70 Years of Royal Caravanning at Beaulieu

A vintage miniature caravan in front of the ornate facade of Buckingham Palace, with a horse-drawn carriage and several elegantly dressed figures nearby.

If you’re curious about caravanning’s royal links, now’s your chance to look closer. The Caravan and Motorhome Club is excited to unveil a special anniversary showcase at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, spotlighting a charming piece of royal history—the Royal Caravan, built especially for Prince Charles and Princess Anne in 1955.

This beautifully detailed miniature caravan, gifted by the Club to the young royals, is turning 70 this year. It’s not just a cute keepsake—it’s a fully functioning, scaled-down caravan built to hit the road. The display offers visitors a unique look at the craftsmanship, nostalgia, and heritage that have made caravanning a beloved British pastime.

A Royal Caravan Like No Other

A historical black and white photograph showing a group of people gathered around a small, detailed caravan. Some individuals are engaged in the assembly or presentation of the caravan, while others are observing. The setting includes greenery and a backdrop of hedges or trees.

In the mid-1950s, Rollalong Caravans Ltd in Ringwood crafted the Royal Caravan as a one-of-a-kind gift. The idea? A pint-sized, roadworthy caravan fit for little adventurers—complete with working lights, a hand-pump sink, and even miniature furnishings like a Poole Pottery tea set and a tiny collection of Beatrix Potter books. While it couldn’t boil a real kettle (the hob was wooden for safety!), it had everything else a young explorer might need.

Originally towed around the gardens of Buckingham Palace by a modified Hillman Husky from the royal fleet, the caravan gave Prince Charles and Princess Anne their first taste of life on the move. The Duke of Edinburgh, a dedicated Club patron since 1952, personally oversaw those early test drives.

From Forgotten Treasure to Museum Star

A vintage caravan next to a red luxury car in an elegant lobby with a grand chandelier and decorative murals.

After its early years of royal adventures, the Royal Caravan was tucked away in a barn at Sandringham and quietly faded from public view. That changed in 1982 when it was lovingly restored to mark the Club’s 75th anniversary—and officially re-presented to Princess Anne. It was later exhibited at Combermere Barracks and then restored once more for the Club’s centenary in 2007, with help from the original makers at Rollalong. One craftsman who worked on the original caravan even returned to help with the restoration—talk about full circle.

Since then, the Royal Caravan has been seen at several special events, including a 2014 return to Buckingham Palace and a 2016 exhibit at Compton Verney exploring 1950s British design. Today, thanks to the kind permission of HRH the Princess Royal, it enjoys a permanent home at the National Motor Museum, where it continues to delight caravan lovers and history buffs alike.

A Showcase for Caravan Fans and Royal Watchers Alike

Princess Anne next to the royal caravan

The new exhibition dives deep into the story of the Royal Caravan with rarely seen photos, original artefacts, and a behind-the-scenes look at its journey from childhood plaything to a national treasure. Whether you’re a die-hard caravan enthusiast or simply curious about British history, this showcase is sure to inspire.

Nick Lomas, Director General of The Caravan and Motorhome Club, shares the excitement:

“We’re incredibly proud to have our Club’s heritage celebrated at the National Motor Museum. The Royal Caravan is a fascinating part of that story, and it’s a joy to share it with visitors.”

Sara Riccabone, curator of the Caravan and Motorhome Club Collection, adds:

“This is more than a piece of royal memorabilia—it’s a symbol of how caravanning has captured the imagination of generations. We’re thrilled to be shining a spotlight on it for its 70th birthday.”

Visit the Exhibition

A vintage black and white photo of a small caravan being towed by a classic car in front of a large house, set against a backdrop of cloudy skies.

The Royal Caravan 70th Anniversary Showcase opens to the public in January 2025 and will run throughout the year. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in royal history, vintage design—or just the timeless joy of life on the open road in a caravan.

Plan your visit to the National Motor Museum at www.nationalmotormuseum.org.uk, and keep up with the latest news and events by following the Museum and the Caravan and Motorhome Club Collection on social media.