I’ve been to fourteen campervan shows over the past three years. Some were brilliant. Others felt like glorified car boot sales with a few vans parked up.

The UK vanlife scene has exploded, and with it, the number of events claiming to be “must-attend” shows. But here’s the thing: not all campervan shows are created equal. Some are proper trade shows packed with conversion specialists and kit you actually need. Others are basically music festivals where everyone happens to own a van.

This guide covers the genuinely worthwhile UK campervan shows happening in 2026 — the ones where you’ll actually learn something, see quality conversions, meet suppliers, or at least have a decent weekend without feeling like you’ve wasted your entry fee.

In this post, we will explore the best uk campervan shows 2026 that you won’t want to miss.

Why Bother with Campervan Shows?

Before I dive into the list, let’s address whether these shows are actually worth your time and money.

If you’re planning a conversion, shows are gold. You can see twenty different insulation methods in an afternoon, compare actual build quality between professional converters, and ask awkward questions about things like “what happens when your diesel heater sets fire to your duvet?”

If you’re buying a van, you’ll see a range of conversions side-by-side, which beats scrolling through AutoTrader trying to work out if that VW is actually worth £45k or if the seller is having a laugh.

If you already own a van, shows are still useful for upgrades, gear, and — let’s be honest — validation that other people also struggle with condensation and have arguments about emptying the grey water tank.

The big trade shows (National Motorhome Show, Adventure Overland) are where serious kit lives: solar charge controllers, water systems, Victron gear, proper insulation. The vanlife festivals (Campervan Campout, VanLifeFest) are more about community, Instagram-worthy sunset photos, and workshops on things like “wild foraging” that you’ll never actually do.

Both have value. Just know what you’re walking into.

The Shows Worth Your Time in 2026

1. The National Motorhome & Campervan Show — June, Stratford-upon-Avon

Dates: June 2026 (exact dates TBC — typically mid-June) Location: Stratford Racecourse

This is the big one. If you only go to one show all year, make it this.

Previously called the International Campervan Show and Adventure Overland Show (they merged), this is now the UK’s largest gathering of campervans, motorhomes, overlanders, and self-build gear. We’re talking 300+ exhibitors, hundreds of display vehicles, and every conceivable bit of kit from solar panels to portable loos.

The self-build zone is where I spent most of my time last year. You can grill suppliers about MPPT controllers, compare different types of leisure batteries in person, and actually see what a Dometic fridge looks like installed rather than just looking at product photos online.

There’s also a strong 4×4 and overland presence, so if you’re into off-grid adventures or considering a 4×4 van conversion, you’ll find plenty here.

Cost: Around £15-20 for advance tickets, more on the gate Best for: Serious research, comparing gear, self-builders Skip if: You’re just after Instagram content; this is a working show

2. Campervan Campout — May, West Sussex

Dates: 1st-3rd May 2026 (early May bank holiday weekend) Location: South of England Showground, West Sussex

Campervan Campout is the UK’s most polished vanlife festival. It’s what happens when someone actually thinks about what vanlifers want rather than just sticking some vans in a field and calling it an event.

They typically secure headline music acts (previous years have featured Radio 2’s Sara Cox), which tells you something about the demographic. This isn’t a rave. It’s families, couples, and people who actually want to hear the speaker workshops without 140bpm techno bleeding through from the next field.

The Campout Hub runs 40+ free talks and demonstrations covering everything from DIY electrics to yoga (because apparently we all do yoga now). The Self-Build Show area is genuinely useful — you can see real people’s conversions, not just showroom-perfect professional jobs, and ask honest questions about what actually went wrong during their build.

There’s also a decent trade village, though it skews more towards lifestyle gear (fancy coffee equipment, outdoor clothing) than hardcore electrical components.

I’ve been before. The toilets were clean, the food wasn’t extortionate, and the vibe was relaxed. My only complaint was the car park chaos on Sunday afternoon when everyone tried to leave simultaneously.

Cost: £95-180 for weekend camping tickets (price varies by van size) Best for: Families, first-time vanlifers, balanced mix of education and entertainment Skip if: You want serious trade kit; this is more festival than show

3. VanLifeFest @ The Hall — June, North Yorkshire

Dates: 19th-21st June 2026 (typically third weekend of June) Location: Scampston Hall, Malton, North Yorkshire

VanLifeFest has been running for a few years now and has carved out a solid reputation. Scampston Hall is a properly stunning venue — think country estate with manicured grounds rather than muddy field vibes.

This is very much a festival first, trade show second. Live music, outdoor cinema, family entertainment, and a “Field of Inspiring Dreams” where custom conversions are displayed. The trade village is decent but smaller than the big motorhome shows.

The event attracts a good mix of weekend warriors and full-timers. You’ll see everything from £80k Sprinter conversions with full off-grid setups to budget Transits with bed platforms and not much else. That range is actually helpful for perspective.

One frustration: the workshops and talks can get rammed, and there’s not always enough seating. Get there early for anything popular.

Cost: £75-145 for weekend tickets depending on pitch type Best for: Couples, scenic location, mix of vanlife culture and practical content Skip if: You hate crowds; this sells out fast

4. VanLifeFest @ The Park — September, Lincolnshire

Dates: 11th-13th September 2026 (typically second weekend) Location: Revesby Estate, Mareham, Lincolnshire

This is VanLifeFest’s second event, launched in 2025. Same organizers as the June show, different location, later in the season.

The Revesby Estate is massive with plenty of space, and September in Lincolnshire can be lovely — or absolutely Baltic. Pack accordingly.

They run the same format as the June event: live music, family activities, trade village, coffee club, dog show. It’s positioned as an “end of summer” vanlife gathering before everyone hibernates for winter.

Based on feedback from the 2025 launch, this has established itself as a solid alternative if you can’t make the June event or fancy a late-season gathering.

Cost: TBC, likely £75-145 Best for: People who can’t make the June event, end-of-season gathering Skip if: You’re trying to choose between the two VanLifeFest events; June is established

5. Vanlife Festival — May, Cheshire

Dates: 22nd-25th May 2026 (late May bank holiday weekend) Location: Bolesworth Castle, Cheshire

Not to be confused with VanLifeFest (yes, the naming is annoying), Vanlife Festival at Bolesworth has been running since 2022 and has built a loyal following.

This is a four-day event over the late May bank holiday, which is both brilliant and frustrating. Brilliant because you get an extra day. Frustrating because four days is a long time to spend in a field if the weather turns.

The venue is genuinely special — Bolesworth Castle makes for a dramatic backdrop. The event runs a packed schedule: live music on two stages, wellness workshops (yes, more yoga), kids’ activities, and a show-and-shine for custom vans.

The trade village is mid-sized. You’ll find some useful kit suppliers but it’s not comprehensive. Come for the vibe and community, not to kit out your entire electrical system.

Cost: £110-190 for four days depending on facilities Best for: Long weekends, families, people who want a proper festival experience Skip if: Four days in a field sounds like hell, regardless of how nice the castle is

6. Vanlove Festival — July, North Yorkshire

Dates: 10th-12th July 2026 (typically second weekend of July) Location: Elvington Airfield, York

Elvington Airfield is an iconic venue — it’s where they film some of the big TV shows and events. Vanlove Festival makes the most of it with the “Survivors Convoy” on Sunday, where everyone parades down the runway. Sounds cheesy, is cheesy, but it’s also properly good fun.

The festival attracts all types: micro campervans, massive overlanders, vintage VWs, modern Transporters. That variety is part of the appeal. The organizers (Sunbox Campers, a VW conversion specialist) clearly know their stuff.

Entertainment typically includes well-known DJs and live music throughout the weekend. Previous years have featured headline acts that draw proper crowds.

Trade village is decent with a good selection of campervan-specific suppliers. Good place to pick up LED strips, water filters, and other conversion essentials.

Cost: £85-160 for weekend tickets Best for: VW fans, people who like a proper party atmosphere Skip if: You prefer a quieter, family-friendly vibe

7. Camper Jam — July, Shropshire

Dates: 3rd-5th July 2026 (typically first weekend of July) Location: Weston Park, Shropshire

Camper Jam is one of the longest-running vanlife festivals in the UK. It’s been going since 2011, which means they’ve had plenty of time to work out what they’re doing.

Weston Park is a beautiful venue with acres of space. The event is family-friendly without being aggressively aimed at kids — there’s stuff for them to do, but it doesn’t dominate.

The show-and-shine competition is genuinely impressive. You’ll see some absolutely mint classic VWs, modern Sprinter builds, and everything in between. People take it seriously.

Music, street food, and a large trade village round out the weekend. Nothing groundbreaking, but it’s all done well. Camper Jam feels like the safe, reliable choice — you know what you’re getting, and it’ll be fine.

Cost: £70-140 for weekend tickets Best for: Reliable all-rounder, classic VW fans, safe bet for first-timers Skip if: You want something edgier or more self-build focused

8. Busfest — July, Leicestershire

Dates: TBC July 2026 (typically late July) Location: Venue TBC (previously Claydon Estate — check website closer to date)

Busfest is the world’s largest VW Transporter festival. If you’re into VWs — and I mean really into VWs — this is your event.

Thousands of VW buses, from split-screens worth more than my house to tatty T4s held together with optimism and cable ties. The variety is staggering.

But here’s the reality: if you’re not a VW enthusiast, you’ll find this quite niche. It’s a celebration of one brand. The trade village caters specifically to VW owners, so you won’t find much help if you drive a Ducato or Sprinter.

Previous events have had some organizational challenges (long queues, limited facilities given the size), but the atmosphere is electric if VWs are your thing.

Cost: Around £90-150 for weekend camping Best for: Die-hard VW fans, seeing rare classic buses Skip if: You don’t care about VWs specifically; you’ll feel like an outsider

9. The Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show (NEC Birmingham) — February

Dates: 17th-22nd February 2026 Location: NEC Birmingham

This is the UK’s biggest indoor show, held right at the start of the year when everyone’s planning their 2026 summer adventures.

It’s massive. Nine halls, 600+ exhibitors, and it covers caravans, motorhomes, campervans, and camping gear. Because it’s indoors, you can actually see everything without getting soaked or frozen.

The scale is both brilliant and overwhelming. You’ll need at least a full day, probably two, to see everything properly. New vehicles, conversion ideas, accessories, holiday parks promoting themselves — it’s all here.

Downsides: it’s expensive to attend compared to outdoor shows (£20+ per ticket), parking at the NEC is a nightmare, and because it covers caravans and motorhomes too, the campervan content can feel diluted.

But if you’re at the start of your vanlife journey and want to see everything in one place, this is unmatched.

Cost: £15-25 per adult ticket (prices vary by day) Best for: Starting research, seeing maximum vehicles and kit in one day Skip if: You’re specifically after small van conversions; this is more motorhome-heavy

10. The Southern Motorhome & Campervan Show — May

Dates: TBC late May 2026 (typically last weekend of May) Location: South of England Showground, West Sussex

This is a smaller, more relaxed show that flies under the radar compared to the big festivals. It’s more traditional motorhome show than vanlife festival — no DJ sets or wellness workshops, just vehicles, trade stands, and a sixties music theme (for some reason).

What I like about it: it’s not trying too hard. You can wander around, look at vans, chat to dealers, grab a coffee, and leave without feeling like you’ve missed twenty must-see talks or should have taken more Instagram photos.

The trade village is solid without being enormous. You’ll find heating specialists, solar suppliers, furniture makers. Practical stuff, not lifestyle brands flogging van-friendly yoga mats.

Cost: Around £10-15 for day tickets Best for: Low-key browsing, older demographic, actual vehicle shopping Skip if: You want excitement; this is not exciting

Honorable Mentions

A few other shows worth noting if the main list doesn’t suit:

Yorkshire Motorhome & Campervan Show (March 2026) — Harrogate. Good for northern-based folks, strong trade presence, but it’s more indoor halls than festival vibes.

Vanlife Eats (July 2026) — Hampshire. The UK’s only food-focused vanlife festival. If you’re a foodie who happens to own a van, this is your jam. Otherwise, probably skip it.

Urban Van Fest — Sometimes happens, sometimes doesn’t. Check current status before making plans.

Practical Tips for Show Attendance

Book Early: Popular shows like Campervan Campout and VanLifeFest sell out. Don’t leave it until two weeks before and then complain when tickets are gone.

Check What’s Included: Some shows include facilities (showers, electric hook-up) in the ticket price. Others charge extra. Know what you’re getting.

Bring Cash: Not all trade stands take cards, especially the smaller independent sellers. £50-100 in cash will cover most spontaneous purchases.

Plan for Weather: British summer is optimistic. Bring wellies and waterproofs even if the forecast looks decent. I’ve been to three shows where it absolutely pissed it down despite sunshine being promised.

Take Measurements: If you’re shopping for kit, know your van’s dimensions. I’ve watched people buy solar panels that don’t fit their roof. Don’t be that person.

Ask Awkward Questions: If a professional converter claims their insulation method prevents all condensation, ask them to explain the physics. If they can’t, walk away. Good builders are happy to discuss limitations honestly.

Don’t Buy Everything Immediately: Especially at February’s NEC show, it’s tempting to order a full conversion on day one. Take business cards, go home, think about it. You’ll make better decisions with 24 hours’ perspective.

Parking at Outdoor Shows: Arrives early or late on the first day. Mid-afternoon Friday is chaos at most festivals. Sunday afternoon leaving is equally grim — if possible, wait until Monday morning.

Are Shows Worth the Cost?

Honestly? Depends where you are in your vanlife journey.

Planning a conversion — Yes, absolutely worth it. You’ll save money by avoiding expensive mistakes, and you’ll get ideas you’d never find online.

Already converted and living full-time — Maybe? The festivals are fun for community, but you probably don’t need convincing about vanlife benefits.

Just thinking about vanlife — Yes, but go to a cheap show first (Southern Show at £15) rather than dropping £150 on Campervan Campout before you know if you even like the idea.

Want to buy a van — Mixed. You’ll see beautiful £60k professional conversions that’ll make you question your DIY plans, but you probably won’t find many actual vans for sale. That happens more on AutoTrader than at shows.

I’ve spent hundreds on show tickets over the years across multiple events. Was it worth it? For research, definitely. For entertainment, some were better than others. For Instagram content, I could have just photoshopped some sunrise shots and saved myself the weekend.

Final Thoughts

The UK vanlife show scene has matured over the past few years. We’ve moved past the “chuck some vans in a field” era into proper organized events with useful content, decent facilities, and — generally — good value for money.

The big trade shows (National Motorhome Show, NEC) are where you go to make purchasing decisions and see professional kit. The vanlife festivals (Campervan Campout, VanLifeFest, Vanlove) are where you go for community, entertainment, and reminding yourself why you wanted a van in the first place.

I’ll likely be at The National Motorhome Show in June and probably VanLifeFest @ The Hall. If you’re there, come say hello. I’ll be the one asking uncomfortable questions about diesel heater failure rates at the trade stands.

Key Dates for Your Calendar:

• February: NEC Birmingham (17th-22nd)
• March: Yorkshire Show, Harrogate (TBC)
• May: Southern Show (TBC late May), Campervan Campout (1st-3rd), Vanlife Festival (22nd-25th)
• June: National Motorhome Show (TBC mid-June), VanLifeFest @ The Hall (19th-21st)
• July: Camper Jam (3rd-5th), Vanlove Festival (10th-12th), Busfest (TBC), Vanlife Eats (TBC)
• September: VanLifeFest @ The Park (11th-13th)

Right. That’s your lot. Now stop reading and actually book some tickets.