If you’re one of the many people in the UK embracing the motorhome lifestyle, staying up to date with regulations, tourism trends and legal changes is key. From tax updates to tourism tensions and even a success story in Birmingham, here’s your March 2025 round-up of essential UK motorhome news.
Whether you’re planning an epic road trip or just getting your motorhome ready for spring, we hope this blog will help you stay road-legal, responsible, and well-informed.
Highland ‘campervan tax’ falls flat
The Times newspaper reports that a voluntary “campervan tax” introduced by Highland Council in Scotland has raised less than £1,200 – well short of the £500,000 target.
The £40 scheme was intended to help manage growing motorhome tourism in rural communities by offering perks like designated parking and access to facilities.
The underwhelming uptake has sparked debate about whether more formal measures are needed to manage tourism pressure in hotspots like the North Coast 500 (NC500). With the number of motorhomes in the Highlands rising steadily, many now expect councils to rethink their approach.
NC500 residents complain about motorhome mess
Following on from the above news bite, while scenic routes like the NC500 are increasingly popular with motorhome travellers, not everyone is enjoying the boom. Scottish residents have expressed anger at irresponsible behaviour from some vanlifers – ranging from littering and waste dumping to inconsiderate overnight parking.
A recent interview with The Scottish Sun reveals how local frustrations are mounting, with calls for better infrastructure, clearer guidance, and stronger enforcement.
If you’re heading to the Highlands this season, make sure to use official sites, follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, and leave no trace behind. Responsible travel protects both your reputation and these incredible landscapes.
New DVLA number plates and tax changes now in force
The Independent newspaper reminds us how, from 1 March 2025, the DVLA released its new ‘25’ number plates for all newly registered vehicles. More significantly for owners of electric campervans or tow vehicles, changes to vehicle excise duty (VED) come into effect from 1 April.
Electric vehicles registered after this date will face a £10 first-year tax rate, and those worth over £40,000 will be subject to a £195 per year Expensive Car Supplement. While these changes don’t impact traditional diesel motorhomes directly, they may influence buyers exploring electric alternatives or tow vehicles for caravans.
Motorhome show success: Sales surge at NEC Birmingham
In brighter news, the 2025 Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show at the NEC in Birmingham saw a major boost in activity. Many exhibitors reported up to a 20% rise in sales compared to last year, signalling continued strong demand for motorhomes, campervans, and touring accessories.
The event showcased the latest innovations in leisure vehicles, with growing interest in sustainable features, smart layouts, and compact designs ideal for UK road trips.
Read the full event wrap-up from The NCC.
Couple fined for stowaway – then cleared
An Essex couple were initially fined £1,500 after returning to the UK from France with an unexpected stowaway in their motorhome – a 16-year-old Sudanese boy.
However, reports The Guardian, the fine was overturned when the couple proved they had promptly reported the discovery to the authorities.
The case raises important awareness for motorhome owners travelling across borders: always check your vehicle thoroughly and follow official guidance when returning from Europe.
