fbpx
The UK's Most Trusted Motorhome Dealer
Bitcoin icon

Accepted

The Ultimate Guide to Campervan and Motorhome Speed Limits

Understanding the correct motorhome speed limits UK is essential for a safe and legal journey, whether you’re cruising through the countryside or navigating busy motorways. While the excitement of a road trip can be exhilarating, knowing the speed limits for your motorhome helps you stay compliant with road regulations and avoid hefty fines. This guide will get you up to speed with everything you need to know about UK motorhome speed limits.

Do Motorhomes and Campervans Have Speed Limits?

Yes, motorhomes and campervans have specific speed limits depending on their weight and whether they are towing a trailer. In the UK, speed limits differ based on the type of vehicle you’re driving and the roads you’re on. For motorhomes, the speed limit varies depending on their weight, whether they exceed 3.05 tonnes, and whether they are towing a trailer.

Motorhomes with an unladen weight of less than 3.05 tonnes follow the same speed limits as cars. However, if your motorhome exceeds this weight, different speed restrictions apply, similar to those for light goods vehicles. By the way, if you’re just getting started with motorhome ownership, our beginner’s guide to driving a motorhome could come in handy. 

UK Speed Limits for Campervans and Motorhomes

The speed limits for motorhomes UK are primarily influenced by the weight of the vehicle. There are two main weight categories that affect the speed restrictions for motorhomes and campervans: under 3.05 tonnes and over 3.05 tonnes. Here’s a breakdown of the speed limits for vans in each category, depending on whether or not you are towing a trailer.

Under 3.05 Tonnes

Here are the circumstances that impact the speeding limits for motorhomes under 3.05 tonnes: 

Without Trailer

For motorhomes and campervans under 3.05 tonnes, the speed limits are the same as for standard cars:

  • 30mph in built-up areas.
  • 60mph on single carriageways.
  • 70mph is the speed limit on dual carriageway.
  • 70mph on motorways.

With Trailer

If your motorhome or campervan is towing a trailer, the speed limits change slightly to accommodate the extra weight:

  • 30mph in built-up areas.
  • 50mph on single carriageways.
  • 60mph on dual carriageways.
  • 60mph on motorways.

These restrictions help ensure the safety of both the driver and other road users. Why are they necessary? Towing increases the stopping distance and affects handling, particularly at higher speeds.

Over 3.05 Tonnes

For motorhomes that exceed 3.05 tonnes, the van speed limits UK rules apply. Vehicles over this weight are subject to different speed restrictions, similar to light goods vehicles. The length of the vehicle can also influence speed limits, especially if it exceeds 12 metres.

Not Exceeding 12 Metres – Without Trailer

For motorhomes over 3.05 tonnes and not exceeding 12 metres in length:

  • 30mph in built-up areas.
  • 50mph on single carriageways.
  • 60mph is the speed limit for dual carriageways.
  • 70mph on motorways.

Not Exceeding 12 Metres – With Trailer

When towing a trailer with a motorhome that does not exceed 12 metres:

  • 30mph in built-up areas.
  • 50mph on single carriageways.
  • 60mph on dual carriageways.
  • 60mph on motorways.

Exceeding 12 Metres – With or Without Trailer

For motorhomes exceeding 12 metres in length:

  • 30mph in built-up areas.
  • 50mph on single carriageways.
  • 60mph on dual carriageways.
  • 60mph on motorways.

These restrictions are crucial for maintaining road safety. This is mostly because larger vehicles require more time to stop. In addition, they also have larger blind spots.

Comparing UK and European Speed Limits

So, how do motorhome speed limits UK stack up against European limits? If you’re planning on taking your campervan or motorhome to Europe, you should know that speed limits differ from country to country. While UK motorhome speed limits are well-documented, European regulations can vary depending on the country and the type of roads you’ll be driving on.

For example, in France, speed limits for motorhomes under 3.5 tonnes are similar to those in the UK. However, they decrease significantly for vehicles over this weight, especially on motorways. In Germany, speed limits can be higher, especially on the autobahn, but there are recommended speeds and restrictions for larger motorhomes.

It’s important to research the specific speed limits for motorhomes over 3.5 tonnes in Europe before you start your journey, as different countries have varying rules on towing and motorway speeds. Failure to comply could get you stuck with fines or other legal complications. Plus, safety should be your ultimate goal. 

What Is a Speed Limiter and Does Your Motorhome Need It?

A speed limiter is an electronic system installed in vehicles that prevents them from exceeding a set speed. It’s designed to keep drivers within legal speed limits and can be particularly useful for larger vehicles, such as an Autotrail motorhome. If your motorhome exceeds 3.5 tonnes MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass), you may be required to have a speed limiter installed.

Speed limiters work by restricting the amount of power sent to the engine when the vehicle reaches a certain speed, helping drivers comply with speed regulations. Unlike cruise control, which maintains a consistent speed, a speed limiter only prevents the vehicle from exceeding a maximum speed.

For motorhomes that fall under the light goods vehicle category, such as those over 3.05 tonnes, a speed limiter may be required to keep to the motorhome speed limits UK. This is especially true for vehicles with more than eight passenger seats, or those being used for commercial purposes. You should check with your vehicle’s manufacturer or your local vehicle authority to determine if a speed limiter is necessary for your motorhome.

How to Determine the Weight of Your Motorhome

Before you hit the road, be sure to find out the exact weight of your motorhome to ensure you’re adhering to the correct motorhome speed limits UK. If you’re new to the world of motorhomes and campervans, you might also want to explore different models like Coachbuilt motorhomes or A-Class motorhomes, which may have varying weight limits.

One option is to take your motorhome to a public weighbridge. There, the vehicle’s weight can be accurately measured. Alternatively, check the manufacturer’s information, which should include the unladen weight of your vehicle.

Understanding Unladen Weight

‘Unladen weight’ is a term that refers to the weight of your motorhome when it’s empty. In other words, no passengers, goods, or additional items are on board. This weight excludes the fuel but includes all essential parts of the vehicle, such as the engine, bodywork, and any permanently attached equipment.

You’ll need to know your vehicle’s unladen weight to determine which speed limits apply to it. In addition, it can also help you avoid overloading your vehicle, which can lead to fines or damage to the motorhome itself.

Compliance and Penalties

If you fail to comply with speed limits for motorhomes in the UK, you might catch a few penalties, like fines, points on your licence, or even disqualification from driving. Speeding in your motorhome not only puts your safety at risk, it also endangers other drivers. We’d also recommend you take the time to familiarise yourself with motorhome seat belt laws in the UK to ensure you’re fully compliant.

Speed cameras and mobile enforcement units monitor speed across the UK, particularly in areas known for frequent speeding violations. If you exceed the speed limit for a dual carriageway or motorway, expect fines that could be even higher if you’re towing a trailer. Remember, even if your motorhome falls within the lighter weight categories, you must still follow all local speed limits. 

FAQs

Are campervans allowed in Lane 3 on the motorway? 

Campervans over 3,050kg and vehicles towing a caravan are not allowed to use lane 3 on UK motorways. Lane 3 is primarily for overtaking cars and lighter vehicles that can travel at higher speeds. For safety reasons, it is reserved for vehicles that can move more easily in heavy traffic.

Are motorhomes allowed in the fast lane?

Motorhomes are allowed to use the fast lane, unless there are specific restrictions on the vehicle’s weight or length. However, larger motorhomes, especially those over 3,500kg, may face limitations depending on the road. Always check for specific road signage that could impact motorhome use in the fast lane.

Are campervans allowed in the fast lane?

Like motorhomes, campervans can use the fast lane unless they are towing a trailer or exceed certain weight limits. It’s important to observe any specific road restrictions regarding the vehicle’s weight or type. Campervans towing trailers are prohibited from using the fast lane.

2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Guide to Campervan and Motorhome Speed Limits

  1. I have a x welfare van converted into a camper with side windows and my wife got done at 58 mph it is a Ford transit h2 l3 they say it’s a goods vehicle but it’s not capable of carrying goods it’s got side windows a bed toilet what can we do

    1. Hi, What was the speed limit of the road you were traveling on at 58mph? Looks like the vehicle is likely to be plated up to 3500kg. A vehicle registered as a motor caravan or goods vehicle would both only be permitted to do 50mph on a national speed limit single carriageway road

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.