Shire Conversions is an award-winning UK motorhome converter based in West Yorkshire, building the Phoenix range of luxury panel van conversions on Fiat Ducato. Founded by industry veterans from IH and Vantage.
The Phoenix range includes nine variants:
The Phoenix M Studio — compact model on medium wheelbase Ducato.
The Phoenix ML — mid-length configuration.
The Phoenix 3 — versatile three-berth layout.
The Phoenix XL and 2XL Studio — extended layouts on long and extra-long wheelbase.
The Phoenix XLR Twin — twin-bed rear layout.
Various front lounge, rear lounge and mid lounge configurations. All built with robust materials by highly skilled UK craftsmen. Bespoke conversions available from £20,000+VAT on customer-supplied vehicles.
Shire Conversions was founded in 2004 in Ferrybridge, West Yorkshire by co-owner Darryl Healey, who has over two decades of experience in the motorhome industry having previously worked for IH Motorhomes and Vantage.
The company was created to challenge convention and redefine luxury motorhome design, building on Healey's deep industry knowledge from two of the UK's most respected independent converters.
Shire produces the Phoenix range — a flagship line of nine variants on Fiat Ducato chassis featuring innovative design solutions including electric sliding beds.
Industry veteran expertise — founded by professionals with decades of experience at IH Motorhomes and Vantage, bringing deep knowledge to every conversion.
Electric sliding bed innovation — innovative bed mechanisms that maximise space and convenience.
Nine Phoenix variants — extensive layout choice on a single proven platform gives buyers genuine flexibility.
Bespoke conversion service — customers can supply their own base vehicle for conversion from £20,000+VAT.
If you want IH/Vantage-level quality from a boutique converter — Shire's founders bring that expertise to a focused, personal operation.
If layout choice matters — nine Phoenix variants provide exceptional layout flexibility.
If you want to supply your own base vehicle — the bespoke conversion service offers flexibility and potential savings.
Small-scale operation — limited production capacity may create waiting times.
Single location — West Yorkshire base may require travel.
Relatively niche brand — less well-known than the larger converters despite experienced founders.
Check the Fiat Ducato base — cam belt, clutch, gearbox as standard.
Test the electric sliding bed — verify mechanism operates smoothly and locks securely.
Inspect the conversion quality — Shire's IH/Vantage heritage means high standards. Check accordingly.
Conduct damp check — check all seals, windows and conversion joints.
- On Fiat check cam belt replacement history
- Test clutch operation and gearbox condition
- Test electric sliding bed mechanism
- Check bed locking system
- Conduct comprehensive damp check
- Check all window and door seals
- Inspect around rooflights
- Test heating system to full temperature
- Test water system hot and cold
- Run fridge on all modes
- Test all 12V and 240V circuits
- Check leisure battery condition
- Inspect interior craftsmanship
- Check all cupboard mechanisms
- Test washroom fittings
- Check shower drainage
- Inspect exterior bodywork
- Verify habitation service history
- Check current MOT and advisory history
- Test drive for mechanical condition
Shire Conversions provides a conversion warranty on new builds with direct factory support.
For used purchases, verify warranty status directly with Shire in West Yorkshire.
OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty for additional protection.
When buying a used Shire Conversions, 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.