Nick Harris

Late September and October are often the best months to hire a campervan in Britain. The weather is frequently still kind, especially in the south. Campsite prices drop. And the colours — amber, copper, deep red, gold — arrive from mid-October and stay well into November. Whether you're planning a long weekend or a proper week away, here's some thoughts on where to go, what to see, and how to stay comfortable when the temperature dips after dark.

The idea of a campervan holiday is appealing to almost everyone — the freedom to go where you like, sleep where you like, and wake up somewhere beautiful with everything you need close at hand. But if you have never hired a campervan before, it is natural to feel uncertain about where to start. How do you plan a route? Where do you sleep? What happens if something goes wrong? What do you actually need to bring?

We have put together a selection of campsites that we have either stayed at in the past ourselves or have been recommended by past hirers and friends. Everyone has their own preferences and requirements, and campsites change, so we cannot guarantee that these will suit everyone’s tastes. Although we grew up in the New Forest and still live very close by, we still enjoy camping in this wonderful place. There are so many fantastic campsites, and these are a selection of ones that we have used...