Leisuredrive is the UK's longest-established independent campervan company, building bespoke conversions from Bolton since 1969. Over 55 years of experience on VW, Ford and Renault platforms.
The range includes:
The VW T7 — newly available, SWB and LWB options with HiTop or elevating roof. From £59,990.
The Vivante — Leisuredrive's signature model refined over 25+ years. Available on VW T6/T6.1 in Silver, Gold and Platinum equipment levels.
The Lifestyle — traditional layout with convertible seating on VW, Renault or Ford bases.
The Freespirit — premium option for discerning buyers.
All models carry Gas & Electrical Safety certifications and STATUS crash testing approval.
Leisuredrive traces its origins to 1969, making it the UK's longest-established independent campervan company with over 55 years of continuous operation. The company started as Carahome, became The Manchester Motor Caravan Company, before rebranding to Leisuredrive in the early 1980s when it relocated to Bolton.
Based at Fishbrook Industrial Estate, Bolton, Leisuredrive is a family-run operation staffed by campervan enthusiasts with industry-trained, certified engineers.
The company holds approvals from VW, Ford and Renault, carries Gas & Electrical Safety certifications, and subjects all conversions to STATUS crash testing. A two-year conversion warranty plus mechanical warranty demonstrates commitment to quality.
The signature Vivante model has been refined over 25+ years, representing continuous improvement rather than fashion-led redesign.
55+ years of continuous operation — the UK's longest-established independent campervan company, building continuously since 1969.
The Vivante — refined over 25+ years, this signature model represents decades of iterative improvement and customer feedback.
Multi-platform expertise — approved by VW, Ford and Renault, giving buyers genuine platform choice with manufacturer-backed conversions.
Safety certification — Gas & Electrical Safety certifications plus STATUS crash testing on all conversions.
If heritage and experience matter — 55+ years of continuous campervan building is unmatched by any other independent UK converter.
If you want an early VW T7 conversion — Leisuredrive is already offering the latest VW platform.
If multi-platform choice appeals — VW, Ford and Renault bases with manufacturer approval on each.
If safety certification matters — STATUS crash testing and Gas & Electrical certification on every conversion.
Single location — based solely in Bolton, which may be inconvenient for southern buyers.
Small-scale production — family-run operation limits production volume and may create waiting times.
Premium pricing — 55 years of expertise and safety certification comes at a price premium.
Limited national awareness — despite longevity, Leisuredrive is less well-known than some newer, more heavily marketed competitors.
Verify genuine Leisuredrive conversion — confirm build documentation and safety certifications.
Check the base vehicle — on VW: full service history, DSG if auto. On Ford: service history. On Renault: service history, turbo.
Inspect the conversion quality — 55+ years of refinement means high standards. Any departure may indicate non-original work.
Check STATUS crash test certification — verify seating and bed systems carry crash test approval.
Leisuredrive provides a two-year conversion warranty plus mechanical warranty on new builds. The company's 55+ year track record provides exceptional confidence in ongoing support.
For used purchases, verify any remaining warranty directly with Leisuredrive in Bolton.
OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty for additional protection.
When buying a used Leisuredrive, look for a dealer that offers an independent warranty backed by a provider like the RAC. This means your warranty remains valid even if the dealer ceases trading. OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, covering the average ownership period.