10 Great Campsites with Pubs Nearby

 

10 Great Campsites with Pubs Nearby for Your Next Motorhome Tour

There’s something special about finishing a day of exploring in your motorhome, parking up, and heading out for a proper pub meal and a relaxing drink. No cooking, no washing up and, best of all, no worrying about who’s driving back!

For many of us, finding a good pub within walking distance of our overnight stop is an important part of planning a touring holiday. Add a scenic location, dog-friendly surroundings and interesting places to visit nearby, and you have the ingredients for a great motorhome break.

We’ve put together 10 campsites across England, Scotland and Wales where you can combine touring with a traditional pub, a country inn or a convenient on-site bar or restaurant.

Please note: The prices and opening dates below are taken from the supplied source information for 2026. They can change, so contact each site directly before travelling, particularly if you’re planning an out-of-season visit. Pub opening hours and food availability should also be checked in advance.

1. Red Shoot Camping Park, Hampshire

Location: Toms Lane, Linwood, near Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 3QT

Red Shoot Camping Park Linwood Hampshire New Forest motorhome pitches

• Website: https://redshoot-campingpark.com

• What3Words: dunk.populate.novel

• 2026 opening season: 1 March to 1 November

• Indicative prices: Grass pitches with electric hook-up £34–£54 per night; hardstanding pitches with electric hook-up £40.50–£60.50. Extra adults £10 per night and dogs £2.50 per night.

Red Shoot Camping Park is a great option for anyone wanting to explore the New Forest. Situated near Linwood, approximately five miles from Ringwood, it provides a base for discovering the area's open heathland, ancient woodland and network of walking and cycling routes.

Facilities include a modern shower and toilet block, a shop and bakery, and a children's play area.

The main attraction for many touring visitors will be the Red Shoot Inn, directly opposite the campsite. After a day exploring the forest or heading towards the nearby coast, you can enjoy a drink, a meal and a warm atmosphere without needing to move your motorhome.

The pub also has outdoor seating, where you may be lucky enough to see New Forest ponies and donkeys wandering nearby. The source information states that campers can receive a 15% discount at the inn, although this should be confirmed when booking.

Why visit? Ideal for walkers, dog owners and anyone wanting a traditional New Forest pub experience.

5 Prime Big Deal Days Deals

 

5 Prime Big Deal Days Deals Motorhome Owners Won’t Want to Miss

Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days sale comes to an end today, 7 October, and there are still some excellent bargains available for motorhome owners.

Whether you’re looking for a simple way to control moisture inside your motorhome, something to make cleaning easier, a portable projector for cosy evenings or extra power for your devices, there are some genuinely useful products included in the sale.

I’ve picked out five deals that I think are particularly worth a look for motorhomers.

Please note: prices and availability can change at any time. Some links below may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.

1. UniBond AERO 360° Moisture Absorber – £12.49

Was £14.71 – now £12.49, saving around 30%

Moisture can quickly become a problem inside a motorhome, particularly during colder weather or when your vehicle is being stored for longer periods.

The UniBond AERO 360° Moisture Absorber is a compact option designed to help remove excess moisture from the air while also helping to neutralise unpleasant smells.

Its 360-degree air circulation design makes it suitable for relatively small spaces, and UniBond says it can be used in rooms of up to 20m² – making it potentially well suited to motorhomes and campervans.

It doesn’t require electricity either. Instead, it uses replaceable moisture-absorbing tabs, with one tab included and each tab designed to last for up to three months depending on conditions.

Why motorhomers might like it:
Compact, silent, electricity-free and easy to leave inside your motorhome when you’re not using it.

Check the UniBond AERO 360° Moisture Absorber on Amazon

Motorhome Fridges: The Ultimate Guide

Motorhome Fridges:

The Ultimate Guide to Preparation, Operation, and Troubleshooting

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway in the Scottish Highlands or a multi-week European road trip across the continent, having a reliable, ice-cold fridge is essential for an enjoyable getaway. From keeping your morning milk fresh to ensuring your evening Chardonnay is properly chilled, mastering your motorhome's refrigeration system is a key skill for every road-tripper.

Drawing on expert insights from industry authority John Sootheran and tried-and-tested touring advice, this expanded guide covers everything you need to know to prep, run, maintain, and troubleshoot your motorhome fridge with confidence.

1. Motorhome Fridge Technologies Explained

Three way absorbtion fridge

Before hitting the road, it helps to understand the mechanics behind your cooling system. Most motorhomes use one of two primary fridge types:

• Absorption Fridges (The Touring Standard): The vast majority of motorhomes use absorption refrigerators. These units have no moving parts, making them completely silent and reliable. They rely on heat (from gas or electricity) to cycle refrigerant through a closed loop. Crucially, they are three-way units running on:

• 230V Mains Electricity (when plugged into campsite hook-up or home drive)

• Gas (LPG) (ideal for off-grid wild camping)

• 12V DC (strictly for maintaining temperature while the vehicle engine is running)

Compressure fridge

• Compressor Fridges (Common in Campervans): Frequently found in smaller campervans and PVCs (panel van conversions), these operate similarly to a household fridge. They feature an electric compressor, cool down rapidly, and run primarily on 12V leisure battery power.

Capacity Tip: Built-in, under-counter motorhome fridges can be tight for families or extended trips. Packing a high-performance portable cool box for your cab or outdoor awning is a fantastic way to expand your cold-storage capacity.

2. Pre-Trip Preparation: Beating Spoilage Before You Leave

Never leave your fridge preparation until the morning you depart. Proper pre-trip prep prevents spoiled food and ensures a stress-free start to your holiday.

The Step-by-Step Pre-Cooling Protocol

1. Test All Three Modes: Before packing up, test your absorption fridge on all three power sources (mains, gas, and 12V) to ensure each ignites and switches correctly. A standard annual habitation service should also include testing that the gas burner produces a clean blue flame and checking flue emissions.

2. Pre-Cool at Home: Plug your motorhome into your home mains supply using a heavy-duty extension cable at least 24 hours before your trip.

3. Speed Up the Process: Toss in frozen ice-packs or pre-chilled, non-perishable goods (like bottled water) to help the internal temperature drop faster. Avoid overfilling it initially, as airflow is needed to circulate the cold air.

Food Safety Warning:  

Failing to keep your fridge at the correct operating temperature 1° and  -4° can rapidly transform a dream holiday into a health nightmare. Warm food acts as a breeding ground for Listeria monocytogenes—the dangerous bacteria responsible for listeriosis, which causes fever, severe sickness, and diarrhoea.

3. Mastering the Three Power Sources & Off-Grid Touring

Understanding how and when to use your fridge's power modes maximizes efficiency and protects your leisure battery.

• 230V Mains Electricity: This provides the most powerful and effective cooling performance. Always use mains power when plugged in at home or on a serviced campsite pitch.

• Gas (LPG): Highly efficient for off-grid wild camping or touring remote regions. Note: Never run your fridge on gas while driving or refuelling at petrol stations; always switch to 12V mode on the road. If you haven't used your fridge on gas for a while, a slight burning smell upon initial startup is completely normal; running it on gas for an hour beforehand clears this out.

• 12V Engine Power: This mode is strictly designed to maintain internal temperature while driving (it only draws power when the alternator is running). Remember: The average leisure battery can only power an absorption fridge for a few hours at most if disconnected from the engine or mains hook-up.

4. Why Motorhome Fridges Need to Be Level

One of the most common pitfalls for motorhome owners is ignoring vehicle leveling.

Absorption fridges rely heavily on gravity. Inside the unit, a liquid solution is heated, turning into vapour that rises to a heat exchanger, extracts heat from the interior, and then condenses back into liquid to flow downward. If your motorhome is parked on a noticeable slope, gravity cannot pull the condensed liquid correctly, and the cooling cycle completely stalls.

• The Fix: Always pack reliable motorhome leveling ramps. Use a small spirit level  to ensure your van is level before settling in for the evening.

5. Advanced Troubleshooting: What to Do When Your Fridge Won't Cool

Even well-maintained fridges can occasionally act up on tour. Here is how to diagnose and address common issues:

• Symptom: Fridge isn't cooling on gas.

  • Check: Is your gas cylinder turned on, and is the internal isolation valve open? Have you purged air from the lines by running the hob first? Look through the inspection window or listen for the igniter clicking.

• Symptom: Fridge isn't cooling on 230V mains.

  • Check: Verify that your campsite hook-up lead is securely connected and that the motorhome's internal RCD trip switch hasn't tripped. Check if the fridge's internal 230V element needs replacing.

• Symptom: Food is freezing inside the main fridge compartment.

  • Check: The thermostat may be set too high, or the thermistor (the small plastic clip attached to the fin inside the fridge) has slipped out of position. Move the thermistor down for a colder setting or higher for a warmer setting.

• Symptom: A slight burning smell when starting on gas.

  • Context: This is normal if the fridge hasn’t been run on gas for several weeks. However, if the smell persists or is accompanied by soot around the external vents, turn it off immediately and have a certified technician inspect the burner and flue.

6. Smart Packing & Food Storage Hacks

• Air Circulation: Never cram your fridge to maximum capacity. Leave space for chilled air to circulate freely around items, and ensure food packages do not touch the back inner wall (which can cause items to freeze or frost over).

• Temperature Zones: The bottom shelves are consistently the coldest, making them ideal for raw meats, dairy, and perishables. The top shelves maintain the most stable, moderate temperature.

• Pre-Freezing Trick: Pre-freeze items like milk and bread before loading them. They act as natural ice blocks, helping lower the fridge's internal temperature while staying fresh longer.

• Ferry Crossings: On short ferry crossings, an unopened absorption fridge will easily retain its internal cold for hours. On longer Channel or European crossings where power must be switched off, plan ahead and purchase fresh perishables once you disembark.

• The Door Seal Test: Set your fridge between 1° and -4°. Perform the "paper test" on your door seals: trap a piece of paper in the door and close it. If you can pull the paper out with zero resistance, your door seals have worn down and need replacing.

What to Store In (and Out of) the Fridge

• Keep Out of the Fridge: Potatoes, onions, tomatoes, berries, melons, bananas, and olive oil (which solidifies at cold temperatures) should be kept out of the fridge until immediately before consumption.

• Ethylene Gas Separation: Avocados and tomatoes produce ethylene gas, which causes nearby produce to ripen and spoil too rapidly. Keep them separated.

• Herbs & Grains: Wrap hard-stalk herbs in a damp paper towel inside a resealable bag. Keep soft-stalk herbs upright in a jar with an inch of water, loosely covered with plastic. Dry grains like quinoa and lentils store brilliantly in the freezer compartment.

7. Post-Trip Maintenance, Cleaning & Winterisation

Proper aftercare ensures your fridge operates efficiently for years to come:

• Deep Cleaning: Once home, completely empty the fridge. Wash the interior surfaces using a warm water and bicarbonate of soda solution. If stubborn odours remain, leave half an onion or an open box of baking soda inside overnight to neutralize them.

• Storage Mode: When your motorhome is parked up between trips, leave the fridge door slightly ajar to maintain airflow and prevent mould growth. Most modern motorhome fridges feature built-in door latches specifically designed for this purpose.

• Annual Servicing: Ensure your annual habitation service includes a thorough inspection of the fridge burner, seals, electronic ignition, and external ventilation grilles.

What is your go-to tip or hack for keeping food fresh when touring across the UK and Europe?

All links in this blog are Amazon Affiliate Links, You will not pay extra, but a very small commission goes to support Motorhome Touring's Social Media Groups. If you still wish to make a small donation, see the PayPal or Buy Me A Coffee links in my Linktree Bio 

Thank you so much!

If you’re looking for more tips, honest gear reviews, or just a place to share your latest trip photos, come and join the conversation! You can catch me over on my YouTube channel Johnny Burr, or join one of our active Facebook groups, Motorhome Touring Scotland and Motorhome Touring The UK andEurope. We’ve also got a buzzing community over on our Motorhome Touring Discord server, where we share real-time updates and advice. And of course, keep an eye and an ear out for my content on Caravan Radio. Let’s get out there and enjoy the journey together!

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Scotland's NC500 P3 "10 days Back Down South"

  Scotland's NC500 Pt.3 "10 days Back Down South"

The NC500 in 10 day trips. See menu at the end of this blog for the next part

Embarking on a 10-day motorhome tour from Durness down to Inverness while exploring the   Isle of Skye offers an unforgettable journey through Scotland's most dramatic northern coastlines, rugged mountain passes, and legendary lochs.

Days 1–2: Northwest Highlands & Loch Broom

Durness

Durness marks your starting point on the breathtaking northwest coast, offering dramatic limestone caves and pristine white-sand beaches.

• Explore the massive chambers of Smoo Cave and walk along the stunning coastal dunes.

• Overnight Stop: 

• Sango Sands Oasis

  • The Setting: Perched dramatically on the clifftops overlooking award-winning golden beaches and turquoise waters on the far northwest tip.

  • Motorhome Facilities: Comprehensive motorhome amenities including electric hookups, fresh water, chemical waste disposal, and an on-site bar/restaurant.

  • Why Stay: Widely regarded as one of the best stops on the northern route, offering legendary sunset views, proximity to Smoo Cave, and an epic finale for your trip.

Scotland's NC500 Pt.2 "10 days Across the top"

Scotland's NC500 Pt.2 "10 days Across the top"

The NC500 in 10 day trips. See menu at the end of this blog for the next part

Embarking on a 10-day motorhome tour along Scotland's dramatic far-north coast from John o' Groats to Durness offers an incredible journey past rugged sea stacks, historic castles, white-sand beaches, and sweeping cliffscapes.

Days 1–2: The Northeast Corner & Dramatic Stacks

John o' Groats

 

John o' Groats serves as the iconic starting point for your far-north adventure, offering bustling harbour energy and sweeping views across the Pentland Firth.

• Snap a photo by the famous fingerpost signpost marking the classic end-to-end journey distance.

• Explore the local craft shops and visitor facilities situated right along the waterfront.

• Overnight Stop: Park up at the local John o' Groats caravan and camping site, which provides full motorhome service points and electric hookups.

• John o' Groats Caravan & Camping Site

  • The Setting: Perched right on the edge of the coastline with uninterrupted, sweeping views across the Pentland Firth toward the Orkney Islands.

  • Motorhome Facilities: Level hardstanding pitches, electric hookups, fresh water refill points, and chemical waste disposal.

  • Why Stay: It places you right at the doorstep of the iconic signpost, making it an effortless first-night stop after exploring the harbour.

  • 

Scotland's NC500 Pt.1 "10 days Up to the top"

 Scotland's NC500 Pt.1 "10 days Up to the top"

The NC500 in 10 day trips. See menu at the end of this blog for the next part

Embarking on a 10-day motorhome tour from Dingwall to John o' Groats offers an incredible journey along Scotland's stunning northeastern coastline, leading you past historic castles, dramatic sea cliffs, and world-famous wildlife spots.

Days 1–2: Black Isle & Coastal Waters

Dingwall

Dingwall serves as your gateway town, offering convenient local amenities and a rich market-town history before heading out onto the scenic coastal routes north.

• Explore local heritage trails and stock up on provisions for your journey.

• Enjoy easy access to nearby coastal roads and viewing points.

• Dingwall Camping and Caravanning Club Site 

 

Winter Proofing Your Motorhome

The Ultimate Guide to Motorhome Dehumidifiers

As the season changes and many of us look to lay up our motorhomes for the winter, the battle against damp begins. We all know the dreaded smell of a musty van or the sinking feeling of finding mildew on the upholstery in spring.

While ventilation is key, a small dehumidifier can be the single best investment you make to protect your pride and joy during those cold, wet months. But how do they work, and which one should you choose? Let’s dive in.

How Do Small Dehumidifiers Work?

To choose the right unit, it helps to understand that not all dehumidifiers work the same way. For motorhomes, you will generally encounter three main types:

1. Peltier (Thermoelectric)

These are the very small, lightweight units often found on Amazon. They work by pulling air over a cold metal plate. The moisture condenses on the plate and drips into a tank.

• The Catch: They rely on a temperature difference to work. If your motorhome is cold (below 15°C), they extract very little moisture.

2. Desiccant

These use a wheel made of water-absorbing material (like a sponge) to soak up moisture from the air. A heater then warms the wheel to release the water into the tank.

• The Benefit: Because they use heat, they work efficiently even in temperatures as low as 1°C. They also blow warm air out, which can help keep the chill off your van's interior.

3. Compressor

These work like a fridge, using refrigerant coils to create a cold surface. They are powerful and energy-efficient in warm homes (20°C+) but often struggle in unheated motorhomes during winter, spending much of their time in "defrost mode" rather than drying the air.

Benefits of Using a Dehumidifier During Winter Storage

Leaving a dehumidifier running (assuming you have access to mains hook-up) offers massive advantages:

• Prevents Mould & Mildew: By keeping relative humidity below 60%, mould spores cannot grow. This saves your upholstery, curtains, and mattresses from those unsightly black spots.

• Protects Electronics: High humidity can lead to corrosion on sensitive electrical contacts and circuit boards within the dashboard and control panels.

• Eliminates Odours: That "stale winter smell" is actually caused by damp and bacteria. A dry van smells fresh when you open the door in March.

• Preserves Resale Value: A van that is dry and mould-free retains its value significantly better than one with water-stained walls or mildew damage.

• Ready to Go: There’s no need to air out the van for days before your first trip; bedding feels dry and crisp immediately.

Pros and Cons of Motorhome Dehumidifiers

Before you buy, weigh up these factors:

Pros

• Active Protection: Actively removes moisture rather than just trapping a small amount like passive crystals.

• Heat Generation (Desiccant): Desiccant models add a few degrees of warmth to the interior, reducing frost risk.

• Continuous Drainage: Most models allow you to attach a hose that drains directly into your sink or shower tray (leave the grey waste open!), so you don't have to visit the van weekly to empty the tank.

• Healthier Environment: Reduces dust mites and allergens for the next season.

Cons

• Requires Power: You need a reliable 230V hook-up. They will not run off your 12V leisure battery for long without draining it flat.

• Running Costs: While efficient, they do add to your electricity bill. Desiccant models use slightly more power than compressor ones.

• Monitoring Required: Unless you set up continuous drainage, you must visit the van to empty the tank, or the unit will auto-shutoff and stop working.

• Noise: Not an issue for storage, but if you plan to sleep in the van with it on, fan noise can be noticeable.

Top 3 Small Dehumidifiers on Amazon for Motorhomes

(All links are for Amazon. I earn a small commission for each sale, but the cost to you is the same.)

Here are three distinct options found on Amazon that suit different motorhome needs:

1. The Winter Warrior: EcoAir DD1 Simple (Desiccant)

• Best for: Unheated winter storage in the UK.

• Why it works: This is widely considered the "gold standard" for motorhome storage. Because it is a desiccant model, it doesn't care if it's freezing outside; it will keep extracting moisture down to 1°C. It’s compact, lightweight (6kg), and powerful (extracts up to 7.5 Litres/day).

• Key Feature: It has a rotary dial humidistat, so you can set it to a specific level and it will turn itself on and off automatically to maintain that level, saving energy.