Festelle =link= Guide

While not a household name like Winnebago or Hymer, Festelle holds a uniquely cherished position in the history of British and European leisure vehicles. To the uninitiated, "Festelle" might sound like a forgotten brand from a bygone era. But to collectors, restorers, and vintage caravanning aficionados, it represents a golden age of craftsmanship, innovation, and lightweight design.

Finally, the company faced financial pressures. The cost of Type Approval regulations increased, and by the early 1990s, Festelle had ceased production, leaving behind a finite number of vehicles—estimated by enthusiasts to be fewer than 800 still on the road or in storage. Fast forward to 2025, and Festelle is experiencing a quiet renaissance. Vintage camper prices have skyrocketed, but Festelle remains a relatively accessible entry point for classic RV collecting.

First, the . Since Festelle’s entire conversion jigs and interior templates were designed specifically for the CF’s exact dimensions, losing this base vehicle was a critical blow. While they attempted conversions on the Ford Transit, the magic was never quite the same. festelle

In the sprawling, diverse world of recreational vehicles, certain names rise above the noise to achieve cult status. For enthusiasts of classic coachbuilt motorhomes, few names evoke as much nostalgia, respect, and curiosity as Festelle .

So, if you ever see a boxy, two-tone van with a slightly raised roof and a steaming cup of tea being poured from a vintage kettle inside—stop. Take a photo. And say hello to the owner. Chances are, they are driving a —and they have a story to tell. In summary: The Festelle is a classic British campervan conversion based primarily on the Bedford CF, known for its pop-top roof, lightweight design, and 1970s/80s charm. It remains a highly desirable collector’s vehicle for vintage RV enthusiasts today. While not a household name like Winnebago or

Whether you are a seasoned classic car collector, a nostalgic weekend camper, or a brave newcomer to the world of vintage RVs, the Festelle deserves your attention. Rare, beautiful, and supremely functional, these reconditioned Bedford CF conversions are the ultimate expression of DIY adventure.

"We call her 'Ethel'," James laughs. "She does 0-60 in about 20 seconds, and you can hear every gear change. But when you park up at a seaside site, people flock to you. They take photos. They ask questions." Finally, the company faced financial pressures

Here is why the modern market is obsessed with Festelle: In an era of white, plastic, app-controlled motorhomes, the Festelle stands out with its boxy charm, chrome mirrors, and simple dials. Owning a Festelle is like owning a piece of rolling art deco from the camping golden age. Ease of Restoration Because the base vehicle (Bedford CF or early Ford Transit) has a massive classic parts network, restoring a Festelle is far easier than reviving an orphan brand. Engine parts, suspension bushes, and brake components are still manufactured by specialist suppliers. The Campervan Tax Loophole (Historic Vehicle Status) In the UK, many Festelles are now over 40 years old, qualifying for Historic Vehicle (Tax Exempt) status. Owners pay zero vehicle tax, no ULEZ charges (in most cases), and benefit from cheap classic insurance. Simple, Reliable Systems Unlike modern campers with complex electrical management systems (EMS), a Festelle has a simple 12V leisure battery, a manual water pump, and a non-electric fridge. There is nothing to break that a competent DIYer cannot fix with a multi-meter and a spanner. Tips for Buying a Used Festelle If this article has sparked your interest, you might be hunting for a Festelle of your own. Be warned: demand outstrips supply. When one appears on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or a specialist classic dealer like Caravan and Motorhome Club , it sells quickly.