Spartan Campers at Newbury: Spartan Si Chats with Peter Vaughan

The Southern Show, organised by Out & About Live, has become a firm favourite in the camper community. Held at Newbury Showground in Berkshire, it brings together thousands of van lovers, from seasoned road trippers to first-time buyers. Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend getaway machine or a long-term touring companion, this event is all about helping people find the perfect setup for their adventures.

Our Spartan stand was buzzing all weekend with visitors eager to step inside our VW Transporter conversions, ask questions, and find out what makes a Spartan van different. And when Peter Vaughan stopped by for a chat, we knew we had the perfect opportunity to dive into what sets us apart.

In the video above, Peter sits down with Spartan Si for a relaxed but informative chat right on the showground. They discuss the ethos behind Spartan Campers – how we build campervans by campers, for campers – and how that real-world knowledge and passion informs every detail of our designs. From smart storage solutions to reliable electrical setups and beautifully finished interiors, it’s all built with true van life in mind.

Si also gives insight into our customer journey – whether you’re buying one of our showroom models, bringing your own van for a full or part conversion, or letting us source the perfect base vehicle for your dream build. It’s all about flexibility, honesty, and craftsmanship that’s been tried and tested on the road.

There’s also a genuine warmth in the interview that reflects everything we stand for at Spartan Campers. This isn’t just about selling vans – it’s about building a community. Every person who joins the Spartan Family becomes part of something bigger. And as Si says, it’s the people – the families, couples, solo travellers, and four-legged companions – who bring our vans to life.

The Newbury Show itself was a brilliant weekend of sunshine (mostly!), live music, on-site camping, and good vibes. With everything from club camping areas and vintage van displays to shopping stalls, seminars, and street food, it’s easy to see why it draws such a crowd year after year.

Between interviews and test drives, the Spartan team had the chance to catch up with existing customers, meet curious newcomers, and even reconnect with some familiar faces who’ve followed our journey for years. The mix of lifestyle and leisure, passion and practicality, makes events like these such a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.

And let’s not forget the evening entertainment – Newbury brought the festival atmosphere with live acts, dancing, and the chance to unwind after a busy day on the stand. For anyone thinking of attending in future, it’s the perfect blend of business and pleasure, learning and leisure.

If you missed the show, don’t worry – you can still catch the full interview with Spartan Si in the video above. It’s the next best thing to chatting with us in person and a great way to get a feel for who we are, how we work, and what we believe in.