Why Devon & Cornwall Campers Need a Drive-Away Awning

Whether you're planning a touring holiday across Dartmoor, exploring the Jurassic Coast, or heading down to Cornwall for the surf, a quality drive-away awning can transform your trip. More living space, a covered area for wet gear, and a proper place to relax after a long day on the beach — it's one of the best upgrades any caravanner or motorhomer can make.

At Newquay Camping Shop, we stock a carefully chosen range of drive-away awnings — and unlike most online retailers, you can see them on display at our Cornwall showroom before you buy.

The South West is stunning, but the weather can be unpredictable. A robust drive-away awning gives you:

• Extra shelter from Atlantic rain and wind, without retreating inside your van or caravan
• A separate living space — ideal for families who need room to spread out
• Flexibility — drive away to explore without dismantling your whole setup
• A dry porch for wetsuits, muddy boots, and beach gear (essential for Devon and Cornwall holidays)

What to Look for in an Awning for South West Conditions

Devon and Cornwall pitches can be exposed — coastal sites especially. Here's what matters most when choosing an awning for this region:

1. Wind resistance

Look for awnings with strong pole systems or quality inflatable beams, and multiple guyline points. Poled awnings often handle gusts better on open sites, while quality inflatables with robust valves are quick to pitch when the weather turns.

2. Waterproofing

A hydrostatic head rating of at least 3,000mm is recommended. Check seams are taped or welded, not just stitched.

3. Footprint and pitch compatibility

Narrow Devon lanes and compact coastal pitches mean size matters. Measure your vehicle's attachment height and check awning sizing carefully — we're happy to help with this in store.

4. Easy pitch

If you're moving pitches regularly or doing short stops, an inflatable drive-away awning can save significant time versus a traditional poled setup.

Our Top Drive-Away Awning Picks for Devon & Cornwall Touring

We stock a range of leading brands suited to South West conditions — including Vango, Outwell, Kampa, Easy Camp, and Outdoor Revolution. Pop into our Newquay showroom to see current models on display, or browse our full drive-away awning collection online.

Whether you're after a compact tunnel awning for a campervan, a spacious family awning for a caravan, or something lightweight for weekend trips, we'll help you find the right fit.

Why Buy From a Local Stockist?

Buying a drive-away awning online without seeing it first is a risk. Sizing, fabric quality, and ease of pitching are hard to judge from photos alone.

At Newquay Camping Shop:

• You can see awnings on display — get a real feel for size, fabric, and build quality
• Our team knows the local conditions — we camp and tour in Devon and Cornwall ourselves
• No guesswork on sizing — bring your vehicle details and we'll help you match the right awning
• Local support — if you have any issues post-purchase, we're right here

Visit Our Showroom

Newquay Camping Shop
4 Bamber House, Victoria, PL26 8LQ

We're conveniently located in Cornwall — an easy run from most of Devon, and a natural stop if you're already heading down for a holiday. We regularly update our showroom stock, so contact us ahead of your visit to check current display models.

Browse our full drive-away awning collection — or come and see us in store.

Final Thoughts

Devon and Cornwall offer some of the best touring in the UK — and the right drive-away awning makes every trip more comfortable, whatever the weather throws at you. If you're serious about your setup, seeing an awning in person before you buy is always the better option.

We're here to help you choose the right one.