Picking the right motorhome for you is just that – it’s a question of choosing the vehicle that suits you and your family’s needs down to the ground. It’s not the motorhome that will suit just anyone and it may not be your neighbour’s choice. The right motorhome for you is the one that suits you, your needs, and your individual circumstances.

Having said that, you’ll still find yourself spoilt for choice when it comes to picking the right motorhome for you. When you look around our showrooms, for instance, you are likely to be stunned by the sheer choice available to you.

That’s why at Derby Motorhomes, we are very familiar with potential new buyers asking for our advice and guidance in terms of how to select the motorhome that suits them!

Let’s start with some of the basics.

Budget

As with just about everything else in life, the amount you have available to spend will play a role in your final decision on a motorhome.

Picking the right motorhome for you will depend upon how much you wish to put into the purchase and just what you will be able to secure for your available finances. You will also need to consider ongoing maintenance expenses, storage costs, motorhome insurance and potential depreciation.

We can offer some excellent advice and guidance on that one and possibly assist with the financing options too.

How you’ll use it

Just how you plan to use your vehicle will be instrumental in you picking the right motorhome for you.

Ideally, you should be clear in advance about variables such as:

  • how many people, on average, will be using the motorhome when you go away;
  • how big are they – and if that sounds odd, keep in mind that the space and facilities requirements for say a couple of occasional younger grandchildren passengers might be quite different to having two other full-sized adults with you;
  • what sort of distances will you be using your motorhome over – some owners tend to use their vehicles only within a relatively modest distance of their own home, while others may go from one end of the country to the other or indeed on major expeditions across Europe.

All these factors – and many others like them – will influence your views as to the type of vehicle and configurations that you will need to meet your requirements.

Your accommodation preferences

This is a surprisingly large field to think about.

We’d welcome the opportunity for what’s likely to be a longer conversation but by way of a quick illustration, we recognise that some people prefer permanent, fixed beds whereas others like the additional space-saving that might come with fold-up beds.

Another example might be thinking about whether you want a smaller shower area and use the space saved for other purposes or would prefer a larger and more luxurious shower room configuration.

There are pros and cons in respect of every option, and you’ll face similar decisions that need to be made about other areas of the internal layout and accommodation offered by any particular motorhome.

It goes without saying that you’ll need to have formed at least some idea of subjects such as these when you start thinking about various motorhome options and picking the right motorhome for you.

Your driving comfort

This is less a question about the seating and cab layout. What we have in mind, instead, is how happy you are likely to be driving larger versus smaller vehicles.

Also consider the manoeuvrability and driving experience of the motorhome, especially if you plan to navigate narrow roads or park in tight spaces. Smaller campervans and motorhomes offer greater agility, while larger ones provide more living space but may be challenging to manoeuvre in certain environments.

Legal requirements and insurance

Familiarise yourself with legal requirements for driving a motorhome in the UK, including licensing regulations, weight restrictions, and insurance obligations. Ensure that your motorhome is adequately insured to protect against potential accidents, damages, and liabilities.

Environmental impact

You may also wish to consider the environmental impact of your motorhome choice, including fuel efficiency, emissions, and sustainability practices. Opt for eco-friendly options and adopt responsible travel practices to minimise your ecological footprint while exploring the UK’s natural wonders.

Summary

You can learn a great deal, of course, by browsing online and leafing through the many brochures and catalogues that feature every make and model of motorhome.

Ultimately, though, picking the right motorhome for you requires the first-hand experience, consultation, and discussion with experts that you might struggle to find exclusively online. And that’s precisely the experience we can offer when you meet our dedicated sales team here in the covered, permanent exhibition space at Derby Motorhomes.

So, why not contact us at your earliest opportunity for a discussion about what is the most appropriate motorhome vehicle for you? We are standing by waiting to help!

There are so man

UK Motorhome shows offer enthusiasts and prospective buyers an excellent opportunity to explore the latest models, discover innovative accessories, and connect with fellow travellers. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a novice adventurer, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience at a UK motorhome show:

Research your interests in advance – and plan

Many of the bigger motorhome shows can be quite intimidating in terms of size and scale. It’s perfectly possible to wander around aimlessly trying to look at everything, only to end up exhausted and without any abiding lessons or firm conclusions at the end of the day!

So, before attending the motorhome show, take some time to research exhibitors, seminars, and special events scheduled for the day. Create a tentative itinerary to ensure you don’t miss out on any must-see attractions or informative sessions.

Go to those stands or exhibitors as a priority and ignore everything else until you have put a tick against each of your priority interests.

Family planning

If you have younger children with you, it’s great to involve the whole family, but you probably don’t need us to tell you that those youngsters might have extremely limited attention spans.

Certainly, they’ll enjoy getting close to the motorhomes, but they are likely to be a lot less interested if you’re discussing engine option specifications, let’s say, with an expert on a stand.

If you can, it might be best to leave your kids with a family member so that you can concentrate on the event itself. If that’s not possible or you don’t like the idea in principle, then taking along some distractions in the form of games or toys might be a smart idea.

Consider taking some food

There is almost always plenty of catering at these events and it can be a perfectly reasonable quality. But the food concessions can also sometimes become extremely crowded.

If you don’t mind queuing up for food and losing time while you are doing so, that’s great. However, if you’d prefer to spend your time looking at motorhomes, rather than the stranger in front of you in the food queue, consider taking a picnic.

Set realistic targets

Many people admit to reaching the end of a motorhome show in a state of almost total exhaustion. It’s great fun but walking endlessly around trying to do everything can drain even the fittest of us.

So, building on that prioritised list of objectives mentioned above, make sure that the things you note as “must do” are realistically achievable within the time you are allocating.

Wear sensible footwear

If the venue is inside, make sure you wear comfortable shoes rather than those designer specials that look great, but are going to cause you grief after you’ve been walking around in them for a few hours.

If things are outside, make sure your shoes are equally sensible but also waterproof and with decent soles. It doesn’t matter what the weather forecast said, if a field turns into a quagmire and you have beach shoes on, you’re likely to regret it.

Consider bringing along a lightweight jacket or umbrella in case of unexpected weather changes.

Ask questions

Take advantage of the opportunity to interact with exhibitors and industry experts. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about motorhome features, specifications, pricing, and financing options. Gather as much information as possible to make informed decisions.

Test drive opportunities

If available, take advantage of test drive opportunities offered by motorhome manufacturers or dealers. Test driving allows you to experience first-hand the handling, comfort, and performance of different models, helping you narrow down your choices.

Attend seminars and workshops

Many motorhomes shows host seminars, workshops, and demonstrations on topics ranging from maintenance tips to travel destinations. Attend sessions relevant to your interests and learn from experienced professionals and fellow enthusiasts.

Explore accessories and gadgets

Browse through the accessory stalls and gadget booths to discover innovative products designed to enhance your motorhome experience. From outdoor furniture to solar panels and navigation systems, explore options to customise and optimise your travel rig.

Network with fellow enthusiasts

Motorhome shows provide a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for outdoor adventures. Strike up conversations with fellow attendees, exchange travel stories, and glean insights from their experiences.

Take advantage of show discounts

Many exhibitors offer exclusive discounts and special offers during motorhome shows. Keep an eye out for promotional deals on motorhomes, accessories, camping gear, and insurance packages.

Try to avoid arriving or leaving at peak times

Broadly speaking, peak arrival and departure times are normally somewhere between 8-10 a.m. and 5-7.00 p.m. That may vary, of course, depending upon the hours of the specific show.

At many venues, these peak times can put incredible pressure on the local road systems that result in long queues of traffic to get in or out of the place. Sitting in a queue is unlikely to be an ideal start or end to your day, so try and avoid the peaks and travel at other times if possible.

That said, early birds often have the advantage of exploring exhibits more leisurely and engaging in meaningful conversations with exhibitors before the venue gets crowded.

Enjoy the experience!

Above all, enjoy the experience of immersing yourself in the world of motorhomes and outdoor exploration. Take time to savour the sights, sounds, and camaraderie of the event, and envision the exciting adventures that lie ahead with your own motorhome.

By following these tips, you can maximise your enjoyment and make the most of your visit to a UK motorhome show. Whether you’re in the market for a new motorhome or simply seeking inspiration for your next adventure, a motorhome show offers a wealth of opportunities to fuel your passion for travel and exploration.

So, you’ve succumbed to the lure of the open road – the freedom to go where you like, rest and stop wherever you choose – and have decided to buy a motorhome.

But where do you start looking for that purchase? Let’s take a look at your options. They immediately fall into one of two broad sources – do you buy privately or from a dealer?

Private sales

One of the attractions of buying privately is that you are buying directly from the vendor and can tell yourself that you are avoiding the commission or profit that needs to be made by any third-party agent such as a dealer.

A private sale is also more likely to involve a used motorhome, of course, so you may be able to take advantage of the depreciation already reflected in the value of a second-hand vehicle. A buyers’ guide published by Out and About Live claims that the savings on buying second-hand, rather than new, might be considerable. Although it also concedes that the slower rate of depreciation on a motorhome compared to ordinary cars might keep prices rather similar.

Thanks to the internet, your search is no longer limited to class advertisements in your local newspaper or trade journals. Online listings give you the chance to search across the whole of the country for those looking to sell a used motorhome.

Just like buying any vehicle from a private seller, however, it is very much a question of “buyer beware”. You must be prepared to go over the motorhome with a fine-toothed comb – and in this case checking not only the mechanics, but also the exterior and interior integrity of what is going to be your second home.

Your scrutiny also needs to extend to the seller’s legal capacity to sell the motorhome. Do they have title to the vehicle? Is there any outstanding hire purchase or other finance on it? Has it been classified as an insurance write-off?

Using a service such as an HPI checker specialises in helping you to check the possibility of any fraud on the part of the vendor – but the responsibility is very much your own.

Buying from a dealer

Instead, you may avoid much of the doubt and anxiety by buying your motorhome from a reputable dealer. Whether you are buying brand new or second-hand, you have the reassurance of knowing just where to go if you later discover something wrong with the vehicle you bought.

A dealer is responsible for conducting all the financial checks on any pre-owned motorhome. They are able to stay in business only by ensuring that any vehicle has been thoroughly checked inside and out, mechanically and accommodation-wise, after a full service.

Any optional extras or accessories for your motorhome may also be supplied directly by the dealer and properly fitted or installed.

Any new motorhome is going to come with the manufacturer’s warranty, but many established dealers are also likely to extend a guarantee even to used vehicles.

Many dealers are also able to arrange any finance you may need to purchase your motorhome.

Here at Derby Motorhomes, we pride ourselves in the reputation we have established as a leading dealer in all makes of motorhome – specialising in Auto-Sleepers. Thanks to our location in Derby, in the Midlands, we are likely to be reasonably accessible wherever you live in the country – and look forward to the opportunity of demonstrating first-hand a wide range of new and used motorhomes for sale.

Further reading: Financing your Auto-Sleeper purchase

There are many reasons why you may want to sell your motorhome – perhaps you discover that holidays in a motorhome are not for you; you want to upgrade to a newer or better motorhome; or, you might want to downsize to a vehicle that is more economical to run.

Sooner or later, most of us need to get to grips with the idea of selling a motorhome however much we may love it! While the demand for good used motorhomes is typically high, trying to sell your motorhome might not be a particularly major challenge.

Nevertheless, there are a few things to think about if you would like to sell yours sooner rather than later. So, whatever your reasons for selling, you might find the following tips and suggestions helpful.

Where to sell

So, you’ve decided that the time has come to sell your beloved motorhome. When you do so, you’ll naturally be looking for a sales channel that is offering you the most suitable deal given your overall situation at the time.

That’s why we’ve put together here a few general options that you might wish to consider further:

Advertising

  • your aim is to let as many potential buyers as possible know that you want to sell your motorhome;
  • of course, you are after the best price and want to describe it in as glowing colours as possible, but make sure that you do so as accurately as possible – remember that it is a criminal offence to sell any motor vehicle that is in an unroadworthy condition unless you make that fact crystal clear to any buyer;
  • thinking about where you advertise and assuming you are not trading-in or selling to a dealership, make sure your advertisements are in a sensible place with respect to your target marketplace;
  • for example, if you are upgrading from a campervan to a full-sized motorhome, you may find more customers online or in publications aimed at a slightly younger audience than in publications aimed at high net worth individuals;
  • it’s a simplistic example but there are plenty of helpful articles on the internet about how to identify the right sorts of publications and websites based upon the thing you are trying to sell;

Online listings

  • the good old days of paying for a notice in the classified ads section of your local newspaper or putting a card in the newsagent’s window have been overtaken by the numerous listings sites online – such as AutoTrader and Gumtree to name just two;
  • clearly, the use of the internet considerably widens the scope of potential buyers – although the same rules on accuracy and roadworthiness continue to apply.

Private sales

Whether you advertise online or through more traditional sales, there are a few things to consider when selling your motorhome this way:

  • check the identity of the buyers and their proposed method of payment. For example, identity theft might leave you exposed and the money you have received could be withdrawn from your account if your buyers are not who they said they are;
  • some potential buyers may negotiate hard and aggressively which might make some sellers feel uncomfortable;
  • deals and agreements to purchase in principle sometimes fall through at the last moment; and
  • finding buyers can take time.

Selling to a dealer

You can, of course, simply take your motorhome into a specialist dealer and ask them for a valuation and cash price for it.

Providing you choose an established and reputable company such as ourselves here at Derby Motorhomes, this has the big attraction of having no identity theft issues and your payment should be secure and irrevocable – if you adopt common-sense practices.

As you might expect, the dealer will need to build in their profit margin for a resale and typically also the costs of a thorough examination of the vehicle, the rectification of any problems and a full professional valeting.

So, your pricing may need to be realistic in order to reflect these factors.

It’s worth bearing in mind too that not all dealers will necessarily wish to purchase your vehicle. A lot will depend upon their purchasing policies and their own existing on-site stock levels.

Part exchange

Part exchange is a popular and easy method of selling your motorhome in a context where you are looking to replace it.

This route normally implies that a dealer is involved and typically dealers may be in a position to offer you a rather better deal through part exchange than if they are making an outright cash purchase.

Just be sure that the price you are paying for your new motorhome and the cost allowance being allocated to your existing one, balance off in terms of realistic market values for each.

Brokers

Some individuals and companies offer intermediary brokerage services to people looking to sell their motorhome.

In principle, asking somebody else to sell your vehicle for you is fine. If they know of buyers looking for certain vehicles and you don’t, they may be able to offer a valuable service.

The things to consider here are as you might expect:

  • be sure that the broker is a reputable organisation and not selling you short in terms of the price they are advising you to look for;
  • in some cases, their advice as to realistically achievable prices might be influenced by the fact that they are looking for the fastest possible sales and biggest turnover; and
  • in many cases, their services will invariably involve costs or a percentage of the final sale figure.

Preparing your motorhome for sale

Whether you are hoping for a private sale, selling to a dealer, looking for part exchange, or using a broker, it is important to show your motorhome to its best advantage. And that means spending some time on its preparation:

Visual appearance

  • to show off your motorhome at its best, make sure to give it a thorough clean inside and out;
  • for a motorhome, particular attention needs to be paid to the interior and making sure that you have cleared out all the rubbish, clutter, debris from the fridge and personal effects;
  • motorhomes that look tired, that show exterior damage, or are simply dirty are likely to put off many potential buyers on a first photographic inspection – it’s particularly important that everything looks spick and span, internally and externally, before you invite people round for a viewing;
  • if you are taking it to a professional dealer for trade-in or sale, first appearances may be slightly less important but they’re still a factor – but even the most hardened of dealers can be influenced, positively or negatively, by the initial impression of the outside of your motorhome and again when they take their first glance inside;
  • so be prepared to invest a little time, effort and perhaps money in making sure that your motorhome looks attractive at the outset;

Be sure to correct faults

  • it’s always poor sales psychology to be showing someone around your vehicle whilst at the same time going through a catalogue of things that are wrong with it – even if problems are relatively minor, buyers who spot them or who you describe them to can start to have doubts;
  • there is a balance to be struck here of course. At Derby Motorhomes, we wouldn’t necessarily advocate spending a fortune trying to restore your motorhome to factory-delivery condition. However, it might be a very smart move to fix as many of those little niggles as is economically sensible;

Make sure it has been serviced and is running well

  • unless you are selling your vehicle under the category of “requiring repair”, keep in mind that buyers will expect to see it running and riding reasonably well;
  • if your servicing isn’t up to date, it might be worth investing a modest sum in a mechanical service before taking people for a test drive. Make sure there are no embarrassing rattles or shakes coming out of the engine that you have to somehow explain;
  • since you want to impress upon any buyer that everything is in working order, check that the gas cylinder is full enough, fill the water tank and test the electrics;
  • obviously, you need to ensure that the toilet cassette has been emptied and that the recommended chemicals have been added;
  • your motorhome is designed to offer living space, so a critical part of preparation before selling it is a “habitation service”, a professional check of all the household elements;
  • check that the greywater outlets drain properly, that all the locks are in good working order and, that any covers for the main services are in place;
  • meticulous preparation may be less important in situations where you are offering your motorhome to a dealership as part of a trade-in or cash purchase – typically, they will normally attend to their own post-purchase full servicing and mechanical checks;

Documentation

  • clearly, you need to have the logbook, or V5C, to hand so that any buyer may check the details against the vehicle itself – but beware anyone trying to copy or photograph it, since it might be the first step in stealing your identity;
  • if your motorhome is more than three years old, you also need a valid MOT – consider getting it done well in advance of any advertisement, since anything close to a full year’s MOT goes down well, whereas one that has only weeks to go certainly does not.

Summary

Typically, good pre-used motorhomes are in high demand. You shouldn’t have too much difficulty in selling yours through any of the channels above but remember to be cautious in terms of protecting your financial interests.

This list of tips and suggestions may help to make the process of selling your motorhome more straight forward, but it may still seem like a daunting task.

In that case, you might want to let us take on all the hard work. So, don’t forget that here at Derby Motorhomes, we can buy your used Auto-Sleeper or any other motorhome and that we are also always interested in second-hand motorhomes to take in part exchange too.

If you are thinking about getting a motorhome, here are some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) we receive about the subject.

Can I drive a motorhome on an ordinary driving licence?

This is probably one of the most common questions we are asked here at Derby Motorhomes.

In the overwhelming majority of cases, thankfully, the answer is quite simply “yes, you can”. The exceptions largely relate to the weight of the motorhome you want to drive, how long ago it was that you passed your driving test, and your current age.

Essentially, anyone with a full driving licence for a car can also drive any motorhome up to 3,500kilos of Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) or the weight of your vehicle when it is fully loaded. To drive a motorhome with a MAM of more than 3,500kilos, you will need to have passed your test before 1st January 1997.

Note that if you’re over 70 years of age, you will need a medical examination if the vehicle weighs more than 3,500kilos.

To double-check your eligibility to drive any particular motorhome, refer to the date on which you took your driving test, your current age, the weight of the vehicle in which you are interested and cross-reference to the official government website.

Can I import a supersize motorhome from the USA?

Yes, it is possible to import a US motorhome to the UK, but there are certain steps and requirements you will need to follow to do so legally and ensure that the vehicle complies with UK regulations.

The Government website states that to import a motorhome into the UK permanently you’ll need to register it. There is also a limit on size – you can’t register a motorhome more than 12 metres long and 2.55 metres wide.

The measurements do not include driving mirrors, rear bumpers, lamps, or reflectors.

While there is no height limit, if the motorhome is over 3 metres high, you must have a notice showing the height where the driver can see it.

Here’s a general outline of the importation process:

  • Import Duty and VAT: You may need to pay import duty and Value Added Tax (VAT) when importing the motorhome. These fees can vary based on the vehicle’s value and age. Check with Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for the latest rates and requirements.
  • Vehicle documentation: Gather all necessary documentation for the motorhome, including the title, bill of sale, and any other relevant paperwork. You’ll need these documents to prove ownership and value when importing the vehicle.
  • Conformance to UK standards: Ensure that the motorhome complies with UK vehicle standards. This may involve making modifications such as adjusting lighting, installing side mirrors, etc.
  • Type approval: Some vehicles may require type approval in the UK to ensure they meet safety and environmental standards. Check with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to determine if this applies to your motorhome.
  • Insurance: Obtain UK insurance cover for your motorhome. Insurance providers may have specific requirements for imported vehicles.
  • Registration: Register the imported motorhome with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). You’ll need to complete the necessary paperwork and pay any required fees.
  • MOT Test: Ensure the motorhome passes the Ministry of Transport (MOT) test, which is mandatory for all vehicles over three years old in the UK. This test checks the vehicle’s roadworthiness and emissions.
  • Road Tax: Pay the appropriate road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) based on the motorhome’s emissions and specifications.
  • Drive on the left: Keep in mind that in the UK, you drive on the left side of the road, so make sure the motorhome’s controls and driving orientation are suitable for UK roads.
  • Customs clearance: If you are shipping the motorhome to the UK, you’ll need to go through customs clearance processes at the port of entry.
  • Consult experts: It’s advisable to consult with experts or specialists in vehicle importation to ensure that you follow all the necessary legal and safety requirements.

Please note that regulations and requirements may change over time, so it’s essential to check with the relevant UK government agencies (HMRC, DVLA, DVSA, etc.) for the most up-to-date information before importing a US motorhome to the UK.

Additionally, consider consulting with a customs broker or import/export specialist for assistance with the process.

Also bear in mind that if you do import an RV, you may have difficulty with parking spaces when you use it, due to its size.

Do motorhomes need an MOT?

Once your motorhome is more than 3 years old – just like your car – it will need an annual MOT test.

There’s nothing special about it apart from the fact that some MOT testing stations might not be big enough to accommodate larger motorhomes.

Can I take my motorhome abroad?

Indeed, you can.

It’s one of the big attractions of this type of leisure holiday because the world becomes your oyster. In fact, many EU countries have arguably more and better facilities for casual motorhome parking than you might typically find in the UK.

Make sure your vehicle is fully legal on the road and that your motorhome insurance is up to date and valid for EU cover.

Pay particular attention to the fact that many motor insurance policies have a maximum number of consecutive days outside the UK or the maximum number of permissible days in total throughout the year.

If you are considering taking your motorhome outside of the European Union, plus those countries that are associated with it such as Norway and Switzerland, the position may be a little more complex.

First of all, you may be faced by the fact that your motor insurer requires the payment of an additional premium for such extended cover.

Secondly, some countries outside of Western Europe and the EU may have quite different rules of the road and particular requirements and rules governing the use of motorhomes.

If you are thinking about taking your motorhome to places in the Middle East, North Africa or countries in the far eastern parts of Europe, such as Russia, you might want to pay particular attention to government travel advice.

The Caravan Club also has some additional, useful information.

If I buy a motorhome second-hand from a private owner, are there risks involved?

If you are looking to purchase a motorhome through a private sale – because you’ve seen it advertised online or in the classified ads of your local newspaper, for instance – you need to be aware of the risks you are running.

Just like buying a second-hand car, the seller’s responsibilities after sale are limited – arguably, to the point of being zero.

By contrast, a dealership will have legal responsibilities that are more demanding and some of those will continue after the sale – particularly if they offer warranties, guarantees, or special servicing agreements, and the like.

Of course, you might sometimes find slightly lower prices from a private seller. It’s a question of weighing up all the risks of buying privately against the benefits of buying from a franchised dealer.

How easy would it be to customise my motorhome’s interior?

Assuming that you have the tools and equipment required, changing the layout of the interior of your motorhome can be relatively straightforward. However, it’s necessary to pass on a word of warning.

Firstly, be aware that there may be certain regulations governing health and safety of things such as electrical and gas fittings. Changing those about, as an amateur, might contravene regulations and be dangerous – not to mention the extent to which it will probably invalidate your insurance cover.

Secondly, buyers are typically inclined to be suspicious of DIY-type modifications to the interior of motorhomes. In fact, many dealerships remove all such modifications to get the vehicle back to its manufacturer’s standard in situations where they have purchased one that has been modified.

Of course, there are specialist organisations and workshops who will modify the interiors for you – if you require a more professional job to be done.

I have heard that parking at home can cause disputes

This is often very significantly over-stated and problems over parking your motorhome at home are rare.

We would suggest that there are basically five issues you need to think about in advance:

  • your local council might ban on-street parking for safety or environmental impact (if you live in a conservation area, for example);
  • the same might apply in rarer cases for on-driveway parking – this is usually again related to concerns about the appearance of the local area;
  • it’s possible your deeds or lease might be subject to covenants prohibiting the parking of motorhomes or caravans on driveways – although these may not always be enforced or even known about by potentially affected neighbours;
  • in some situations, parking your motorhome on your property might be an issue with neighbours if their view or light is suddenly restricted;
  • your motorhome insurance might have restrictions on where you can park at home – on-street parking, for example, might be excluded while some policies might also require that your motorhome is parked in a garage (at your home or on an approved site) when it is not in use.

Is it easy to sell a motorhome?

This is another question we are often asked – together with related enquiries about the extent to which a used motorhome may hold its resale value.

Broadly speaking, there is a significant demand for pre-used motorhomes. As a result, they typically hold their value well – particularly when compared to conventional motor cars.

It is rare indeed for any motorhome to appreciate in value so, it is best not to look upon it as any type of financial investment. There might be some exceptions, such as if you’ve significantly improved or enhanced your motorhome – but generally they depreciate. In other words, it will typically be worth less when it is 7 years old than when it was brand new.

However, typically motorhomes depreciate far more slowly than the typical car. In that sense, they hold their value well. Of course, a lot depends upon things such as the condition of your vehicle, its age and mileage plus where you are selling it.

Although you might typically anticipate a higher value by selling to a private buyer, the delays in finding someone can be longer on average than if you’re selling to a dealership or using it as part-exchange.

Remember to be careful and adopt all “best practices” to protect your interests against fraud if you decide to sell to a private individual.

Just when you thought it was all over, with summer long gone and the nights drawing in, a spell of fine weather tempts you behind the wheel of your motorhome again for a final outing or two before winter sets in.

Just where to go for one of those quick motorhome trips fairly close to home depends, of course, in which part of the country you live. But one of the great things about the diversity of Britain is that, wherever you live, there are certain to be spots worth visiting for a long weekend or so.

Let’s consider just a few of them.

The South of England

Visiting the South of England in your motorhome offers a delightful travel experience, with a mix of stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, charming towns, and a rich cultural heritage.

The South of England is blessed with beautiful coastlines and sandy beaches. From the white cliffs of Dover and the Jurassic Coast in Dorset to the vibrant seaside towns of Brighton and Bournemouth, there are plenty of picturesque spots to explore.

The region is home to numerous historic landmarks that are not to be missed. You can visit iconic sites such as Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Salisbury Cathedral with its stunning spire, and the mystical ruins of Tintagel Castle.

Don’t forget the picturesque countryside! The South of England boasts idyllic countryside landscapes, with rolling hills, quaint villages, and lush green fields. Areas like the Cotswolds, the New Forest, and the South Downs National Park offer peaceful settings for leisurely drives, walks, and outdoor activities.

There are also vibrant cities with rich cultural offerings. Cities like London, Oxford, Bath, and Bristol provide a blend of history, art, music, and diverse culinary experiences.

The South of England is renowned for its beautiful gardens and parks. From the famous Kew Gardens in London and the stunning gardens at Hampton Court Palace to the exotic flora at the Eden Project in Cornwall and the magnificent gardens of Sissinghurst Castle, there are endless opportunities to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.

Spotlight on the New Forest

If you live in southern England, the New Forest National Park is a relatively short drive away from most places.

In all its autumn glory, the New Forest is awash with every hue of green, amber russet as the leaves begin to fall. An overnight stop at one of the many campsites within the National Park, lets you begin your walk at the best time of day – the early morning, as the mist begins to clear above wooded glades and open heathland. Kick softly through the fallen leaves lest you disturb a grazing deer.

From Longmeadow Campsite you may take a delightful 20-minute stroll through the forest to the village of Brockenhurst, which is at the very heart of the National Park

The Midlands

Visiting the Midlands in your motorhome offers a wonderful opportunity to explore a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty

The Midlands is home to several historic cities and towns that are worth exploring. Cities like Birmingham, Nottingham, Leicester, and Coventry offer a blend of rich history, vibrant cultural scenes, and modern amenities. You can discover historical landmarks, visit museums and art galleries, explore beautiful parks, and enjoy shopping and dining experiences in these urban centres.

The region is known for its architectural treasures that span different eras. From the grandeur of Warwick Castle and the medieval charm of Stratford-upon-Avon (Shakespeare’s birthplace) to the magnificent cathedrals in Lincoln and Lichfield, the region is rich in impressive buildings and structures.

While the Midlands is often associated with its urban centres, it also boasts beautiful countryside and picturesque landscapes. The Peak District, located on the southern edge of the region, offers stunning vistas, rolling hills, and delightful villages.

In addition, there are numerous canals, such as the Trent and Mersey Canal, that wind through the Midlands, providing opportunities for peaceful walks and scenic boat trips.

The Midlands offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring historic cities and architectural wonders to enjoying the region’s natural beauty and literary heritage.

Spotlight on Sherwood Pines Forest Park

One of the biggest publicly accessible forests in The Midlands is at Sherwood Pines Forest Park – and the open all year round Sherwood Pines Campsite is within its boundaries.

It’s in the East Midlands part of Nottinghamshire, near the village of Edwinstowe, between Ollerton and Clipstone.

This is the place where you might also want the kids to let off steam before the quieter days of winter by letting them take to the activity trails, hire a bike, swing through the play areas – or just run wild.

Wales

Wales is renowned for its magnificent landscapes, from majestic mountains and rolling hills to pristine coastlines and serene valleys. From Eryri National Park (formerly Snowdonia) to the Pembrokeshire Coast, there’s an abundance of scenic beauty to discover.

You can explore ancient castles, such as Caernarfon and Conwy, and delve into the stories of Welsh royalty and medieval times. Additionally, Wales has a strong sense of national identity, with its own language, traditions, and music

It is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, surfing, or wildlife spotting, there are endless opportunities for adventure. The country is home to Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, which offers stunning hiking trails.

The coastline provides ample opportunities for water sports and coastal walks. In fact, if you love coastal walks, the Wales Coast Path is a must-do experience. This 870-mile path encompasses the entire coastline of Wales, offering stunning views, hidden coves, and charming seaside towns.

Wales hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate its culture, arts, music, and heritage. From the Eisteddfod, a renowned Welsh cultural festival, to food festivals, music events, and sporting competitions, there’s always something happening in Wales.

Spotlight on The Gower Peninsula

The Gower Peninsula and the impressive sweep of Rhossili Bay are more than worth a visit at any time of the year. But autumn brings with it a certain sense of rugged urgency as the first of the winter’s squalls darken the endless skies and add a thrilling drama to the scene.

So, if you are within a day’s drive of the Gower, why not head your motorhome in the direction of Nicholaston Farm Campsite – a family-friendly working farm, with immediate access to the Gower’s marvellous coastline.

The North of England

If you live in the North of England, you are well and truly spoilt for choice when it comes to a quick motorhome trip to beat the oncoming winter.

The North of England is blessed with diverse landscapes that cater to different preferences. From the rugged beauty of the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales to the stunning Northumberland coast and the rolling hills of the Peak District, there is a wealth of natural beauty to discover.

The region is steeped in history and boasts an abundance of historical sites and landmarks. You can visit iconic places such as Hadrian’s Wall, York Minster, Durham Cathedral, and numerous castles and stately homes.

Springfield Farm offers one of the most scenic sites you might hope to find along the glorious coastline of Northumberland. Gaze out across open fields towards the North Sea’s Farne Islands, or drive the short distance north to Bamburgh Castle, or west into the Cheviot Hills to enjoy the best of a British autumn

If you enjoy outdoor activities, the North of England won’t disappoint. The region offers ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, watersports, and wildlife spotting. Whether it’s exploring the stunning trails of the Lake District, embarking on a coastal walk along the Northumberland coast, or indulging in water activities in the Yorkshire Moors and Dales, you’ll find plenty of adventures to embark on during your motorhome journey.

The North of England is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are worth exploring. These include the stunning landscapes of the Lake District, the historic city of Durham, the majestic Hadrian’s Wall, and the iconic Liverpool waterfront.

Spotlight on the Lake District

Lake Windermere may be bustling in the height of summer, but by autumn the crowds have thinned out appreciably and from Park Cliffe Motorhome & Touring Caravan Park, you can enjoy your own wide-open vistas of the Lake itself.

Scotland

Scotland has majestic mountains and tranquil lochs as well as picturesque coastlines and enchanting glens. Travelling in a motorhome allows you to immerse yourself in these natural wonders and explore remote areas that are often inaccessible by other means.

It has a rich history and vibrant culture that spans centuries. From ancient castles and historic ruins to traditional music and folklore, there is no shortage of fascinating heritage to explore.

If you love road trips, Scotland’s North Coast 500 is a must-do route. Often referred to as Scotland’s answer to America’s Route 66, this scenic journey takes you around the northernmost part of the country. You’ll encounter stunning vistas, charming villages, and iconic landmarks like the dramatic cliffs of Cape Wrath and the famous Dunrobin Castle.

Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, golfing, kayaking, or wildlife spotting, there are endless opportunities for adventure.

Scotland is, of course, renowned for its whisky production, and visiting distilleries along your motorhome journey allows you to learn about the fascinating whisky-making process and sample some of the finest spirits in the world. Additionally, Scotland’s culinary scene offers a diverse range of delicious dishes, including traditional haggis, fresh seafood, and delectable baked goods.

Spotlight on Loch Ness

You can stay at the Loch Ness Shores Camping and Caravanning Club Site. Situated on the banks of the legendary Loch Ness, the  campsite offers a truly spectacular and unforgettable experience. Wake up to panoramic views of Loch Ness and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the surrounding landscapes. With direct access to the loch, you can enjoy leisurely walks along the shoreline or even try your luck at spotting the legendary Loch Ness Monster!

As we’re one of the country’s leading motorhome dealers, is hardly surprising that we are often asked for tips and suggestions about choosing and using a motorhome.

Here are just a few of the ideas we have offered over the years. We offer them again in the hope that you, too, might find them useful.

Take the time to choose a motorhome that’s appropriate for you

Your aim, of course, is to choose a motorhome that is the right size for you and its intended use. If it turns out to be just too big or too small – or any other fault for that matter – it can be a serious annoyance and potentially a poor use of your money. So, choose carefully by taking your time and remembering that nine times out of ten there is absolutely no need to rush.

Take as long as you need to size up what is a varied, diverse, and competitive market, therefore, to choose the vehicle that’s likely to prove appropriate for you, your family, and your lifestyle.

We make no secret of the fact that we’d be delighted to help you in achieving just that excellent result!

Think about how you plan to use your motorhome – and where

Motorhomes are nothing if not versatile and adaptable – they’ll take you to those parts many other vehicles simply cannot reach.

It’s only realistic to accept that some of the smallest campsites in remote, rural, or especially wild locations that are well off the beaten track may be difficult to access if yours is one of the larger or heavier motorhomes available on the market.

Some of the campsites identified by the Cool Camping website as “almost wild” might give you a snapshot of the wilder side of adventures you could get up to in your motorhome.

The upshot, of course, is that if you have your heart set on getting off the beaten track, then a smaller motorhome might be more practical.

Get the family involved in your choice

Whether you are buying a new or a pre-loved motorhome, the financial outlay will be nothing to sneeze at. It’s the kind of sum you’d almost certainly want to discuss with your partner or spouse – and, possibly, even any grown-up children still at home.

Involve the whole family not just in the choice of your preferred make and model, but also about such details as the appropriate interior layout or even the powertrain of that particular vehicle.

To help you in any such family discussion, we can point you in the direction of our helpful guide: Buying the right motorhome.

Consider driver training – and break yourself in gently on your very first trip

You’ll need to make sure that you have the appropriate licence allowing you to drive the motorhome you’re thinking to buy. The official website compiled by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is the place to start, of course, but if you’d like further help about what that all entails, by all means, please contact us and we’ll happily explain.

With the appropriate driving licence in your pocket, it might be time to consider some basic training in driving a vehicle as big as your new motorhome and familiarise yourself with the controls. Suitable training is unlikely to be all that expensive.

Finally, even if you’re an experienced old hand in driving a motorhome, almost every vehicle handles and performs differently from another. It’s probably a good idea to make your first trip in your new motorhome a short one – on which to learn its handling characteristics.

Plan a few journeys based largely around bigger roads and motorhome parks with good access and turning facilities. Avoid trying to test your close manoeuvring and reversing skills in a tiny site on your very first trip.

Don’t skimp on motorhome insurance

Your motorhome, its accessories, and all your camping gear will be expensive.

As with almost all forms of insurance, the cover provided by one policy might be significantly different from that offered by another. It’s not a question of being better or worse but simply the suitability of a particular policy for you, your motorhome, and the way you plan to use it.

For that reason alone, you might want to avoid choosing the cheapest insurance policy and instead spend some time researching which motorhome insurance offers the most cost-effective cover for the level of protection you need. That is the way you might be assured of getting good value for money.

Head over to our motorhome insurance guide which discusses how to choose the most appropriate insurance for you as well as covering the possibility of GAP insurance and breakdown insurance.

Research the rules of the road when going abroad

Over the last 30-40 years, most rules of the road have more or less converged throughout continental Europe.

Nevertheless, significant differences remain and the UK’s departure from the EU has thrown some of the details into starker relief – against a background of practices that might catch out the unwary.

Two examples of lingering divergence, for example, are the “priority to the right even if a minor road” and some old “priority to vehicles that are joining the roundabout” systems which are still fairly widely found in France.

Even if you know these from car driving, remember that your braking distances will be longer in a motorhome – because it’s a heavier vehicle.

As always, the bottom line of any advice on driving abroad is to research in advance the road systems in the country you’re heading off to in that new motorhome! You might also want to review our guide: Taking your motorhome to Europe.

The freedom of the open road – it’s what travelling in your motorhome is all about. And, once you venture into continental Europe, that open road is practically endless. Day after day, you can open your eyes to new vistas of the coastline, beaches, forests, lakes, or mountains wherever you had parked up just the night before.

Whether you are planning a late-season trip to Europe or thinking ahead to next year, however, a little advance planning and attention to what you need to take with you may save heartache – not to mention disaster – further down the road.

Your length of stay

If you are in the enviable position of being able to take an extended break, one of the critical considerations will be the way that immigration rules for visitors have changed post-Brexit. Whereas a stay of unlimited duration may have been possible in the past, since the 1st of January 2021 visitors from the UK to most of Europe are restricted to a stay of 90 days in every 180 days.

The rules are based on the borders of the so-called Schengen area within which there is freedom of travel. Following the UK’s departure from the EU, it is now regarded as a third country as far as the Schengen area is concerned. Hence, the 90-day rule of visits within every rolling 180 days. Within that 90-day period, you can visit as many countries within the Schengen area as you choose but the total must not exceed 90 days.

As you enter any country in the Schengen area, you will have your passport stamped and these can give you a handy way of calculating just how long you have been travelling and how much of your 90-day allowance is remaining.

In any event, a period of roughly three months is typically quite long enough for the majority of British motorhome owners touring the EU and Schengen area countries.

Passport

All this goes to show that you will need to have a valid and up-to-date passport when taking your motorhome to Europe.

More than that, the official European website advises that your passport must be valid “for at least a few months” after your proposed date of departure from the UK.

The required period of remaining validity is likely to be either three or six months, depending on the rules in the particular countries you will be entering. Check your passport before you leave the UK, therefore, and the passports of others travelling with you, and review the precise requirements of those countries you will be visiting – otherwise, you could find yourselves denied entry at a border checkpoint.

Driving licence

Brexit led to no changes in the freedom to drive throughout Europe on your current, up-to-date, photocard UK driving licence. If you still have an old-style paper licence or one issued in the Channel Islands, Isle of Man, or Gibraltar, however, you may be required to produce an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Although you will need to check the specific requirements of the countries concerned – because there are 3 different types of IDP in issue – it is easy enough to acquire an IDP. Probably easiest of all will be an application at the Post Office where you will need to show your current UK driving licence (together with your passport if yours is a paper licence), a passport-standard photograph, and the fee of £5.50.

Insurance

A minimum of third-party insurance is required to drive a motor vehicle in any European country. Fortunately, therefore, all motor insurance policies issued in the UK also extend third-party cover while driving in the EU. But you’ll need to keep that certificate with you at all times as proof of the legally required cover.

Beware, however, that even if your UK insurance policy is comprehensive or third-party, fire and theft, when you are driving abroad your cover may still be restricted to third-party cover only.

That is unlikely to be enough for any motorhome you are driving, so make sure to contact your insurers in advance of your holidays and arrange the appropriate cover you need for driving in the EU.

Green cards

In the summer of 2021, the European Commission waived a previous obligation for UK motorists to hold a green card as proof of the required thirty-party insurance.

If your touring takes you outside the area covered by this agreement (which covers the EU, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia, and Switzerland) you might still need a green card – which you will need to request from your UK motor insurer.

Preparing your motorhome

It is not just a question of carrying the right documents when you are taking your motorhome to Europe. Different European countries have different rules about the equipment that must be carried within your motorhome – so check carefully what is required in the countries through which you will be driving.

Throughout Europe, for example, you must carry a warning triangle for use in roadside emergencies – and in Spain and Croatia, you need two.

For similar purposes, you must also have on board a reflective jacket while driving in Spain, Austria, France, Belgium, Portugal, and Croatia.

A first aid kit must also be carried when you are in France, Germany, Austria, Greece, and Croatia – although it is clearly a sensible precaution to have one onboard anyway.

A similarly wise precaution is to carry a fire extinguisher within your motorhome – and it is specifically recommended (although not obligatory) in Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.

France has finally abandoned legislation – which few French drivers complied with anyway – requiring motorists to carry a breathalyser kit.

Visit The RAC for more information.

Please note: This information is based on our current understanding of the law and may be liable to change. Please always make the necessary checks before you travel.

One of the great things about Britain is its sheer diversity. And if you are looking for a touring destination in your motorhome, Scotland has all of those contrasts – in landscape, geography, history, and culture – in spades.

In the unlikely event of you being in any doubt, The Scottish Banner website offers its top ten reasons for visiting Scotland in 2023 while Visit Scotland reminds readers that National Geographic magazine rates the Highlands of Scotland as one of its Best of the World destinations.

But let’s pick our own top five favourite locations for touring in your motorhome.

1. The Western Highlands

There is no other part of the British Isles that offers the rugged majesty of mountains and coastline as the Western Highlands of Scotland.

Start your drive from the lowlands of Glasgow and you’ll soon find yourself skirting iconic Loch Lomond for your first taste of the mountains, deep waters, and gentler landscape of the Trossachs National Park.

As you drive north and west, however, the scenery becomes decidedly more rugged and spectacular as you head along the coast towards Fortwilliam, enveloped in the chilling atmosphere of Glencoe, or relaxing in the quaint coastal towns of Tobermory or the gateway to the Western Isles at Oban.

From Oban, you can spend a leisurely day or three simply island-hopping. Make sure to include the picturesque splendour of the Isle of Mull, dominated by Ben More, before wending your way over to the sacred Isle of Iona, with its Abbey, Benedictine Nunnery, and the Graveyard of the Kinds.

On the uninhabited island of Staffa, you can marvel at the acoustic wonder of Fingal’s Cave.

The well-appointed Oban Holiday Park is probably one of the most attractive large sites at which to overnight in your motorhome.

2. The sunshine coast

For an altogether different perspective on the contrasts Scotland has to offer, you might aim for a longer drive and tour the country’s north-eastern seaboard or “sunshine coast” as it is also known.

The beaches here are sufficiently remote to remain unspoiled, with the town of Moray and the village of Lossiemouth recording some of the driest weather in Scotland.

Right by the sea at Lossiemouth is the Silver Sands Holiday Park where you will find a grassy or hardstanding pitch to spend a night or two before continuing your tour.

The Moray coast is also a spot where you may be able to see one of nature’s great phenomena – the Northern Lights!

3. Edinburgh

No trip to Scotland is likely to be complete without a visit to its capital, Edinburgh – and the centre of all things cultural.

The height of the season, of course, is August, when the city plays host to the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival of established and rising fringe theatre and comedy. Depending on your tastes, therefore, you might want or not want to avoid this time of the year.

The Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Edinburgh campsite is ideally situated for city visits, yet it is located outside the busiest areas, in a more peaceful spot along the Firth of Forth.

4. Ayrshire and Arran

Your tour of Scotland doesn’t need to involve a long drive. Hop just across the border into the tranquil rolling countryside in the southwest of the country and you may enjoy the perfect motorhome tour around Ayrshire and Arran.

You’ll find yourself in the heartland of Robert Burns’ place of birth, with a host of quaint countryside towns, sandy beaches – and golf courses galore, with some 50 from which to choose. Indeed, you might even venture as far as Turnberry – the golf course owned by a certain former President of the United States.

Since you are driving your own home away from home, though, avoid the huge expense of staying at Turnberry’s centrepiece and instead park up for a night or two at Ayr Craigie Gardens Caravan Club Site, which is just a short way up the coast and offers up to 90 pitches for motorhomes and caravans.

5. Scottish borders

For a similarly quick hop across the border, but on the eastern side of the country, you might instead make your base in Jedburgh and tour these equally quiet and picturesque roads of the borderlands.

Jedburgh itself is a pretty market town and the distance by road from Newcastle upon Tyne is only 56 miles (91.58 km), which takes around one hour and 10 minutes to drive.

Just four miles south of Jedburgh itself, situated on the quiet banks of the River Jed, you’ll find Jedwater Caravan Park in the heart of perfect walking and horse riding countryside.

We hanker after the sea. Maybe it’s because we’re a proud island nation that the coastline has a special allure. Whether it’s wintertime gusts to blow away the cobwebs or the gentle breezes of summer, the coastline seems always to beckon – and the memories are long-lasting.

It might be a small island, but Britain has a surprisingly long coastline. The authoritative Ordnance Survey puts the total length of our coastline at a precise 11,072.76 miles (17,819.88 km).

When it comes to exploring any part of that long, long coastline it is probably difficult to know just where to start. And whenever you’ve worked out where you want to start, you’ll also want tips on the best places to stay mid-route.

With a motorhome or auto-sleeper, of course, that’s a problem easily solved. And there are some real gems – probably not far from your doorstep – accessible by motorhome and with well-appointed campsites perfect for an overnight stay.

Here are just a few tempting stretches of coastline for your next coastal trip.

A taste of history

The coastline between Worthing and Hastings is not only a short drive from London – or anywhere in the southeast of England for that matter – it is packed full of history.

The “Haestingas” – as they were then known during Saxon times – became a still richer part of the country during the Roman occupation. Later, the Battle of Hastings in 1066 is probably one of the few dates in history likely to be remembered by most of us.

Today’s coastline also reflects the glories of those iconic English seaside resorts of ages past. Promenades abound and provide a gentle drive until you get out to stretch your legs.

The Victorian facades of the buildings still echo the times when these resorts were in their prime, yet just a mile or two along the road and you come upon some of the most well-known and stunning views of the English coastline – where the Downs meet the sea at Birling Gap or Beachy Head, for example.

Fairfields Farm Caravan and Camping Park mid-way between Eastbourne and Hastings on the Pevensey Levels, is situated within an area of natural beauty.

Poldark country

Travel far enough along England’s south coast and you will eventually hit upon one of the most popular and frequently visited parts of the UK – Poldark country.

Since the mid-1970s a succession of Poldark series have appeared on television channels and brought even more awe and wonder to the glories of the country’s most south westerly county, Cornwall.

Cornwall – a peninsula – has the longest coastline in the whole of the UK. At more than 433 miles (697km.) even a fit walker is likely to take between 8 to 10 weeks to walk its length – admiring the county’s more than 300 fine beaches.

You could be joining the estimated 4.5 million tourists who visit Cornwall each year and share one of the 25 million or so nights that visitors spend in the county – where they contribute at least £1 billion every year to the local economy.

Amidst the inevitable crowds during peak season, therefore, you might want to choose one of the campsites known to remain relatively calm and peaceful – such as Tollgate Farm Caravan and Camping Park which is quietly tucked away in the countryside yet still well within walking distance of Perranporth Beach.

The Gower Peninsula

It’s no accident that this scenic marvel of the South Wales coastline should have been designated Britain’s very first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – its reputation continues to attract birdwatchers, walkers, surfers, and sunbathers.

The Gower is a haven of peace and rural tranquillity that sits a mere stone’s throw from the more built-up and industrial areas of the principality. It packs a lot into its mere 70 square miles (180km2) as the peninsula spreads westwards from the Mumbles near Swansea – taking in some dramatic cliffscapes and the underground warrens of Minchin Hole Cave and Paviland Cave.

Hillend Caravan and Camping Park lays creditable claim to being close to probably the most breathtaking of the Gower’s many fine beaches – Rhossili Bay.

Northwest Wales

The grandeur of Snowdonia National Park comes down to the sea in this wild and rugged part of northwest Wales, with the historic and rolling countryside of the Llyn Peninsula just to the west.

There are beaches accessible by motorhome, too, when it’s time to just relax, potter about in the shallows or stroll along the front.

Cae Du Farm couldn’t be better – or more spectacularly – situated within the National Park, right on the coast, and with views on a fair day of the entire Welsh coastline as far as Pembrokeshire.

The wild, wild north

If you want to give your motorhome a really good run for its money, think about driving just about as far north as you can go in mainland Britain to the wild, wild coast of northern Scotland between Durness in the west as far as John O’Groats in the east.

Views across to the northern isles – coastal scenery to die for – and the certain probability of being able to explore wild and remote beaches all to yourself.

And, yes, there are well-equipped campsites even this far north! Try out John O’Groats Caravan and Camping site. Once you’re done, if you’re up for a drive the entire length of the country, head off to Land’s End in Cornwall – some 874 miles away!