eyes peeled for more news! With so much
the manufacturers launch all their shiny brand-new going on in the campervan industry, it's no wonder
campervans for the 2020 model season... Campervan magazine is now a monthly publication.
We've already spotted some great stuff − Sunlight Happy campervanning!
celebrates its 15th birthday this year and we went to
Munich for the unveiling of its Special Edition XV camper. Geneve
And would you believe that Westfalia celebrates its 175th Editor
P100 We put industry experts in the spotl

P50 We check out what's been rockin' your P70 Septuagenarians, Lois and Alan, go on a ight to
get the lowdown on campervan insurance
weird and wonderful campervan world... 4,000-mile journey around Scandinavia... ...
Share Got any interesting campervan stories? 

Get in touch!
Don’t miss out on all this...

The latest news, exclusive features, competitions
and special offers. Plus much more!
FREE e-newsletter SIGN UP TODAY AT www.motorhome.ma/freemails

outandaboutlive.co.uk July 2019 campervan 3
Contents | In this issue
campervan
F F RR EE EE D
D O
O M
M T
T O
O EE X X P PL LO OR R
E E
Inside this month

Choosing
6 News
All the latest goings on in the campervan world
19 Lunar Terrier
A rather sparkly Ford Transit Custom-based pop-top
22 Sunlight Cliff 600

An entry-level panel van conversion with all the mod cons
29 Hillside Birchover Executive

Like the classic Birchover but blinged to the max!
32 Hire
One family explore the USA in an seven-berth RV...
41 Globecar Globescout Plus

44
The new Peugeot base makes all the difference to the price
Enjoying 22
44 Arran
Carol and Anthony go wildlife spotting in Scotland...
50 Campervan community
Out and about in your campervans, enjoying the vanlife
54 A campervan without a plan

Solo adventurer, Lorain, explores Belgium and France
62 Destination of the month

Why you should head to wicked Wales this month...
64 Welsh campsites
Great sites to use as a base for exploring Wales
70 Norway's Arctic Circle

Lois and Alan embark on an epic 4,000-mile road trip
74 Campsites for walking

The perfect sites for strutting your stuff around the UK
81 Events and shows

Inspiration for getting out in your camper this month
Your campervans
83 Vauxhall Movano
Chris and Debi build their own five-berth campervan
88 Wellhouse Ford Terrier

Filmmaker, Martin, uses his campervan as a mobile office
111 32
4 campervan July 2019 outandaboutlive.co.uk
Fantastic
subscr iption offer This month's
See page cover
28
12
Malibu Charming
GT 640 LE
We take this charming
campervan out for a spin
and can't help falling in
love with it...
92 83
Our campervans
92 Auto-Sleeper Duetto
74 Hazel tries to take it easy while her husband runs around...
95 Camper King Adventure Trek

Mike learns how to make s'mores while exploring the USA...
70 96 VW T25
The Editor tests a faulty parachute, and tries to fly like ET...
In the know
100 Campervan insurance
Everything you need to know about insuring your camper
105 Lithium ferrous batteries

We ask a bunch of campervanners if they're worth the cash
111 Accessories
The latest campervan gadgets put to the test

News | What's happening in the world of campervans
News
Read all about what's going on in the
Benimar expands into
Northern Ireland
Spanish brand, Benimar, which manufacturers
the Benivan campervan brand, has expanded
into Northern Ireland after Marquis – the UK’s
largest dealer network – appointed Camper Ni
as sole distributor.
fascinating world of campervans... “We’re thrilled to be further expanding the
Benimar network,” said Gavin Driver, Assistant
Sales Director for Marquis. “The brand goes
from strength to strength and this latest
addition fulfils the customer demand across
the UK and worldwide.”
Vanworx launches
limited edition
campervan
Dorset-based campervan converter, Vanworx,
has introduced a limited edition model to its
line-up. The Slipper offers a classic side kitchen,
rear bench seat layout and is available in a
choice of four colours (Indium Grey, Candy
White, Cherry Red and Grape Yellow).
Prices start at £61,898 on the road for this
model based on the T6 Transporter Edition
with a 2.0-litre 148bhp (150PS) engine and the
Frankia introduces DSG transmission (a six-speed manual gearbox

is also available). The basic equipment levels
are comprehensive, too, with LED headlights
new campervan and DRLs, darkened rear light clusters, 17in
alloys, front and rear parking sensors, rear view
Frankia, the German manufacturer itself for a European manufacturer. But camera, power-latching sliding side door and
better known for its large luxury A-class it’s also not a standard rear lounge. At tailgate, plus a Discover Media Navigation
motorhomes, is launching a campervan the back a long sofa faces a storage system that is smartphone compatible. You also
range for the 2020 season. and multimedia unit. It makes a double get heated swivel front seats, adaptive cruise
Early reports indicate that the new bed by sliding out into the aisle and the control and cab carpets.
campervan will only be available initially backrest dropping flat. The kitchen is then Conversion-wise, the RIB rear seat/bed has
in left-hand drive. further forward of this with the washroom a Vanworx (pull-tested) fitting frame, Reimo
The first campervan in the new Yucon opposite the sliding door. The model on elevating roof (with roof bed for two extra
range was presented with a unique rear display had a large open space by the berths), Dometic two-burner hob and sink unit,
lounge model and is expected to be sliding door with floor rails, which we’ve Webasto diesel heater, Waeco compressor
joined by two further models (both with been told are designed for extra fridge, AGM 12V leisure battery, Ctek charge
twin single bed layouts). The models will passenger seats. controller and LED lighting.
be based on Mercedes’ rear-wheel drive The washroom, although a single Vanworx campervans are sold direct from
Sprinter with a standard weight of cubicle, shows off a new feature. its premises in Portland, Dorset.
3,500kg, although weight upgrades for Simply put, the toilet and washbasin slide
greater payload will be available, along (separately) out of the way when the
with an all-wheel drive option. shower is needed, creating a large space.
The first model was shown with a There will be a choice of interiors in
full exterior body wrap but production various neutral shades as well as leather
models are expected to come with furnishings on the options list. The 7.0 is
metallic grey paint as standard. It’s not just based on the long-wheelbase Mercedes
the body type that‘s new, the interior with (6.99m) and there will be a 6.0 model on
very modern tones of grey and white is the medium-wheelbase Sprinter.
a definite departure from the more Commenting on this new model,
traditional wooden furniture of the Fabrice Seignol, Export Manager for
larger Frankia coachbuilts. Frankia, stated, “The van conversion
The first model, the Yucon 7.0 Lounge, market is important and growing.
has a rear lounge, which is unusual in No manufacturer can ignore that.”

New single bed layouts from Devon
Campervan manufacturer, Devon to match the height of the cab floor and a combined oven/grill, a sink with integral
Conversions, has announced new wall-mounted table sits between the rear drainer and a Dometic 8-Series 85-litre
derivatives of its 5.4-metre Colorado and seat and the swivelled driver’s chair. On the fridge with removable freezer section. A
six-metre Arizona models featuring four offside, a footrest caters for the increased fold-down worktop bridges the gangway
travel seats and single beds. The first height of this seat compared with the side between the galley and washroom, while
example of these, a Colorado based on settee layout, as the back seat has to meet the latter features a shower, bench cassette
a pre-owned Citroën Relay medium- up with the cab passenger seat to make a toilet and a fixed oval washbasin set into
wheelbase van, debuted at the National single bed. a contrasting counter.
Motorhome and Campervan Show. Both rear seats simply slide forward The demo Colorado, based on a
The new four-seat version of the and fold flat to make twin beds. These are 16-plate base vehicle with sat-nav, air-con,
Colorado is identical to the existing version 1.88m long on the offside and 1.94m long reversing sensors and 130bhp engine was
except in the lounge area, where a second on the nearside. priced at £29,995. Both it and the longer
rear travel seat replaces the side-facing The Colorado’s kitchen still includes a Arizona are available on new or used
settee. There is a raised floor section here Triplex cooker with three gas burners and Citroën, Fiat or Peugeot vans.
SC Sporthomes launches Peugeot launches revised

latest Sprinter campervan Expert van range
Peugeot is launching a revised Expert van range, with Euro 6d-compliant
engines ahead of the implementation date for the new emission standard
for all new light commercial vehicles in September. The new models will
be available with four trim levels: S, Professional, Grip and Asphalt.
Pricing ranges from £21,320 for the Compact S Panel Van, up to £34,035
for the Asphalt Crew Van.
The French manufacturer has also revealed an all-electric version of its
Boxer – imaginatively called the Peugeot Boxer Electric. The launch is a
continuation of Peugeot’s electrification strategy, which will see all vehicles
offered with an electrified variant by 2023.
South Wales-based SC Sporthomes has revealed its latest conversion,

on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, which has been converted into a
four-berth Sport Tourer campervan. The overall look is pretty cool
and should appeal to the younger generation of campervanners.
“Our Sport Tourer model is hugely popular with customers and,
although we can build on other makes of van, the Sprinter has always
been a favourite,” said SC Sporthomes Sales Manager, Ade Deeley.
“We expect the latest model to be even more desirable.”

Renault reveals
all-new Trafic
and Master
Renault has revealed its latest Trafic light commercial van, which is
a popular base vehicle among campervan manufacturers. It has also
revealed its all-new Master, which is used as a base vehicle by several
manufacturers. Both models get new engines, a new automatic
gearbox and a new look inside and out.
More specifically, the new Trafic gets a range of new 2.0-litre
diesel engines under the bonnet that comply with the incoming Euro
6d standards. The engines have a greater power (from 120bhp to
170bhp) than the current Trafic engines and increased torque (up to
380Nm), while consuming less fuel. On the two higher power output
engines, there is an option to have Renault’s new six-speed EDC automatic transmission as standard, a reversing camera combined
(Efficient Dual Clutch) automatic transmission. with front and rear parking sensors, individual LED lights, additional
Exterior design touches include new full-LED headlamps, the USB sockets in the passenger area and flexibility for adjusting
introduction of Renault’s C-shaped lighting signature, a new front equipment on rails (passenger bench seats, seats and tray table).
grille with a logo displayed on a new holder and special inserts, plus Meanwhile, the new Master also gets a redesigned front end
a chrome-finish strip. Driver-assistance systems have also been featuring C-shaped lighting clusters, an elevated bonnet line and a
enhanced and now include a wide-view mirror acting as a blind spot vertical front grille with a new logo holder and a chrome-finish grid
mirror in the passenger sunvisor, front and rear parking sensors with and strip.
rear parking camera and Trailer Swing Assist. Under the bonnet, there are new 2.3-litre engines, which comply
On the inside there are new upholstery fabrics and an updated with the new Euro 6d emission standards, while providing increased
dashboard with satin chrome buttons and a new dark carbon colour power and torque, and lower fuel consumption compared to the
scheme. The design extends to the door panels, which also get current model’s engines. The new engines provide increased power
chrome door opening levers and trim on the speakers. up to 180hp and increased torque up to 400Nm. Depending on the
Other tweaks include greater cab storage and the introduction versions, these engines can be coupled to either a six-speed manual
of ‘Media Nav Evolution’ (compatible with Android Auto and Apple or the EDC six-speed automatic gearbox.
CarPlay) systems and a stereo with a new microphone for better call Inside there is a fully revamped interior giving it many of the same
quality, with digital radio as an option. features as Renault’s passenger cars. This means a new dashboard
In addition to the van models, the new Trafic also comes in and large opened or closed storage compartments, chrome inserts
Passenger and SpaceClass versions. The new Passenger Trafic on both air vents and air-conditioning buttons, a new rev counter
features second and third row seats, a wide side sliding door for and monochrome five-inch digital screen, new steering wheel with
easier access, washable floor, Isofix anchoring system for up to four chrome inserts and new long-lasting upholstery. There is also now
child seats, new upholstery, rear air-conditioning booster and sliding full integration of the navigation screen into the dashboard’s central
windows. The new SpaceClass is a high-spec passenger-carrying area. Other touches include a new “Easy Life” folding tray above the
version with extras such as diamond finish alloy wheels, leather glove compartment, which can be unfolded simply by pressing on it
upholstery and steering wheel with chrome insert, the new EDC and that provides extra working space. Additionally, there is a
docking station for digital tablets at the centre of the dashboard
and an induction smartphone charger (although these have yet to
be confirmed for right-hand drive models). New driver-assistance
systems have also been introduced as standard, including
Rear View Assist, a rear view camera with screen display
on the upper part of the windscreen, which provides
maximum medium to long-distance rear visibility,
Side Wind Assist, Front Parking Assistance, Blind
Spot Warning and Autonomous Emergency
Braking system. The new Master will come in
three heights and four lengths, with weights from
2.8 to 4.5 tonnes. It will also be available in a full
electric zero-emissions-in-use version called the
Master ZE.
Rapido to acquire Roadtrek

The French Rapido Group, which manufactures Roadtrek manufactures campervans for the Hymer Group to Thor.
multiple campervan brands including Westfalia North American market and is owned by Erwin The purchase by Rapido paves the way for the
and the UK’s WildAx, has signed a letter of intent Hymer Group North America, which was not European manufacturer to get a foothold in the
to acquire Roadtrek. included in the recent sale of the rest of the Erwin North American market.


50 years of experience,
Turn heads with a model

that’s inspired by the iconic
VW T2 that made our name
in 1964. The Heritage 64
effortlessly merges classic
aesthetic with the latest
contemporary features that
make your home-from-home
cosier than ever.
Travel into the future with Danbury.

Our Avenir campervans are
spacious and beautifully
designed, inside and out. The
63LG based on Fiat continental
touring campervan is built for
longer jouneys. Perfect for
going the distance when you
pack up and head off on your
next adventure to far-flung
locations.
danburycampervans.co.uk
Novel rear kitchen layout for VW T6

VW campervan converter, Jack’s Shack,
has unveiled an unusual new Volkswagen
camper design, called the Swamper. Based
on a short-wheelbase T6 Transporter with
raised suspension and 20in wheels with
off-road tyres, the standard model is
front-wheel drive but a 4Motion all-wheel
drive option is available.
However, it is the layout that really
makes the Swamper different, especially
the location of its compact galley. This
unit, which incorporates a two-burner
hob and sink, slides out at the back of
the camper and is fully removable. A
windbreak/awning, which is suspended
from the tailgate, is supplied for cooking
in breezy conditions. recessed into the ceiling and pleated 5,000-mile, 18-plate, 101bhp (102PS), VW
In the main body of the vehicle a blinds, while a fridge and pop-top roof are van with air-conditioning, BlueMotion
full-width RIB seat/bed unit provides three optional extras. Technology and privacy glass.
rear travel seats and converts into an extra- The show model, which debuted at the A similar conversion could be carried
large double bed. The interior is fully National Motorhome and Campervan out on a customer’s Transporter for around
trimmed and comes with LED lamps Show, was priced at £38,995, based on a £12,000, too.
Leisuredrive gets Ford upgrades Transit Sport range

European Type Ford has just updated and upgraded its full Transit Sport
range of vans.
Approval The range is headed by the Transit Custom Sport, with the
Leisuredrive Campervans new 183bhp (185PS) version hailed as its ‘most powerful ever’
has received European thanks to its enhanced 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine.
Whole Vehicle Type The Custom Sport is available in both short and long
Approval from the Vehicle wheelbase versions.
Certification Agency (VCA) The other models in the line-up are the Transit Connect
for its campervan conversions. Sport van and the Transit Courier Sport van.
The news coincides with Leisuredrive, which is based in Bolton, celebrating “Not everyone is satisfied with a standard white van: Ford’s
its fiftieth anniversary. Sport series vans appeal to customers who want to make a
“It has taken us over two years and has involved crash testing done in statement while still delivering the tough, capable character
vehicle,” said Jennifer Seddon, Leisuredrive’s Managing Director. “It has that has made the Transit family best sellers,” said Hans Schep,
involved mountains of paperwork and several visits and inspections from the General Manager, Commercial Vehicles, Ford of Europe.
VCA but what it also means for Leisuredrive is we consider it to be the ultimate The Transit Custom Sport is priced from £32,270, the
step forward to produce absolutely safe and value for money campervans for Transit Connect Sport from £20,405 and the Transit Courier
our customers.” Sport from £14,745.
SPECIALIST CAMPERVAN INSURANCE

FROM AS LITTLE AS 70p PER DAY*
Where Else Can You Get?
• Cover for campervans of any age. • Optional UK & European breakdown
• European cover up to 180 days. cover from £41.
• Cover for self-build motorhomes. • Up to 4 drivers all 25+ years.
Call 0800 206 1673

Or Buy Online: shieldtotalinsurance.co.uk/camper
*The premium indication is pro-rata based upon annual minimum premium paid in 10 equal instalments subject to an
interest charge of 8% (15.4% APR). Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

SO MUCH
TO SEA
SOAKING IT ALL UP
Soaking up the sun, playing in the sea or catching a sunset with your family – that’s what
camping holidays are made of, with hundreds of campsites in all shapes and sizes,
the hardest decision is which one to choose...And what factor to use.
JOIN NOW FROM AS LITTLE AS £40

campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk | 024 7798 0189
Choosing | Malibu Charming GT 640 LE
M eet
Prince Charming!
Falling in love with an inanimate
object is impossible. But, this Malibu
Charming GT campervan comes
close to making it a possibility
for any outdoor adventurer,
reckons Will Hawkins…
WORDS Will Hawkins PHOTOS Geneve Brand
T
here’s no doubt about the distinctive There’s no such racket from Mr Charming. comfortable and relaxing ride.
nature of the Malibu Charming GT The quality of the craftsmanship becomes The large wing mirrors fitted to the
640 LE. Its bold, orange paintwork clear when driving it. Its quietness is in the Ducato offer good visibility behind but there
(on this model), tinted windows and details. For instance, they’ve put brush strips was no rear view mirror, which seems odd as
twin porthole rear windows make it between some units so there is no wood- you can see through the barn doors.
difficult to miss. But, is there more to this against-wood. The fittings fit snugly so there Although there were parking sensors, no
Malibu than a great paint job and portholes? is no room for rattling. reversing camera was fitted to the test
Yes, it’s inside the ’van where you begin to The model we tested had the Fiat Ducato vehicle, so backing up was tricky – but you
see why it’s so good. 2.3-litre upgraded 150bhp engine (130bhp is can specify a reversing camera from the
Hit the road and the first thing you notice standard) with the optional Comfort-Matic options list, which we’d recommend.
is how quiet it is. In some ’vans, the bouncy auto’ gearbox. It also had cruise control, There was, however, a snazzy Pioneer
country lanes we took this down would have which you control from the steering wheel. It entertainment system that you can connect
created a din as the fittings shook. zipped along well and made for a to with your smartphone via Bluetooth or

Malibu Charming
GT 640 LE
Base vehicle Fiat Ducato 35 Light
Drive Front-wheel drive
Engine 2.3-litre turbo diesel Euro 6
Power 130bhp
Gearbox 6-speed manual
Number of travel seats 4 Berths 2
Leisure battery capacity 80Ah
Payload 600kg
Length x width x height 6.36m x 2.05m x
2.59m
Standard equipment 2.3-litre 130bhp
Euro 6 engine, 6-speed gearbox, driver’s
airbag, central locking, hill holder, traction
plus and hill descent control, DRLs.
80-litre 12V/230V/gas fridge, two-burner
gas hob, Truma Combi 4 hot water/
heating. Thetford cassette loo, shower,
sink with mixer tap. Two tinted skylights
and five tinted windows, with blinds and
flyscreens, two Heki roof lights with
flyscreens, and flyscreen on the sliding
door. Double bed (1.92m wide) that
functions as two singles – one measures
1.90m long and the other is 1.78m
Optional equipment Engine upgrades:
150bhp (£1,525), 177bhp (£3,755),
automatic gearbox (£1,850). Chassis Pack
(£,2385) adds passenger airbag, cab
air-con, cruise control, parking sensors.
Cabin Pack (£1,020): Truma Combi 6,
mattress with 7-zone system, lashing
system in luggage compartment, insulated
waste water tank. Winter Pack (£1,195):
insulation mats and screens, carpets,
heated water pipes and waste water tank.
Style Pack (£590): leather steering wheel
and knob, radiator grille in high gloss and
painted bumper. Awning (from £850), bike
rack (£365), 90l fridge (£215), media
centre (£480), reversing camera (£815),
Teleco Flatsat 65 satellite system (£2,260),
22in LED flatscreen with TV holder
(£1,020), safe (£375)
Warranty 2 years
USB, and
Price from £51,704
there are 12V and USB
sockets. There’s also a handy ventilated Price as tested £65,450
locker on the passenger side, which is useful
CONTACTS
for drinks and snacks when the air-con is
premiummotorhomes.com
running, and this also has a USB socket in. there’s plenty of storage
In the centre of the dashboard is a flip-up elsewhere in the ’van. The skylight is pretty @PremiumMotorhomes
clipboard that’s useful for keeping unique, so it's definitely a plus. @Premium_mhomes
documents or maps to hand when you’re THANKS TO
driving. Best of all, above the cab is a huge, Luxury digs Haxey Quays for letting us use its lovely
opening skylight with a blind, which makes The lounge/diner at the front of the Malibu grounds for a photoshoot
the space very light and airy. You do lose the Charming GT 640 LE is about as haxeyquays.com
overcab shelf space that’s usually here, but comfortable as they come. Swing the


Pros
z Cleverly designed, spacious washroom
z Big, adaptable rear storage
z Roomy living space
z Superb lighting
Cons
z No hooks in washroom
z No rear view mirror, or reversing
camera as standard
The lounge/diner at the front of the Malibu Charming

GT 640 LE is about as comfortable as they come
What’s cooking?
leather captain's seats around (without LED downlights provide bright light at the The kitchen unit is where you’d expect it
having to release the handbrake), and four table. All three sets of lights can be usefully to be – opposite the diner and next to the
adults can comfortably eat around the table, controlled separately from switches by the sliding door, which features a flyscreen.
which clips to a railing on the wall and is door, too. There’s a two-burner gas hob that has a
supported with a single leg that drops down, The dinette also features a large opening glass cover and to the left of this is a robust,
while a slide-out section further extends the window that’s tinted, and is fitted with a lift-up extension to give you more surface
table space. The leather seats here exude blind, flyscreen, nets and mini curtains! space. Below this extension is a chrome-
quality and the cream under-panels and What more could you want? Great for effect switch strip that houses the light
cherry wood-effect doors on the overhead keeping cool in summer while blocking switches, electric step switch and a 240V
lockers add to the classy feel. With two the bugs, and staying private. socket – all very useful for when you enter
seatbelts on the forward-facing bench, Above the table are two speakers or exit the ’van.
you can also travel as a foursome. attached to the entertainment system in the To the right of the hob is a small but
The Charming GT’s lighting is delightful. cab. They sit in the base of two lockers. Not practical sink that has a removable cover
In addition to the tinted skylight over the cab only are these perfect for listening to music with a chopping board on the back. Best of
there is another one over the dinette, which but they’re also hooked up to the Avtex 21in all, it also clips to the wall to provide a shelf
has an LED spotlight in each corner. TV that was fitted to this demo model. There in the kitchen! Under the sink and hob are
Furthermore, LED strips behind side panels was also an aerial on the roof, and wiring for three big drawers for your cutlery, crockery
provide soft light at night while a further four a satellite dish. and dry food. Above the hob is a locker for

Discover the largest network of
over 2,700 sites and locations in
the UK and Europe
JOINAY
TOD UST
MJ
*
K
FROER WEE
£1 P
Our Club members save an average of £140** a year staying on UK Club sites
You can save an Our members rate We give you more You can save an
average of 50% our sites 9/10 for handpicked average of 8p
per night on
overall experience member offers per litre on fuel2
UK Club sites1
Join today :
camc.com/campervanjoin
01342 488 398
*Caravan and Motorhome Club membership price is £52, when paying by direct debit. **When staying on Club sites compared to non-members. 1Compared to a non-member booking.
2
.
food, so there’s plenty of storage space. across of the way rather than swinging into
To the right of the kitchen unit, located at the corridor. Inside, the shower tray has two
waist height, is an 80-litre compressor fridge drain holes. So what? Two drain holes means
with freezer compartment. it will still drain, even when you’re on a slope.
Below this is a locker with hanging space, There’s a Thetford cassette loo that swings
measuring 97cm high, 49cm wide and 55cm out from under a panel in the wall. You have
deep, which is a handy space for coats, plenty of space when you sit on it and you
boots and rucksacks, etc. don’t feel crammed in. Then, swing the loo
This camper is fitted with a Truma Combi out of the way to create an ample space for
6 system, providing blown air heating and standing at the corner sink or showering.
hot water. The control for this lives above The shower is also a work of art. To
the sliding door under an opaque, lift-up prevent water getting everywhere, shower
cover. The Charming GT also comes with screens cover the sink and mirror, the sliding
inboard fresh water and insulated door and the loo… Each screen snaps to a
underslung waste water tanks, making it a magnetic strip so the screens completely
proper go-anywhere, anytime campervan. encase the washroom. When not in use, the
screens neatly stow out of the way, too. The
Now that’s what I call a washroom! showerhead sits on the wall so, to rinse your
If you’re going to travel a lot, and you like hair, you will have to take it out of its holder,
to go off-grid, an important place in your especially if you’re tall – but that’s hardly the
campervan is the washroom, and the end of the world. There’s also a good-sized
Charming GT has one of the best skylight in the roof that opens wide for
washrooms we’ve seen in a while. ventilation, and allows light in to keep
First off, there’s a sliding door that pushes the washroom a bright and airy space.
In the corner, opposite the loo, are the sprung slats, so it’s super-comfy. The blown-air heating system is housed
sink and a mirrored cupboard. There are The whole bedroom is light and airy, and under one of the beds and there’s space
a couple of holders for toothbrushes etc. well ventilated. That’s thanks to two tinted for storing two 11kg gas cylinders, too. And
above the basin and there’s more storage porthole windows on each side as well as a there’s still space for a few storage lockers
below the sink with a neat toilet roll holder window in each of the barn doors. These all that are accessed from the back of the ’van,
with a slot in the panel beneath it to feed open and feature blinds and flyscreens. via barn doors. Additionally, four anchor
through the paper – nifty! Additionally, there’s a Heki rooflight fitted points on the floor are handy for lashing
The hot water tank takes up the rest of the with a flyscreen. down gear. All in all, this is a proper action
space below the sink. The only thing lacking Come night time, there are four LED campervan that has been thoughtfully
in this washroom is a hook or two to hang downlights under the lockers and two designed and built to last.
your towels. reading lights, which are operated from two
sets of switches, either end of the bedroom.
A great bedroom Storage abounds here, too, courtesy of
The clever design of this Malibu continues
in the bedroom, as it’s pretty special. To
a total of five overhead lockers, two netted
corner lockers, two cubbyholes, and a thin
Verdict Attention to detail in this
campervan is amazing. It
maximise storage below, there is a step lipped shelf running down each side. feels and is well made. They’ve
up to the lengthways bed. Lift the lid on Two of the lockers also house a hooked thought about the small details to make
the step and you find a shoe locker below. strap, one on each side of the bedroom. This life in it easy and comfortable. If you
The bed functions more like twin singles is another example of clever design in the love outdoor adventure, being away
than a double as the section in the middle Charming, as it means the beds can easily from it all and being off-grid, but like to
is shorter, and one bed is longer than the be lifted up, complete with mattresses and enjoy it in comfort, then this campervan
other. The offside bed is 1.90m long and the bedding on, and safely hooked back to has to be on your wish list. It’s an
nearside bed is 1.78m long; the full width is allow for transportation of things likes bikes
excellent campervan and I want one!
1.92m. The mattress sits on individually or kayaks.

By CMC
Leading the way for over 30 years

With time comes knowledge and
experience. CMC have been creating
outstanding campervans for over 30
years. We are one of only a handful Vehicle Conversions
of fully recognised Volkswagen Are you looking to convert your van
converters and all of our new into the camper of your dreams?
campervans are Type Approved .
and come with a full 3-year
warranty.
Est .1988
Roo fs
levaing
Reimo E
Full Camper Conversions
In partnership with REIMO since 1988

UK’s original & most experienced Reimo converter and supplier of parts
Volkswagen accredited conversion specialist s
em
yst
gS
UK’s main trade supplier of REIMO parts & accessories
n
S eai
Call us today for a quote 01233 359002 mo
Rei
www.conceptmulti-car.co.uk
01233 359002 | enquiries@cmcreimo.co.uk | Unit 1, Pennypot Ind Est, Hythe, Kent, CT21 6PE
Lunar Ford Transit Custom Terrier | Choosing
Lunar Terrier
The Ford Transit Custom base vehicle is a great
alternative to the VW Transporter…
O
ne of the big areas of growth in the The latest generation of Transit Custom version featuring an AdBlue system and
campervan market is from those has a revised bumper moulding and stylish 130bhp of power that’s perfect for most
buyers seeking to replace a headlights that feature LED daytime running buyers, as well as a 170bhp engine for
high-end family car or SUV with a lights around their perimeter. More subtle is £1,250, if you need more grunt.
more multi-purpose campervan the new three-slat grille. You also get lots of clever safety aids that
and, as a daily driver, the Terrier would be However, it’s inside that features the are fitted as standard on the new Transit
very easy to live with. biggest change with a brand-new dash Custom. These include electronic stability
With five belted seats, masses of luggage layout, which features centrally mounted control, side wind stabilisation, roll stability
space and a 4.97m body length, it’s no more heating controls together with a neat control and trailer sway stabilisation. And
difficult to drive or park than a car. eight-inch touchscreen display and some there’s air-con, cruise control, heated front
Of the current generation of medium- clearly marked buttons. Together with a seats and the benefit of Ford’s brilliant
sized campervans, the Ford Transit Custom is cleaner instrument binnacle, it’s stylish and Quickclear windscreen defrosting system.
one of the best base vehicles out there. It intuitive. It feels more like a Mercedes or Step inside and the campervan conversion
not only looks great and has one of the most BMW layout inside, which is no bad thing! will feel very familiar with its side kitchen
extensive dealer networks for service work, The engines were updated in 2016 to layout and rock ‘n’ roll style three-seater
but it’s also a great drive. 2.0-litre TDCI versions, with this Euro 6 crash-tested bench that converts to a

Choosing | Lunar Ford Transit Custom Terrier
double bed. Being fitted to tracks, the bench 50 years, having established Lunar Caravans
can also easily be slid forwards or backwards back in 1969. Lunar Terrier
to allow for the transportation of bulkier More recently, the company has
Base vehicle Ford Transit Custom SWB
things like bikes. branched out into campervans and now
A further two berths are available in the offers a range of models built on Ford, Travel seats 5 Berths 4
SCA elevating roof, too, making this a great VW, Renault and Toyota base vehicles. Maximum weight 3,200kg
little family campervan. Come mealtimes, These campervans are available to buy Payload 608kg
the kitchen offers a two-burner gas hob, a at car dealerships across the country, and
gas grill, and a 40-litre three-way fridge. The also from the following motorhome and Length x width x height 4.97m x 2.08m x
2.10m
Terrier also comes kitted with a Porta Potti, campervan dealers: Highland Campervans
100W solar panel and Eberspächer diesel (Inverness), Kendal Caravans (Cumbria), Price from £49,995
blown-air heating. Westfield Caravans (Lancashire), West
Midland Caravans & Motorhomes CONTACTS
The Lunar lowdown (Warwickshire), Waveney Campers (Suffolk), lunarcampers.com
Hailing from Lancashire, Lunar has been Harbour Creek Motorhomes (Hampshire), @LunarCampers @LunarCampers
building caravans and motorhomes for and Tyne Valley Motorhomes (Tyne & Wear).

FREEDOM
TO DISCOVER
MORE HOLIDAYS
with OUR NEW 2019

camper van RANGE
including the Elddis Signature CV EDITIONS
exclusive to Tyne Valley Motorhomes
DISCOVER the best deals on NEW & USED motorhomes

At Tyne Valley Motorhomes, the North’s leading family run Motorhome Centre, we pride ourselves on providing
you with a friendly service while offering the best deals on a vast selection of New & Pre-owned motorhomes
M A I N D E A L E R F O R :
EXCLUSIVE EDITIONS
B y e r m o o r , B u r n o p f i e l d , N e w c a s t l e u p o n T y n e , N E 1 6 6 N S
Telephone: 01207 272 777 www.tynevalleymotorhomes.com @ILoveMotorhomes
Choosing | Sunlight Cliff 600
We're all going on a

summer holiday
I
magine configuring a campervan from desirable and expensive for what you get. more fashionable light commercial vans
scratch, for yourself. Where to start? But suppose you wanted a bit more living like the VW, it’s obvious why they’re popular
Something small, based on a VW space, more sophisticated (and private), with campervan manufacturers these days.
Transporter, Transit Custom, or Renault washing and toilet facilities, plus sufficient With such a base vehicle, you could be
Trafic? Drive anywhere, park anywhere, room to carry holiday clobber on a lost for choice, with myriad coachbuilt
and looking chic to boot? Perfect for two-week continental trip, or off-season designs up to tag-axle A-class behemoths,
weekends away and short summer breaks, in our less reliable weather? but, there’s also a thriving market for more
but generally, it won’t have much in the way Then you’d probably be looking for a modest-sized conversions that retain their
of facilities – there simply isn’t room. But, Fiat Ducato panel van-based campervan, or basic panel van shape and metal structure.
if you’re into camping already, don’t mind one of its rival siblings, a Peugeot Boxer or The Sevel panel van campers can range
sharing campsite ablutions, and love eating Citroën Relay, generically called ‘Sevels’ from 4.96 metres to 6.36 metres but, if
out, then a ‘tin tent’ will probably suit you after the Italian factory where they’re made. you’re wanting something large enough for
fine. It won’t be cheap, though – these base Robust, sensibly boxy in shape, easier to a (friendly) couple to inhabit comfortably,
vehicles, and their conversions, are both convert and usually less expensive than the but small enough to manoeuvre and park

Andrew and Rona are very
impressed by this compact,
practical, and affordable
home from home...
WORDS & PHOTOS Andrew & Rona Bromley
reasonably easily, then the 6-metre Sevel rose to £45,550, but even that’s pretty you to shower outside. Even if you don’t
has long been the benchmark compromise. competitive. So, what does that give you? plan on using the shower, it’s probably
We doubt if any Cliffs will be imported worth having, just from a resale perspective.
See the sunlight without the Basic Pack (£1,339), which The Chassis Pack costs a further £1,789,
This Sunlight Cliff 600 brochure price starts provides essentials such as a Heki Skylight which adds the usual stuff like cruise control,
at a measly £37,449. Mind you, you get an over the lounge, cab curtain, a washroom cab air-con and passenger airbag. After that,
equally measly specification for that. Budget window with blind, a swing-out table if you like alloy wheels, then they’ll cost you
for just over £40,000 (which, these days, is extension, a full flyscreen for the sliding £479, and metallic paint and colour-coded
bargain-basement), though, and the Cliff door, and a drop-down hanging rail in the front bumper will set you back a further £850.
will be reasonably well specified, safe, and washroom for your wet clothes. Then, if you We’d certainly choose Traction Control for
comfortable for your camping endevours. want to include a shower in the washroom, muddy fields, especially as it includes ESP
Our test ’van, from Lowdhams in you’ll pay an extra £160 for all the and Hill Descent Control – a snip at £89.
Nottingham had, as usual for a equipment, apart from an extension hose Everything on the options list is so inviting,
demonstrator, lots of extra kit, so the price that pops through the window and allows you can see how the tally keeps rising!

Drive time have your own fitted. The all-singing, happily. How much of a burden that was,
The cockpit of the Sunlight Cliff will be all-dancing media centre on this test we didn’t realise until after our tour, when we
familiar to anyone who’s tried a Sevel van in ‘van cost an extra £1,825 but does include opened the rear doors and found Lowdhams
the last decade or more, but if you’re more sat-nav, DAB radio and CD player, plus a had left all their boxes of Sunlight brochures
used to smaller campers like a VW reversing camera monitor. from the NEC Show in the back, under the
Transporter, you’ll find it much wider, with When testing a campervan, we aim bed...thousands of them! There must have
huge mirrors (better than the VW’s, but for a varied drive to include fast dual been half a tonne in there, and it took some
much more vulnerable, too). You sit high, carriageways, bendy A-roads and small time, three men, and several trolley-loads to
and the view is great, apart from the thick lanes. To drive, the Fiat Ducato is, as you remove all the boxes.
windscreen pillars, which can obstruct the might expect from quite an elderly design, Respect! Not only for the chassis and
driver’s view at junctions and roundabouts. rather agricultural, compared to more engine of this unassuming light commercial
The cab seats are really comfortable, car-like rivals such as the new Ford Transit or van, but also for the awesome load capacity
multi-adjustable and have twin armrests VW Crafter. Handling and road-holding are in this campervan guise.
apiece, too. dependable and the suspension is quite firm,
The steering wheel adjusts only for rake while the motor is gruff but strong – you can Continental lounging
(a leather-bound version is yours for only specify engine upgrades from the standard The lounge is very similar to so many rival
another £89), and the handbrake, down to 130bhp to 150bhp and 177bhp, but we’re not continental designs, which is why they’re
the driver’s right, is a stretch to release. No sure we’d bother. The test van seemed quite frequently lumped together under the
radio is fitted as standard, so you choose to sprightly and powerful, and pulled its load heading ‘Euro lounges’.
Sunlight Cliff 600

Base vehicle Fiat Ducato shower duckboard, Heki in
lounge, washroom window,
Drive Front-wheel drive cab curtain, drying rail over
Engine 2.3-litre, Euro 6 shower, table extension,
turbo-diesel habitation door flyscreen.
Chassis Pack (£1,789) adds
Power 130bhp cab air-con, cruise control,
passenger airbag. Shower
Economy 32mpg
Pack(£169) adds
(estimated)
showerhead plus bracket,
Gearbox 6-speed manual curtain. Metallic silver
bodywork (£529).
Number of travel seats 4 Colour-coded front bumper
Berths 2/3 (£319). Chassis Comfort
Pack (£849) adds leather
Leisure battery capacity covered steering wheel and
95Ah gear knob, LED daylight
running lights, chrome
Payload 635kg instrument highlights,
(756kg as tested) black-framed headlights,
Length x width x height gloss black radiator grille.
5.99m x 2.05m x 2.65m Upgrade to 3,500kg (£539).
16in alloy wheels (£479).
Standard equipment Base Traction Plus/Hill Descent
vehicle: driver airbag, ABS, (£89). Folding electric door
power-steering. mirrors (£159). Zenec Media
Conversion: 90l Centre including sat-nav,
compressor fridge, 100l DAB radio CD player and
inboard fresh water tank, reversing camera (£1,825).
90l underslung waste water Multi-function steering
tank, 95Ah leisure battery, wheel (£89). Comfortmatic
three mains power sockets, robotised gearbox (£1,809).
two-burner gas hob, mains Occasional lounge single
hook-up, LED lighting bed (cushions) (£279)
throughout, double bed
1.94m x 1.58m (6ft 4in x 5ft Warranty Base vehicle and
2in) (max.), Thetford swivel conversion, two years
toilet, washbasin, locker for Price from £37,899
2 x 11kg gas cylinders,
blinds and flyscreens to Price as tested £45,555
habitation windows, Truma
Combi 4E mains electric/
gas blown-air heater/boiler CONTACTS
Optional equipment lowdhams.com
Fitted to test vehicle: Basic @Lowdhams
Pack (£1,339) adds wooden @Lowdhams

One important aspect is the table; watched – bracket and wiring is optional, access, and as far away from the sleeping
some are fixed, and those can be a real but the TV will be wall-mounted above the quarters as possible, so even light sleepers
obstruction to access. Here, the Cliff has a rear travel seats, with wiring in the adjacent shouldn’t be woken by any nocturnal
removable table, clipped to the sidewall, and high-level cupboard. We particularly liked refrigeration gurgles.
with a single, folding leg. With a lower wall the reading light rail in the lounge, with its
rail and a ‘knee-joint’ to the leg, the table single clip-in sliding LED fitting but, on the Rise and shine
can be lowered to form a bed base at downside, there’s no light for either cab seat. The base vehicle’s construction means a
night-time, covered by optional extra Kitchens in Euro campers tend to be a high-level transverse bed can be longer
cushions – not present in the test ‘van. The little skimpy by British standards – that’s the (1.94m (6ft 4in) on the Cliff), than one
tabletop also has a swivel-out extension that continental way and expectation. However, located near floor level – one reason
is reachable from both the driver’s seat and this Cliff’s nice long worktop, containing a why this layout is so popular.
the kitchen, thereby forming useful extra good-sized combi sink/two-burner gas hob, It’s easy to hop up, too, with a cut-out step
work surface. extends into the doorway, so you can almost in the (removable), end board (easily found
The travel seats in the lounge, as is typical cook al fresco, but protected from airborne by questing toes when dismounting in the
in this sort of layout, are rather upright and invaders by the flyscreen. dark), and the three snug-fitting mattress
quite narrow from side to side (adequate There’s no oven or grill, but the corollary is pieces form a comfy bed. The sliding
for two children, but two adults would be masses of storage. We particularly liked the window on the offside has two rail-mounted
squashed), so the best seats in the house are location of the 90-litre compressor fridge in lights under the overhead locker, so this is
those in the cab, from where the television is the front end of the unit. Here, it’s easy of designated as the bed-head. We’d prefer the

The base vehicle’s construction means a high-level

transverse bed can be longer than one located near floor level
window at the bed foot, so a lighting rail
under the opposite wall’s cupboard would
be useful – as would a mains socket. A
heating outlet below the bed should keep
things cosy but, if it’s too warm, there’s a
ceiling Heki skylight, and both rear door
windows will open.
Washrooms on campers of this size
can be bigger, and more private, than in the
classic VW-type ‘van where they’re unlikely
even to exist! Even so, space is still limited.
The 2019 Cliff’s ablutions are much better
than its 2018 predecessor’s, Sunlight clearly
having taken customer feedback on board.
Yes, it’s compact, but the swivel toilet has
ample elbow room, there’s a large corner
basin, the tap doubling as the showerhead,
and there’s good storage in the wall
cupboard. The whole floor comprises the
shower tray (the wooden duckboard is part two, or even the fruits of a major Ikea
of the Basic Pack), but showering could be a shopping expedition, there’s space to spare. Verdict The Cliff offers an excellent
all-round package with good
clammy experience, with the shower curtain With the bed sections strapped back to
behaving like an amorous shroud! At least the nearside wall (a very simple operation), living space, facilities, and
the on-board fresh water tank holds you can carry a couple of bikes (or even comfort. It also has a remarkable
100-litres, so there shouldn’t be any a tandem), securely inside, and Sunlight amount of storage, both in the garage
stopping for replenishment whilst helpfully provides four tying points in the and habitation area, and excellent
covered with suds! floor. Payload, on the (optional) 3,500kg payload even on the standard 3.300kg
chassis is 835kg, (before upgrades) and chassis. What also distinguishes it from
Phenomenal storage on the standard 3,300kg chassis it’s about other campervans with similar layouts is
Another reason for positioning the bed half 635kg. And that’s not all – there is extra the well-designed kitchen that benefits
way up the walls is the vast storage space storage in the four high-level cupboards from lots of work surface and a large
liberated underneath. Whether carrying a above the bed, a good wardrobe, and fridge in a practical location.
shedload of brochure boxes, a large dog or another overhead locker in the lounge.
Pros
z Fantastic storage
z Good kitchen workspace
z Rail-mounted reading lights
z Good sized, comfortable bed
Cons
z Shower facility a bit tight
z Lack of reading lights for cab seats
z No spare wheel

ONLY BUY THE BEST!
TWIN / SUPREME
TWIN / SUPREME
VANS
BEST VAN CONVERSION OVER £55,000

*Terms and conditions apply
BEST MANUFACTURER OF NEW &

PRE-OWNED MOTORHOMES 2019
WHY CHOOSE ADRIA?

WINNER • 10 YEAR WATER INGRESS WARRANTY* AND FULLY
WINTERISED FOR ALL YEAR USE
GOLD AWARD
BEST MANUFACTURER • ALL MODELS DESIGNED FOR THE UK
OF NEW AND PRE-OWNED MOTORHOMES
(Multi-Dealer)
• 30 DEALERSHIPS AND 90 SERVICE CENTRES IN THE UK
VIEW ALL ADRIA VEHICLES www.adria.co.uk

✓ NO-RISK DIGITAL OFFER
GET YOUR FIRST DIGITAL ISSUE
FOR JUST 99p
Then pay only
£1.99 a month
Plus enjoy all this:

• Download to any device to read when travelling • Live web links
• Get the digital version 3 days before the print version • Environmentally friendly
And much more!
Try it now. Visit

motorhome.ma/cpvndigijuly19
Hillside Birchover Executive | Choosing
Hillside Birchover
Executive
The ideal camper for those who like to travel in style…
T
he Birchover, with its traditional radio with 5in touchscreen and Bluetooth, shown adds £610, but you can upgrade
side kitchen layout, has long been electric windows and mirrors, climatic to the 148bhp (150ps) six-speed manual
Hillside’s best-selling model and, air-conditioning, cruise control, rear parking or seven-speed DSG or 200bhp (204ps)
at this year’s Motorhome Design sensors, automatic dimming rear view TDI engines (DSG with front-wheel drive or
Awards, also scooped the award in mirror, cab Comfort Pack and additional 4Motion all-wheel drive). Then there are all
the ‘Best campervan under £45k’ category. noise suppression, a Category 1 alarm, manner of techy options and driver
For 2019, there’s also a whole range of automatic wipers, leather multi-function assistance features, too.
Birchover models – Classic is the standard steering wheel, front fog and cornering What marks the Executive out over lesser
model, the S is the entry-level version (from lights, stop/start and 16in alloy wheels. Birchovers, though, is its redesigned kitchen.
just £35,995), and the XL is the long- Here, those rims had been upgraded Gone is the usual slight L-shape with the
wheelbase derivative. And now – launched to an impressive-looking set of 20in AEZ deeper section behind the driver including
at the last Motorhome and Caravan Show wheels (£1,395), combined with lowered a swing-out shelving unit that conceals a
at the Birmingham NEC – there’s a flagship suspension (£395) and a full ABT bodykit of front-loading fridge. In its place is a straight
camper, the Birchover Executive. colour-coded front lip spoiler, upper grille run of furniture all along the offside. And,
The top dog from Hillside is based, trim, lower rear spoiler and side skirts, which instead of wood finishes, here you have
appropriately, on a Highline-spec certainly transforms the look of the humble cabinets in a choice of plain colours with
Transporter van, with the 100bhp (102ps) T6 at a further cost of £3,960. Of course, either matt or gloss finish. The furniture is
engine and five-speed manual gearbox as you could go further on the base vehicle, then enhanced with walnut or oak hardwood
standard. Highline trim gives you a DAB too. The metallic Indium Grey paintwork strips. The side galley has a clean look,

Choosing | Hillside Birchover Executive
Hillside Birchover Executive

Base vehicle VW Transporter (T6)
Travel seats 4
Berths 4
Maximum weight 2,800kg
Payload 550kg (estimated)
2.01m
Price from £46,995
CONTACTS
Chequers House, Chequers Lane, Derby
DE21 6AW
hillsideleisure.co.uk
@HillsideLeisure @HillsideCampers
thanks to a completely handleless design – black options. Pleated blinds at the largest campervan manufacturers. Now
the four large drawers all have push-to-open campervan’s side windows are another plus. specialising solely in VW-based vehicles,
catches. The appliances (Thetford hob and At the rear of the conversion, there’s it builds on both the T6 Transporter and
round stainless-steel sink) are hidden under a good-sized boot area, with a corner the larger Crafter van. It converts over 200
a hinged worktop with mottled finish, while wardrobe (with automatic illumination) vehicles per year, as well as building dealer
the rearmost section of counter lifts to reveal and a gas compartment below. Storage of a special campervans for several motorhome
a 40-litre top-loading compressor fridge. portable loo is possible under the back seat, retailers. The firm was founded and is run by
An induction hob is optional. while there are doors from the boot into the brothers, Adrian and Dave Cross, both of
The ever-popular RIB rear seat with under-seat space to accommodate longer whom are campervan owners – Adrian with
adjustable headrests caters for rear loads. Like other Hillside campers, the new Hillside T6, of course, and Dave with a
passengers and converts into a bed (the flagship has European Whole Vehicle Type modified classic VW.
full leather upholstery shown is a £1,500 Approval and National Caravan Council Hillside Leisure sells its campers direct
option). Standard equipment, however, is the approval, too. Diesel heating, a 230V boiler, from its impressively large factory on the
latest, high-quality SCA elevating roof with swivel driver and passenger seats and an outskirts of Derby, where you’ll always
sprung roof bed, making the Birchover external shower are also standard features. find a good selection of campers already
Executive a four-berth camper. The new converted and ready to go. Stock is
pop-top comes with a fully opening The Hillside lowdown predominantly VW T6s, but you’ll see
panoramic front section as well as a choice Hillside has grown rapidly over the last short and long-wheelbases, pop-tops
of canvas colours, including red, blue and decade to become one of the country’s and high-tops, in a great range of colours.

You’re hired! | Cruise America
RV to paradise
Mountaineer and long-distance hiker, Cameron McNeish, swaps
his little red Hyundai campervan for a massive American RV…
WORDS & PHOTOS Cameron McNeish
T
he Sierra Nevada of California must be amongst of the USA at 14,445ft – and then came back two years
the sunniest and balmiest mountain ranges in later to repeat the whole experience again!
the world. In half-a-dozen visits to the area, In between I took part in an American television show
which lies just north and east of Los Angeles, called Anyplace Wild, as a token Scot who could talk with
I’ve experienced one single day of rain. On every enthusiasm about John Muir. We hiked and camped for
other occasion the sun has shone from a cloudless blue the cameras in the Yosemite Valley and Tuolomne areas,
sky, lighting up the granite domes and peaks in an and the highlight was climbing Cathedral Peak – a
otherworldly glow that seems reluctant to dim, a light that wonderfully rugged mountain first climbed by Muir on a
appears to be captured by the white granite walls and Sunday. He likened the experience to attending church,
released gently as day eases into dusk. It’s for good reason hence the mountain’s name.
the Scots-born environmentalist, John Muir, nicknamed the More recently my youngest son, Gregor, who had been
Sierras as the ‘Range of Light.’ on that first foray along the John Muir Trail, thought he’d
“The mighty Sierra, it seemed not clothed with light like to introduce his wife, Sarah, and two young daughters,
but wholly composed of it, like the wall of some celestial Charlotte and Grace, to the delights of the Sierra Nevada
city…” he wrote, a man who had become so infatuated so he suggested nana and papa should join them for a
with the place that he lived in the range’s shadow for the three-week holiday in and around Yosemite.
rest of his life. Of course we couldn’t resist the invitation, although
I can understand that obsession. On our 25th wedding I did have some reservations when he suggested we hired
anniversary my wife, Gina, and I, along with our two sons, a mammoth RV for the trip, a behemoth that would sleep
Gordon and Gregor, spent two weeks backpacking all six of us! I had no idea how I would adapt from my little
through the Yosemite backcountry, climbing mountains, Hyundai i800 campervan...
dodging bears, negotiating wild river crossings and
understanding John Muir’s belief that this place had a Our recreational vehicle
mystical ability to refresh and inspire. “Climb the mountains It was a Ford E450 converted truck from Cruise America
and get their good tidings,” he wrote, “The winds will blow and it was 30 feet in length, which is longer than the
their own freshness into you and the storms their energy, current world long jump record!
while cares will drop off like autumn leaves…” It came complete with its own generator, a Ford V10
engine, 110V roof air-conditioner, a microwave oven and
The pull of Yosemite an LP gas/12V furnace and, much to my surprise, it was a
Two years later Gina, Gregor and I hiked the 220-mile doddle to drive. Despite its size, it still had the basic feel of
John Muir Trail from Yosemite Valley in the north to Mount a campervan, that awareness that you are slightly roughing
Whitney – the highest mountains in the contiguous states it, unlike some of the huge RVs we visited that looked and
One of many fabulous beaches by Lake Tahoe Tandem cycling near Lake Tahoe
32 campervan July 2019

We CAMP RICHARDSON
stayed at 1900 Jameson Beach Road,
South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
camprichardson.com
BROWN’S TOWN CAMPGROUND
219 Wye Road, Bishop, CA 93514
brownscampinggrounds.com
LOWER PINES CAMPGROUND
9000 Southside Drive, Yosemite Valley,
CA 95389 nps.gov/yose
Close up of Vernal Falls
Cruising for a
Snoozing!
Quote
VAN5 Cruising Milestone
for5% OFF
From your first
order
Drive Away Awning
.99
Available in Pole
or Air and Eyebrow
Versions!
£274 The Milestone is available in Standard and Tall
versions in order to it various heights of vehicle.
Also available is the Milestone ‘Pace’ which
features a rain safe canopy over the front entrance.
www.worldofcamping.co.uk
or call to order on 01209 203220
Motorhome & Caravan · Camping Equipment · Awnings · Tents · Coolers & Fridges · Plus much, much more!
Converted 4 BERTH Campervans

Luxury 8 SEAT MPV’s
50

Cruise America | You’re hired!
Cruise America Large RV A 30ft-long

The 'van seven-berth model based on a Ford
E450 truck with a V10 engine and
automatic gearbox. It came complete
with its own generator, a 110V roof air-
conditioner, a microwave, LP gas/12V furnace,
and a washroom. Despite its size, we found it
easy to drive and still campervan-like insofar as
it felt fairly back to basics compared to some
of the huge RVs we saw! Note that us Brits can
legally drive these behemoths in the US on a
regular car licence
What’s included The basic price got us the R
with an estimated mileage of 100 miles per day.
If you go under or over this, you’re refunded/
charged 35 cents per mile. A number of kits are
available to rent, such as a Vehicle Provision Kit
($110) and a Personal Kit ($60)
Costs Prices are from approximately $1,100 for
two weeks for up to seven passengers. However,
prices vary depending on the time of year and
size of vehicle. Cruise America’s prices fluctuate
based on season, location and availability, much
the way airline prices fluctuate
Hire from Cruise America has 133 rental
locations across the United States, Canada and
Alaska, and you can book either round trips or
one-way trips from and to any of its depots. If
you can’t be bothered with the hassle of booking
flights, transfers, hotels and RV rentals yourself,
Worldwide Motorhoming Holidays (from the
Camping and Caravanning Club) can book the
lot for you as one package
CONTACTS
cruiseamerica.com
@CruiseAmericaRV
@CruiseAmerica
worldwidemotorhomingholidays.co.uk
☎ 02476 475340 @worldwidemh
felt more like luxury hotel rooms complete Lake Tahoe straddles the California/
with walk-in showers, standard lamps, Nevada border and since the Nevada
three-piece suites and colour television. As side is wholly dominated by large
well as the Cruise America RV we also hired gambling casinos – not really our cup
an SUV, on the basis that we could park up the of tea – we elected to camp for a few
RV for a number of nights and use the car to nights on the Californian side of the
get around. The combination worked well and border, in South Lake Tahoe. Hiking,
we shared driving the two vehicles between us. biking and swimming in the lake were
Upon collecting the vehicle in San Jose, our our prime objectives. Fire rings on every pitch in the
first stop was the local Walmart where we bought cheap massive campground meant we cooked outside on an
duvets, pillows, some pots and pans and a pile of food. open fire most of the time, and the girls were introduced
During our planning we discovered it was cheaper to to the American delight of 's'mores,’ melted marshallow
buy the bedding and kitchenware than hire it from Cruise on a stick.
America and, while we were at it, we loaded up with We stayed at Lake Tahoe for four nights, delighting in
charcoal for the barbie and enough food and American the natural forests and off-road bike tracks that ran along
craft beers to last us a few days. the shoreline, while Charlotte and Grace went in search
of raccoons and Californian brown bears each evening.
Time to hit the road These beasts maraud the campgrounds every night in
Our first port of call was Lake Tahoe and the drive search of food and, on our very first evening, we came
from San Jose gave us a chance to acclimatise to wide across a raccoon stealing rubbish from one of the bins!
ABOVE Go hug
American roads and make sure the air-con was in good a tree!
working order. To Bishop and Bodie
INSET Our Cruise
The temperature was alarmingly hot to begin with but We loved Tahoe but it was incredibly busy so we weren’t
Americ RV... a
thankfully cooled off slightly as we dropped into the Lake stretch limo of too sad to leave it behind, climb over the mountains and
Tahoe basin, which sits at an elevation of over 6000ft. a campervan head south to the Owens Valley with two destinations in

mind – the town of Bishop where I was keen to make a

pilgrimage to the studio of one of my mountaineering
photography heroes, the late Galen Rowell, and the
abandoned mining town of Bodie.
If you were ever a fan of cowboy movies then the
ghost town of Bodie may stir some memories. Wooden
boardwalks, dusty streets, dilapidated saloons and liquor
stores and, of course, Boot Hill, the local cemetery – it’s all
still there. Lying in a bowl deep in the arid Bodie Hills, just
13 miles off State Highway 395, the mining town of Bodie
was abandoned just after the Second World War but had
been in decline since the beginning of the twentieth
century. The Bodie Railway was abandoned in 1917 and the
last mine finally closed in 1942, due to the War Production
Board shutting down all non-essential gold mines.
Despite what was a gradual decline in population (there
was a population of 10,000 souls at its height) you get a
distinct impression here that folk left suddenly. There are
still items of furniture and suitcases in the hotel, cans of
foodstuffs still line the shelves of the grocery store and the
remains of the Standard Consolidated Mining Company
look as though they could go into production at any
moment. I found it to be a remarkable place, where the
past and the present combine to create a rather unnerving,
eerie atmosphere. While it was fascinating to amble down
the main street in the footsteps of miners, cowboys,
gunfighters and prostitutes, there is little doubt that at its
height of gold production, Bodie epitomized everything that
was rough and rowdy about the wild west. There is a story
about a little girl who was moving from San Francisco to
Bodie with her parents. An entry in her diary can be

interpreted in two ways: “Good, by God, I’m going to
Bodie,” or, Goodbye God, I’m going to Bodie.” With 65
saloons in town and allegedly the same number of brothels,
I suspect it was the latter…
During my years as an editor of outdoor magazines
I had worked with a wonderful American mountain
photographer by the name of Galen Rowell. At the time
Galen was making a considerable name for himself as one
of the world’s leading mountain sports photographers. His
books, People Come Looking, Looking, The Throne Room
of the Mountain Gods and Mountain Light became
bestsellers, and his photographic philosophy inspired
many other photographers throughout the world.
During the eighties he set up a photographic gallery in
his hometown of Bishop, on the east side of the Sierras.
His work was in high demand and he was widely lauded as
the next Ansel Adams. Despite the demands of running a
photo gallery he found the time to continue his love affair
with the mountains of the world. Tragically Galen was killed
in a plane crash on the way home from a photographic
workshop in Alaska in 2002. His wife, Barbara, was also
killed in the crash. Fate is no respecter of reputation.
I had always promised myself that one day I would visit
Galen’s photo gallery in Bishop. I guess it was a kind of

Cameron’s We had heard horror stories about
handover times taking up to half a
verdict thedayhour.
but we were in and out within
The RV we rented wasn’t
new but we had no trouble with it other
than a water drainage issue, which the company
compensated us for.
Be aware that rental prices don’t always
include bedding or kitchen implements. We found
it cheaper to drive to a local Walmart and buy
pots and pans, a kettle and most important of
all, a toaster! We also bought cheap pillows and
duvet, which we handed to a charity shop at the
end of our travels.
All in all, we thought Cruise America was a
great company to deal with and we loved the
whole experience of holidaying in an RV. Having a
seven-berth was ideal for a proper family holiday,
and we had a great time!
pilgrimage, a nod of appreciation to someone I had ABOVE LEFT TO The park that keeps on giving
greatly admired. RIGHT Mammoth We had booked into the Lower Pines campground, not
I quickly found the Mountain Light Gallery, a grand Lakes Eastern far from the starting point of the John Muir Trail at Happy
Sierra; Gregor on
building in Bishop’s main thoroughfare, and was very much Mt Whitney, end of
Isles, and it wasn’t long before nostalgia took a grip on us
looking forward to browsing the photographs, losing the John Muir Trail and saw us hiking uphill on the opening section of the JMT,
myself in the exquisite colour and drama of Galen’s work, along what is colloquially known as the Mist Trail.
LEFT TOP TO
but it wasn’t to be. I was shocked and disappointed to BOTTOM Water vapour from the Nevada and Vernal Falls creates
discover the gallery had closed down earlier in the year. A long- abandoned a damp fog, not unpleasant in the heat of the day, as you
The building, which is still owned by Galen’s son, is truck in Bodie; Gina climb upwards out of Yosemite Valley on the stony track
empty – a shell with ‘For Rent’ notices in the window. on one of the big towards Little Yosemite.
passes JMT
There was an air of pathos about it, a mere emblem of past Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular
glories. By some fluke of fortune I met a man who had BELOW On the natural attractions in the US. Its massive crags like Half
been the Rowell’s next-door neighbour in Bishop and he Mist Trail to Vernal Dome and El Capitan frown down on the forested valley
and Yosemite Falls
told me Galen’s son just couldn’t make the gallery pay. It floor and apparently about four million people visit the
would appear the work of Galen Rowell has dropped from park annually. However, the vast majority of these people
the public radar – another forgotten hero. spend all their time in the six square miles of Yosemite
My disappointment was tempered by the fact we Valley. Perhaps the 4,000-foot climb to get out of
were now heading to Yosemite Valley, something of a the valley and into the Yosemite backcountry puts
paradise for outdoor folk, via a high-level traverse of people off. On the Mist Trail most visitors only hike
the Tioga Pass. as far as the spectacular Vernal Falls before returning
This is the highest road in California and connects to the Valley, which is a pity in some ways because,
the Owens Valley in the east with the city of Fresno in beyond Vernal Falls, the feeling of wilderness is
the west. overwhelming – a glorious sequence of mountain,
The high point of the road tops out at 9943ft before lake, waterfalls and flower-rich meadows.
dropping quickly towards the Yosemite Valley. Constantly I had to be reminded that this was a

ABOVE
CLOCKWISE
xxxxxxxx
BELOW xxxxxxx
family holiday and not a personal hiking trip,

but I did manage to escape for a few walks,
revelling in the natural beauty and solitude
once I had distanced myself from the valley
crowds below.
On one memorable early morning wander
in a side valley called Snow Creek I had
stopped to check my map when I caught a
glimpse of movement out the corner of my eye. Less than
20 metres away I saw the golden brown rump of a bear close encounter with a truly wild animal, particularly a
vanish into the trees, only to reappear a few minutes later. large mammal like a bear, can make us aware of the simple
He was as curious of me as I was of him. We played magic of the moment, an instinctive recognition of the
peek-a-boo for a few minutes – I was desperate to get a existence of order and harmony, and that can be exciting
photo, and he was very wary of me before giving a loud and curiously comforting.
snort of derision and hightailing it back into the woods! I And I needed that reassurance for the remainder of our
knew I wasn’t in any real danger – it’s extremely rare for a holiday. I had made a deal with my two granddaughters –
Caifornian brown bear to attack a human, and I’d had if they did a little bit of backcountry hiking with me then I’d
plenty of experience of brown bears from other trips to spend some time in the shopping malls of Cupertino and
MAIN Half Dome
the Sierras, but nevertheless I completed my hike back to San Jose with them before we flew home!
the Valley on a considerably higher emotional plane. INSET LEFT They’d kept their side of the bargain, it was now up to
TO RIGHT Bear
Natural encounters like that have a mystical ability to encounter in Snow
me to gird my loins, grit my teeth, clutch my wallet and
refresh and inspire you. We are so removed nowadays Creek; Trail to Mt head for the Californian boutiques and parlours of the
from the sights and sounds of the natural world that any Mhitney shopping malls.
Top tips from Worldwide Motorhoming Holidays

The guys and gals at the Camping you check in before you travel. It really speeds stopovers and excursions. And
and Caravanning Club certainly know up the process if we’ve already seen your driving if planning isn’t your strong
their stuff when it comes to planning an licence, passport, etc.” suit, we also offer Escorted
awesome road trip, so we spoke to Lisa Addleton, "When it comes to travel essentials, our quotes Tours, such as our Western
a travel specialist at WorldWide Motorhoming include all the basics like bedding and kitchen Adventure, which takes you on
Holidays to get her top tips on the USA… essentials but if you’re in any doubt of what you’ll a grand journey from the glitz
“You might think a smaller campervan would be need for your trip, speak to one of our travel of Las Vegas then through the rugged wilderness
cheaper to hire than a large RV but this isn’t always specialists. They have first-hand experience and of seven national parks, and along the famous
the case – it’s based on supply and demand so it's can help you with planning every aspect of your Route 66!”
worth checking at the time of booking ”says Lisa. trip. We can help plan your holiday to suit your
“To ensure a smooth handover, we advise that budget, too, from the best vehicles to airline deals, Lisa Addleton

37 DAY ESCORTED MOTORHOME TOUR
03 Sept – 09 Oct 2019 & 08 Sept – 14 Oct 2020. From £5,395*pp including flights
This USA tour offers the best of the west from the glitz of Las Vegas to the breath-taking beauty
of the Grand Canyon and six other National Parks. Along the way visit iconic sights such as
Mount Rushmore and enjoy the opportunity to drive along the famous Route 66. If you are feeling
adventurous speak to our Travel Specialists about extending your stay.
• Two nights hotel stay in Las Vegas • Durango to Silverton train excursion
• Visit seven National Parks including Grand Canyon, • Group Western-style meal in Bryce Canyon
Yellowstone, Zion and Bryce Canyon • Monument Valley truck tour
• Jeep tour and BBQ in Sedona
Visit WORLDWIDEMH.CO.UK/WESTERN-ADVENTURE Call 024 7711 03 7 3

* Price quoted includes flights, motorhome hire (based on 2 sharing), campsite fees, the services of Tour Escorts, some meals and excursions.
Globecar Globescout Plus | Choosing
Globecar Globescout Plus
Spot the difference! Swapping the Fiat base for

a Peugeot makes all the difference to the price…
P
SA (Peugeot Citroën) has made no than the usual Fiat Ducato) and comes with control, cab air-conditioning, radio
secret of its aspiration to grow its a 3,500kg gross weight and 160bhp power preparation, alloy wheels, leather steering
share of the motorhome market output, both superior figures to a standard wheel, cab blinds, Traction Plus and special
significantly. It is now the second Fiat-based Globescout. Yet this model, Solana upholstery. An optional Freedom
largest supplier of base vehicles in which is available only in strictly limited Pack adds an awning, solar panel and DAB
the market Europe-wide with a 15% share, numbers, is priced lower, starting at just radio, leaving little more for you to consider
as well as claiming the fastest growth of any £42,495. Even as shown here, spec’d up adding, except perhaps a reversing camera.
chassis manufacturer in the sector. to suit UK tastes with gas/electric Truma The layout – the European staple of a
More developments are on the way to heating (rather than gas only as is the norm half-dinette lounge, central kitchen and
build on this success, including new Euro on the German market) and CP Plus control washroom and rear transverse bed – is
6d engines later this year, along with an panel, colour-coded bumpers, awning light carried over unchanged. The Plus model
enhanced assistance package and a new and the kit to make a third berth in the can also be specified with the standard
factory-fitted Alpine sat-nav option. lounge, the price is a highly competitive washroom seen here or with the expanding
However, many of the motorhome marques £44,245. What you get for that is basically a tambour door and centrally positioned
turning to Peugeot and Citroën seem to be Globescout on a different (aesthetically and shower. Like most rivals, the right-hand
doing so based on price. Certainly, that’s the engine-wise but not dimensionally) base drive Globescout Plus has its sliding door
case here. The Globescout Plus is based on vehicle. The specification also includes (complete with full flyscreen) on the offside.
a six-metre Peugeot Boxer panel van (rather metallic paint and the Plus Pack of cruise The front lounge comes with a wall-

Choosing | Globecar Globescout Plus

Base vehicle Peugeot Boxer
Travel seats 4
Berths 3
Maximum weight 3,500kg
Payload 660kg
2.58m
Price from £42,495
CONTACTS
globecar.co.uk
@GlobecarMotorhomesUK
@GlobecarUK
mounted table with circular, swing-out window, swivel loo, large oval stainless-steel The Globecar lowdown
extension leaf and chromed edging strip. basin, a roof vent and a shower tray (with Globecar (and its sister brand, Pössl) is
Pleated blinds and net curtains are fitted, twin drains) hidden under a false floor. number one in the van conversion market
along with a reading light that can be Remove that and headroom increases from in Germany and offers a wide range of
repositioned at will along its rail. There are 1.76m to 1.87m. Finally, the transverse high-top campers based on medium-sized,
no spotlights in the cab, though. double bed measures 1.95m by 1.45m (max) long and extra-long vans.
The angled galley unit makes a surprising and narrows slightly towards the nearside. Globecar currently has half a dozen
difference to the feeling of space and It has a foot-hole step to aid access and, on dealers around the UK.
comes with the usual two-burner hob and the offside is an opening window, along with Dicksons of Perth and Highland
sink (separate units with glass covers), as well two rail-mounted adjustable reading lights, Campervans in Scotland, JC Leisure in the
as a folding worktop extension. The two but the cupboards above prevent sitting up. southeast and Southwest Motorhomes, who
super-sized drawers can be replaced by Underneath, the gas locker is on the are based Somerset. Then there’s Signature
smaller ones if the optional oven is fitted. nearside, while the 100-litre water tank Motorhomes in Preston and Globecar
Then, alongside, is a basic 80-litre three- is built-in on the offside and in between is importer, SMC Motorhomes, in Newark,
way fridge with push-button gas ignition, a 1.35m by 0.91m space (0.78m high) with Nottinghamshire.
above which is a small wardrobe with tie-down hooks. This area can be increased For aftersales support when you’re on
front-to-rear hanging rail. to a full-height garage by folding the bed tour, it’s worth noting that Globecar has
The washroom comes with an opening away, too. dealers right across Europe.

sponsored by
From Only £42,495
WINNER Van Conversion under £45,000
The Globescout Plus is based on the popular 5.99 metre Your nearest Dealers:
Peugeot Boxer & comes with a whole range of All Inclusive
Equipment as standard but at a Special Price of £42,495 • Signature Motorhomes
• SMC Motorhomes
Newark, Nottinghamshire Preston, Lancaashire
• 160 Bhp Engine, 3.5 Ton Chassis
• LED Daytime Running Lights
• Southwest Motorhomes • Dicksons of Perth
• Cruise Control
Illminster, Devon Perth, Scotland
• Traction +
• Alloy Wheels with Tyre Pressure Sensors
• Metallic Paintwork • Higland Campervans
• Leather Steering Wheel Inverness, Highlands
• Softlocking Lock Assist
• Special Upholstery ‘ Solana ‘
www.globecar.co.uk
Enjoying | Arran
The hills are alive with the

Sound of music
Carol and Anthony find plenty of

their favourite things while exploring
the lovely Scottish Isle of Arran…
WORDS & PHOTOS Carol Kubicki
Walking up the stunning Glen Sannox

D
oh! Anthony said as he stood in something
soft. ‘A deer,’ I quipped, ‘A female deer,’
with apologies to Rodgers and
Hammerstein, and The Simpsons.
Lochranza is the first campsite I have stayed
at where a morning duty for the staff is sweeping up
deer droppings and they must have missed some!
The hills are alive

The gorgeous village of Lochranza is on the north
coast of the Isle of Arran and red deer hang around
the village, doze on the golf course and potter around
the campsite. If you have never seen red deer then
Lochranza is the place to be and easily tick off one
of the Arran ‘big five’ (red deer, red squirrel, golden
eagle, otter and common seal).
We had stood on deck in the sunshine during the
55-minute crossing from Ardrossan to Brodick on
Arran looking for basking sharks and dolphins but
contenting ourselves with guillemots and gannets
and views to Goat Fell, the island’s highest point.
Lochranza proved to be a spectacular place to
start our Arran exploration. On our first evening we
wandered around the bay in evening sunshine, finding
the stunningly situated ruined castle and rows of pretty
cottages around the bay. Along with the almost tame
deer the bay was alive with curlews, oystercatchers
and squawking herons on the mud flats.
High on a hill
Climbing Goat Fell was at the top of our list of things
to do. We parked opposite the Arran brewery and
followed the clear woodland path out to open
moorland with fantastic views all the way. Above
Coire Lan the route has a final steep pull up to the
summit that was tiring and sweaty. We stopped to
chat to a group with a tiny dog that was exhausted
and refusing to go any further uphill, however much
they coaxed and called encouragingly. As we carried
on I looked back and the dog was still curled on a
rock and refusing to budge!
It had been a great walk but I was unprepared
for the drama of the breathtaking rugged mountain
scenery that opens up on Goat Fell’s summit. A curve
of precipitous craggy ridges enclose Glen Rosa far
below, it is awesome and thrilling. For five minutes I
drank it in and then clouds drifted across and patchily
enveloped the mountains, creating changing vistas.
The clouds billowed and flowed over the ridges and
looking across to the peak of Cir Mhor they had
created a breathtaking sight; while the facing slopes
were clear, the eastern face was a white-out and
three figures were silhouetted against this milky-white
abyss. I felt fortunate to enjoy such a spectacular day
on the hills.
Descending the same way I realised what excellent
marketing it is to put your brewery at the bottom of
a popular mountain path. A swift half of the local ale
was certainly welcome.
Ray, a drop of golden sun

We woke to blue skies the next day but were
determined to have a more restful day after the

Enjoying | Arran
rigours of the mountain. We caught the bus to Sannox the shore of Loch Ranza. If the number of memorial
and crossed the stepping stones to follow the 12-mile benches is the indicator of how popular a place is then
long coastal path back to Lochranza. In the sunshine the Arran wins hands down; every car park, viewpoint and
walk began as a glorious and easygoing walk, colourful village has a cluster.
with flowers and busy with butterflies. We watched
gannets diving torpedo-like into the sea and cormorants Unpredictable as weather
perched on rocks spreading their wings. A group of A misty morning revealed Arran in a different mood and
children out pony trekking clopped by. this slowed us down and gave us a real rest day. We
We walked under stunted trees, explored one of the started by ticking off number two as a red squirrel
many caves and fruitlessly searched the sea for seals and ABOVE We darted from under the campervan next door, flying
otters. On a sandy path along a bay I stopped dead in spotted a small out of sight beneath our ‘van. This didn’t stop us sitting
my tracks; in front of me was an adder. I turned and called copper butterfly quietly in the red squirrel hide in the grounds of the
Anthony who was birdwatching behind but when I looked near Sannox towering red sandstone Brodick Castle, patiently watching
back it had disappeared in to the bracken. Unfortunately RIGHT the chaffinches on the bird feeders while we waited for
adders aren’t in the Arran big five! CLOCKWISE We the squirrels to show up. I had almost given up when two
We easily climbed over the boulders called Fallen Rocks watched the sun set appeared, scampering quickly from the trees to the
behind the Mull of
but the tangle of large coastal slabs further on were trickier Kintyre from our
squirrel feeder. This clever contraption is a glass jar resting
and required some scrambling. I stopped often to rest and wild camping spot; on its side on a platform and filled with nuts. This means
gaze down in to the clear blue sea. The cutely named Fairy Clever red squirrel we could watch the squirrels picking a nut and elegantly
Dell, a pretty beach with a cottage, was a welcome sight feeder at Brodick nibbling before bolting away. Five minutes later a third
Castle; Red deer
that looked more like the Mediterranean than Scotland. squirrel scurried over the logs and leapt up to the feeder
like to watch the
We paddled to cool off our warm feet, careful to avoid the golf at Lochranza only to find that inside was a chaffinch looking for an
many orange-coloured lion’s mane jellyfish, and sat on the alternative to bird seed. It is difficult to know who was
BELOW Beautiful
warm rocks to dry. more surprised. The chaffinch bounced up, its wings
bay at Lochranza
On the final leg to the campsite I stopped to read with its picture hitting the sides of the jar and the squirrel rocketed
the dedications on each of the memorial benches along perfect castle backwards in fright!
Our 'van 2015 Renault

Master MWB
CONVERSION
TYPE Devon Tempest
devonconversions.co.uk
OWNED SINCE 2015
LAYOUT Rear kitchen and
bathroom with twin sofas in
the front lounge that
convert to single beds
TRAVEL SEATS/BERTHS
3/2
WHAT WE L♥VE ABOUT
IT What we really love about
having a campervan is being
able to pull over at a special
viewpoint and put the kettle
on. With the big sliding
doors open, sitting on the
side-facing sofa with our feet
up, there’s no better place to
be than in our camper!
46 campervan July 2019

We found the misty weather was perfect for strolling
along the many village promenades. While sauntering
at Corrie to see the three amusing sheep statues on the
harbour wall that are used to tie up boats we were excited
to spot an otter fishing off the rocky shore (number three).
A carved wooden seal on a boulder at Corrie had me
fooled the first time I spotted it but having coffee by the
shore nearby we watched two grey seals (not common
seals, so not one of the big five) balancing on rocks,
occasionally doing a bit of seal yoga. A family arrived and
the children struggled to make out the seals until Anthony
shared his binoculars.
At Whiting Bay we watched dippers among the rocks
where the burn meets the sea and we window shopped in
the gift shops of Lamlash. As the weather cleared we hiked
Plan TOURIST INFORMATION visitarran.com
up to the Giants‘ Graves, two Neolithic burial cairns, and your trip TRAVEL calmac.co.uk
on to Glenashdale Waterfall, a double-drop waterfall that
has a suspended protruding viewpoint. I walked along this EXPLORE For hiking routes walkhighlands.co.uk
gingerly, determined to get to the end but feeling safer if and for megalithic sites megalithic.co.uk
I went slowly!
Pea soup
We found a perfect wild camping spot close to Lamlash
and sat outside in the evening sunshine looking over the
bulk of Holy Island that dominates the bay, watching a seal
(probably grey) and an otter. Curlews whistled around us
and a yacht sailed peacefully by into the harbour.

The spot was ideal for two campervans and we were
happy to share it with another ‘van. We chatted to our
neighbours and they told us they had been there a few
days before with four other motorhomes, one of which
had run a generator into the evening. I looked at the
parking area trying to imagine squashing five ‘vans in it
and on our tranquil evening considered how I would have
coped with the antisocial chugging of a generator.
It was so misty at Kildonan the foghorn at the lighthouse
on Pladda Island, just off the coast, was hauntingly
sounding a warning to shipping. We walked along the
strung-out village seafront watching the gulls and waders
and a family flying kites over the waves. The hotel next to
the Kildonan campsite has a bar with sea views and was
doing a roaring trade. In the swirling fog the views to the
distinctive shape of Ailsa Crag about 13 miles to the south
and Pladda’s lighthouse were intermittent.
Tea, a drink with jam and bread

The sun returned the next morning as we drove through
Kilmory, stopping at the creamery cheese shop, and
around to the west coast and Blackwaterfoot, a pretty
village with a tiny harbour, a hotel, a butcher and a baker.
The perfect accompaniment to the cheese is excellent
Arran bread and the bakery has been producing this and
other goodies for three years. We bought a tasty loaf and
some of the best brownies money can buy to enjoy with
a brew later on.
July 2019 campervan 47

Enjoying | Arran
The group of six stone circles at Machrie Moor are a

fantastic collection, well worth visiting for their variety and
impressive positioning, with views along the valley to Goat
Fell. There are circles of low-lying stones, some impressive
stones up to 16 feet tall and rings of different sizes. One
circle is set on a rise and there are two small rings that
appear to be conjoined. As we walked I mused that
Machrie Moor felt like a Neolithic stone circle showroom,
perhaps customers browsed and salespeople pushed the
latest styles.
Along this quieter coastline we found a faultless place
to overnight next to the sandy and pebbly shore and we
didn’t have to share it with anyone. We sat on the beach
listening to the lapping waves and watching the sun turn
orange as it disappeared behind the Mull of Kintyre.
Climb every mountain

The sunshine continued and we wanted to finish on a
high and spend the last day of our week on Arran in the
mountains. We set off up Glen Sannox planning to walk
up The Saddle and Cir Mhor. The well-made path climbs
gradually upwards into the steep-sided amphitheatre of
the glen, following the tumbling burn. This is a beautiful
Scottish glen and worth walking for its own sake, with
panoramic views that include the pointed peak of Cir We LOCHRANZA CARAVAN AND CAMPING SITE
Lochranza KA27 8HL arran-campsite.com
Mhor. The heather was in flower and we watched buzzards
but no golden eagles.
stayed at SEAL SHORE CAMPING Kildonan KA27 8SE
At the head of the glen we crossed the stepping stones campingarran.com
and began climbing steeply up to The Saddle. Looking MIDDLETON’S CARAVAN & CAMPING PARK Cordon,
back from the sheer mountainside we had views out to the Lamlash KA27 8NN middletonscamping.com
sea and the Scottish mainland. We were high enough to
watch a kestrel hovering below us, its wings golden in the
sunshine. As the obvious path petered out we negotiated
a number of steep rock steps running with water before
reaching a precipitous craggy gully. About halfway up ABOVE The stone That evening we sauntered around Lamlash Bay and
the gully at a large rock step I climbed to a point where circles at Machrie sat on a bench watching the fish jumping for insects. Two
I couldn’t find anything stable enough to be able to pull Moor are people in kayaks paddled by, others strolled on the beach
or push myself over the final bulk of the rock, one of the beautifully situated and young people were leaping off the pier into the sea.
many downsides of being only 5ft 3in. They say that BELOW LEFT We had enjoyed exploring Arran, even though we had
knowing when to retreat is an important hillwalking skill TO RIGHT only seen three of the ‘big five’.
and this mountain had decided today wasn’t the day I The 19th century We had driven almost every inch of the roads and found
Brodick Castle sits
would get to the top. Descending the loose and steep in woodland; A
a varied landscape of challenging mountains, historical
path was tricky and tiring and we were ready for our late sheltered corner sites and beautiful beaches. Next time we’ll take the easier
picnic when we once again reached the delightful glen. of Loch Ranza route up Cir Mhor!

Come and see us on tour:
9 - 11 July
Where
do you
want to
go today?
Come and see the best selection of new & used motorhomes in the North
see our full range of FIAT and VW motorhomes at ihmotorhomes.com
CALL NICOLA ON 07811 360772 OR 01977 677118 TO ARRANGE A

05-Oct-12 VIEWING WITH THE ONLY AUTHORISED IH DEALER IN THE UK
UKAS ihmotorhomes
ity
UK
AT OUR FACTORY SHOWROOM: IH MOTORHOMES, GREAT

PRODUCT
A
or
CERTIFICATION
pp h
roval Aut
Certificate Number 10005
ISO 9001
NORTH ROAD, KNOTTINGLEY, WEST YORKSHIRE WF11 0BS

Enjoying | Campervan community
campervan
community
We take a look at what's been rockin' your weird
and wonderful campervan world this month...
Campervanner of the month

I recently took out a
subscription to Campervan
magazine even though I
haven‘t got a campervan!
I find some of the It’s a dog’s life
campers that you review so Millie, starting the day off with a read
much bigger than what I through Campervan!
imagined a campervan to be Millie, Facebook
– except for their shape, are
they not just motorhomes?
I love the stories of the
smaller, older campers that
don't have every modern
convenience inside and
I really liked the story in
the last issue of Campervan
about the Subaru Sambar by Lorain breakdown cover is high on my list, just
Behrens. I have wanted a campervan for in case − you never know!
the last five years, but my husband wants Michele, email
nothing to do with the hassle and expense
that he thinks will come with the ED We often get asked what the official
ownership of an old campervan. definition of a campervan is, and how it
Anyway, I decided in my sixtieth year differs from a motorhome…
(this year!) that I was getting one. After One key difference is the construction
weeks of looking, I finally found a 1993 process. Coachbuilt motorhomes are
pop-top Renault Trafic that I liked and built in the same way as coaches, so
was in my budget and not on the a manufacturer will take a chassis and
opposite side of the country from me. I build the whole motorhome onto it. By
went to see it and thought, yes, I will have
it. Two days before I was going to collect
contrast, campervan converters take vans
and modify the lot, cutting out holes for Spotted!
it, the company phoned to say that they windows, etc. We spotted this very cool little camper at
had gone to move it and the gears Another consideration is size as, the National Motorhome and Campervan
weren‘t working correctly (I hadn’t paid typically, campervans are smaller than Show. Who needs a Smart car when you
for it yet, don‘t worry). Anyway, it turned motorhomes. There is some crossover could have one of these?
out when they checked it over that it will as you do get the odd small coachbuilt
need a recon gearbox, which would be motorhome while large panel van
replaced at their expense. I thought, well conversions are comparable in length and
at least that will be one less job to do in layout to motorhomes. However, because
the future. Luckily, my husband didn’t say of the construction process, panel van
what he thought! campers are still a lot narrower than
So hopefully I will soon be the proud motorhomes, meaning they can go places
owner of my first campervan. I know that a motorhome can’t. Some people also
it will need a bit of love, but I hope it will argue that it’s where you go and what you
give me lots of fun before any more do with your ’van that defines you as a
problems, although sorting out campervanner or motorhomer…

Summit special
I really enjoyed Peter Rosenthal's review
campervan
Warners Group Publications, The
of the Lowdhams Wellhouse Summit Maltings, West Street, Bourne,
campervan in last month‘s issue. We’ve Lincolnshire PE10 9PH
had our Wellhouse Terrier (Bob) for two
years and we love absolutely everything Editorial
about it, especially all the clever storage. Publisher Fleur Chivers 01778 392071
But Peter said the stylish curved pull-out
Head of Content Daniel Attwood
cupboard was only useful for spice jars...
so we thought we'd send you a picture Editor Geneve Brand
of ours in action… Subbing Wendy Pennycook
We use it for little jars of jam,
Our designer, Claire, (the real brains Design Claire Honeywood
marmalade, honey, washing-up liquid,
salt, pepper, sandwich bags, bin bags, behind Campervan magazine!) spotted this
in her sister-in-law’s garden. Apparently Advertising
cooking oil, sauces, mini dilute juices, G
made by her very talented brother-in-law Group Head of Advertising
and T cans, other mixer cans, sun cream,
from driftwood collected on the beach… Fleur Chivers 01778 392071
hand sanitiser, WD40, insect repellent,
mints, sweets.... and, OK, a couple of it gets lovingly put away every winter and Account Manager
spice jars! Cheers! put back out again every spring, after a Zellah Knowles 01778 392093
Russ, email good rub down with some oil...
Multimedia Sales Executive
Sue Bullock 01778 391079
Parks Sales Manager
Ashleigh Chadwick 01778 392050
Lost & found Parks Sales Executive
Team Campervan were Connor Jackson 01778 392057
recently out and about Advertising Production & Design
testing the Campster, and Kate Goulding, Viv Lane and
we asked you to guess Chloe Ringrow
where we were. Incorrect Distribution 01778 391171
guesses included Hardwick
Hall and Bletchley. Printed by Warners Midlands plc
But well done to Kez on 01778 395111
Facebook who correctly
Marketing
identified it as Kelham Hall.
Brand Manager
He loved it back in the day
Lucie Cox 01778 395016
when they used to host a
VW show there…
How to subscribe
Digital subscription pocketmags.com or
for print subscriptions call 01778 392019
© Warners Group Publications 2019. All rights

reserved. No part of this magazine may be
reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or
transmitted in any form or by any means without
prior permission. While we welcome written
enquiries we regret we cannot offer advice on a
personal basis. While every care is taken with
unsolicited material submitted for publication,
we cannot be responsible for loss or damage.
The views expressed by contributors are not
necessarily those of the publishers. Every care is
taken to ensure that the content of this
magazine is accurate, but we assume no
responsibility for any effect from errors or
omissions. While every care is taken when
accepting advertisements, we cannot take
responsibility for unsatisfactory transactions.
Out there!
First fab vanlife trip with the boys! Loving the Lake District
Ruth, Twitter
Have you got any interesting campervan

Share stories to tell? We'd love to hear from you! 


Enjoying | Campervan community
Competition
To be in with a chance of winning a Vango 3m AirBeam Sun Canopy worth £150, we asked
you to show us your photos of your favourite place to camp…
This
month's
winner
Ã Monstay Farm Campsite near Ludlow.

It's a lovely farm site, right in the middle of
Mortimer Forest in Shropshire. We took A hard choice but our favourite has to be storm, has left us favouring campervan
our tent for the first time in 2017 during a north Devon. adventures nowadays.
red hot July weekend and had a fab time Sun, sea, surf… but a 3am drive home We just need the right gear now!
stargazing at night and playing in the river once, after the tent was destroyed in a Jen, Twitter
in Ludlow during the day.
Paul, email
Á My favourite place to camp is the
beautiful Orkney islands, but in reality,
anywhere with Doodle the van dog!
Amanda, email
Â The Lake District – the scenery is stunning.

We also have a neat set-up, and love nothing
more than cooking on our little stove!
Hannah, email
My favourite place has to be Playa la

Carolina near Águilas in Spain. It even
has three bars on the beach
Steve, email Ä We just love the family camping
events. I especially loved the Top of the
Gorge Festival last year with physical
activities for the kids and, best of all,
my dog could come along, too!
Philippa, email
What’s the best thing about being in a campervan?

To be in with a chance of winning a pair of Vango California 56oz
sleeping bags worth £70, share your thoughts and memories with us
 campervan@warnersgroup.co.uk @Campervanmag
Win
@Campervan_Mag using #campervanstories
*Terms & conditions apply. See:
outandaboutlive.co.uk/information/competition-terms

Award winning family business
located in Somerset
Now over 50 years
Located near Burnham-on-Sea just off the M5 junction 22, Highbridge Caravan Centre Ltd, A38 Bristol Road, Highbridge, TA9 4EX
A Huge Choice of New & Used Motorhomes on Show from top brands including...
New & Used Van Conversions currently available Updated 28/05/2019
2000 Volkswagen Transporter T4 ................... Volkswagen 2,461CC Sleeps 2 .......................... £15,995

2003 Mercedes Vito Conversion ..................... Mercedes ... 2,300CC Sleeps 2 .......................... £17,995
2005 Adria Twin ................................................ Fiat .............. 2,300CC Sleeps 3 .......................... £19,995
2008 Olympic HI Top ........................................ Vauxhall...... 2,464CC Sleeps 2 .......................... £23,995
2013 Arrow Campers Traic Conversion ....... Renault ....... 1,995CC Sleeps 4 .......................... £24,995
2005 Auto-Sleepers Trident ............................. Volkswagen 2,461CC Sleeps 4 .......................... £24,995
2008 Timberland Endeavour ........................... Renault ....... 2,464CC Sleeps 2 .......................... £27,995
2011 Volkswagen California SE ....................... Volkswagen 1,968CC Sleeps 4 .......................... £34,995
2013 Volkswagen Highline T5 .......................... Volkswagen 1,968CC Sleeps 4 .......................... £34,995
2017 Volkswagen Danbury Trail...................... Volkswagen 1,968CC Sleeps 4 .......................... £36,995
2017 Autocruise Select 144 ............................. Fiat .............. 2,287CC Sleeps 3 .......................... £39,995
2018 Dreamer D55 FUN ................................... Fiat .............. 2,300CC Sleeps 2 .......................... £40,800
2016 Dreamer Select D55 ................................ Fiat .............. 2,300CC Sleeps 2 .......................... £42,621
2014 Auto-Sleepers Warwick XL ...................... Peugeot ...... 2,198CC Sleeps 2 .......................... £42,995
2015 Auto-Sleepers Stanway ........................... Fiat .............. 2,287CC Sleeps 2 .......................... £42,995
2019 Chausson Twist V594 .............................. Fiat .............. 2,300CC Sleeps 3 .......................... £43,486
2019 Lunar Lerina ............................................. Toyota......... 1,997CC Sleeps 4 .......................... £43,540
2015 Auto-Sleepers Warwick XL ...................... Peugeot ...... 2,198CC Sleeps 2 .......................... £44,995
2019 Lunar Lerina ............................................. Toyota......... 1,999CC Sleeps 4 .......................... £46,270
2018 Dreamer D43 FUN ................................... Fiat .............. 2,300CC Sleeps 2 .......................... £47,300
2019 Swift Select 122 ........................................ Fiat .............. 2,300CC Sleeps 2 .......................... £48,725
2019 Dreamer Select Cap Land ....................... Ford ............ 2,000CC Sleeps 4 .......................... £48,970
2018 Adria Twin 600 SP Titan .......................... Fiat .............. 2,300CC Sleeps 4 .......................... £49,995
2019 Rapido Van V43........................................ Fiat .............. 2,300CC Sleeps 3 .......................... £50,095
2019 Chausson Twist V697 .............................. Fiat .............. 2,300CC Sleeps 3 .......................... £50,327
2019 Dreamer D68 ........................................... Fiat .............. 2,300CC Sleeps 3 .......................... £52,840
2018 Hymer Car Ayers Rock ............................ Fiat .............. 2,300CC Sleeps 4 .......................... £53,995
2019 Wildax Aurora Leisure XL ....................... Citroen ........ 2,000CC Sleeps 3 .......................... £54,895
Figures correct 25/04/19
we want your... Huge choice of motorhomes*

Online Shop
motorhome
call: 01278 764807
141 128 FREE delivery on orders
over £100
used
P/X And Finance Available subject to status Go online today, our used stock is updated daily
01278 764807 Open 7 Days a Week

motorhomesales@highbridgecaravans.co.uk www.highbridgecaravans.co.uk/Campervan
Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this advert, however it is intended as a general guide only and must not be taken as binding.
Highbridge Caravan Centre Ltd reserve the right to alter speciications and prices detailed on this advert at anytime without prior notice.
Highbridge Caravan Centre Ltd, A38 Bristol Rd, Highbridge, Somerset TA9 4EX
Dave A drive with
Lorain sets off in search of

Lorraine, with Dave, her
Subaru Sambar campervan…
WORDS & PHOTOS Lorain Behrens
A
fortnight after buying my dream camper, I was
devastated after said ‘van, named Dave, broke down
and we were separated while he spent four months
in a garage waiting for parts from Japan. It was
spring 2018 by the time we were reunited.
I've always loved the seaside, so I set off with high hopes
to the west coast in gorgeous sunshine. As usual, I had no
particular plan of where I was going or where I would stay.
I meandered through the Forest of Bowland from
Clitheroe up to Morecambe then on to Bolton-le-Sands
near Carnforth, where I found a small campsite.
And finally, one of my dreams came true: to be able to
lie in a campervan and see the stars through the glass roof.
That was extraordinary and actually made me cry! I was
close to tears again after spending a bitterly cold and
wakeful night, having been woefully unprepared for the
drop in temperature. My sleeping arrangements were
pathetic – the mattress deflated and I slept fitfully on
the hard base, being poked by seatbelt holders!
A month later I tried again, this time on the east coast.
Living near Leeds, it's not long before you can get out into
glorious countryside and I was full of the joys of life as
Dave and I trekked past York, up to Malton, through
Pickering and into Whitby. I carried on up the coast
roads past Sandsend, Saltburn-by-the-Sea and finally to
Marske-by-the-Sea where, according to the Park4Night Alamy.com
app, I could wild camp. Wonderful. I was able to indulge in
one of my hobbies of fossil hunting and was delighted with
a particular discovery of a stone that broke open to reveal BELOW LEFT where we ate pizza, drank gin, and watched the sun going
a tiny but perfectly formed ammonite... TO RIGHT Good down over the sea. Having a few drinks certainly helped
m'awning!; Dave
Initially, I was uncomfortable about being here alone and Chris in the
with the getting to sleep, although waking in the early
but it wasn't long before other campervans turned up, gypsy caravan hours for a wee and finding that the mattress had deflated
including a large red wagon containing a husband and yet again was not a pleasant experience!
wife who invited me into their luxury home-from-home
Nothing really mattress
Undeterred, I set off the following month to
a v-dub event in Newark. After an afternoon
wandering around the stalls, chatting to the
only other Subaru Sambar owner there, and
dodging heavy thunderstorms, I set off to
find a campsite and ended up at Birchwood
Caravan Park at Whatstandwell (what a great
name!) By this time, I had figured out that the
seats in the ‘van actually folded down to
create a sort of bed. Maybe I didn't need a
mattress after all, I thought. It turned out I did
and I spent another uncomfortable night...
Fourth time lucky. This time I had an awning,
bought for £30 off eBay. To collect, I had to

A campervan without a plan | Enjoying
go to Barnsley, and decided to try it out for the night ABOVE Fishing awning up alone and in 20 minutes this time, and
somewhere in the Peak District. My campsite was in boats at the beach was soon happily sitting inside it with a glass of wine.
in Marske-by-the-
Crowden, somewhere between Manchester and It wasn't long before other campers came over to chat
Sea
Huddersfield. and I subsequently spent a lovely evening with Colin and
I wanted to put the awning up by myself but struggled, BELOW I found Jenny, and Jenny's sister, Rhona, who plied me with drink,
this ammonite
and allowed a man to come to the rescue! Robert and his inside a stone at
potatoes, coleslaw, tomatoes and bread and butter!
wife, Lisa, were staying in their caravan for the weekend Marske-by-the-Sea I also chatted to Dave (no, not the van!), celebrating his
and it was good to have some company and conversation seventy first birthday, and his wife, Chris, staying in a gypsy
for the evening. The site owner offered pizzas and the one caravan that the site owner had made himself.
I ordered was fantastic – something about eating in the I spent a much better night on a bed with foam
open air, sharing the experience with fellow campers, cushions, a yoga mat and a dog mattress. Still some room
makes food taste even better. for improvement, but not much! The next morning, the
The next evening, I stayed on a campsite run by a jolly campsite owner beckoned me over to his reception hut
chap at Market Rasen. When I had called on the off where a lukewarm mug of coffee, complete with a
chance of there being a space, I haggled by asking dead fly, was waiting for me.
not to have to pay more than £10 (tiny van, no electric
hook-up… shouldn't cost much!) “Anything else?“ The escape pod
asked the chap on the phone. “Oh, a coffee in the Dave continued to run well, albeit slowly. I remained
morning would be nice!“ I joked. incredibly anxious that something would go wrong
I was directed to a field beyond the main one and or drop off. I was on edge all the time, yet mixed with
again had it more or less to myself. I managed to put the a joyous thrill of being in my little escape pod. I was

Plan your 2019 touring holiday
now at premier-parks.co.uk
the ultimate collection of
100 finest campsites
Holgates Silverdale
Lancashire
Long Acres
Hurley Riverside
Hawthorn Farm Dornafield Lincolnshire
Berkshire Devon
Kent
@PrmParks @PremierParks @premier_parks

A campervan without a plan | Enjoying
That was how I ended up 'camping' on Bert and Martine's driveway formulate a vague plan to try to get to the
region of Lorraine. First, though, I wanted
next to their fabulous, modernistic house on the outskirts of Bruges to see Bruges.
desperate to get off and realise my ambition of driving In Bruges

in Europe so, come July, I jumped in with both feet and Just before I set off on my adventure, I had emailed a
booked my journey on the Eurotunnel at Folkestone. Bruges family who offer their garden to campers. This
Recording my trials and tribulations in an occasional was through a website called ‘Camp in my garden’ but it
diary, I admit that I am terrified. Terrified of breaking down appeared to be in quite a poorly administered state and
on some isolated French road; terrified of going off by claimed to have a Facebook page, although it didn't – so
myself; terrified of the great unknown. Despite the it was no surprise that I didn't receive a reply from the
naysayers who joked they would bet on me not even Bruges family...
getting as far as London, I was determined to at least try. I was still keen to visit Bruges, nonetheless, and decided
I was finally about to embark on the realisation of a dream: that I would cross the bridge of finding somewhere to stay
to be able to get off this island and tour Europe. when I came to it. I had a fleeting look at what seemed to
I had no plans at all when I set off, other than to get be the centre and gazed at the bell tower featured in the
across the Channel to Calais. Then I was just going to see film In Bruges, then went back to the ‘van. I was about to
how it went, staying on campsites or aires, or sleeping out set off when a woman stopped to chat and then a man on
in the wild. I had a camping app on my phone, a sat-nav, a bike also stopped, having spotted Dave. He turned out
various documents and necessities, and the whole world in to be the person I had emailed about his garden! Now
front of me. How long Dave would survive, I had no idea, Bruges isn't a huge city but it still has many cycle routes…
only breakdown cover. Even getting from Leeds to the What were the chances of Bert happening to be on the
Folkestone terminal would be an achievement! road on which I had parked? I don't know. Coincidence,
I had actually planned ahead for the first night and had fate, or, as my cousin commented, the universe was
booked a spot on a campsite in Calais. A British couple a looking out for me. So that was how I ended up ‘camping‘
BELOW The couple of bays down came over to chat and I ended up on Bert and Martine's driveway next to their fabulous,
beautiful city sitting with Carl and Lorraine in their sizeable campervan modernistic house on the outskirts of Bruges.
of Bruges called Harvey (RV, explained Carl when I looked blank). Martine invited me to join her and friends for a drink
INSET Parked up I took the fact that I had met someone on the first night that evening, which turned out to involve a three-mile
at Saponay with the same first name as me as an omen, and started to bicycle ride into the centre. I hadn't cycled for a couple of
My 'van 1993 Subaru Sambar

CONVERSION TYPE Japanese
TRAVEL SEATS 5
BERTHS Room for a mattress, not much else
import, classic VW replica WHAT I L♥VE ABOUT IT I’d always
OWNED July 2016 to November 2018 dreamed of exploring Europe in a
campervan and sleeping under the stars
LAYOUTABOVE
Swivelling cab seats! – Dave allowed me to fulfil that ambition!
xxxxxx

Enjoying | A campervan without a plan
ABOVE years but the Flemish bikes are so easy to ride, and road Wars, but of Joan of Arc's troubles with the English and,
CLOCKWISE awareness for cyclists is so excellent that it was a joy to be likewise, trouble with the English again at Agincourt.
Romagne-Sous- on two wheels. A drink also transpired to mean boozing I suppose thoughts of Joan had been in the back of
Montfaucon
from about 5pm in the outdoor fish market with food my mind – indeed, I have held a slight fascination of the
cemetery; The
incredible artwork stalls, and two incredible singers in a huge and constantly young woman for a large part of my life. I used to kid
by Maarten Vanden growing crowd! Bert and Martine’s many friends all myself that we had similarities – Joan was born in the
Eynde; Rotterdam appeared to be there, equally as friendly and welcoming region of Lorraine, my given name. She was outspoken
BELOW I enjoyed as my hosts. Ours was the last table still partying at 11pm as (tick), impetuous (tick), and prone to not really thinking a
a spot of lunch at the bar staff attempted to clear up around us. Then it was plan through (tick). I had fiery red hair as a child and a love
Pierrefonds! time to cycle back! of France. However, I have never heard voices, from God
After Bruges I crossed fleetingly into the Netherlands, or elsewhere, telling me to go and conquer.
with a stop in Rotterdam, before heading down towards So as I appeared to be on the road to her birthplace at
Eindhoven. I don't recall the names of the villages I went Domrémy-la-Pucelle, I thought I might as well head there.
through. I seem to remember passing by Liège before However, the sat-nav had other ideas and led me up a
stopping at a little campsite in Esneux. At Libin, I visited a rough chalk hill past acres and acres of fields but little sign
cemetery that appeared at random on my random route. of any civilisation, never mind proper roads. A minor road
I knew there were numerous cemeteries commemorating would lead to an even more minor road, and then onto
both the First and Second World Wars, and I stopped and a dirt track. I had gone from being a big fish in a small
reflected on the horrors of history. country to a tiny minnow in a vast land.
At Bièvre, still in Belgium, I turned a corner and paused Eventually, after driving for quite some time and not
to check my bearings. Out of a large farmhouse leapt getting anywhere, and starting to worry about the effect
numerous children who called their parents and their the hard chalk rubble was having on the tyres, I stumbled
various in-laws, who all came out to see this strange upon two forest workers who must have had a good
woman in her strange ‘van. They gave me directions on snigger after sending me in the right direction. It took a
where to stop for my last Belgium beer, chatted for a while while to get Bonnie Tyler’s Lost in France out of my head!
and took pictures. Much as I enjoy being a solo traveller, Getting lost occasionally proved to be a positive
sometimes a little bit of human interaction is just the fillip experience. For example, I doubt I would have discovered
needed to re-energise after days spent alone. the incredible artwork by Maarten Vanden Eynde if I had
not decided to take a different and more obvious route.
Lost in France Globe was a huge ball of sculpted trash that seemed to
Before long I had crossed the border into have rolled from somewhere and come to a stop in a field
France. A bombed house, which had been just off a main road but hidden by trees.
conserved as a memorial to the men who At Lemmes, I started to follow the Voie Sacrée, a road
died there trying to protect citizens from that connects Bar-le-Duc to Verdun. It was so named after
the enemy, was one of many scars of wars the end of World War I because of the vital role it played
on my route – not just of the two World during the Battle of Verdun. The road eventually led me to
outandaboutlive.co.uk
Auto-Sleepers
MOTO RHO MES O F EXCELLENC E
Dream
Discover
Explore
2019 | Collection
Peugeot Van Conversions
Made in Great Britain
Find Out More: www.auto-sleepers.com/peug • +44 (0)1386 853 338

Full Vehicle Brochure Find A Watch The Read The Find Us On
Speciication Download Dealer Latest Videos Latest News Social Media
Enjoying | A campervan without a plan
Vaucouleurs, where the traffic was stopped while a large ABOVE A lovely Normandy. It took me a few days to get back to Calais,
flatbed lorry, which was transporting a wing from a wind view at Dormans passing through little villages like L'Épine with its huge
turbine, was passing through. It was quite spectacular to BELOW LEFT TO domineering cathedral and Pierrefonds, whose château
see the driver attempt to negotiate small roundabouts with RIGHT Lemmes, was used for a location in the TV series Merlin.
his lengthy load, accompanied by gendarmes on the Voie Sacrée, At Dormans, a big fiesta event at the nearby château
motorbikes. A chap who had seen my ‘van came over to connects turned out to be a steampunk fair, complete with Tardis.
Bar-le-Duc to
talk. Between his limited English and my passable French, Verdun; Living
I enjoyed the irony of watching people interact with all
we discussed the irony of how we, a Frenchman and an conditions on the things British – kilts, top hats, fob watches and Doctor Who
English woman, were chatting amicably not far from the road with Dave! aliens – while taking in the gorgeous French architecture
spot where Joan had stayed for several months during and scenery.
1428 and 1429 while she sought permission to visit the Moreuil was where everything came to a head and the
royal court of Charles VII of France to defeat the English. decision of where I was going was made for me. I was
Arriving at Domrémy-la-Pucelle, I spent a good hour vaguely intending to pootle round the north of France for
exploring the excellent audio and visual centre next to a while, maybe going to Rouen to see Joan's death place.
Joan's birthplace. But a little thief put a stop to that. I had plugged my mobile
Joan lived in another time, in another place. She died phone in to charge next to a washing machine in the
when she was only 19, burned at the stake for her beliefs. services area of the campsite. A boy who was hanging
around gave me an unfriendly glance but I ignored him
End of the road and went into the shower. Of course, when I came out,
Where to next on my journey, I wondered. I'd made it to my phone had gone! To cut a long and not very interesting
Lorraine, had picked up various leaflets with my name on story short, the campsite owner came to my aid and after
them, and my interest in Joan and where she had lived speaking to the boy's grandfather, my phone was returned,
was sated. In the present day, the heat was becoming albeit in a rather scruffy state and reset to French. It wasn't
unbearable for me and I was at a literal crossroads until after I had left the site that I realised the SIM had
– should I head further south or start heading north? I been removed so the phone was pretty useless. Taking the
popped into a hairdressers in Neufchâteau to get my locks incident as a sign, and feeling disheartened, the decision
chopped as the heat and my hair were both becoming was made for me. I was ready to go home.
unmanageable. I doubt Joan had such worries... I did manage to stop off in Agincourt, where the English
Sadly, I had now lost my mojo and decided to head had taken root again for a re-enactment of the battle.
back north and then meander around the coast of Huge fields where the battle apparently took place had
been taken over by English soldiers and their tents.
You could have a go at archery, buy a
cooking pot, some ale or, in my case, chat to
one of the soldiers about the future impact
of Brexit!
Epilogue
Dave and I continued to pootle round
Yorkshire but in November, he failed his MoT
to the point of costing several thousands to
repair. It was time to say goodbye and he is
now with a new owner somewhere in Surrey
so, if you see him pass by, do please send him
my love.

Parks
CAMBRIDGESHIRE CORNWALL
Stroud Hill Park

Touring Caravans, Motorhomes & Camping ENTER AN ENCHANTING
ESCAPE WHERE THE MAGIC
Fen Road, Pidley PE28 3DE OF NATURE DANCES WITH
THE BEAUTY OF THE
CORNISH COAST
A beautiful, peaceful, adults only touring
On the south coast of Cornwall,
site set in Pidley, Cambridgeshire. perched above the picturesque
Mevagissey Bay, lies the ive-star
Special mid week price Monday to Friday inclusive Heligan Caravan and Camping Park.
• 3 acre ishing lake on-site, with heligancampsite.com
01726 842 714
Dogs welcome | Open Jan – Nov
CORNWALL
Cottages, Touring & Camping Holidays
OPEN ALL YEAR!
• Open all year round Relax & Unwind at Carvynick
Holiday Park, a park nestled away
• Free early arrivals
in the Cornish Countryside...
• Free late departures
Fully serviced touring pitches. Self
• Midweek Specials
catering cottages. Tent pitches
• Free Wi-Fi with fabulous views. On-site
• Excellent on-site facilities pub. Carvynick is set in a perfect
• All fully serviced pitches location with easy access to
• Award winning restaurant at the heart of the park nearby Newquay, Padstow,
• 3 acre ishing lake on-site, local attractions nearby. St Austell, Bodmin and Truro.
Fen Road, Pidley, Cambridgeshire PE28 3DE. To book call: 01487 741 333 Book Online: www.carvynick.co.uk ,
E: stroudhillpark@gmail.com W: www.stroudhillpark.co.uk by email: info@carvynick.co.uk or call us on 01872 510716
CORNWALL

Enjoying | Destination of the month
Wales Destination of
the month
Head to the wonderful wilds of Wales for
a wicked time in your campervan...
Istockphoto AlasdairJames

T
he great thing about having a hills and gentle mountains, or north Wales
campervan is that it gives you the for the gorgeous Lŷnn Peninsula and proper
freedom to go wherever you want job mountains of Snowdonia. Go south and
and do whatever you like... you'll find stunners like the Pembrokeshire
And whether that's lolling around Coast National Park and the Gower
and enjoying the view from a great camspite, Peninsula. Add to that an abundance of
climbing rugged mountains or sampling interesting towns and villages, and umpteen
local seafood and ice cream down the castles, and it's easy to see why you can't go
beach, Wales offers it all in spades. wrong with a trip to Wales! Wondering
Head to mid-Wales for its beautiful rolling where to stay? Check out the sites overleaf!
Visit
A visit to Wales wouldn't be complete without a trip up

Mount Snowdon. If you don't fancy the hike, why not
take the Snowdon Mountain Railway?
snowdonrailway.co.uk
Explore
Wales is a land full of amazing medieval castles and

towns, like the cute harbour town of Conwy. It's a World
Heritage site and also has a great fish and chip shop!
conwy.com
Try
Zip World claims to offer the fastest zip line in the

world, as well as all kinds of other fun stuff like treetop
adventures, quarry tours and bouncing in a cavern...
zipworld.co.uk

Wonderful Wales
For a small country, Wales packs a whole host of attractions. Explore
at your leisure from this top selection of Welsh sites!
1 Red Kite Touring Park, Powys

An adults-only site one mile from historic
Llanidloes. Dog friendly and with valley views, Red Kite has fully serviced
pitches set in 20 acres, with nature ponds and walking routes. From here,
explore the Clywedog Reservoir, Hafren Forest and the Elan Valley.
+ Llanidloes SY18 6NG ☎ 01686 412122
redkitetouringpark.co.uk 1 March – 3 January
2 Islawrffordd Caravan Park, Gwynedd

This site is situated at the south of Snowdonia
3
National Park with direct beach access. Facilities on the
park include an indoor pool, jacuzzi, coffee shop, bar
and fine dining restaurant. Barmouth is just a 10-minute
drive or at low tide you can walk most of the way along
the beach into town.
+ Tal-y-Bont, Barmouth LL43 2AQ
☎ 01341 247269 islawrffordd.co.uk All year
Tyddyn Llwyn Park, Gwynedd

Ideal for exploring the Llŷn Peninsula and the beautiful
Italianate village of Portmeirion, Tyddyn Llwyn is within walking distance of
Porthmadog and a few minutes’ drive from the vast beach at Black Rock Sands.
All pitches are hardstanding and fully serviced. There’s an on-site inn with its
own smokehouse serving real ale and great food.
+ Morfa Bychan Road, Porthmadog LL49 9UR ☎ 01766 512205
tyddynllwyn.com 1 March – 31 October

Welsh sites | Enjoying
4 Trawsdir Park, Gwynedd

With stunning views across Cardigan Bay this site is set on the coast
just inside Snowdonia National Park and three miles from Barmouth. There are 70 touring
pitches, all hardstanding with electric, fresh and waste water connection. Harlech, with its
dramatic castle ruins, is just eight miles away.
+ Llanaber, Barmouth LL42 1RR ☎ 01341 280999 trawsdir.co.uk 1 March – 6 January
5 Bala Camping & Caravanning

Club Site, Gwynedd
Just six miles north of the lake after which
this site is named, the Bala club site is
surrounded by amazing scenery just outside
the Snowdonia National Park. Bala Lake
offers walking and cycling routes as well as
watersports, and the town itself has a variety
of shops and places to eat.
+ Crynierth Caravan Park, Cefn
Ddwysarn LL23 7LN ☎ 01678 530324

campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk
1 April – 4 November
6 Freshwater East C&MC Site, Pembrokeshire

7
Located within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, this club
site boasts picturesque walks along the coastal path. The site is flanked
by trees with a mixture of grass and hardstanding pitches. The long,
sandy beach is a short walk away with rock pools and coves to explore.
+ Trewent Hill, Freshwater East, Pembroke SA71 5LJ
☎ 01646 672341 caravanclub.co.uk 15 March – 28 October
Riverside Touring Park, Conwy

An eight-acre campsite with 60 pitches
set alongside the river, close to the
shops, restaurants and pubs in Betws-y-
Coed. The site is an ideal base for
exploring the Snowdonia National Park
and for walks up Mount Snowdon itself.
Riverside has electric pitches, a shop and
dogs are welcome.
+ Old Church Road, Betws-y-Coed,
LL24 0AL ☎ 01690 710310

morris-leisure.co.uk
17 February – 3 January


PARKS
Parks
CORNWALL DEVON
+++++
Camping . Touring . Holiday Homes

Discover the magic of Pentewan Sands,
an award-winning Holiday Park on the
stunning south Cornish coast
www.pentewan.co.uk | Tel: 01726 843 485

Email: info@pentewan.co.uk HOLIDAY PARK
DEVON DORSET
M i n n o w s To u r i n g Pa r k 01305 782575
Beside the Grand Western Canal, Devon
■ Friendly welcome for campervans,

caravans and tents
OPEN
■ Tranquil location near ALL YEAR
Dorset’s Jurassic Coastline
■ 5 miles from Weymouth
and its sandy beaches
■ Bar/restaurant/takeaway
• Adult Only Park ** 14 Years+ ** (mid & high season)
• Central for touring the North and South Devon Coasts ■ Access to coastal path
■ Well stocked shop open all year
• Fishing, off-road cycling, walking and canoeing
■ Heated Facilities
• 59 hardstanding pitches in three intimate individually ■ Rally Field
landscaped enclosures set in 5 acres.
Chickerell, Weymouth, Dorset DT3 4EA
Sampford Peverell, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 7EN
Tel: 01305 782575 Email: cam@bagwellfarm.co.uk
Tel: 01884 821770
www.minnowstouringpark.co.uk www.bagwellfarm.co.uk
DORSET DORSET
Open March 1st 2019
Small camper van
Harrow Wood Farm and Caravan Park
VW size and tent pitches .
60 Hard standings 10 amp electrical supply
available all year. .
Heated shower block Motorcaravan Drain Point
Family run park with access onto the Purbeck Hills and only a mile from the Jurassic Coast Set in 100 acres of farmland 2 miles from the open forest
• Grass and fully serviced
pitches Open 1st March - 6th January
• Indoor pool and family
recreation area
• Village inn and restaurant Tel: 01425 672487
• Heated toilet and shower block
• Nearby walking, golf, www.caravan-sites.co.uk
watersports and sandy beaches E-mail:
harrowwood@caravan-sites.co.uk
Phone: 01929 422823 • Email: enq@ulwellcottagepark.co.uk
• Website: www.ulwellcottagepark.co.uk Poplar Lane, Bransgore, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 8JE

Welsh sites | Enjoying
8 Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park, Swansea

This is the site for stunning coastal views, as well as being a short walk to the golden sands of Three Cliffs Bay. The coast path is
on your doorstep so walk to your heart’s content and dogs are welcome on the beach all year round. On-site shop and coffee shop.
+ North Hills Farm, Penmaen SA3 2HB ☎ 01792 371218 threecliffsbay.com 1 April – 3 November
9 Cardiff Caravan &

Camping Park, Cardiff
10 Fforest Fields Caravan
& Camping Site, Powys
Ideal for exploring the city of Cardiff, Located on a working hill farm in a rural
which is only half a mile away. The location, Fforest Fields is camping like it
campsite is set in parkland with cycle hire used to be but with plenty of facilities on
available. Cardiff offers a variety of site. These include a seasonal café and
shops, restaurants and a lively waterfront beautiful courtyard seating area. The site
area. There’s also the castle at the heart has two lakes for fishing and swimming
of the city. plus walks in the surrounding woodland.
+ Pontcanna Fields CF11 9XR + Hundred House, Builth Wells
☎ 02920 398362 LD1 5RT ☎ 01982 570406

cardiffcaravanpark.co.uk All year fforestfields.co.uk
1 March – 3 January
11 Bron-Y-Wendon Holiday Park, Conwy

A coastal campsite with panoramic views of the Irish Sea and
Llandudno’s Great Orme. The North Wales Coast Path is adjacent to the site making
Bron-Y-Wendon a perfect choice for cycling and walking. Close to Llanddulas village where
there is a pub, restaurant, shop and bus service.
+ Wern Rd, Llanddulas LL22 8HG ☎ 01492 512903 bronywendon.co.uk All year

Enjoying | Welsh sites
12 Llanberis Touring Park,

Gwynedd
Set on the edge of pretty Llanberis
village at the foot of Snowdon, Wales’
highest mountain. Just a five-minute walk
from the village and close to numerous
adventure activities and walking routes.
35 hardstanding and 19 super pitches
along with toilets, showers and a shop.
+ Glyn Rhonwy, Llanberis LL55 4EL
☎ 01286 870700
morris-leisure.co.uk
1 March – 11 January
13 Hendre Mynach, Gwynedd

Just 100 metres from a stunning sandy
beach, and a 25-minute stroll into Barmouth town centre where there
are shops, cafés and restaurants. Cycle routes and the coast path are
nearby. Hardstanding and grass pitches are available and pets are
welcome. Snowdonia National Park is just a short drive away.
+ Barmouth LL42 1YR ☎ 01341 280262
hendremynach.co.uk 1 March – 9 January
15 Pencelli Castle Caravan

& Camping Park, Powys
Set within the Brecon Beacons National
Park, Pencelli Castle is just four miles
from Brecon, in an ideal location for
walking and cycling. A canal borders the
camping field with many walks along a
towpath. A pub is just 150 yards away.
Please note this campsite does not
accept dogs.
+ Pencelli, Brecon LD3 7LX
☎ 01874 665451
pencelli-castle.com
15 February – 1 December
14 Bodnant Caravan Park, Conwy

Set in the beautiful Conwy Valley, just half a mile
from the market town of Llanrwst where there’s pretty riverside tea rooms,
and the National Trust’s Bodnant Garden is nearby. The site itself has
many floral features and is bordered by a stream and sheltered by trees.
+ Nebo Road, Llanrwst LL26 0SD ☎ 01492 640248
bodnant-caravan-park.co.uk 1 March – 31 October

Parks
GLOUCESTERSHIRE NORFOLK
Briarfields Motel & Touring Caravan Park

Briarfields is a small
family owned Adults
naturally
NORTH NORFOLK…
Only Motel & Touring

Caravan and Camping
Site. The site is
open all year round The natural escape
and located just 2 IN NORTH NORFOLK Relax in your touring caravan
or tent enjoying the sea views
miles from Regency Touring pitches on beautiful
and Norfolk countryside. Multi
Cheltenham Spa and Kelling Heath. Great facilities and service, electric pitches and
6 miles from Historic environmental activities. Lodges amenity buildings. Luxurious
Gloucester with an and holiday homes for hire. holiday homes for hire.
excellent bus service ®
to both. For bookings 01263 512242

To book call 01263 588181
Briarfields Motel & Touring Caravan Park, Gloucester Road (B4063), Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 0SS. Near Weybourne, Holt NR25 7HW or www.woodhill-park.com
T: 01242 235 324 E: reception@briarfields.net W: www.briarfields.net www.kellingheath.co.uk East Runton, Cromer NR27 9PX
SCOTLAND
For the ultimate holiday ex�erience…
Premier Parks is a quality collection of 100 of the top campsites across the UK
and Ireland. All of the parks are independently assessed by our editorial team
to ensure you receive a holiday of the highest standard.
Hike by the sea, hike through history.
With the majority of the parks being multiple award-winners,
you’ll be pleased you chose to spend your time pitched up at a remier ar .
Hike up hills, hike down glens.
Hike where wild things are.
www.premier-parks.co.uk Lochranza Campsite, Isle of Arran • www.arran-campsite.com

SCOTLAND
Atholl
Estates
Blair Castle Caravan Park

Visit Blair Castle and stay for the weekend.
Caravan holiday homes and woodland lodges available for short and long stays.
Touring and Camping pitches available for single or mulitiple nights.
Glamping pods available for all the family to enjoy.
Games room, shower blocks, washing facilities and wifi throughout.

Pony trekking, tractor tours, landrover safaris and segway tours available
throughout the summer - booking essential.
For more details visit the website www.blaircastlecaravanpark.co.uk
www.blaircastlecaravanpark.co.uk Tel: 01796 481263 mail@blaircastlecaravanpark.co.uk

Land of the
Midnight Sun
A journey of more than 4,000 miles in a

campervan through Scandinavia to reach the
Arctic Circle in Norway is one way to spend your
retirement reckon septuagenarians, Lois and Alan…
WORDS Lois Parker PHOTOS Alan Parker
W
hen we told friends that we were planning a big Our crossing from Harwich to the Hook of Holland
trip in our campervan, they were a little surprised overnight was straightforward, as was our journey through
to hear that we were hoping to get to Norway’s Holland and Germany into Denmark. We decided to miss
Arctic Circle, taking six weeks to get there and the traffic and roadworks around Hamburg and use the
back again. small ferry to cross the River Elbe at Wischhafen, instead
We had been to Denmark before, as well as Sweden – it still took us two and a half hours queuing for a
and Norway, but only as far as Bergen. Norway is such a 20-minute crossing, but was much more pleasant!
beautiful country, and especially to keen photographers After three days' driving we arrived at Frederinockshavn,
like us, so we were eager to see more of it. We used the at the tip of Jutland, Denmark, for our journey across to
winter months to plan our trip and, while surfing the Gothenburg in Sweden. After a very pleasant night pitched
ABOVE
internet one rainy day, I came across some information under the trees near to a beach, we set off towards Oslo, CLOCKWISE
about a coastal tourist route (Kystriksveien) Steinkjer to which we had explored on a previous trip back in 2017. View from our pitch
Bodø, following Norway’s west coast, and acquired the We had two very pleasant days pitched beside the river at Nisser Camping;
travel guide for Kystriksveien, which was invaluable. at Drammen Camping recharging our batteries, and Entering
Gothenburg;
celebrating Father’s Day! From Oslo we motored up to
On the road to
And we’re off! Lillehammer, stopping there only briefly, before going up Mo i Rana
We set off in June with our Auto-Sleeper Warwick XL through the countryside towards Trondheim. The views
RIGHT
campervan, known as Wanda, loaded up with enough through the windscreen were mind-blowing: lush valleys,
Roundabout in a
food to last us for several weeks, as Norway is quite an rivers, waterfalls, rocks and high plateaux on the snow line. tunnel; Aproaching
expensive country for tourists. We were constantly stopping to hop about on the rocks the Arctic Circle

Norway | Enjoying
Fact file TRIP DURATION 15 June to 24 July

4,300 miles return journey from
our home in Leicestershire
17 small ferries and four big ones taken!
30 campsites stayed at
See kystriksveien.no for information on the
Coastal Tourist Route
and take photographs! again later!

We found a beautiful campsite near to Trondheim, at a After a couple of days, we were on the E6 road again to
ferry port called Flakk. We were able to use the local buses Steinkjer, where there was a festival about to happen in the
to get into the city easily, unfortunately, in the rain, but we university town, and then up towards Mo i Rana. Up until
found Nidaros Cathedral very interesting and the old now the weather had been a bit wet and windy at times,
wooden houses very colourful. And the sun came out but the day we reached the Arctic Circle was sunny and
warm with a full blue sky. The Norwegians have built a
centre on the Arctic Circle Line with
a small museum, café and shop. Apart
from that the area appears very barren,
and windswept, with snowdrifts in
places, and stone cairns left by visitors.
From the top of the hills you can see
for miles, but it is a hard, cold beauty.
Of course, at this stage we had to let
all our family and friends know that we
had made it – so lots of photos were
taken and messages sent – it was all
quite exciting!
From there we continued to Bodø,

Enjoying | Norway
which was to be our northernmost point. Unfortunately,

the campsite we arrived at was closed because it had gone
From Bergen we travelled down through the cherr y and
bankrupt. So on to Saltstraumen just a little further south apple orchards, which went on for miles and miles
from Bodø. Here there is an interesting maelstrom in the
fjord where it passes underneath the road bridge. the Germans, in WW2. The old buildings were well
spread out over a rocky promontory, with the huge gun
The coastal tourist route emplacements in prime positions.
We now started down the 400-mile route named the We continued in the rain through the islands and
Kystriksveien that we had discovered during our planning Leirfjord, and over the huge Helgeland Bridge and
over the winter. This would lead us back down across the causeway to Forvika. Here we found an old trading post
islands and through the fjords to Steinkjer, a much prettier from 1792, where they now roast coffee beans to their
way with lots of interesting places to see. A guidebook own special flavours. Of course, we had to have coffee
helps you to miss nothing. Gildeskål Church was one of our and cake while we were there! Namsos was our next stop,
first finds. It is a traditional medieval stone church, dating and we found this to be a very quiet town, with hardly a
from the 1100s, with splendid and distinct furnishings from soul about on a Saturday morning. But there is a very good
just over 300 hundred years ago. It is only open for about RIGHT Bridge at museum, Namdalsmuseet, and we spent an enjoyable few
eight weeks every summer and is a real gem. Saltstraumen; Us hours with our own enthusiastic guide. Most of the houses
We now started to use the little ferries on our journey, and Wanda at the and farms in the museum had been brought there in the
Arctic Circle Centre
going on several every day. The local people use them like 1930s, often by floating them down the rivers and fjords.
a bus service! Usually the journey on them was short but BELOW There was also the only hospital museum in Norway,
the boats were well equipped with comfortable seating CLOCKWISE which we found very interesting, if a little gruesome!
Latefoss Waterfall;
and refreshments. One such journey took us to The next few days saw us on lots more ferries, with
The Bryggen
Kilboghamn, where we found the ruins and museum of Bergen; The beautiful landscapes, forestry and water and amazing
the Grønsvik Coastal Fort built by prisoners of war, for smallest ferry tunnels, including several with roundabouts in them!
Some of NAF
the places weDRAMMEN
stayed at CAMPING
near Oslo
drammencamping.no
FLAKK CAMPING
FLAKKVEGEN
near Trondheim
flakk-camping.no
CAMP SALTSTRAUMEN-
ELVEGARD near Bodo
norcamp.de
PLUSCAMP NAMSOS
Namsos
namsos-camping.no
BRATLAND CAMPING
Bergen
bratlandcamping.no
NISSER HYTTEGREND
OG CAMPING Telemark
nisser.no
LYSTANG CAMPING
Notodden
lystang.no

The weather had improved and we were enjoying warm
sunshine most of the time. It was noticeable that the hours
of daylight were much longer, especially near to the Arctic
Circle – aptly named Land of the Midnight Sun. As it was
cloudy when we were at our furthest point north, we didn’t
experience the actual sun at midnight, but it was still broad
daylight – plenty light enough to take photographs.
We then came through Trondheim and Molde and
around the coastal road to Bergen, to stay at Bratland
Camping, just outside the city. Again, we used the trams
and buses to explore, going to several museums including
the Bergenhus Fortress, which had lots of information
about the wartime resistance fighters. The buildings along
the Bryggen are fascinating, most of them now being
shops or restaurants. And the views from Mount Fløyen,
which are achieved by going on the funicular railway, are
simply incredible!
From Bergen we travelled down through the cherry
and apple orchards, which went on for miles and miles,
following the roads east across to Odda, past the massive
Låtefoss Waterfall, which we remembered from our
previous trip. Again, we were travelling through areas with
large amounts of snow lying about either side of the road.
We continued east to a beautiful campsite at Nisser, on
Our 'van 2016 Fiat Ducato window

van with Comfort-Matic
LAYOUT Rear lounge
TRAVEL SEATS/BERTHS 2
auto' gearbox
WHAT WE L♥VE ABOUT IT It has
CONVERSION TYPE lots of storage space and very comfy
Auto-Sleeper Warwick XL from 6ft single beds. It’s easy to drive and
auto-sleepers.com park, and the rear lounge is great for
OWNED SINCE December 2016 lolling around on rainy days!
the edge of Norway’s third largest lake, where we relaxed

and enjoyed a bit of people watching! By now we were
experiencing a heatwave that had come across from
Europe so Lystang Camping about 60 miles further on
was very peaceful, but also very hot.
Home time
It was now time to head for our ferry back to Denmark
from Langesund – takes about 4 and a half hours. A good
crossing later, we were travelling down the west coast of
Jutland. The coastal scenery was so different, very flat with
just a few holiday resorts. But we did find an interesting
thatched bird hide looking out onto a waterfowl reserve.
A few more campsites saw us crossing the Elbe again in
Germany and heading for Apeldoorn in Holland for a few
days. We were able to cycle into the town on their
wonderful cycle tracks and do our last bits of shopping.
From there we had about a two-hour journey, calling at
Delft – one of our favourite Dutch towns before travelling
to the Hook for our ferry back to England.
This must be one of our most enjoyable and exciting
holidays, with the most fantastic scenery and lovely
people. Our campervan did very well, and most things
went to plan. The important thing being that we achieved
what we set out to do.

Enjoying | Walking Sites
Put your best

foot forward
Boots were made for walking, so lace up,
head out and stretch those legs with this
selection of top campsites for walks
1 Blair Castle Caravan Park, Perth & Kinross

+ Blair Atholl, Pitlochry PH18 5SR ☎ 01796 481263 blaircastlecaravanpark.co.uk 1 March – 18 November
This picturesque site is at the entrance to the Cairngorms The facilities include toilets and showers with individual
National Park, within the Blair Castle Estate. As well as 50 miles cubicles, dishwashing and a laundry.
of walking/cycling trails there’s also the opportunity to enjoy If it's not the weather for long-distance walking and being
Segway tours and Land Rover Safaris. outdoors then you can explore Blair Castle itself with its 30
The site has hardstanding pitches with electric, along with rooms, and the nearby town of Pitlochry boasts distilleries,
fully serviced pitches centred around nine acres of open space. shops and a theatre.
Woodland Springs Touring Park, Devon

2 + Venton, Drewsteignton EX6 6PG ☎ 01647 231695
woodlandsprings.co.uk All year
Exclusively for adults only, Woodland Springs is set within Dartmoor
National Park surrounded by trees and farmland. The campsite
provides a natural setting to encourage wildlife, so you may see
a variety of birds as well as rabbits, deer, foxes and stoats.
The site boasts fully serviced and standard pitches, with award-
winning facilities. These include toilets and showers, a laundry and
shop. Woodland Springs welcomes dogs and there is one acre of
open land for exercising dogs off the lead.
A 10-minute drive away is the moors, where there are many
walking and cycling routes and different tors to explore. Not
forgetting the Dartmoor ponies and their foals that you can see
in the spring. It’s also only 18 miles to the cathedral city of Exeter,
where you can walk the canal towpaths or enjoy a coffee in one
of the cafés on the quay.

3 Trevalgan Touring Park, Cornwall
+ Trevalgan, St Ives TR26 3BJ ☎ 01736 791892
trevalgantouringpark.co.uk 1 May – 30 September
VisitEngland South West Coast Path Paul Melling

Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and just two miles from St Ives town centre means
Trevalgan Touring Park has a great location. Whether you want to walk the quaint streets of St Ives
browsing the shops, or take a wander out into blissful countryside, you can easily do it all from this site.
The campsite is surrounded by farmland with spectacular views and an abundance of wildlife and
flowers. There is a network of local footpaths that join up to the South West Coast Path and from there
you can walk to St Ives and on to the stunning Carbis Bay. A regular bus service also runs from the site.
Facilities on site include showers, family shower rooms, disabled shower facilities, indoor dishwashing
sinks, a laundry room, shop, outdoor play area and games room. There’s a range of hardstanding and
grass pitches, serviced pitches and fully serviced pitches.
4 Gardiesfauld Hostel & Camping Park, Shetland

+ Uyeasound, Unst ZE2 9DW ☎ 01957 755279
5
shetlandvisitor.com/gardiesfauld-hostel April – September
Most northerly of the Shetland Islands, the isle of Unst is only 12
miles from top to bottom so it is easy to explore the whole island
on two feet during a stay here. More often than not, clifftop walks
reveal sightings of puffins and gannets and the island is home to
secluded, sandy beaches, rewarding those who go exploring.
Gardiesfauld Camping Park is set beside the picturesque shore
at Uyeasound. With each hardstanding bay providing a stunning
coastal view, you need to book in quickly, as there's only five
available. Every bay has electric and water and the site as a whole
is set among beautiful gardens with direct access to the beach.
Harrow Wood Farm Caravan Park, Dorset
Toilets and showers (chargeable) and a small laundry are available. + Poplar Lane, Bransgore, Christchurch BH23 8JE
This is the perfect site for a relaxing break amid stunning scenery. ☎ 01425 672487 caravan-sites.co.uk 1 March – 6 January
Set in 80 acres of farmland on the edge of the New Forest, Harrow
Wood Farm Caravan Park has 60 pitches, with electric available and
some hardstandings. Facilities on site include toilets and showers,
dishwashing sinks and a laundry. There is also a coarse fishing lake.
The small campsite is located in the village of Bransgore and just
five miles from Christchurch and two miles from the open forest.
This is the ideal place for enjoying walks through the national park
or, if you prefer a shorter walking route, there's a one-mile circular
trail around the farm to take in the animals and the surroundings.
The New Forest is a natural wonderland with plenty of walking or
cycling routes. You can explore pretty villages with country pubs,
head to the Beaulieu Motor Museum or spend a day at the coast.

July 2019 campervan 75

PARKS
Parks
SCOTLAND SCOTLAND
Situated on the beautiful West

coast of the
Highlands of Scotland
bring your own caravan,
motor-caravan or tent and set
up wherever you wish in the
designated areas.
For something a bit different
why not try our wigwam
cabins, a unique holiday CARAVAN & CAMPING
experience. Alternatively you
can spend your holiday in one
of the Park’s five star static
caravans.
On site facilities:
• Licensed shop
Pitch up on the
• Café on site
• Dog walking area
• Play area
Bonnie Banks...
• Laundrette
• Picnic tables • Large fully serviced pitches
• Games/TV room • Access to Loch Lomond
• Highland WiFi • Fully serviced heated shower block
• Bikes and Kayaks for hire
• Covered indoor cooking and • Sat TV connection
eating area • Only 1 hour from Glasgow
• Loch and River fishing.
• Gateway to the Highlands!
www.sandscaravanandcamping.co.uk
Sands Caravan & Camping, Gairloch, Wester Ross. IV21 2DL Visit us online or call 0345 459 9772 to book your stay!
Tel: 01445 712152 Loch Lomond Holiday Park, Inveruglas, G83 7DW
Email: info@sandscaravanandcamping.co.uk
SCOTLAND SUFFOLK
gardiesfauld
youth hostel
caravan park
campsite
uyeasound, unst, shetland

01957 755279
www.gardiefauld.shetland.co.uk
enquiries@gardiesfauld.shetland.co.uk

Walking Sites | Enjoying
6 Fairfields Farm Caravan & Camping Park, East Sussex

+ Eastbourne Road, Westham, Pevensey BN24 5NG
☎ 01323 763165 fairfieldsfarm.com 1 April – 26 October
The South Downs Way is a National Trail that leads from Winchester to the
white chalk cliffs of Eastbourne. Walks along this undulating route lead along
the chalk escarpment and ridges of the South Downs, which make for the
most stunning views of sea and hills.
Fairfields Farm is four miles to the north of Eastbourne but you can easily
drive along the coastal road past Beachy Head towards the National Trust’s
Birling Gap. At Birling Gap is a large car park and a café, and from here you
can walk all the way along the top of the Seven Sisters cliffs.
The site is part of a 200-acre working farm. Visitors can see the range of
farm animals including ponies, donkeys, peacocks, ducks, piglets and lambs.
Site facilities include a small shop, WiFi, toilets, showers and a laundry. 7 Glen Nevis Caravan &
Camping Park, Highland
+ Glen Nevis, Fort William PH33 6SX
☎ 01397 702191 glen-nevis.co.uk
15 March – 5 November
This site has a stunning location in the midst
of spectacular Highland scenery. Pitches
here have views to Ben Nevis and the
surrounding mountains.
Glen Nevis Caravan and Camping Park
lies at the foot of Ben Nevis and is part of
a Highland estate extending to over 1,000
acres. There is a choice of walks on your
doorstep and the path up Ben Nevis is just
a short walk away.
If you want to get out and about there’s
the opportunity to go on a guided activity
with the Highland Mountain Company, with
walks such as a Ben Nevis ascent, a trip to
Steall Waterfall or an adventure walk that
also includes scrambling and abseiling.
The Glen Nevis site has four fields with
electric pitches or fully serviced ones. All
customers have access to toilets, showers,
dishwashing, a shop and dog walking areas.
Nearby is a restaurant and bar. The area is
home to wildlife including red squirrels,
otters, golden eagles and pine martens.
8 Fishguard Bay Resort, Pembrokeshire

+ Dinas Cross, Newport SA65 9ET
☎ 01348 811415 fishguardbay.com
March – January
Located within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park,
this site has to offer one of the best views from a pitch
ever! Set on the coastline there are a choice of
hardstanding and grass touring pitches with electric.
On-site facilities include toilets and showers, a laundry,
play area, games room, shop and bakery.
Walkers and nature lovers can explore many paths
and trails that are directly accessible from the site or
you can simply sit back and enjoy the views. The coastal
path runs directly through the campsite or there is also
a gentle circular hour-long walk giving great views.
There are several hidden coves and beaches located
on sections of the path that are accessible from the site.
Also head north or south along the coast for about 30
minutes and you can visit the stunning Abereiddy Bay.
Two unique features of Fishguard Bay are the luxury
hampers you can pre-order for your stay, and the
Pamper Pod where you can enjoy a facial or a massage.


Enjoying | Walking Sites
9 Bellingham Camping & Caravanning

Club Site, Northumberland
+ Brown Rigg, Bellingham NE48 2JY
☎ 01434 220175
campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk
1 March − 5 January
Bellingham is located in the Northumberland
National Park and Northumberland International
Dark Sky Park – so a great spot for stargazing as well
as enjoying plenty of walking.
Northumberland is home to the majority of the
remaining sections of the 73 miles of Hadrian’s Wall
and also to five excavated forts, including
Housesteads and Vindolanda. From this site, the wall,
its museums and visitor centres are easily accessible,
including by bus. The Pennine Way also passes the
VisitEngland Hadrians Wall Country Andrew Heptinstall

site and only a short walk away is the village of
Bellingham where you can continue on to Hareshaw
Linn, a 30-foot waterfall.
You could also take a drive and spend the day at
Kielder Water and Forest Park where you can enjoy
watersports on Europe’s largest man-made lake and
many walks through the 250 square mile woodland.
The Club site has 70 pitches including
hardstandings with electric hook-up, with modern
facilities including a shop, dog walk, children’s play
area, drying room, family wetroom and games room.
10 Burrowhayes Farm Caravan & Camping Site,

Somerset
+ West Luccombe, Porlock, Minehead TA24 8HT
☎ 01643 862463 burrowhayes.co.uk All year
This site is in the heart of the Exmoor National Park, which is ideal
for a stroll with its wooded valleys, streams, hills and coastal scenery.
You don’t need the campervan to explore here, with many walks
leading directly into the woods and onto open moorland. You can
also access stretches of the South West Coast Path. The stream and
woods provide a natural playground for children, too.
Porlock is one mile away offering three pubs, a variety of shops,
cafés and restaurants. The weir is a delightful little harbour where
children can go crabbing and sea fishing trips can be arranged.
Situated beside Horner Water, the site has a view of Dunkery
Beacon. The touring pitches have 16Ah electric and facilities include
toilets and showers, a laundry and well-stocked shop. The farm
buildings have been converted to riding stables and escorted rides
are available. 11 Ashbourne Heights Holiday
Park, Derbyshire
+ Fenny Bentley, Ashbourne DE6 1LE ☎ 01335 350228
ashbourne-heights.co.uk 1 March – 17 January
Set in the south of the Peak District National Park, this site is ideal
for walking as the well-known Tissington Trail is right at the
entrance of the site, following the route of the former Buxton to
Ashbourne railway line. The Campsite is also conveniently located
for visiting Dovedale with its famous stepping stones and scaling
the heights of Thorpe Cloud. The pretty town of Ashbourne and
its facilities is just over three miles away.
Ashbourne Heights is the perfect mix of relaxing campsite and
with plenty to keep people occupied. There’s an indoor pool, a
play area, shop and dog walking area. There is a choice of grass or
hardstanding pitches with or without electric. You can even choose
VisitEngland North Devon a Premium en-suite pitch where you get your own private toilet
and shower on pitch.

Parks
WALES WALES
TYDDYN LLWYN: PORTHMADOG PONT RHYD-Y-GROES, MARTON,

WELSHPOOL, POWYS. SY21 8JJ
OPEN 1ST MAR— 31ST OCT 01938 561228
CARAVAN, MOTORHOME, CAMPER VAN,
helen@rhyd-y-groes.co.uk
www.rhyd-y-groes.co.uk
TRAILER TENT & TENT PITCHES
ALL WEATHER, SERVICED, 10 & 16AMP PITCHES
3 SHOWER/TOILET BLOCKS, SHOP, LAUNDRETTE,
PLAY PARK, GAMES ROOM
BAR / RESTAURANT SITE
5 MINS DRIVE TO BLACK ROCK & PORTMEIRION
01766 512205 www.tyddynllwyn.com

WALES
Rhyd-y-groes is a five star picturesque family run touring caravan park

and camping site set in woodland and farmland near the Powys market
town Welshpool.
New For 2019
• A beautiful private woodland walk, exclusive to the park and its guests.
• A fully heated doggy wet room to pamper your pooch!
Facilities & Amenities
• The caravan site is open all year.
• 55 hard-standing pitches and 10 spacious camping pitches, as well as
additional grass space.
• Electric hook-up, freshwater and grey waste drain.
• Grey waste motor home dump.
• WIFI • WC • 7 individual wet rooms
• Modern, purpose-built facilities blocks, which are centrally heated
all year round
• Ladies’ and gents’ washrooms with basins
• Free use of hairdryers, showers, hot water and shaving points.
WALES WALES
Award Winning Caravan and Camping Park in Snowdonia

Mountains and lakes are on your doorstep and the seaside is a short drive away
Free WI-FI
01286 650216 • eurig@bryngloch.co.uk • www.northwalescamping.co.uk
WALES WALES
Situated on the amazing North Wales coastline ... Maes Carafanau
Bron-Y-Wendon Holiday Park

Caravan Park
Nebo Road, Llanrwst,
Conwy Valley, N Wales LL26 0SD
01492 640248
www.bodnant-caravan-park.co.uk
• Caravans, Motorhomes, Tents
• 2 holiday caravans for hire
• Wales in Bloom winner 26 years
• Caravans, Motorhomes, Tent • Caravans,
Situated Motorhomes,
just half a mile from the ancient market townTent
of Llanwrst in
• Caravans, Motorhomes,
• 2 Holiday Caravans Tent
for hire the•beautiful
2 HolidayConwy Valley. Caravans for hire
There are 38 multi-service hardstanding
• 130 pitch touring park • 4 quality holiday cottages • Private 20 pitch Static park • 2 Holiday
• WalesCaravans
in Bloomfor hire 26 years pitches.
winner • Wales
The site is bordered by a stream and sheltered byyears
in Bloom winner 26 trees. In a
• Wales in Bloom winner 26 years
Nebo Rd, Llanrwst, Conwy Valley, se arate
Neboel there
Rd, areLlanrwst,
tent itches ith electric anValley,
Conwy hoo s
OPEN ALL YEAR
stay@bronywendon.co.uk • 01492 512903/282 North Wales,
Nebo Rd, Llanrwst, LL26
Conwy 0SD
Valley, Northarea,
There is a dishwashing Wales,
two toiletLL26 0SD
blocks, (one of them being
North Wales, LL26 0SD two disabled wet rooms), and a short dog walk.
www.bronywendon.co.uk www.bodnant-caravan-park.co.uk www.bodnant-caravan-park.co.uk
Close to Bodnant Gardens, Zip World and Surf Snowdonia.
Llanddulas, Colwyn Bay, N. Wales LL22 8HG
www.bodnant-caravan-park.co.uk

Book your Summer holiday
with our campsite finder
Search on
outandaboutlive.co.uk
Events & Shows | Enjoying
What's on
Looking for some inspiration to get out and about this month?
Check out these vantastic events...
The Norfolk Motorhome & Campervan Show

The perfect show if you're in the market for buying a
campervan or accessorising your own, as there's more than
200 new and used campers and motorhomes on sale from
over 20 dealers, as well as 130 exhibitors flogging their wares!
For those camping at the show, there's evening entertainment to enjoy, too,
including tribute act Wham! Duran and Rats in the Kitchen (UB40). New for 2019, you
can also book EHU pitches and, if you don't yet have a campervan, why not stay in a
luxurious glamping tent, instead?
19 – 21 July Camper Jam
} Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, Costessey, Norwich NR5 0TT
This show offers a great day out or
outandaboutlive.co.uk/shows weekend away for all the family. There's
stacks of campervan stuff going on, and a
dog show, circus tent and tree climbing for
the kids, to name but a few things!
5 – 7 July
} Weston Park, Shropshire TF11 8LE
camperjam.com
The Great British Campout

A festival that's all about the retro stuff,
from campers and caravans to vintage cars
and trucks. There's hot rods and rat rods to
admire in the Show 'n' Shine, too. Weekend
tickets include on-site camping.
19 – 21 July
} Newark Rugby Club, Kelham Road,
Newark, Nottinghamshire NG24 1WN
thegreatbritishcampout.co.uk
Dubs at the Castle Dubtoberfest

Set in the grounds of Caldicot Castle, this festival If you fancy a campervan festival with a difference, this may just be the ticket!
makes for a fun-filled family camping weekend. You Taking inspiration from Germany's Octoberfest, it celebrates all things vee-dub,
can take part in the Show 'n' Shine, and there's also Bavarian style, with oompah bands and lots of beer and sauages! Members of
an Old Skool Bike competition, a host of children's the VW Club can also book a pitch in the club camping area.
activities, live bands and food stools to enjoy... 26 – 29 July
19 – 21 July } Cheltenham Racecourse, Southam Lane Entrance, Cheltenham,
} Caldicot Castle, Church Road, Gloucestershire GL52 3NY dubtoberfest.co.uk
Monmouthshire NP26 4HU
dubsatthecastle.co.uk
Bug Jam
There's a big stack of VWs to admire including
Beetles, classic vans and campers. Bring your own
and take part in the Run What Ya Brung race! Or
chill out and check out monster trucks, drag racing,
live music... and there's on-site camping.
26 – 28 July
} Santa Pod Raceway, Airfield Road, Podington,
Wellingborough, Northampton NN29 7XA
bugjam.co.uk

Specialist campervan insurance rated highly for
service and value for money on
Claim your £10 reader discount:
Open
7 days
0800 470 1791 Please mention
‘Campervan Mag’
Free from landlines and mobiles
when calling
www.caravanguard.co.uk/cp10
£10 reader discount is an introductory offer only & not available in conjunction with other offers. Minimum premiums apply.
Review Centre rating (4.7/5) based on 684 reviews, correct as of 01/04/19. Caravan Guard Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
DON’T MISS THE LATEST

CAMPERVAN NEWS
All the latest news, exclusive features,
competitions and special offers Plus much more!
FREE e-newsletter
SIGN UP TODAY AT
motorhome.ma/freemails
Enewsletter_QP.indd 1 04/06/2019 10:32
Poplar Motors
Camper Vans
Sales and Hire
The NEW PEVRIL camper van from Poplar Motors

Combining Japanese reliability with British craftsmanship to
produce reliable and affordable camper vans.
We are pleased to offer our
NEW PEVRIL 4 berth, 4 seater camper van
Specification is as follows:
4 belted seats, 2 x single beds, plus a
double bed in the roof. 12-volt fridge,
twin gas hob, Smev gas grill, sink,
Thetford cassette toilet, with privacy
doors, Mikuni heater, table, swivel front
seats, wind out Fiamma awning.
All built on the rust free Japanese import
Toyota Granvia base vehicle.
Air conditioning, electric windows,
electric mirrors, power steering,
automatic gearbox, immobiliser, new UK
radio c/d player.
Taking orders now. Choose the base vehicle from our stock. PRICE £22,750
Family run business since 1966

Old Road, Chesterfield, Derbyshire. S40 2QZ
Tel: 01246 275396 www.poplarmotors.co.uk

2006 Vauxhall Movano | Your campervans
A ’van that’s got all

the moves
Chris and Debi explain how they saved a Vauxhall
Movano from the scrapyard and transformed
it into an off-grid family camper…
WORDS Chris Salt PHOTOS Chris & Debi Salt
O
ur campervan story started on a A couple of weeks after returning from After several days of searching ebay,
wet and cold two-week holiday the camping trip, I decided to trawl through a white Vauxhall Movano caught my
spent in the south of England the internet looking at five to six-berth eye with the simple heading that read
with three very grumpy and wet campervans that were ready to go, but ‘£300 buy it now or it goes for scrap.’ This
children. The idea of building our it became apparent from the outset that seemed like an opportunity too good to
own campervan was nothing but a distant buying one that suited our requirements and miss – after being a diesel fitter for over
dream as we sat in our tent looking across was affordable to us whilst raising a young 16 years, how hard could it be?
the camping field at the families relaxing family was not going to be an option. It was That night I travelled down to Bexhill-
in the comfort of their ‘vans. The sound of time to go back to the drawing board and on-Sea to view the van. I couldn’t believe
their heaters ticking away as they tucked look for a clean and affordable panel van how good it was and the guy explained it
into a freshly prepared meal made us all that would make a good base vehicle to turn was an ex-Network Rail crew van that he
decide that our next holiday would into an off-grid camper that could fulfil our had bought for his building business. Not
definitely be in a campervan! dream of travelling Europe. long after he bought it, the engine seized.


Your campervans | 2006 Vauxhall Movano
The idea was to create a comfy five-berth off-grid

camper that was small enough for our weekend bike trips
around the Peak District, but big enough for a long stay
Fortunately for me, he'd had the engine thinking outside the box…
replaced but it had inherited a cutting out The first job was to address the
problem just months after the replacement engine cutting out – after all, there was
engine, and he simply didn’t want to invest no point investing time and money
any more time or money into the van. converting the rear if it was going to
I decided with that in mind to part with be unreliable. I soon pinpointed the
my £300 and drive the van home. Apart fault to a weak pressure limiting valve Lad and dad set to work on building the work
tops for
from the cutting out at full throttle, it drove on the common rail for the injectors, their family campervan
faultlessly all the way back and I was already which I managed to source locally
eager to start the conversion. from a diesel specialist for less than £80. now, there was no turning back!
After running the van to work and back With the holiday booked, it was time to
The big plan for a month or so with no cutting out issues, get the project moving. The first job was to
The idea was to create a comfy five-berth we decided it was time to get on with the apply the sound deadening to all the panels
off-grid camper that was small enough for conversion. I spent the next few weeks of the van, which soon highlighted another
our weekend bike trips around the Peak collecting all the parts I thought I needed for problem. When working in the back of the
District, but big enough for a long stay. The it, and making sure the van was mechanically van for a day, I soon realised that the
most important aspect was that it would sound in all aspects. standard high-top was not going to be quite
have to be self-sufficient for off-grid living high enough for me at just over 6ft 4in to
during our weekend excursions to the Peaks. The ferry is booked have a comfortable holiday!
We travelled around various motorhome After stripping the van bare we decided At this point, most people would consider
retailers looking for inspiration but soon what better motivation to get the job done a different van or pop-top but we had other
came to the conclusion that, to use a van of than to book a holiday in Europe! That night, ideas… why not remove the extra-high-top
this size for five people, it was going to have we booked the ferry and a campsite in from a scrap van and fit it to ours? 48 hours
to be bespoke and would require a lot of Switzerland – the countdown really was on later we had managed to get one from a

Debi & Chris
Base vehicle 2006 Vauxhall Movano
panel van
Conversion type Hand-built self-conversion
Owned since 2014
Engine 2.5 CDTi turbo-diesel
Power 120bhp
Economy 39mpg
Travel 5
Berths 5
Leisure battery Twin 120Ah
Payload 650kg
Length x width x height 5.9m x 2.0m x 2.7m
Equipment Custom triple rear bunk, swivel
front seats that recline and fold flat to make
a table, king size bed made up of dinette
and front seats, Webasto Air Top 2kW night
heater, Truma hot water heater, Thetford
full-size oven/grill and four-burner hob, 70l
Fiamma on-board fresh water tank, 24in TV
and digital aerial, Kenwood sound system and
Sony sat-nav, Waeco CR80 fridge/freezer,
custom 240V system for sockets and heater
breakers in Birmingham and have it fitted to this was going to be over the tent. when on hook-up, bespoke 12V system for
our van – and what a difference the room The next few weeks were spent fine- off-grid camping, Durite split charge feeding
made! Now happy with the space inside, tuning and trimming all the cabinets, and twin 120Ah batteries, all the lighting by LED
we carried on with installing the electrics, addressing any little squeaks and rattles I auto-lamps, overhead storage and large
insulations and vapour barrier. It was a great noticed on my daily commute to work. Now wardrobe, Thetford Porta Potti, table, Truma
feeling using the van as a daily driver and happy with the cabinets, it was time to fit the bulkhead gas regulator and 6kg propane
noticing the difference every week as it appliances. In went the oven, fridge, sink, cylinder, Thetford basin and chrome mixer
evolved from a cold rattly panel van to hot running water and night heater. It really tap, Fiamma roof vent, Outwell Country Road
a warm and silent ride. was starting to feel plush and we were awning, bespoke five-bike towball mounted
bicycle carrier
After several weeks, the basics of the extremely proud of our first family effort at
van were complete: electrics, insulation, building our own campervan from scratch.
windows, skylight and the basic layout of the The last job was to come up with COSTS SO FAR
van had now come together, and it was time somewhere for me and the wife to sleep, as The van ...................................................£300
to put my carpentry skills to the test and start the usual layout of having the bed across the
Mechanical repairs/upgrades .........£1,000
on the woodwork. We took a ride out to the ’van simply wasn’t long enough for me
Magnum Motorhomes at Grimsby and to have a good night’s sleep. In the end, we Interior fixings ....................................£4,000
purchased everything for the final fix. Then, managed to fabricate our own swivel bases Total.................................................. £5,300
that weekend, we built all the cupboards and for the front seats and custom-make the
rear bunks. The van was now really being dinette seating to allow it to come together
transformed into a campervan and the end to form a king size bed, all topped with
was in sight. 100mm foam – this is super-comfy! The CONTACTS
That Sunday night was spent in the final job was to retrim all the seats, which magnummotorhomes.co.uk
camper, on the drive; the kids couldn’t wait we matched throughout including the kids’
any longer to try out the new bunks! It was mattresses. So did we make the ferry? Yes,
an insight for us to see what an improvement but only just!

Your campervans | 2006 Vauxhall Movano
Best It has got to be our two-week stay at
trip Camping Jungfrau in Switzerland – opening

the side door to the view of the snow-
capped Eiger and Mönch, a coffee in one
hand and a local pastry in the other, takes some beating!
What we like about it simply couldn’t get by buying one off the the ‘van soon gets stuck on the grass! As
The best part about the camper has got shelf. We like the fact that you can reach the Peak District is a regular destination for
to be the fact that we made every part places and stay over for the night that you us and we’re normally travelling solo with
ourselves, allowing us to utilise all the would normally miss by flying to your the bikes, we’ve opted to order a set of
available space. There’s nothing more holiday destination. The ‘van allows you to all-terrain tyres to gain that extra bit of
satisfying than sitting in the ‘van and noticing make the journey part of your holiday and traction. Internally, the only small tweak is
all the little bits the children have helped simply stop off wherever you fancy. to raise the dining area floor to be level with
with or the bits that have caused a headache So have we had any issues? Yes, a few the cab floor, as this will also add additional
along the way. small ones – every time we use the ‘van we storage, making use of dead space.
Since completing the ‘van, it has always come up with something to change! The biggest challenge is going to be
transformed what we can do, from taking We are finally happy with the internal layout to fabricate a swivel towbar for the bikes.
the kids out on a snowy day in the Peak and storage but for longer trips, a little more Having three children, the only option
District knowing we have a warm retreat external storage would be great. So we plan we have is to use a towball-mounted rack,
waiting for us, to three-week treks across to build a custom roof rack for those which is brilliant. However, on a campervan
Europe every summer, and random extra-bulky non-essential items and mount with barn doors, accessibility is then
weekends away all across Britain. We love an underslung waste water tank. impossible, so the idea is to make a swivel
the versatility of the ‘van – it’s unique and it’s Another small issue we found during a arm mounted to the original towbar.
tailored exactly for what we want, which you visit to Bakewell on a very wet day was that A simple pin than can easily be removed
and will allow access to the rear
doors in a flash!
So would we trade the
campervan? Not a chance! It’s
become part of the family now.
It fulfils everything that we
need. It’s true that large
motorhomes are great for
space but our ‘van, with minimal
overhang, allows us to travel
down roads and tracks that large
motorhomes would struggle with.
We’ve got a five-berth ‘van with
all the comforts of a mobile home,
exactly as One very cold day of camping near Mam
The super-comfy king size bed turned out Tor in the but we’re still small enough to tuck
Peak District...
I'd hoped it would! into a small layby for the night.

Let’s
Luxurious Compact Automatic Motorhomes Go
Places
from only £12,995 on the road
ALPHARD.CO.UK
01202 631500
Poole, Dorset
Your campervans | 2016 Wellhouse Ford Terrier
LIGHTS!
CAMPERVAN!
ACTION!
I’ll tell you what you want, what you really
really want. You want a campervan! Mike
meets up with Martyn to find out why…
WORDS & PHOTOS Mike Trippitt
I
t was no more than a throwaway line Find me a Ford
over dinner, but for Martyn Moore, Although Martyn and wife, Laura, had
his father-in-law’s suggestion meant the money – his mother had left him an
things were about to change… inheritance – what did Laura think to the
“It was a little magic moment,” says idea of a campervan?
the 57-year-old film maker. “I suddenly had “Why do people at fifty-odd want to
in my head images of me and a ’van full of go camping?” she says. “I can see younger
kit, being completely self-sufficient and people with children might want to do it, but
independent, and travelling the highways I never did. Why the heck am I going to get
and byways of Europe.” to fifty and then start? Laura says it was a lot
Work takes the Yorkshire-born of money to spend on one thing but Martyn
photographer, cameraman and editor was too far down the campervan road, and
all over the country and into Europe with there was only one sort on his mind:
cameras, lights, tracks and other equipment “I wanted a Ford, just for a silly, nostalgic
costing thousands of pounds. An insurance reason: I learnt to drive in a Ford Transit.”
policy stipulation requiring that his He says his dad was a salesman and
equipment not be left overnight in an delivery driver for the old Brooke Bond
unattended car was forcing Martyn to tea company, and Martyn remembers
lug his equipment into the hotel rooms he a succession of Ford Transits: “He had a
stayed in. A campervan would change that. wonderful patch from Scarborough up
He says that once his father-in-law had towards Whitby, over towards Helmsley and
sown the seed, it was always there: “The Thirsk, then down to Beverley. It was one of
idea started to gather pace, almost like the most beautiful parts of the country. It
a romantic image in my head. I started to was the 1970s and things were easier back
imagine that, actually, I could do quite a lot then. It’s unbelievable to think this now, but
of my work from a campervan.” when I was about 14 years old I would go
out with him during summer holidays, and
we would travel around rural north Yorkshire.
On remote country
roads and at an old
abandoned airfield
near Helmsley he used Martyn was looking for: a three-month-old
to teach me to drive. secondhand Ford Terrier that had never
In a Ford Transit that been slept in.
belonged to his Before he went to see it, one Saturday
employer! in March 2016, he agreed part-exchange
Martyn made terms on his old Saab estate, and insured the
contact with David new camper. If he bought it, he could drive it
Elliott, Chief Executive away. When he walked into the showroom,
of Wellhouse Leisure, Martyn did not realise that the silver Terrier
campervan converter on display was the one he’d come to see:
and Ford Qualified “There was a sign on it which said, ‘Please
Rear close-up with Spa Grand Vehicle Modifier. Before do not enter this ’van. It has been prepared
Prix sticker long David had just what for a customer.” I did give it a cursory glance
The LPG gas cylinder has its own
locker at the back
Martyn Moore
Base vehicle 2016 Ford Transit Tourneo
Conversion type Ford Terrier by Wellhouse
Leisure wellhouseleisure.com
Owned since March 2016
Engine 2.2-litre turbo-diesel
Power 125bhp
Economy 35-40mph
Travel seats 5 Berths 4
Leisure battery 100Ah
1.97m
Equipment Air-conditioning, metallic paint,
electric windows, Bluetooth, voice activation
controls, parking sensors and rear camera,
DAB radio, Thatcham 2 alarm, leisure battery,
Porta Potti, compressor fridge, sink, grill and
two-burner hob, leather upholstery,
Eberspächer diesel heating, cassette awning,
12v electric slide-out step
Insurance Comfort (Aviva) £350 including
business use
COSTS SO FAR
The ’van, fully converted ...............£38,000
THANKS TO
Best Western Plus Orton Hall, Peterborough,
for letting us use its lovely location for a
photo shoot bestwestern.co.uk
and thought Wow! That looks nice. Some campervan rather than a Saab estate, I don't dinner the night before, he had made it
lucky devil will be driving home in that soon.” think it’s over-dramatic to say the world clear that if the camper was as described
It was only when sales manager, Chris, told changed a little bit.” he would probably drive home in it. “Both
Martyn that he’d walked past his ’van that he The excitement Martyn felt was dented. daughters remember that statement very,
realised it was the one he had come to see. Laura’s reaction was not what he expected: very clearly,” he says!
“By that point, it was ‘hook, line and sinker. “She was beyond disappointed, that was for Laura is philosophical: “I think it went a
They were just reeling me in,” he recalls. sure. For several weeks afterwards, it was little bit quiet for a few days. I mean, what
tough.” As far as she was concerned, Martyn do you say. It’s done now, isn’t it? We’ve had
Call the nurse! had gone to look at a campervan and she a few jokes since.” And she says, it is good
Later that evening after returning home, knew he was interested in. But, she says: that Martyn enjoys it: “If he had spent all that
Martyn went to Peterborough where his wife “he came back and he’d bought it! I was a money and he didn't enjoy it, that would be
works as a senior nurse: “When I went up to bit surprised, I hadn’t quite expected that.” terrible! At least he likes it and feels he’s
the hospital to collect Laura from work in a Martyn remains convinced that over getting his money’s worth."

Your campervans | 2016 Wellhouse Ford Terrier
Well, it’s a nice house

And enjoy it he does! By staying
overnight in campsites and customer
car parks, Martyn’s work has been
transformed. Producing promotional
and marketing video for corporate
clients, he can shoot film in the morning
at a customer’s premises anywhere in the
country, work on editing the footage and
post-production on his laptop in the ‘van
during the afternoon and evening, then
present a rough edit to his customer the
following morning. le gas
The conventional side kitchen has a doub There are plent y of gadgets on board, inclu
ding
Within weeks of buying the ‘van,
burner, a sink and a grill Eberspächer blown-air heating
Martyn was involved in a week-long
project for the Made In Britain campaign
filming in the northwest of England: “We did if you're smart, you'll pull over at the earliest the vehicle more than he’d like – Martyn
six factories in six days. I don't think I've ever opportunity and you'll just tighten up those says that in specification terms the ’van is
worked so hard over the course of a week in butterfly latches. You give them an extra “the perfect vehicle for the use I put it to”.
my life. twist and that will keep you going until it He wouldn’t be without the parking
It was early starts with long mornings of happens again. With the Terrier 2, sensors, really likes the reversing camera,
shooting and long afternoons and evenings Wellhouse switched back to conventional and loves the Thule electric slide-out step:
editing, but staying on campsites in places straps which you pull tight and they just “I'm constantly stepping in and out of the
like Derbyshire and Formby Point in don't move. They work. So with the next ’van carrying bags, cases, cameras and
Liverpool made it worthwhile. Breathtakingly habitation check, Wellhouse will replace tripods, and I don't know if it's me and just
beautiful. “It blurred the lines between work my butterfly catches with traditional straps.” my age, but my knees are now starting to
and play completely, but it really justified Martyn says that his whole experience go! Every time I use that step I just think
itself in terms of a mobile production facility. with Ford and Wellhouse has been really I’m really glad of it. If I forget to open it, I'm
I came back after that week of constant positive, and he would wholeheartedly kicking myself because I'm either tripping
travelling absolutely exhausted, but also recommend both. over a tripod or my knees creak, so the step
feeling like I’d been on holiday!” After 25,000 miles, the relationship has been a surprise, welcome addition.”
Martin has had a couple of minor gripes between Martyn Moore and the Terrier
withi his Terrier. The butterfly retaining clips is cemented: it is his transport, office, Camper-tastic
that hold the pop-top in the closed position production suite and accommodation. He’s Outside work Martin has used the camper
work loose. Martyn says it isn’t dangerous benefited from equipment that he would not for weekends away visiting friends, day trips
because a secondary fail-safe strap prevents have chosen had he been buying the with his daughters, and an amazing weekend
the roof from lifting up. But he says, “You camper from new, and whilst his bond with in the Ardennes with his eldest daughter,
can be driving along and you suddenly the awning is not always strong – it rattles Charlotte, at the Belgian Grand Prix.
notice a difference in the wind noise. So more than he wants, and it spoils the lines of He’s also visited Scotland in winter and
done the North Coast 500 in seven days.
He says the days were incredibly short but
fantastically dramatic and exciting. “As
anybody who has travelled in Scotland will
tell you, whatever the weather is doing now,
it's probably not going to be doing in three
hours time. The way that the storms roll in
and with the patterns of weather, you can
be in blazing sunshine one minute and then
black as midnight the next!”
This year Martyn, Charlotte and his
youngest daughter, Katie, have tickets for
Glastonbury, but Martyn acknowledges
that “wild horses wouldn’t get Laura to
Glastonbury!” Martyn likes the idea that in
the future he and his wife might “jump in the
’van and do what so many other people do
with their early retirements.” But, he says:
“It's such a ridiculous notion. It's Laura! It's
never going to happen!”
Perhaps when it comes to campervanning
there is one thing on which they do agree.
“You might see Martyn on a campsite,“ says
Laura. “But you won’t be seeing me!” She
laughs and adds: “Look for me when it is
pouring rain, it’s horribly cold, and you’re
sitting there with your little camper stove.
I’ll be in the hotel up the road!”

Greenline
Leisure Vehicles
Innovative Rear Galley layout maximises storage
Ford Transit Custom or Renault Trafic
New from
£37,950
- FOR SALE - FOR RENT

KNIGHTS
CUSTOM CONVERSIONS LTD
SP;CIALISTS I� VOLKSWAGtN CAMPtR CONVtRSIO�S
- CONVERSION PACKAGES
Short or Long
High Top or
Wheelbase
Elevating Roof
5m/5.4m long
NEW FOR 2019
Rear galley conversion to new and used vans Our Prestige Tourer featuring the Reimo Variotech 3000 sliding seat/bed
Call us on: 01205 330126 or 07581 467899
Email: knightscustomltd@yahoo.co.uk www.knightscustomconversions.co.uk
greenline-leisure-vehicles.co.uk 07719 727939
f wallas �Jebasto
eel the dive
✓ NO-RISK DIGITAL OFFER
GET YOUR FIRST DIGITAL ISSUE

FOR JUST 99p
Then pay only £1.99 a month
Plus enjoy all this:

• Download to any device to read when travelling
• Get the digital version 3 days before the print version
• Environmentally friendly • Live web links
And much more!
Try it now. Visit motorhome.ma/cpvndigijuly19

Our campervans | 1998 Ford Auto-Sleeper Duetto
Summer
Running Madness
Hazel tries to take it easy while her husband
runs around like a headless chicken…
W
hen Chris resolved that he would do no runs longer ABOVE prepared for the temperatures on the day itself,
than 10km, he should also have resolved to buy CLOCKWISE which approached 30˚C in the shade.
some reading glasses. Had he done so, he might The race begins; Runners must be self-sufficient and carry their own
The team;
have realised that the shortest leg of the Grim Drumming up
water on each 10-mile lap, although eventually some
Reaper relay was ten miles, not 10km. By the time suppport; The supplies of fresh water were provided on the route. When
he had worked this out, it was too late to change his mind. encampment and Chris completed his lap, I was relieved to discover that he
Besides, he was running in aid of the hospice in Lincoln that Grimsthorpe castle was drenched not in sweat but by the contents of a water
had cared for his brother, Damien, and one of Damian’s BELOW Everything bottle that he had just emptied over himself.
colleagues was planning to run the full 40 miles, so it a dog needs Well, he had the easy job. I had to take down and pack
seemed churlish to complain at having to run a mere 10! away the pop-up tent we'd taken for the afternoon. It was
like trying to cage a wild beast. No wonder I was
Reaper Man exhausted by the end of the day.
The Grim Reaper is an ultra marathon event, which takes
place around Grimsthorpe Castle in Lincolnshire. You can Back on the trail
choose to run 40, 70 or a mind-boggling 100 miles. Each The second run of the summer was a 10km (yes, definitely
lap of the grounds and surrounding countryside is ten 10km this time) Lakeland Trail at Keswick. As usual I was
miles, so that it can be run in relays. picking Chris up from work in the campervan. Now, the
I found a delightful campsite at Low Farm, in the village of problem with going away so often in the camper is that
Folkingham, about 10 miles from the event. I suggested that the garden tends to get rather neglected. Our driveway in
Chris could run to the event from there, as a practice, but particular becomes increasingly overgrown as the summer
he didn’t take me up on the suggestion, oddly enough. advances. I decided to reverse the ’van out in good time,
There is camping in the grounds of Grimsthorpe so that I could recover from the battle with overhanging
Castle itself, but only for tents. shrubs before setting off properly.
I thought back to the Cartmel Lakeland Trail in March
Feeling the heat 2018 when the Beast from the East was still on the prowl.
Chris had, of course, done some practice runs to The campervan had refused to start in the cold weather.
prepare for this one, but no one could have been At least I wouldn’t have that problem today, I thought…

We LOW FARM TOURING AND CAMPING PARK
stayed at 13 Spring Lane, Folkingham, Sleaford, Lincolnshire
NG34 0SJ lowfarmpark.co.uk
CASTLERIGG FARM CAMPING AND CARAVAN
SITE Keswick, Cumbria CA12 4TE castleriggfarm.com
Hazel Hutchinson
Travel Writer
1988 Ford Auto-Sleeper Duetto
Owned since 2014
Engine Diesel 2,490cc
COSTS THIS YEAR

Secondhand engine ...........£1,500
Four new fuel injectors.........£600
MoT ...........................................£253
Insurance..................................£243
Replacement headlights ......£200
Exhaust ....................................... £93
Breakdown cover .....................£90
Habitation check ......................£70
Heat shield................................. £55
Total.....................................£3,104
BEST TRIP SO FAR

Our best trip this year was celebrating
the joys of spring whilst walking the
western Pennines with our six-month-
old sheltie puppy, Tommy!
The ’van refused to start. What is the matter with it? equipment I didn’t know I needed until now.
Well I learned my lesson last time and didn’t attach the We browsed the market stalls. Should we buy a dog bed
jump leads to the leisure battery on this occasion. or a special training lead for the dog we hadn’t yet got?
Once started, however, I didn’t dare turn the engine off, Back in Fitz Park, runners and spectators were
so I made an earlier start than planned, hurtling along like entertained in the run-up to the run by the lively drumming
the bus driver in Speed, and surprising Chris with my early and dancing of a group of Batala drummers. Excitement
arrival. Still, it takes at least three hours to reach the Lake mounted as they gave a final drumroll to start off the race.
District. This seems quite a long journey for a weekend trip, In March last year, at Carmel, a steel band had done their
until I catch my first sight of the Lakeland fells from the best to grip their drumsticks with frostbitten fingers,
A66, and it all seems worthwhile. playing to an audience that couldn’t stand still lest they
As the run took place during the summer holidays, I had froze to the spot!
decided to book a campsite well in advance, only to find While the runners ran up and down the fells, I recovered
that there was no availability for a weekend booking at any from all the exertion and excitement by drinking a
of the Keswick sites. Instead I booked into Castlerigg Farm, cappuccino outside the Keswick Museum, overlooking
which is a 40-minute walk from the town. What a site! Fitz Park. I could have visited an exhibition about the
With views of Bassenthwaite Lake in the distance, we mountaineer, Chris Bonington, entitled ‘Man and
watched the sun set behind the fells. Mountain’, but I soon needed to provide succour and
support to another man who had fallen foul of a mountain.
Man vs mountain Chris had taken a tumble on a steep downhill stretch of
On the Saturday morning we followed the path alongside the run and had limped to the finishing line.
a wooded gorge down to Keswick. After registering for ABOVE
He was in dire need of the healing powers of a pint of
the run, we explored the town. So many tempting shops! CLOCKWISE bitter! We sat in the Dog and Gun, surrounded by dogs of
There was a whole shop dedicated to Peter Rabbit and The sun sinks every shape and size, thinking how welcoming this pub
one that sold only soap. behind the would be to the dog that we had not yet got... What we
mountains at
I now know where to buy a bronze cast of a giraffe needed today was a dog that would carry the injured runner
Castlerigg Farm;
and a life-size carved wooden bear, next time I need Limping back; back to the campsite. There would be no more crazy
one. There were also countless outdoor shops selling Specialist shops running challenges for a few weeks until he recovered!

Shepton Mallet’s
huge motorhome and campervan show!
Great value break in Somerset

Four nights away from £38*
√ FOUR NIGHTS OF FREE CLASSIC ROCK THEMED MUSIC √ CAMPERS DAY TRIP TO BATH √ SHUTTLE BUS TO WELLS
√ DOG FRIENDLY CAMP-SITE √ UNLIMITED ENTRY TO THE EXHIBITION AREA √ TOILETS, SHOWERS, WATER AND ELSANS
LORRAINE CROSBY (OF MEATLOAF) 'SHE WILL ROCK YOU SHOW'
HEADLINE SATURDAY SHOW Bruce Springsteen tribute 'Bootleg Boss'
dire straits tribute 'money for nothing' £7.00 PER ADULT
WHEN PRE-BOOKED
SAVE OVER 25% ON DAY TICKETS WHEN YOU BOOK IN ADVANCE

In advance - Adult: £5.00 Children: FRIDAY-SATURDAY
SATURDAY SUNDAY
On arrival - Adult: £7.00 FREE 9:30am - 5:00pm 9:30am - 4:30pm
FREE PARKING, FREE GOODY BAG & FREE SHOWGUIDE | BATH & WEST SHOWGROUND, BA4 6QN
Book Online - www.showgoer.co.uk

*£38.00 pitch includes pre-booking, magazine subscriber & club rally area discounts. £7.00 entertainment ticket is when booked in advance. For more information call 01778 391123
Camper King 2016 VW Transporter T6 Trendline LWB | Our campervans
Please Sir, I want
Mike Waterman
Travel writer
S’more!
Mike Waterman goes native and learns how
to make an American campfire classic…
Base vehicle 2016 VW Transporter
O
T6 Trendline LWB
n two occasions while camping in the
Conversion type An Adventure Trek USA, after I’d done a favour for fellow
by Stratford-based Camper King campers during the day, in the evening
camperking.co.uk a s’more arrived, as a gesture of thanks.
Owned since 2016 (from new) The first time this lovely token arrived
Engine 2.0-litre turbo-diesel at my campsite I had to ask the young child
bearing the gift what it was, as I’d never seen
Power 100bhp one before!
Gearbox 5-speed manual I don’t have a particularly sweet tooth, but on
Fuel economy 39mpg each occasion, they lived up to their name and
I fancied ‘some more’. Now it’s not polite to turn
Insurance cost £333
up at the pitch of people who have just made
such a tasty way of saying thank you and do my
Oliver Twist impression, ‘please sir, I want some
more’, so I thought I should learn how to make
BEST TRIP SO FAR
them myself.
I recently shipped my campervan
to the USA in order to fully explore In America marshmallows are roasted over
both there and Canada. I have to say, a campfire and most camp pitches have a fire
it’s been a pretty amazing trip so far! ring. I travel with a small barbeque and that’s the
especially the Grand Canyon! heat source I use for my s’mores, as they make a
great dessert after the main grilling event.
Make it
Only three ingredients are required, as a s’more is off the toasting fork onto the side with the come in dark or milk and have a good coating of
simply a biscuit sandwich of chocolate and melted chocolate. Use a knife or a spoon to do this chocolate, claiming more chocolate than biscuit!
marshmallow. Classically Graham Crackers are and definitely not your fingers, as melted Simply turn the chocolate of two biscuits to face
used, one for the top, a second for the bottom. marshmallow can stick and burn inside the sandwich and place the hot
Top the sandwich with the other biscuit and marshmallow in between. Easy or what?
Method
squeeze together. That’s it, time to enjoy! S’mores lend themselves to a bit of imagination.
Don’t be fooled by the word cracker, it’s a
When in the UK… Why not try them with Oreo biscuits, either with
biscuit. Break up some thin chocolate and
place on one of the crackers, which now So, in the UK, what would we use if we can’t find the cream or having scraped it off. Give chocolate
becomes the bottom of the s’more Graham’s Crackers? Probably the obvious choice chip cookies a go. Maybe replace the chocolate
Attach two marshmallows to a toasting would be digestives. with chocolate hazelnut spread. Or add peanut
fork and hold them over the hot charcoal. Any chocolate will do so long as it’s not overly butter to the classic recipe.
A sharpened stick will do just as well. They thick. But here’s some out-of-the box thinking for Go healthy and add thinly sliced fruit such
need to get hot enough to start to melt the you. Why not try a pack of Bahlsen Choco Leibniz as strawberries, kiwi or bananas…
chocolate and stick the s’more together biscuits, instead? Such a simple treat, but it adds a whole
When done, simply push the hot marshmallows They are readily available in supermarkets, new dimension to the camp barbeqcue.

Our campervans | Campervans 1986 VW T25 Transporter
The Sky is the Limit

The Editor falls from a very great
height while out testing the latest
campervan accessories…
T
here’s never a dull moment in my job but I
probably only have myself to blame. I did, after all,
tell my boss during interview that I enjoy a varied
role, and like to be challenged, taken out of my
comfort zone, etc, etc.
So when our video producer jokingly suggested I jump
out of a plane for an upcoming series of MMM TV, I said
“Yeah, go on then. What’s the worst that can happen?”
The HR Department was notified, risk assessments were
carried out and suitable insurance was found. The next
thing I knew, I was signing a waiver to say I didn’t mind
taking part in a high-risk activity that could result in death.
Statistically, the odds are very low, so I figured there was
nothing to worry about…
Is it a plane, is it ET?
The day came. The film crew – consisting of Mad Martin
and Calm Kyle – picked me up. It was a lovely morning
without a cloud in the sky or hint of a breeze, which was
good as skydiving is weather-dependent.
The aim of the day? We’d been granted permission to
film on the airfield so we had a few ideas – all of them
mental. We had a nice driveaway awning, so we figured
we’d pitch it on the airfield behind a plane to see what
would happen when the plane took off… We had a lovely
electric bike – Mad Martin wanted to see me race a plane

taking off, hopefully taking to the skies like ET. Then we
had an action camera with a harness that was supposed to
be ideal for skydivers… there was only one way to find out.
I raced a plane. I didn’t take off like ET. Me and Calm
Kyle erected the awning under the watchful eye of an
airfield marshal (he instructed us not to lose any tent pegs
in the grass) and a bemused pilot (she instructed us to
pitch it directly behind the engine for full effect). Mad
Martin was trying to persuade his wife to drive over to
the airfield with some cash, having discovered the card
machine in the café was out of order.
Then it was time. I found myself a jumpsuit and Chris,
the chap I would be strapped to during the tandem
skydive. We were jumping with a skydiving club so there
was no group briefing. I was handed some goggles and a
hat, and introduced to the cameraman who was jumping
with us. Then into the plane it was.
It’s a light aircraft that’s quite small – about the size of
a campervan – with room for about a dozen passengers.
A bench runs down each side so there’s somewhere to sit
while you climb to 15,000 feet. And windows so you can

Geneve Brand
Editor
1986 VW T25 Transporter
Conversion type Hand-built
conversion by an unknown previous
owner...
Owned since 2007
Engine Petrol 1,998cc (donor engine
from 1998 Subaru Legacy)
Power 115bhp
Fuel economy 30mpg (approx)
Insurance cost £322
(fully comprehensive including
commuting, limited to 5,000 miles)
WHAT WE L♥VE ABOUT IT

Although it does fly down the
motorway with its Subaru engine,
it doesn't actually take to the skies.
I'm glad that it remains firmly on the
ground. There's something reasuring
about being on the ground when
you're in a campervan!
When our video producer jokingly suggested I jump

out of a plane for an upcoming series of MMM TV, I said
“Yeah , go on then. What’s the worst that can happen?”
see what being 15,000 feet above the ground looks like.
To give you an idea, you can make out roads and fields but Down below, Mad Martin and Calm Kyle were waiting
you can’t see cars or cows. I also got to see what a flying with their cameras at the ready, expecting a green and
awning looks like. yellow parachute.
Up, up and away Houston, we have a problem!

We circled higher and higher, doing three laps of Chris had drilled me several times on what would happen
Peterborough before reaching the desired height. Also and what I needed to do. I was to cross my arms over my
aboard our plane were two guys in wingsuits, and a chap chest until we were out of the plane, then I should uncross
who was trying out a new parachute – they jumped before them and hold them out, like I was being held at gunpoint,
us at 10,000 feet. during the free-fall. I had to keep my chin up and my legs
Rather like the tambour doors you might find in your up behind me and, if he stuck two fingers up in my face, it
campervan kitchen, these planes have a similar sort of ABOVE LEFT TO
meant my legs were in the way!
door on the side. At the front of the cabin there is a red RIGHT I prepare The difference between a skydive and a parachute jump
light and a green light. When it switches to green, you to race a plane like is that the parachute is manually deployed rather than
shuffle over to the door, open it and fall out. ET on an e-bike; automatically. This means you tumble through the air at a
Me and Chris in our
At 15,000 feet a group of four went out together, as speed of around 125 miles an hour before deploying your
fetching hats and
they were practising group formations – very cool! Then goggles ’chute and gracefully gliding to the ground at a more
it was my turn. I’d been given the choice of sitting down, tranquil pace.
LEFT The Vango
dangling my legs out of the door and rolling out, or Once our parachute had safely opened, Chris would tap
driveaway awning,
standing up and diving out of the door… As it was being pitched behind the me on the shoulder to tell me everything was good, and
filmed, we concluded the latter would look more dramatic. plane then I would be allowed to fly the parachute…

Our campervans | Campervans 1986 VW T25 Transporter
Except our parachute didn’t open. And Chris didn’t

tap me on the shoulder to tell me everything was good
– instead, he bellowed: “We’ve got a problem!” Nothing
more. Nothing less.
Tangles and turnips

People have since asked me if I panicked and screamed,
and needed a fresh pair of underpants once I was down!
But luckily I didn’t. I was aware the parachute hadn’t
opened and that we were approaching the ground at
an alarming rate, so I figured this was the ‘problem’ Chris
was referring to – what else could it be?
I remembered having seen a programme on TV about
paratroopers or something, and recalled that the most
likely explanation for a parachute not opening was that
the ropes were tangled. I also knew we had a reserve
parachute but, in order to deploy it, we had to safely get
the faulty one away from us – otherwise, the second one
would also get tangled up and then we’d definitely be
brown bread! So I figured Chris had enough on his plate
and our best chance of survival rested in me remaining
calm while he got on with the job of saving us. With this in
mind, I focused on what he’d told me: arms out, like you’re
being held at gunpoint, chin up…
And I held that position for what felt like an eternity
before the violent but very welcome tug of a parachute
breaking our fall finally came. As we floated down in our
bright orange emergency parachute, Chris pointed at a
knotted ball of green and yellow fabric hurtling towards
the turnip fields below us. Later, Chris told me he’d done a go at flying our reserve ’chute.
over 11,500 jumps and this was only the eighth time a Back on terra firma, Mad Martin and Calm Kyle had
parachute had failed to open! What are the odds? realised something was amiss when a green and yellow
Thank goodness I was in such experienced hands. parachute failed to appear, and someone who’d landed
He asked me if I felt all right and I said I was feeling a bit ABOVE The faulty before us explained we’d be in the orange one…
dizzy and sick, so he told me to use his feet to stand up. parachute fails to I’m not sure who was most relieved about me being
I didn’t question it and did as I was told, and instantly felt open back on the ground, as poor Mad Martin was quite
better. Afterwards, he explained that free-falling for so BELOW LEFT TO shaken! So we thanked Chris for saving my life and had a
long while spinning around at 125mph has the same effect RIGHT Gracefully group hug. Then it was back to the airfield for a spot of
as being in a fighter jet, so vomiting and blacking out is a coming to land lunch, as Martin’s wife had finally turned up with cash!
with the reserve
normal reaction! It’s caused by the harness around your parachute; I thank
The second question everyone has since asked me –
groin cutting off the blood and oxygen supply to your Chris for saving after the new underpants question – is would I do it again.
brain... I was just disappointed I wasn’t allowed to have my life! The answer? Of course I would! I told you I was insane.
Look out for news of when this dramatic film will be

Tune in shown in an upcoming issue of Campervan, and
check out MMM TV at outandaboutlive.co.uk

CAMPER VAN
INSURANCE
Specialist insurance Compare quotes from our
for campervans specialist insurance brands
Simply match the policy that's right
Why choose us?
for yo u and yo ur ca mper van.
Customers score us highly Call us or visit our website and
for value for money start saving today.
• Our service is completely free

Reassuringly good cover
from a leading insurer
• Quick and easy online quote
• A wide range of policies and benefits
• Flexible payment options

Highly rated
claims service
• Buy online 24/7 service
01708 897 434

Claim your £10 reader discount:
0800 470 1791

Free from landlines and mobiles www.itscampervaninsurance.co.uk
Please mention ‘Campervan Mag’ when calling
Or get a quote at
www.caravanguard.co.uk/cp10
it’s camper van

£10 reader discount is an introductory offer only & not available in conjunction INSURANCE
with other offers. Minimum premiums apply. 4.7/5 star rating from 684 Review
Centre users, correct as of 01/04/19. The 9/10 rating is 8.9 rounded to the
nearest whole number and is based on 340 claimants (touring caravan and
motorhome) surveyed in 2018. Caravan Guard Limited is authorised and it’s Camper Van Insurance Services is a trading name of Grove & Dean Ltd,
regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. an independent intermediary who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct
Authority (FCA). For your security calls may be recorded.

In the know | Campervan insurance
Campervan
insurance
We asked industry experts for the lowdown
on insuring your camper. Here’s what
they had to say…
K
nowing that your sanity hangs in to drive in countries like Andorra, Albania,
the balance at campervan insurance Macedonia or the Faroe Islands, which sit
renewal time, we’ve put the industry outside the EU.
under the microscope so you are Craig clarifies: “Our green cards last for
better informed to decide who to up to 270 days at a time, so you can easily
turn to when you come to renew your policy. sort it out before leaving the UK. We don’t
We detail who can insure your campervan charge our customers if they arrange green
and what they have to offer. We've also had cards through our website, but we levy an
a chat to some of the key players in the admin fee if it’s done over the phone.”
market to see what's going on in the world Comfort’s Ben Cue notes: ”The original
of insurance. cards were introduced at a time when things
Experts Ben Cue of Comfort Insurance, were very low-tech but, in the modern age,
Caravan Guard’s Craig Thompson, Nigel it shouldn't be difficult to have an electronic
Coppen of Vantage Insurance Services green card that would be scanned, much
(which takes in Club Care Insurance like a passport. We automatically include up
Services) and Safeguard's Nic Waddington, to 365 days of European cover to all of our and a new certification for travel introduced
all contribute their thoughts and opinions to policies, and most of our customers take with a four-month period before travel, so
help guide you. their vehicles abroad, but the worst-case you’d have to sort out some paperwork if
scenario is that you might have to pay a fiver taking an animal with you. Also, while
Travelling in Europe for an international driving permit and plan shorter trips would be covered by a green
There’s currently no way of knowing what ahead by requesting a green card, which card, it could be that visas will be necessary
the outcome of Brexit will be in terms of its may or may not be free.” for longer trips.”
impact on campervan insurance. Nic Waddington adds: ”We've had Regardless of what happens with Brexit,
Craig Thompson says: “If we leave with reports from some of our customers that you still need to make sure that you’re
a deal, everything will probably continue green card checks are already taking place covered to drive your campervan in the EU
as before. If we leave without a deal, it’s at border crossings. One thing that won’t be if you’re visiting Europe. As Craig says: “Not
possible that anyone travelling to Europe changing overnight post-Brexit is the level of all policies include EU cover as standard;
will have to carry a green card along with cover that we provide, whether travelling in Caravan Guard’s doesn’t because it would
an international driving permit.” the UK or in the EU.” be forcing a large chunk of our policyholders
A green card is a document that’s In the event of a no-deal Brexit there to pay for something that they wouldn't use,
recognised at border crossings showing that could be other ramifications, as Nigel which is why it’s an optional add-on. Only
a driver is insured to drive their vehicle. And Coppen explains: “It could be that the about half of our customers ever leave the
green cards never went away for those keen current pet passport scheme is overhauled UK, so we can offer them a useful saving.”
The cost of repairs

Ben adds: “An EU withdrawal is likely to have
Alamy
an effect on the cost of parts and vehicles,

too. It's already getting increasingly difficult
to source parts for older vehicles – for the
first dozen years or so things tend to be OK,
but then the supply often deteriorates. Parts
supply is becoming more fragmented and
they generally have to be ordered in
specially as few companies keep much in
stock nowadays, resulting in longer waits
and higher costs. Sometimes things aren't
helped by customers insisting on OE parts
or wanting to stick with specific brands,
when often a cheaper alternative is simply
the same part but in a different box – the

key thing is to ensure that the part carries Stop that thief! or even moving the campervan into secure
a BSI kitemark. Windscreens are a good As if all of this isn’t enough to contend with, storage instead.
example, as there are just three companies campervan and motorhome theft rates are
making these across the whole of Europe going up, just as they are for most motorised Honesty is the best policy
– but they can sell the same part under an vehicles these days. A more positive trend is the number of
array of brands. All of those we spoke to advocate the use younger enthusiasts who are getting into
“Part of the problem is model year of a mechanical lock that will act as a visible campervanning. All of our contributors have
changes, when things get changed to deterrent as well as impede the progress of noticed this trend, as Nigel says: “There are
keep a vehicle looking fresh or to add new thieves intent on stealing your ’van. Nigel more converters than ever offering more
technology. This adds to the number of says: “We would always advise the fitment of choice than there has ever been. The ready
parts that have to be kept available and if the mechanical locks; anything that slows down availability of finance has helped a new
prices for these increases it's more likely that or deters a thief has to be a good thing.” Or generation get into motorhoming.”
a vehicle will be written off, even though you could try a gadget that Comfort It also helps that, with Volkswagen selling
paradoxically these vehicles are lasting Insurance recommends: a lock for the OBD significant numbers of its California each
longer than ever.“ port that stops thieves plugging their own year, and with Mercedes having introduced
”It’s not just about the parts supply, device into your ’van’s brain, enabling them the Marco Polo a couple of years ago, there
though. Van sales are booming, especially to steal it without the keys. are now a few on used forecourts. This
for bigger models. The problem is that while Ben adds: “Ford-based ’vans seem to greater availability of used vehicles to
the number of commercial vehicles is rising, be particularly likely to be stolen, partly choose from suits those 30-something
the number of repair centres is not, leading because there are lots of them – but over families perfectly. However, as Nigel points
to longer waiting times. the past year Fiats have also become more out, many of these ’vans aren’t reserved for
”As if all this isn’t enough, many likely to be pinched. There’s a huge demand occasional weekends away – they’re more
motorhomes are built in such a way that for used Fiat and Ford parts across Europe, likely to be used on an everyday basis,
repairs are very specialist and therefore with items such as engines and gearboxes perhaps even for commuting. Not all
potentially very costly. We had an instance very easy to sell on.“ insurers can cover this risk, though, and
recently where a shelf was damaged inside Craig says: “We advise owners to look at those that can will often have a relatively low
a ’van. The part itself cost just £30 but to the Sold Secure website soldsecure.com annual mileage limit in place of 8,000 or so.
replace it would have meant major and to invest in steering wheel locks with a Nic says: “We have seen a rapid growth in
disassembly of the ’van, then reassembly, gold rating. Clutch locks and wheel clamps campervan policies; a lot of traditional
but we found a company that uses very are also good options. An increasing motorhome, caravan and even car
specialist repair techniques and the £7,000 number of theft claims are for vehicles taken dealerships are branching out and selling
bill that we were facing was trimmed to just from driveways. We’d always advise trying to campers. We work closely with a large and
£750. That’s still a lot of cash to replace a keep a vehicle out of sight and if you really ever-growing volume of converters; the
damaged shelf, but it’s far less than it might can’t do this, think about adding driveway conversions vary widely and can be very
have been.” security such as driveposts or locked gates, bespoke. For this reason, and because

In the know | Campervan insurance
they’re a lot smaller than motorhomes, average premium is £350 yet we’ll get don’t provide the specialist cover than you
insurers are nervous about the fact that the people trying to under-insure their ’van to need. Also, don’t rely too heavily on price
lines between leisure and everyday vehicles pay a slightly smaller premium and to avoid comparison websites because not all
are being blurred. It’s important that you're having to fit security measures. We do our companies are on those, and as Ben Cue
clear with your insurer regarding the mileage research at the point that a policy is taken out comments: “Instead of just filling out an
and use of the vehicle to ensure you have and if we’re not happy that we’re getting the online form, give the insurance company a
the correct cover in place, and that you whole story we decline the business – that’s call as they might be able to offer a better
won’t encounter any problems if you need why we pay out for 99.6% of the claims that deal on the strength of a conversation.”
to make a claim.” we receive. To illustrate the point, Craig says: “Caravan
Instead of ensuring in advance that they’re “It’s not unknown for someone to buy Guard offers a range of discounts that a
adequately covered, some owners try to pull a brand-new ’van for the thick end of price comparison site wouldn’t necessarily
the wool over the eyes of their insurer in the £60,000 but to insure it for £54,000 so flag up when you’re entering your
event of a claim, which is bonkers because they don’t have to fit the tracker or alarm information. For example, we offer a 5%
you can get a good level of cover for a that we insist must be installed on any ’van discount on vehicles fitted with Tyron bands,
ridiculously small amount of cash. It’s not worth £55,000 or more. On a new-for-old which help a driver maintain control in the
just about inadequate cover, though; some policy you stand to be thousands of pounds event of a tyre blowout, preventing a more
people break the terms and conditions of out of pocket in the event of a claim – and serious accident. We can offer the same
their cover. Nigel explains: “Some owners all for the sake of just a very small saving. discount on vehicles fitted with pressure
go away for several weeks or even months People also sometimes don’t insure their monitoring systems such as TyrePal, to help
at a time, so unsurprisingly they take their vehicles over the winter because they’re not reduce the likelihood of a ’van being driven
spare ’van keys with them just in case. That in being used – despite the fact that fire and on incorrectly inflated tyres, while reversing
itself isn’t a problem – but what is a problem theft are constant possibilities whether or cameras are rewarded, too.”
is leaving them in the ’van when it’s left not the ’van is being driven. Finally, make sure that you’ve got the best
unattended, because if a vehicle is stolen People think that it won’t happen to them, suitable policy in place – some are rather
when the keys are inside, that will void the but bad things do happen, which is why at better than others. Ben illustrates: “One of
terms of any insurance policy.” the point that you take out your insurance our customers bought a £46,000 ’van and
On this note, when someone unwittingly cover you must disclose everything and initially insured it on a general motor vehicle
breaches the terms of their policy, most ensure that any claims limits won’t leave policy so there was no specialist cover. You
reputable insurers will try to help in some way, you out of pocket.” might save a bit at renewal time, but in the
even if it’s just a contribution – note the use of event of a claim you could be left out of
the word ‘unwittingly’ here. Remove that from Shop around pocket by thousands of pounds. That’s
the equation and the claim becomes Armed with all of this information, when you because most car policies provide just a
fraudulent, so that’s a different matter entirely. come to buy your insurance it’s crucial that few hundred pounds-worth of possessions
According to Ben, if someone exaggerates an you shop around and, when you do, don’t cover, whereas a motorhome policy
insurance claim, their insurers are supposed to just look at the headline price; pin down increases this to a few thousand. Also
pay just a part of that claim – but new what you’re getting for your money as well ensure that you’re completely honest when
legislation is likely to land soon, which would as whether or not there are any add-ons. answering questions and don’t be afraid to
mean an insurance company wouldn’t have to Not all policies are the same; some allow ask your own questions; a good sales person
pay out anything at all. you to tailor things to suit your needs while will know the product and will guide you
Ben adds: “To put things into context, our others are little more than car policies, which through everything.”

Call us today
to receive your
5% DISCOUNT
quoting code
MAG007*
Wherever you are going, there’s one simple decision
to make, get insured with Comfort.
Why? We’ve been around for 40 years and know a few Always take Comfort.
things about insuring campervans, our cover is second
to none and our customers rate us as excellent. Call us today on
We have an extensive range of policies from a range
of insurance underwriters, this means we can cover all
0203 7578 615
types of campervans, from classics to hi-tops and all Get a quote
kinds of conversions, even if you’ve built it yourself.** comfort-insurance.co.uk
* This code cannot be used in conjunction with another discount. This discount is only applied
to the base premium on your quote.
** Subject to underwriting acceptance, additional information about your vehicle may be needed.
When it comes to
motorhome insurance,
Adrian Flux have got
it covered.
Policy benefits can include:

Foreign travel cover*,
agreed value, awnings and
camping equipment cover
and much more.
Call us today for a free personalised quote

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
*(EU Countries included, additional charges applied to
0800 085 5000 or visit adrianflux.co.uk
Countries outside of EU)
Campervan
insurance
Let nothing
get in the
way of your FREE
adventures ACSI 2019
Campsite Guide,
Discount Card + App
when you take out a new policy
EU breakdown cover as and quote FREEACSI
standard from The AA* offer ends 31/08/2019.
Peace of mind when

you travel in the EU
with cover for 365 days
Unlimited windscreen
repair and replacement
Call us on 0800 995 1314

and quote FREEACSI or visit safeguarduk.co.uk
Offer available to new customers only. Policy must be in force for 14 days from start date. The offer can be withdrawn at any time and may not be used in conjunction with any other offer.*For motorhomes less
than 20 years old. Other features, benefits and limitations exist, please contact us for details. Safeguard is a division of Swinton Group Limited, registered in England and Wales, registered number 756681 whose
registered office is at: Embankment West Tower, 101 Cathedral Approach, Salford, M3 7FB. Calls are recorded for training and quality purposes. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Lithium ferrous batteries | In the know
Lithium ferrous batteries

Lithium ferrous batteries are lighter and last longer than lead acid
batteries, but are they worth the extra expense? Clive Mott
endeavours to finds out…
WORDS & PHOTOS Clive Mott
T
o find out if it’s worth splashing the hard-earned cash on them. high- tech technology.
cash on pricey lithium ferrous (also Here we take a look at three different case The claimed benefits include lifecycles
known as lithium iron) batteries, you studies to explain some of the reasons why up to 10 times that of regular lead acid
can’t beat speaking to people who campervanners are choosing to invest in batteries, faster charging times and
have actually invested their own various versions of this expensive but significant weight savings...
Dave Custom-built
Hurrell VW Transporter
Dave’s choice was basically down
to the fact that he wanted a gas-free
campervan to function away from the mains for
as long as possible. With the diesel-fired hob/
heater and compressor-type fridge, 12V power
consumption will be far higher than if he had a
gas-powered cooker, heater and fridge.
The fast charge times and higher effective
capacity are the main factors for this choice.
Weight and bulk are secondary, but welcome
characteristics, as is longevity – greatly increased
cycles and lifespan over standard batteries.
Did it work?
“It’s working fine and been nearly perfect. So
far the sun has won and the battery has never
dropped below 13V. Not bad for an entirely gas-
free campervan! I tried a voltage-sensing relay to
connect starter and leisure batteries when driving. system (weighing around 15kg) cost £949.99 PCU 1220 20A charger (£192) and a Sterling
It’s not been successful so I’ll change it to a normal from Alpha Batteries, including VAT and Pro 600W pure sine wave inverter (£150).”
standard heavy-duty relay driven by the alternator delivery. The system includes low temperature Dave uses old-style meters for battery volts and
D+ terminal. A bridging fuse position has been protection, too. amps, but an app on his iPhone to monitor the
installed to allow the mains charger or solar panels “Also fitted is a Sterling Pro B2B charger (£343), solar panel.
to charge both leisure and starter batteries.” Victron MPPT 75 solar regulator (£75), Photonic
What did it cost? Universe 130W semi-flexible solar panel (£270), Contact
Victron VE Bluetooth dongle (£45), Sterling Pro alpha-batteries.co.uk
“The Relion 100Ah with built-in management

In the know | Lithium ferrous batteries
Pete & Di Murvi Morello

Johnson forPetetheir
and Di grasped this technology
new Murvi Morello as they
travel to some out in the wild places,
being avid wildlife observers and photographers.
They’ve explored the UK extensively, have been
to Iceland and Norway and often head south to
places like Spain and Greece.
Wild camping is important to them so they
opted for a Victron set up with two 90Ah lithium
ferrous batteries. You can use almost all of this
capacity when necessary without the voltage
dropping off significantly and still have a battery
life at least 10 times that of a good lead acid job.
Then there is the fast charge ability with the
engine on tickover should they park somewhere
where their 200W solar panel isn’t working. For
peace of mind, their instrumentation displays
residual capacity and amps. Their system is
maintenance-free and powers a diesel heater
and compressor fridge.
Lithium ferrous batteries generally should not be
charged when the temperature falls below freezing.
For travelling in sub-zero climates, Pete and Di have
installed a battery isolating master switch so that, if would do different next time around. Having from the outset so separating out the cost for just
the campervan is parked up, the batteries can be recently spent six weeks travelling around the extra parts is difficult. Each 90Ah batteries cost
allowed to warm up prior to using them. Norway and never connecting to a mains hook- £1,000. The 200A battery management system
Unlike most other systems, the Victron battery up is a good testament to the system, though! was £228, plus a MBV battery monitor (£163),
management system controls current flow in the We have found a problem with the charging MPPT 30A solar regulator (£186), solar panel
negative. So all the systems wired to operate from system while we are mobile and this remains to control (£75), 500W inverter/charger (£441),
the leisure battery must have their negative wire be resolved. It was working and now it’s not… Buck-Boost 50A B2B unit (£600) and a Cyrix
connected to it and not the chassis of the vehicle. Our system is a development of another one lithium battery split charge relay (£63) were also
If you do connect anything directly to the chassis and has so many components that next time fitted. You also need to budget for one or two
then your appliance will be powered by the starter I would look at some of the simpler systems. days to install it all.
battery with a standard Victron system set-up. It’s still a work in progress!”
Did it work? What did it cost? Contact

“Basically yes, but there are a few details we The Murvi was ordered with this Victron system murvi.co.uk
Got a question you'd like to ask

Ask Campervan? We'd love to hear from you! 


POWER ON THE MOVE
A NEW GENERATION
OF SMART BATTERIES
LONG LIFE LIGHTWEIGHT
POWERFUL ECONOMICAL
www.lifos.co.uk
THE FUTURE OF POWER IS HERE
LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES FOR GREENER ENERGY
WHY GO LITHIUM?
• 60% lighter at only 13kg 10 YEARS WARRANTY
• More than double the power output
• 10 year guarantee, life expectancy 15 years 0% FINANCE
• Guaranteed 5000 cycles
• Last up to 15 years THE ONLY INTERTEK, CE,
• Equivalent to at least 11 x AGM 110AH batteries across whole life cycle GOVERNMENT APPROVED
• 7 x cheaper per amp hour compared to AGM 110AH BATTERY AVAILABLE IN
• Can be charged from 0 to 100% in one hour
• Faster, more efficient charging from solar
THE UK AND EUROPE
• Built in patented BMS (battery management system)
• Non Chinese built in the USA
Call 01323 405 375 or visit www.transporterenergy.co.uk

In the know | Lithium ferrous batteries
Linda & Vantage Neo

Barry Norris Linda and Barry ordered a new
Vantage Neo panel van in 2015
and specified the French EZA lithium
ferrous battery unit from new. The EZA is housed
in one box with all the bits inside including the
battery, management system, solar regulator, etc.
All connections are via plugs and sockets. This
complete unit is fitted beneath the driver’s seat
and links to a remote display via a small cable.
As Barry said, a solar panel cannot always
deliver and recalls a show where it was so overcast
and cold that ’vans with Combi heaters ran out of
electrical power! At the time he had the S3000
Truma heater but, with the new heating system
requiring electrical power, he wanted plenty of
reserves. However, he didn’t want to eat into his
payload with two heavy lead acid
batteries. Also, his compressor
fridge added to the electrical
demand and he had concerns
about maintenance, as the almost full capacity What did it cost?
batteries had to fit under the of around 120Ah, "The equivalent modern EZA unit is an EZA MK2.2
driver’s seat. The need to vent lead which keeps us going for 130Ah Lithium Power-Pack at £2,995 or an EZA
acid batteries and the potential for four days or more with 80Ah Lithium Power-Pack at £2,149. You also
spillage in the event of a crash put him off. heating and the TV well used (even in no sun). need to budget £140 for cables and £200 to link
The EZA doesn't require any maintenance “The only problem is sometimes the display it to an inverter if you have one. RoadPro supplied
except that it’s supposed to be checked annually reads incorrectly. When you know it’s fully ours and can fit them for between £180 and £480
via a digital check. charged, after a long run or mains charge, the depending on the vehicle."
Did it work? solution is to press the two buttons to synchronise Contact
“It’s been an excellent experience. We have an it. Job done.” roadpro.co.uk
Clive’s verdict tightening emissions targets and, to hit minutes of engine running on tickover,
The cost of these batteries is falling and will these, manufacturers are using intelligent you can put in a 50% charge, making it
continue to fall as more people take them alternators that provide regenerative ideal for wild camping. Take away the
on. Their life expectancy is much greater electrical braking when the vehicle slows cost of the solar panels you don’t need
than an equivalent lead technology-based down. For campervan converters, the and the electrical system cost is dramatically
battery and, per useable ampere-hour, the challenge is that these intelligent alternators reduced. It’s an ideal arrangement for ’vans
weight saving is very significant, (about don’t work well with simple split-charging with diesel heaters and compressor fridges
30% of lead technology-based on useable systems so they have to fit a specialised that require more 12V power.
energy). Lithium ferrous batteries need no battery-to-battery chargers (B2B). Regarding charging in sub-zero
topping up or checking electrolyte levels. These B2B chargers work well with lithium temperatures, NDS claims that, with its Lion
There’s no spillage if they fall over and, as ferrous batteries, which can be charged very batteries, the battery management system
there’s no gassing, they don’t need a vent fast – you can use a 100A B2B charger with will shut down the charging side of the
tube, giving greater freedom to where they a 100Ah lithium ferrous battery (giving the battery before any damage can be done.
can be placed. same usability as 200Ah of lead acid So there is progress in this facet of the
Today’s vehicles have to meet ever- batteries). This means that with just 30 technology, too.

The Leaders in Lithium for
all Types of Campervan.
For more than 4 years, RoadPro has been the UK’s leading supplier and installer of lithium
batteries for campervans & motorhomes. Hundreds of owners have discovered for themselves
what a difference they make to the way they use their vehicles. As one of our customers says:
“It’s like wild camping with hook-up.”
Powered Powered
by Lithium by Lithium Powered
by Lithium
Powered Powered
by Lithium by Lithium
See our products in action at shows or,
if you’re thinking of having work done,
why not bring your van to our Daventry
Powered
by Lithium
Powered
by Lithium premises for a FREE survey?
If you want all the advantages that lithium batteries offer, you’ll need advice from people who know what will
work and what won’t. At RoadPro, we’ve supplied hundreds of systems for campervans and motorhomes and,
because we stock a complete range of lithium-compatible products, we can help you choose the perfect system
for you and your van. There are so many benefits that you’ll never want a lead-acid leisure battery again.
“We haven’t been on hook-up for weeks but we can still use our
laptop, hair dryer, coffee machine, toaster and microwave oven!”*
*To operate 240V appliances, you’ll need an inverter and appropriate battery capacity.
It’s not just about the battery.

A lithium battery can change the way you use
your campervan but only if it’s installed
correctly, using suitable equipment. If it isn’t, it
won’t be able to perform as it should.
Our batteries all come from specialist European
manufacturers. We even have the only British-
made lithium battery designed especially with
campervans & motorhomes in mind.
Chargers, inverters, monitors and even our
cables are all made to work reliably and
efficiently, giving you all the benefits that lithium
batteries offer.
If you’re having a campervan built or you’re
buying one from a dealer, ask about having one
of our lithium systems installed.
To place an order, find a dealer near you or We’re not just a
arrange installation, phone or visit our website. website. You can visit
us and see our range
RoadPro Ltd: 3 Egerton Close, Drayton Fields, Daventry, NN11 8PE of accessories for yourself.
Tel: 01327 312233 E-mail: sales@roadpro.co.uk
www.roadpro.co.uk
Visit www.roadpro.co.uk
for details.
Axon Motorhomes, high quality panel van
conversions handcrafted in the Rossendale Valley
T: 01706 563 027 - : www.axonmotorhomes.co.uk

Axon Motorhomes, high quality panel van conversions handcrafted in the Rossendale Valley. Now an authorised
Drivelodge roof installer, we can provide full or part conversions to suit your budget.
All Axon Motorhomes conversions are covered by a 2-year habitation warranty plus a 2-year insurance backed
mechanical warranty on the base vehicle* for your peace of mind.
www.cabbunk.co.uk
Bespoke Conversions
Main converter of the Nissan
Elgrand in the North West
40 Years experience
We convert most leisure vehicles
to suit your budget and style
www.cruizecampers.co.uk
Email:paul@cruizecampers.co.uk Tel: 01204 370725
www.lakelandvanwindows.co.uk
• REAR SEATING CONVERSIONS • INSULATING & LININGS • ELEVATING ROOFS
• SPLIT CHARGE SYSTEMS • FULL/PART CAMPER CONVERSIONS
• ROCK N ROLL BEDS • FIXED AND OPENING PRIVACY GLASS
• DIY WINDOW KITS • COLLECTION & DELIVERY AVAILABLE
Email: info@t5lwl.co.uk
Lifetime Warranty on all workmanship
01539 724 024

Quality Campervans
at Affordable Prices
....MANY VEHICLES IN STOCK TO BE CONVERTED TO REQUIREMENTS....
WWW.NEWDAWNCONVERSIONS.CO.UK

Accessories | In the know
Top 10 Campervan Accessories

All the campsites are fully booked and ice cream sales have gone through the
pop-top. Yup, the school holidays are here! Here’s a few camping essentials
you won’t want to leave home without…
£39.
99 Robens Rydal C66 Star
The concept of walking poles is a bizarre one because Buy
one would assume that, if one were physically capable of
trekking up a mountain, one would not need the assistance
of a pair of walking sticks. Then again, those who do require a
traditional walking stick probably aren’t tackling vertical scree
slopes and slippery sheep poo-covered grassy banks…
Anyway, these Robens carbon poles are pretty nifty,
weighing just 446g a set. They’re 110 – 130cm long but
cleverly fold up into three pieces measuring 37cm
long, so they’re super-compact and easy to stow
away in the supplied carry bag. £100
robens.de
Mountain Warehouse
Kitsound Diggit Outdoor Speaker £19.9 Camber Fleece
The only thing as irritating as the current trend of incorrectly
9 When it comes to outdoor clothing, why is
using ‘I’ instead of ‘me’ (✔ Would you like to come camping it that men get funky colours like rocket red
with me and Dave? ✘ Would you like to come camping with and bullet blue while the girls get yucky baby
Dave and I?) is people trying to be clever by giving products pastels such as puke pink and varicose veins violet?
stupid names, like Diggit. Or perhaps the work placement To be fair, you can buy the Camber in nice colours,
kid just misspelt this on the computer-box… we just got sent lilac – probably because they had
Maybe it’s meant to be called ‘digit’, which would make a surplus at the warehouse…
sense as it’s a digital speaker, or ‘dig it’, which would also Colour aside, it’s 100% polyester and performs
make sense as it’s designed for outdoor use, with a stake as a fleece should, being breathable yet warm and
for ramming into the ground, or vampires. It’s also got cosy. At the time of print, the women’s ones were
Bluetooth connectivity, so you won’t get mud or blood also reduced to £12.99 and the men’s to £9.99.
on your phone. Bargain basement!
kitsound.co.uk mountainwarehouse.com
Vango Air Pump & DC Digital Pump

Not only did we send the Vango Hexaway awning skyward (see £11
our crazy article on page 96) but we also managed to lose
the pump that came with it. In doing so, we learnt one
£22 thing: not all pumps are equal. Don’t be fooled into
thinking the cheap ‘universal’ pumps you get off
the back of a lorry for a fiver are actually universal
because they are not – you just get fobbed off with
a bag full of nozzles that don’t fit anything.
So if you own a Vango product that requires
inflation and also lose your pump, then take heed and
get a proper replacement, like the man-powered Double
Action Air Pump or the Airbeam DC Digital 12V pump.
vango.co.uk

In the know | Accessories
Small Space Dehumidifier Bags Found

We’re not sure if the guys at the Poundshop have a
campervan but it would seem they do have an issue
for £1
with a small space that suffers from damp, mould,
mildew and condensation. So much so that they’ve
come up with a small and discreet product that absorbs
moisture... You could be forgiven for thinking that
makes them perfect for putting in your underpants
or campervan drawers, but no – they are described as
‘Great For Draws’. Good to know these dehumidifiers
boast some sort of unexplained artistic quality, then.
poundshop.com
From Haynes Van Life

£20 If you’ve ever owned any kind of modern classic
vehicle, you’ll probably have a Haynes manual
Equafleece Summer Suit kicking about. If you aren’t old enough to remember
We initially thought this was some kind of wetsuit but it’s them, they are like Youtube in paper format. But
actually a Polartec coat designed to keep ticks off your it’s wise to be wary of any book entitled Van Life
pooch, thus preventing them from contracting lyme because most of them are full of useless nonsense,
disease. It also keeps off the sun and rain, and just about like how to make hummus out of recycled flip-flops
everything else, really. We just hope you don’t have the or surfboards from toe nail clippings and whale
sort of dog that likes to roll around in nasty things. music. However, this one is actually packed full
Don’t worry, we didn’t actually test this ourselves as we of really useful stuff from buying advice to tips on
abhor cruelty to animals here at Campervan HQ. Cruelty packing and camping, and makes for an interesting
to editors is fine but not doggies – we have to draw the read. Suitable for would-be campervanners,
line somewhere, don't we? £9.74 newbies and old hats alike!
equafleece.co.uk haynes.com
Lakeland Lock & Lock Storage Orb Virtual Archer

Containers Owning a campervan is all about getting out and spending
The reason kitchens aren’t built on wheels is because quality time with family and friends, and enjoying healthy
that would be a stupid idea – everything would roll outdoorsy stuff like sports. When it’s raining, indoor sports
about, like in a campervan! Open a packet of couscous such as Twister or human Jenga are also acceptable, but not
and before you know it the floor is transformed into a archery. The last time we tried archery in the campervan it
golden beach… take a box of grapes and the next thing didn’t end well… took forever to clean up the mess… we so
you’re treading them, like in a French vineyard… But should have got a Virtual Archer!
when you’re wild camping miles away from the nearest Using an app on an iOS or Android smartphone, it
shop, you have to be a bit more diligent. So we suggest
From connects to the bow using Bluetooth. There are loads of
you get some of these BPA-free plastic canisters that come
£2. 99 games and, apparently, you can battle dragons, hit targets
in three sizes: 750ml (£2.99), 1 litre (£3.29) and 1.3l (£3.49). Being and become an ace archer – better than Jeffrey
airtight and leak-proof, they’re great for dry and wet foodstuffs, and even liquids. Archer! (That is so lame).
34 .99
From £
lakeland.co.uk thumbsup.com
Outwell Jimbu Stove

By definition (according to the DVLA) a campervan must have permanently fixed
cooking facilities – otherwise it’s not a campervan. However, there are times when
you might favour cooking outside, like if you’re torching toast or roasting off some
roadkill. That’s when a small and lightweight
stove comes in handy. The Jimbu weighs
£100 3kg and uses small gas (EN417) cartridges, so
you could even take it down the beach for a
barbecue. With one gas ring and one grill,
you’ll have cooked sausages and
toasted buns in a jiffy. Unfortunately,
the grill isn’t suitable for sausages as
there’s no drip tray, so the burner
would get clogged with grease.
outwell.com

Bespoke Plastic Fabrications
Web: www.goodwinplastics.co.uk
Email: sales@goodwinplastics.co.uk Tel: 01270 582 516
Goodwin Plastics Ltd, 277, Crewe Road, Crewe, CW1 5RU
Brand New
Camper Van Accessories in England & Wales
VW T6 Highline Working together with
Campervans Innervan Conversions Ltd
102 PS, High quality bespoke
Euro 6 with
van conversions at
Tailgates
great prices
From £38,500
Tel: 01270 767631
Tel: 01480 461463 E: enquiries@cambridgecampervans.co.uk
innervanconversions.co.uk
www.cambridgecampervans.co.uk
Hire for a great camping experience

Try before buying or converting
Have your dream camper built for you
Web: www.j4campers.co.uk Specialists in bespoke camper conversions from £17k,

T: 01273 921159 M: 07933 655798 Nissan, NV200, Renault, Vaxhaull, VW all makes considered
e: j4campers@gmail.com Visit our website for examples of our work www.smallcampervan.co.uk
Unit 10A&B Firsland Park Estate, For more info please call us for an informal chat
Henfield Road, Albourne, BN6 9JJ 01666 826631 or email info@smallcampervan.co.uk
NEW!!
Flush Glazed
Privacy Sliders
NOW IN
STOCK!!
Huge range of vehicle windows in stock. Available off the shelf for
same day dispatch*. Trims, Door Seals, Tools & Adhesive Kits.
Carriage from as little as £20.00 + VAT for two windows!!
Unit 7, Ashtenne Business Park, Union Rd , ,

Oldbury, West Midlands B69 3EX Please see our website for full details: ,
Telephone: 0121 544 9404 www.thevehicleglasscompany.co.uk Telephone: 0117 982 2352
Chapel Motorhomes Ltd

Chapel Motorhomes was founded over 10 years ago and is proud to offer bespoke and top
end designs in the Micro Camper and Small Motorhome sector. We can design your Micro
Camper or Small Motorhome to your own specifications. We believe in working with our
customers through every step of the design process, ensuring the best possible outcome to
our ever-growing customer base.
The
sma
mot ll
orho
me
spec
ialis
t!
Chapel Motorhomes Ltd,

Unit 6, Mays Farm, Lower Wicks Street, Selmeston, Polegate, East Sussex, BN26 6TS
E: vince@chapelmotorhomes.co.uk P: 01323 811455 07818 516432

In the know | Next month 18 J On sa
uly l
201 e
9
campervan F R E E D O M T O E X P L O R E
In next month's issue

Enjoying Your
Campers
Welcome to sunny Lincolnshire! Or is it the This awesome Renault Master bespoke

Spanish Pyrenees? Hmmm... conversion is very mellow, and yellow...
In the Our Campsites

know C mpers
a
Everything you need to know about financing a Hazel Hutchinson combines a camping trip with Who fancies exploring Yorshire, or seeking out
campervan purchase... a bash at painting... some peaceful adults-only campsites?
Subscribe at outandaboutlive.co.uk Digital subscriptions

☎ 01778 392019 Road tests and other reprints pocketmags.com
 subscriptions@warnersgroup.co.uk Jane Cottam ☎ 01778 391187 Get Campervan on your laptop, PC,
tablet or smartphone!
If you are having difficulty obtaining a
Subscription rates copy of Campervan in your local From £3.99 for a single issue
Just £9.99 by quarterly direct debit newsagents, please call 01778 391150 Digital subscription rates: 6 issues £19.99

Campervan - July 2019 PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Campervan - July 2019 PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Campervan - July 2019 PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

What are some of the new campervan models mentioned?

What are some of the new campervan models mentioned?

What anniversary is Westfalia celebrating this year?

What anniversary is Westfalia celebrating this year?

Tested: The entry-level Sunlight Cliff 600

Enjoy the vanlife

Adventure Hired! Campers

One intrepid solo Discovering oﬀ-the- The Salt family build

...basically, this is BOOK YOUR TEST DRIVE

www.randgeruk.co.uk 0800 026 7777

P100 We put industry experts in the spotl

Share Got any interesting campervan stories? 

Don’t miss out on all this...

FREE e-newsletter SIGN UP TODAY AT www.motorhome.ma/freemails

Inside this month

22 Sunlight Cliﬀ 600

29 Hillside Birchover Executive

41 Globecar Globescout Plus

54 A campervan without a plan

62 Destination of the month

70 Norway's Arctic Circle

74 Campsites for walking

81 Events and shows

88 Wellhouse Ford Terrier

95 Camper King Adventure Trek

105 Lithium ferrous batteries

outandaboutlive.co.uk July 2019 campervan 5

Frankia introduces DSG transmission (a six-speed manual gearbox

6 campervan July 2019 outandaboutlive.co.uk

SC Sporthomes launches Peugeot launches revised

South Wales-based SC Sporthomes has revealed its latest conversion,

outandaboutlive.co.uk July 2019 campervan 7

Rapido to acquire Roadtrek

8 campervan July 2019 outandaboutlive.co.uk

Turn heads with a model

Travel into the future with Danbury.

Novel rear kitchen layout for VW T6

Leisuredrive gets Ford upgrades Transit Sport range

SPECIALIST CAMPERVAN INSURANCE

Call 0800 206 1673

10 campervan July 2019 outandaboutlive.co.uk

JOIN NOW FROM AS LITTLE AS £40

12 campervan July 2019 outandaboutlive.co.uk

outandaboutlive.co.uk July 2019 campervan 13

The lounge/diner at the front of the Malibu Charming

14 campervan July 2019 outandaboutlive.co.uk

outandaboutlive.co.uk July 2019 campervan 17

Leading the way for over 30 years

Full Camper Conversions

In partnership with REIMO since 1988

outandaboutlive.co.uk July 2019 campervan 19

20 campervan July 2019 outandaboutlive.co.uk

with OUR NEW 2019

DISCOVER the best deals on NEW & USED motorhomes

We're all going on a

22 campervan July 2019 outandaboutlive.co.uk

outandaboutlive.co.uk July 2019 campervan 23

Sunlight Cliﬀ 600

24 campervan July 2019 outandaboutlive.co.uk

www.randgeruk.co.uk 0800 026 7777