Here are the results… (in reverse order)

6. Line7

Hard wearing and very comfortable.

Feedback received

Line7 are a long established New Zealand brand who have been making outdoor wear for decades. They offer both mens and womens style bib overalls, which are fully waterproof and breathable. Suitable for a range of situations around the farm or yard, helping you to be ready for whatever the British weather decides to throw at you!
Available in womens sizes 8-18 and mens sizes XS – 5 XL.
Price: £160
Click here for more information on Line7 or to purchase.

5. Claas

Good quality and fit well. A good choice for warmer weather

Feedback received

Claas bib overalls are a popular choice for the warmer months or situations where you don’t need a fully waterproof pair. They’re lightweight and comfortable and many users commented on their love of the large front pocket. You can also get them in children’s sizes – if you fancy matching family farm outfits!
Available in sizes UK32-UK58.
Price: £62
Click here for more information on Class bib overalls or to purchase

4. Flexothane

Affordable and comfortable – great for wet and mucky jobs.

Feedback received

Flexothane is a lightweight and elastic material that is waterproof and windproof. A popular choice with vets and those working in other situations where you need to be able to hose yourself down properly! If you’re looking for a fully waterproof pair of overalls to pull on for specific jobs; for the price point you can’t really go wrong! The ideal thing to have in the back of your vehicle for unexpected downpours.
Available in sizes XS-XXXL
Price: £32
Click here for more information on Flexothanes or to purchase.

3. Fort Airflex

Warm and practical at a great price point.

Feedback received

Fort airflex bib and braces are made of fully waterproof PU coated fabric which is also windproof and tear resistant. At an attractive price point they are produced by Fort which is a well known British brand for workwear. They are slightly more breathable than the Flexothanes mentioned above.
Available in sizes XS-3XL.
Price: £29.95
Click here for more information on Fort Airflex or to purchase.

2. Stoney Creek

Lightweight, warm and very comfortable for daily use.

Feedback received

Stoney Creek have received some brilliant feedback from users who have really put them through their paces! Designed with dairy farmers in mind they are made from double ripstop fabric and two waterproof yet breathable layers to keep you warm and dry throughout the seasons. They are also available in a wider range of sizes than other brands.
Available in sizes XXS-5XL
Price: £179.99
Click here for more information on Stoney Creek or to purchase.

1. Kaiwaka – most recommended!

Last well over time, tough and a comfortable fit.

Feedback received

Designed by farmers, for farmers. Kaiwaka’s stormforce range offers an entirely waterproof and windproof yet still breathable pair of bib overalls. Made with a durable ripstop fabric that is designed to cope day in day out with whatever outdoor life throws at you. Many of those who recommended these have mentioned that they have lasted them many years of hard use!
They have both a mens and women’s style in their range.
Available in women’s sizes XXS-2XL and mens sizes XS-3XL.
Price: £185
Click here for the men’s versions
Click here for the women’s versions

As always when looking for new gear the myriad of options can feel a little overwhelming!
But hopefully this blog will help you to find a quality pair that suit both your working environment and budget.

Interested in discussing your thoughts on different outdoor products and hearing other recommendations? Come and say hello over on TikTok or Instagram

Please note that all costs and information were accurate at time of writing but may change over time.
I have not been paid to advertise or recommend these brands, they are entirely the result of conversations with real people like you on social media, forums and in person. However this post does contain some affiliate links, where if you choose to purchase a product I may receive a small commission. Commissions like this help me to fund small things like the cost of this website or buy us the odd coffee at market – so thank you!

Here are the top recommendations… (in reverse order)

6. Bekina

An affordable, comfortable pair of wellies with good grip.

Feedback received

Bekina wellies have been specifically designed for use in agriculture. Focusing on comfort for daily use and grip for wet and greasy surfaces! These were particularly recommended if you’re looking for a boot with a slightly wider fit. They offer versions with and without a steel toe cap.
Available in sizes 3.5-15. Price range: £47-£73.
Click here for more information on Bekina wellies or to purchase.

5. Muck Boots

A comfortable, warm pair of wellies that offer good value for money.

Feedback received

Muck Boots are fully lined with neoprene and have thermal foam in the sole to increase warmth and comfort. They seem to be a popular choice with a range of outdoor lovers and keen walkers! They offer a tighter calf fit than other options, resulting in more heat being retained in winter (with the added bonus of less straw and hay down your boots!)
Available in sizes 4-14 (no half sizes). Price range: £115-£155.
They offer a 1 year warranty.
Click here for more information on Muck Boot wellies or to purchase

4. Skellerup

A good value, comfortable boot that stands up to long term use well.

Feedback received

Skellerup have been making “gumboots,” as they’re known in NZ, since 1943 and have got lots of farmers and country life enthusiasts in the UK talking. The Quattro Sport are their most recommended model which have a neoprene lining and are made from moulded rubber, with a thick hardwearing outsole which is well suited for working in sheds/around the yard. They also feature a lot of ankle support for a wellington so are a good choice if this is an area you find you need more support in.
Available in sizes 4-14 (they advice purchasers to choose a size down from their usual size). Price range: £89.95-£125
They offer a 1 year warranty.
Click here for more information on Skellerup wellies or to purchase.

3. Dunlop Purofort

A durable, affordable pair of wellies that stand up well to use over time.

Feedback received

Dunlops are a familiar brand in the UK, offering a range of affordable options for footwear. They have both safety and non safety versions, but their most recommended model is the Dunlop Purofort. At the lower end of the price range on this list they offer a competitive option for daily use. Made from their own polyurethane material rather than rubber or PU. They are lightweight and thermally insulated.
They offer various grip options and versions with our without steel toes.
Available in sizes 2-13. Price range: £63.99 – £80.99.
They offer a 1 year warranty.
Click here for more information on Dunlop wellies or to purchase.

2. Aigle

A long lasting, warm and comfortable pair of boots.

Feedback received

Aigle produce natural rubber wellington boots made in France. Each pair is immersed in water to ensure it is fully waterproof before it leaves the factory! Their most popular range recommended was the Paracours model with several people saying that they had last them many years of regular wear.
Available in sizes 3.5-14.5. Price range: £130-£230.
They offer a 2 year warranty.
Click here for more information on Aigle wellies or to purchase.

1. Le Chameau – most recommended!

A comfortable pair of boots that stand up well to long term use.

Feedback received

A well known brand when it comes to wellies, Le Chameau offer a flexible natural rubber boot with a choice of linings including jersey, neoprene and leather. They received the highest percentage of recommendations, but are also the highest of the brands mentioned in terms of price. Each pair is carefully tested in their factory in Morocco. Rather than offering a unisex boot they have specific mens and women’s versions, with a range of calf sizes available to ensure tailored comfort.
Available in women’s sizes 2.5-8 and mens sizes 6-15 (as well as a choice of calf sizes). Price range: £140 – £380.
They offer a 2 year warranty.
Click here for the men’s versions
Click here for the women’s versions

Safe to say there are a lot of options out there – and these are just a few!
But hopefully this information is helpful if you are on the hunt for a new pair of wellies which are suitable for long term wear day in day out.

Interested in discussing your thoughts on different outdoor products and hearing other recommendations? Come and say hello over on TikTok or Instagram

Please note that all costs and information were accurate at time of writing but may change over time.
I have not been paid to advertise or recommend these brands, they are entirely the result of conversations with real people like you on social media, forums and in person. However this post does contain some affiliate links, where if you choose to purchase a product I may receive a small commission. Commissions like this help me to fund small things like the cost of this website or buy us the odd coffee at market – so thank you!

Once a year the Wyke Manor estate in the cotswolds opens it’s gates to visitors to enjoy their stunningly beautiful fields of flowers. We went to check it out for the first time this summer, and it was unlike anywhere I’d visited before!

What it’s all about…

Wyke manor is home of The Real Flower Petal Confetti Company, they grow a beautiful range of delphinium flowers which they harvest and dry by hand. For a short time in July (the exact dates are dependant on the year) they allow visitors to come and enjoy the flower field before the flowers are harvested.

What to do while you’re there…

The confetti fields are a favourite spot with photographers, and you can see why! It’s a lovely spot to take some family photos. There are tracks right through the middle of the flowers for you to explore the field, and there is also a viewing deck to give you a better view of the stripes of colour from above. There’s an onsite cafe serving snacks and drinks, which took card and cash payment. You can purchase big bunches of flowers near to the entrance of the field, in 2022 when we visited these cost £10 (and by a big bunch, I mean BIG!!). There was also an artist on site when we visited selling beautiful paintings of the fields.

Cost and how to book tickets…

The dates that the fields are open varies each year depending on the weather and how the flowers are growing, but it is usually sometime in July. Keep an eye on the flower companies instagram and website towards the end of June where they release the dates that the field will be open each year. Before attending you need to book tickets, this can be done through their website once the dates are live. The tickets in 2022 cost us £5.50 per adult (the baby was free!). Unfortunately dogs aren’t allowed on site so we had to leave the furry travellers behind for this one.

How to get there…

The confetti fields are situated just outside Pershore in The Cotswolds. The nearest postcode is WR10 3PA but it is well signposted when you get nearby. Make sure you’ve booked your slot to visit before you head over!

Where to stay…

Camping – Andrews Field just off the M5 is a lovely small site not too far away. It’s right on the banks of the river Avon and is reasonably priced.

Hotels and B&B’s – Woodland’s 159 is an award winning B&B and only 7 minutes drive from the flower fields. It’s reasonably priced with double rooms from £90 and family rooms starting at £110.

Other places nearby…

The Cotswolds is a lovely area to explore, Pershore is a pretty market town and there are some nice walks along the river Avon. Bredon Hill and Beckford Nature Reserve are also nearby.

Found on the coastline south of Dartmoor national park, Burgh Island is an interesting and very picturesque place to visit. It caught my eye this summer after I’d seen a few pictures on google – an island you could walk to? We decided we had to go and check it out!

What it’s all about…

Accessible from Bigbury beach, Burgh Island is one of Englands few tidal islands. This means that if you time your visit right, at low tide you can walk across the sand to the island. Having the sea either side of you whilst walking across the beach is quite a sight! 
It’s a fairly short flat walk along the sand, although there is some wet sections and a small stream to cross nearer the island so wear your boots!

What to do while you’re there…

Check out the remains of the chapel found near the centre of the island, take a walk around the islands footpaths and enjoy the beautiful Devon scenery! Bigbury beach is along the south west coast path making it a great spot to tie in if you’re walking this stretch.
Make sure you check the tide times before your visit if you want to walk to the island, there is also a ‘sea tractor’ that can take you to or from the island if the tide is in whilst you’re there. We didn’t use it during our visit, but the sign said that it was £2 per trip and that you need to have the exact change with you to pay for it. 

How to get there…

Burgh island is about 45 minutes from Plymouth and only half an hour from the edge of Dartmoor national park. 
There are several car parks nearby, we parked in the one at the end of Marine Drive. The postcode for the car park is TQ7 4AS. It was a nice roomy car park with no height limits so good for those travelling in a camper or larger vehicle. It’s also got lovely views of the island and was a good spot for a picnic! 

Nearest place to grab a bite…

There is a pub on the island called The Pilchard Inn which is run by the Burgh Island Hotel. We stopped here for a pint and to shelter from a downpour but be warned, it was pretty pricey!
There is also a cafe in bigbury on sea but again this is quite pricey. If you are travelling on a budget I’d advise bringing food and drink with you. 

Where to stay…

Camping – We love to wild camp in our van however sadly this area of Devon is not the easiest for finding free park ups! So whilst we were here we stayed at Mount Folly Farm campsite, only a five minute drive up the road. It had lovely views and wasn’t too expensive.

Hotels and B&B’s – If you’re feeling flush you can actually stay on the island at the Burgh Island Hotel, but at around £500 a night it’s probably out of most people’s budgets! The Henley Hotel on the mainland is a slightly more affordable option (although still at the higher end of hotels, as is much of this area) with a double room with breakfast costing £159 a night. 

Other places nearby…

The south of Devon has so much to offer, check out the beautiful Hope Cove and Salcombe whilst you’re in the area. 

Have I earned thousands upon thousands? Not at all. Have I had a year of adventures, spent more time doing the things I love and still been able to pay all my bills, put fuel in my van and treat myself to the odd Starbucks and Chinese takeaway? Yes absolutely.

You so often see the more famous influencers affording to be able to travel full time or work remotely from vlogging, instagram etc. but I wanted to share a few ways that I personally as a normal (well somewhat normal!) everyday person have earned some cash in a fully flexible way in my first year. I realise all these options won’t suit everyone, but maybe there’s something here that will work for you! I think there’s a big mindset of people thinking you must be rich, sitting on a ton of savings or a ‘trust fund’ (whatever that even is…) to be able to travel when you want to. But it’s simply not true, you want it badly enough? You can make it work.

1. Freelance Marketing/Virtual Assistant Services
I’ve been offering social media management, web design and other design and marketing services since quitting my full time job. I would be lying if I said starting out as a freelancer was easy, some months have been successful others I have had hardly any freelance work at all, but slowly it has been going in the right direction! I recommend if this is something that you want to get into, that as well as looking into all the freelance sites like Upwork etc. you think about the connections you already have in your working life and think about how you can use those, whether that’s small businesses you can offer services too or businesses you know from your local area. Connecting with people is such a massive part of freelancing and even if they don’t need your services right now, they know where you are when they do!

2. Teaching English Online
A few months ago I started teaching English to children in China through a company called Palfish. It’s all done remotely through an app on your phone. There are a few different companies for teaching English remotely out there but I went with Palfish as you can work as many or as little hours as you like and unlike some companies, you don’t need a teaching degree to be accepted as a teacher. You do however need a 120 hour TEFL certificate but I got mine by doing a course from Wowcher for £15! I’m planning to write a post on this soon with all the details of how I got started and the sign up process. At the moment I personally work around 15-20 hours a month teaching English, but I know people who work a lot more and use it as their main source of income.

3. Delivery Driving
Now this one may seem to be a little random, but if you’re often based in one place and have a vehicle (it doesn’t need to be a van any vehicle as long as it’s not a 3 door is fine!) then you can deliver for Amazon via their Flex scheme. You can work as little or as much as you like and it doesn’t matter if you go on a trip for months and don’t do a single shift, you can still start picking up shifts when you come back. This has been a bit of a lifesaver for me when my freelance work has had a quiet month or I just need to save some money for a big bill or for working on the van. I really wish that they changed their system so that you could pick up shifts no matter what area you’re in, hopefully they will at some point but at the moment you have to stick to one area as your base. Obviously this won’t work for those wanting to travel constantly but if you live in your van based in one place or go on trips and come back every now and then it might suit you.

4. Selling Products/Creations
I started my range of travel stickers and have sold some through Etsy & Ebay. I have also recently started making jewellery using sea glass I find on my travels along the coast and this is something that I want to hopefully expand my online shops to selling in 2021! Creating your own products are a great way to earn an income remotely and something I also really enjoy.

5. Online Transcription
Not something I’ve done a lot of or spent much time on – but I have made the odd £20 from transcribing. Online transcription sites pay you to listen to audio (usually business meetings or interviews) and transcribe them into text. The pay rates are quite low but it is entirely flexible as you just pick up jobs as and when you want to. The site I use is called Rev but there are a few different options out there, not something I would say from my experience was feasible as an only source of income but for the odd bit of extra cash it is definitely a legitimate option!

Employed Remote Jobs
If you don’t feel comfortable being self employed and would rather stick with secure employment, this doesn’t mean that living a more flexible lifestyle isn’t possible for you. Personally I prefer the freedom which comes with picking up work on my own terms but I also realise that alongside that comes an element of insecurity that not everyone is comfortable with. I’ve seen lots of opportunities out there for employed part time (and full time) jobs which can be done remotely, many of these are advertised on the usual job sites like Indeed. COVID seems to have pushed a lot more businesses to be open to remote working which has opened up opportunities for those of us not wanting to work from one place.

So this is how I’ve stayed alive, well and financially afloat during the last year! Alongside finding more flexible ways to earn an income reducing my expenses was a massive door opener. I’ve gone from having a house of my own to a van and a small room I rent off some good friends for the times I can’t be in the van. Although this may sound like a sacrifice to me this change has only opened up more freedom, and by working constantly on someone else’s terms I was sacrificing something far more precious than material things – I was giving up so much of the most precious resources we have, time.

I hope this blog is in some way helpful either to those planning or to those already living a more free lifestyle and looking for ways to top up their income.

If you have any questions or want to chat feel free to contact me on social media or drop me an email! I’m always happy to talk about my experiences – although I’m no expert, just working it out as I go along!

Check out our adventures or get in touch on Instagram – www.instagram.com/adventuresofhanzo

Found right on the edge of the Brecon Beacons, Keepers Pond (also known by its welsh name – Penn-Ford-Goch) is a lovely wild but accessible spot with stunning views across the national park. Not far from major roads it’s the perfect place to stop off on a longer journey through the area or for a day out.

What it’s all about…

Forming part of the Bleanavon world heritage site with some stunning views across the Usk Valley this spot is the perfect place for a picnic or a good starting point for some longer hikes. The pond itself is also a popular swimming spot for those who enjoy a refreshing wild swim! It’s a manmade pond that was originally built to provide water for a nearby forge in the early 19th century.

What to do while you’re there…

Situated right off the mountain road Keepers Pond is a great place to stop off and admire the views. There’s a lovely walk from the pond to the summit of the Blorenge Mountain around 3 miles away and as mentioned earlier the pond is a popular spot for a wild swim. The wilderness of the mountain can be seen in the beautiful flora and fauna and if you’re lucky enough the wild ponies who frequent this spot may drop by during your visit!

How to get there…

Keepers Pond is near two major routes in this area of Wales being just under half an hours drive from the M4 and only five minutes from the A465. There is a free car park on site which makes it easily accessible, the postcode for this car park is NP4 9SR and there are no height restrictions or limits on how long you can stay.

Nearest place to grab a bite…

There are many restaurants and pubs a short drive away in the towns of Blaenavon and Abergavenny. The nearest being the Rifleman’s Arms in Blaenavon which offers home cooked food and has some good reviews.

Where to stay…

If you would like to stick around this area for a little longer than a day there are a range of accommodation options nearby.

Wild camping – There are no restrictions on the car park mentioned earlier at Keepers Pond itself and it’s a stunning place to park up overnight! Although it can be busy during the day and at sunset; it tends to quieten down as the night goes on. There were a few local ‘boy racers’ who arrived after dark but thankfully they didn’t stick around for too long. There is also another car park just up the road called Foxhunter which is often quieter and like the parking at keepers pond is free with no height restrictions. The postcode for both car parks is NP4 9SR, Keepers pond is just off the main mountain road and Foxhunter down a small lane behind the pond further off the road.

Campsite goers – Pyscoldyn Farm and Blossom Touring Park can both be found just over 15 minutes drive away.

Hotels and B&B’s – The Lion Hotel can be found five minutes drive away in Blaenavon or there is a new Premier Inn that has recently been built on the outskirts of Abergavenny which has rooms from £65 per night.

Other places nearby…

Located right on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park there are so many spots to explore nearby. The Sugarloaf and Skirrid mountains are both lovely climbs. The area is also famous for its industrial heritage and the Big Pit museum can be found a short drive away.

So maybe you fancy trying vanlife but you don’t want to spend weeks, months and thousands of pounds building a beautiful conversion before you can get out exploring? Or maybe you have access to a work panel van that needs to be able to stay a work van when you’re not travelling? Or perhaps you’re just not sure how to plan your build and use your space and fancy spending some time in it first?

Whatever your reason, it’s entirely possible, cheap and practical to kit out a van as a camper, without building a thing!

After buying my van I cleaned her out and removed some old ply wood that had been built in previously, but then I just wanted to get off exploring and hit the road. I also wanted to spread the cost of my conversion out over time. So she will look stunning and picture perfect eventually! But I’ve still enjoyed so many beautiful places with her just how she is.

Things don’t have to be instagram or Pinterest worthy for you to get out there and explore!
Here are the essentials you need to hit the road –

Somewhere to sleep

If you’re travelling alone a single mattress will obviously take up much less space than a double, I went for a double as we had an old fold out futon sofa in the shed that fit perfectly between my wheel arches. If you don’t have a spare mattress lying around look out for one on the secondhand sites like Freecycle, Gumtree and Facebook. Often people give them away for free or very little.

You can also get fold out beds like this one on amazon for less than £50 which are good value and take up very little space. Temporary mattresses are never going to be the most comfortable thing in the world but when layered with a topper or a couple of duvets they can still be pretty cosy!

Something to cook on

I cook everything on my portable butane stove. They’re cheap to buy and run and mine has served me well for many years worth of camping trips. It’s very handy for boiling water to wash up or make a hot water bottle as well as cooking and the water boils surprisingly quickly.

You can pick up a decent stove like this one on amazon for as little as £14 and a funky coloured kettle for around £10.

Somewhere to store things

You’ll need a place to store the usual day to day things like crockery, a washing up bowl and your food. I use an old wooden trunk that I had in my house, they’re the kind of things that (like the mattress) you can often pick up on secondhand sites or you can buy one new for £43.99 on Amazon. The one I’ve linked has a flat lid which is much more useful than the rounded ones, I use the top of mine as a kitchen surface to do all my cooking.

Somewhere to keep food cool

I have an old camping coolbox that I use to keep all my perishable food. I don’t tend to purchase meat unless I’m going to use it the same or very next day (I’m one of those food poisoning paranoid types if I’m honest…) but it’s useful for storing things like veg, butter and milk until I build my kitchen and put in a 12v fridge.

A toilet to use if you’re desperate…

This ones more optional and not everyone has a toilet even in their permanent van builds. Personally I feel more comfortable having one with me, particularly as I very rarely use campsites and sometimes need to stay in built up areas where a wild wee is not always possible! I have a Thetford Porta Potti, they cost around £100 but I felt it was a worthy investment as I will use the same toilet in my permanent build. They don’t smell or take up a lot of room and mine just tucks away nicely in the corner on the majority of days that I don’t use it.

Somewhere to store your water

I carry two water tanks with me, they’re a decent enough size to keep me going for over a week but also small enough that I can carry them to a tap to refill. It’s always best to overestimate a little on the water front as it’s not really something you want to get stuck without! You can get a set of two 25 litre containers for £22.80 and again I’ll build these into my permanent build under my sink so they will always be useful.

Something to cover up your windows

If your van has side windows like mine you’ll want some kind of curtain to cover them at night as well as to stop unwanted nosey passersby having a peer inside during the day. I use some light material I had spare in my house pinned into the carpet panels that are above my window. If you don’t have carpet or a surface on your walls that you can pin into then sticky velcro squares (like these) are really handy. They stick to most lightweight materials (or you could sew them for a little extra security) and they stick securely to the van. I use them for the wall hangings I have covering the sides of the back half of the van at the moment just to give my interior a cosier/more homely feel than having bare walls!
I don’t have a bulkhead in my van so I use a fitted sheet stretched across the front for added privacy from the windscreen. I always put my curtains up when I’m out hiking or leaving the van for a while.

That’s really all you need to hit the road!
Not forgetting your usual things like towels, toiletries and clothes of course…

Below I have included some non essential things that I find very useful and have been grateful to have with me:

Solar shower – a great affordable invention that is so handy for when you’re at the beach or out in the wilds for a while and need some way of washing. I use mine a lot for washing the dogs off too when they’re muddy or sandy so that they don’t bring it all into the van. It’s essentially a large black bag with a shower head attached, I put mine on my dashboard to soak up the sun and the water gets really warm. I have a highlander one like this which is £8.95.

Candles – As well as smelling nice and making everything feel warm and cosy candles have been so handy to have at night for lighting!

Fairy Lights – Battery powered fairy lights as well as being pretty are another great source of lighting before you install your electrics. I have the copper wire lights that run off 3AA batteries.

Books – Reading is not something I did a lot of before I started travelling but I find it a really relaxing therapeutic thing to do in the evenings or on rainy days.

Bluetooth Transmitter – Many vans don’t have the best or most modern stereos, having a bluetooth transmitter that plugs into the cigarette lighter allows me listen to any podcasts or music I like and charge my phone via usb whilst I’m driving. I have a transmitter with two USB charging points similar to this one.

First Aid Kit – Okay personally I think this ones pretty essential! I have a small outdoor first aid kit (like this one) which contains all the basics but is still small enough to have in my backpack whilst I’m out exploring.

Tick Remover – On the subject of first aid (and especially when travelling with dogs) I have had to use a tick remover on my travels this year a lot more than I would like to admit… They’re really not the most pleasant of creatures and some areas, particularly Exmoor, seem to be inundated with them at the moment! Thankfully I’ve only had them on the dogs so far and none on myself personally. The removers are inexpensive (this ones only £2.49) and worth having with you, particularly if you’re planning on spending time in areas such as Exmoor and Dartmoor.

A Phone Holder – If you’re travelling to new places, you’re going to be using your sat nav ALOT. It’s no fun having it in an awkward place where you can only hear it and not see the guidance. When you’re a large vehicle having to make quick lane changes can be very stressful and something I do my best to avoid! I have a magnet on the dashboard which I can mount my phone onto, it’s strong enough to work even through my phone case unlike some makes and is super handy. I have this one made by YOSH.

The more time I spend typing this, the more I realise how many things I could add that I’ve been grateful for! I might do a full blog on ‘little things that have made my life so much easier’ soon.

I hope that’s given you an idea of the basics you might need to hit the road and start enjoying the freedoms of vanlife!
It really doesn’t have to be expensive or time consuming to kit out a van.
I’m setting myself aside periods of time to do each part of my build, whilst enjoying travelling and time on the road in between. So far I’ve built my floor and today I have picked up the timber ready to build my bed frame this week.

Don’t forget to follow my social media channels for updates on my build!
If you have any questions at all please don’t hesitate to drop me a message or comment below.

Disclaimer – All the products mentioned above are things that I use myself in my van (or if they’re things that I’ve had a long time, the nearest possible match I could find!)
Adventures of Hanzo (Han Wood) is a participant in the Amazon EU Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.co.uk.

This incredibly scenic place near the edge of the National Park has some seriously impressive rock formations that provide an amazing natural viewpoint of the ancient forest and valley below. If you’re looking for a picturesque spot on Dartmoor, Dewerstone will not disappoint!

What it’s all about…

Found less than 10 miles from the centre of Plymouth and overlooking the river Plym, Dewerstone rocks is a wonderful historic site that has been visited by people for centuries. It’s thought that there may have been a settlement around the rocks from as early as the Neolithic period and evidence can still be seen today of the Iron Age hill fort. Legend has it that the devil would gallop across the moors on horseback with his pack of hounds to the rocks and chase unsuspecting travellers over the cliff edge to their deaths. Hence the name ‘Dewer’ which is an old Celtic word for the Devil!

What to do while you’re there…

As well as the rocks there’s so much to explore around Dewerstone. The site is surrounded by beautiful woodland, waterfalls and wildlife.
The area is a popular spot with climbers and there are over 100 listed climbs nearby. There’s also loads of great spots for scrambling and bouldering if that’s more your thing!

The walk to Dewerstone takes you through ancient woodlands alongside the river Plym before detouring off up to the rocks. However the paths continue up stream alongside the river for miles and I definitely recommend taking some time out to have a wander through these beautiful woodlands. There is a lovely walk on the opposite side of the valley, we walked along this path after climbing up to Dewerstone and it was really interesting to see the rock faces from a different viewpoint! There’s also lots of lovely wild swimming spots further up stream.

How to get there…

As the site is on the South edge of the Moors it’s easily accessible from the city of Plymouth. There is free parking at the National Trust site of Dewerstone Woods near the village of Shaugh Prior which is a good place to start.
The postcode for the car park is PL7 5HE, if this car park is full there is another just around the corner over the bridge on the right hand side. This car park is also better if you have a larger vehicle as the first car park can get quite busy. Both car parks are free of charge and have no height barriers.

Nearest place to grab a bite…

The White Thorn Inn can be found in the village of Shaugh Prior nearby and is open 7 days a week, serving food from 12pm to 9pm.

Where to stay…

If you would like to explore the area for a little longer there are a range of accommodation options nearby.

Wild camping – It is possible to wild camp on many areas of Dartmoor with a tent but unfortunately you’re unable to park up overnight in a campervan. If you wish to wild camp you need to make sure that all of your equipment can fit in your backpack and you pitch your tent at least 100m away from any roads. Please don’t forget to treat the area with care and leave no trace. Full details on wild camping guidelines along with a map on which areas you can camp at can be found on the Dartmoor website.

Campsite goers – There are several campsites around 20 to 30 minutes drive away including Dartmoor caravan park and Magpie leisure park.

Hotels and B&B’s – The Moorland Hotel can be found less than five minutes drive away and offers room from £70 per night.

Other places nearby…

This part of Dartmoor is a great place to explore from with easy access to both the coastline and the moors further inland. If you’re planning to head further North into the depths of Dartmoor why not check out Venford Reservoir and Bench Tor.

Tucked away in the wilds of Dartmoor, this beautiful reservoir is a nice place to stop off whilst exploring! Bench Tor and Venford Falls are both within easy reach of the reservoir.

What it’s all about…

Venford is a fairly small but beautiful reservoir originally built to supply water to the seaside town of Paignton. It provides a welcome sheltered spot on wild and windy days as well as being a great spot to explore Bench Tor, The Dart Gorge and Venford Falls nearby.

What to do while you’re there…

Head across the bridge that overlooks the dam for some lovely views of the lake. There is a circular walk around the perimeter of the reservoir which is just under a mile long and relatively flat. The reflection of the surrounding trees on the water on a clear day makes for some very picturesque views!

Bench Tor can also be found nearby, head from the parking area (details below) across the Dam and walk up to the left away from the road. Continue climbing up the slope and you’ll see the rocks ahead of you before too long. It is less than a mile from the Dam to the rocks and it’s a truly lovely walk. This area is a lovely spot for experiencing the wildness of Dartmoor with sheep and ponies in plentiful supply!

Once you reach the rocks the views of the gorge below are breathtaking. You can either head back the way you came, explore down into the gorge below or walk from the Tor down into the woods beneath the dam to find the hidden beauty of Venford waterfalls. The area surrounding Venford Reservoir is full of wildlife and makes up part of the Dart Valley Nature Reserve.

How to get there…

The nearest postcode for Venford Reservoir is PL20 6SE, the reservoir can be found along the Castles in the Dart Valley road.

There is parking available opposite the reservoir, the car park has toilet facilities and is open 24 hours a day. There is no height or time limit restrictions and it’s free of charge.

As with many roads around Dartmoor the access roads to Venford are very narrow in places. If you are travelling in a van or larger vehicle you will need to approach from the North via Hexworthy, there is only one narrow bridge from this direction which I managed fine in my Mercedes Sprinter! The road from the South is not suitable for larger vehicles.

Nearest places to grab a bite…

The Forest Inn can be found around 5 minutes drive away in the village of Hexworthy offering a range of home cooked food. Or alternatively if you’re fancying a treat, the Badgers Holt Tearooms in Dartmeet offer high tea for £17 per person down by the river.

Where to stay…

If you would like to explore this stunning area for long:

Wild camping – It is possible to wild camp on many areas on Dartmoor with a tent but unfortunately you’re unable to park up overnight in a campervan. However there is a very affordable campsite nearby (see below). If you wish to wild camp you need to make sure that all your equipment can fit in your backpack and you pitch your tent at least 100m away from any roads. Please don’t forget to treat the area with care and leave no trace. Full details on wild camping guidelines can be found on the Dartmoor website.

Campsite goers – Westoke Farm can be found between Holne Village and the reservoir and offer basic field camping for tents, caravans and campervans with a portaloo at the very reasonable price of £4 per adult per night! They also provide water at their farmhouse nearby.

Hotels and B&B’s – The Forest Inn mentioned earlier offer overnight accommodation from £60 and are dog friendly.

Other places nearby…

There is so much to explore on Dartmoor! Combestone Tor and some stunning sections of the river Dart are all easily accessible from this spot.

This stunning viewpoint can be found within the beautiful countryside of Herefordshire; right along the borders of England and Wales. I’ve been visiting this place ever since I was young and still make a point to come back here as often as I can!

What it’s all about…

Yat Rock is an impressive rocky outcrop set high on a hill above the banks of the river Wye. Surrounded by forest and idyllic scenery it’s the perfect place to take in the surroundings of the Wye Valley before exploring this beautiful area further! It’s also the site of an ancient hill fort which was used as a lookout for many years.

What to do while you’re there…

Wander along the boardwalk to the end of the outcrop to appreciate the nearly 360′ views from this spot! Perched on a hill between the two valleys you can see the river Wye perfectly wind it’s way through the landscape below. It’s also a well known location for spotting some impressive birds of prey including Peregrine Falcons, Goshawks, Ospreys and Sparrowhawks!

Once you’ve taken in the view why not take a fairly short (but steep) walk down to the village of Symonds Yat below where several lovely pubs can be found on the banks of the river. Perfect for a refreshing pint before your climb back up (or down! Depending on where you choose to start from).

For a longer walk you can follow the trail from Symonds Yat right alongside the river towards the market town of Monmouth. Stopping off at the Biblin’s Suspension Bridge along your way (a travel guide for which is on it’s way shortly).

How to get there…

The postcode for Yat Rock is GL16 7NZ. It’s situated around 10 minutes off the A40 dual carriageway and around twenty minutes from Ross on Wye and Monmouth.

There is parking at the Forestry England site itself providing easy access. The car park is pay and display and is open from 8am until 9pm in summer and closes slightly earlier during winter months. Parking for up to two hours is £3 in summer or £2 in winter (they have separate rates for larger vehicles and motorhomes). This is a large car park which doesn’t have a height limit, there are also picnic benches in the forest and toilet facilities making it a good stop off.

Alternatively you can park down in the village of Symonds Yat East (HR9 6JL) and follow the trail up behind the Royal Lodge to Yat Rock. There are car parks at both ends both of which have a minimum charge of £4 and (on my last few visits) only accept coin payments so make sure if you plan to park in the village you have some change handy! There is no height limit on these car parks however but it can get very busy and the access road is quite narrow, particularly to the car park next to the Royal Lodge so personally I would avoid this in a larger vehicle.

If you are happy with a longer walk and would rather not pay for parking, you can park on the Monmouth side of the trail along the river Wye (see details in the wild camping section below) and follow the path to Symonds Yat.

Nearest places to grab a bite…

Yat Rock itself has a cafe on-site which can be found at the top of the car park, near to the viewpoint, offering a range of drinks, snacks and sandwiches.
There is also a lovely pub called The Saracens Head Inn which can be found in the village of Symonds Yat below offering both a lunch and dinner menu. Their food is lovely and I have eaten here many times!

Where to stay…

If you would like to enjoy this beautiful area for a little longer:

Wild Camping (NP25 3NH) – Whilst it’s not possible to stay overnight at the car parks next to Symonds Yat there is a lovely free parking area (mentioned earlier) just outside the town of Monmouth at the end of Hadnock Road.
Nestled in the woods alongside the river its a lovely quiet and peaceful spot! It’s also right at the start of the Peregrine trail leading to Symonds Yat (around a four mile walk). This flat trail follows the old train track, several ruins of which can be found along the way. It’s also a popular route with cyclists and is a well marked level trail.

Campsite goers – If you’re happier under canvas or prefer the facilities that come with a campsite Doward Park Campsite and Steretts Campsite can both be found nearby.

Hotels and B&B’s – The Saracens Head Inn mentioned earlier offer B&B accommodation. The Old Court Hotel also offer rooms nearby.

Other places nearby…

The Wye Valley offers so many places to explore including forest, castles and abbeys. The historic market towns of Monmouth and Hereford are also lovely places that are definitely worth a visit!

A paddle along the river wye is a lovely way to see the area and there are several companies offering canoe hire nearby.