Beta 2 Berth Campervan: The OG Spaceship That Started It All in the UK
Explore Outer Space with the Beta Campervan
Even though, the Beta campervan - just like all other vehicles in the UK fleet - are no longer operational, you can still hire a Beta Campervan, a more modern and updated version than the UK one on this page.
You can still hire the orange Beta Campervan and explore the outer space of New Zealand as our mates Spaceships New Zealand still operate the Kiwi version of this classic campervan model. Or explore Australia, as Spaceships Australia also operates the Aussie version of the Beta Campervan, although theirs isn't orange but a nice shade of white, gold or silver.
From New Zealand to the UK: Story Of The Beta Campervan
A tribute to the Beta 2 Berth Campervan, the legendary Toyota Estima that launched Spaceships UK and brought the Spirit of Adventure from New Zealand to the UK. This wasn’t just a campervan; it was the original Spaceship, the pioneer that inspired a fleet and fuelled countless road trips across the UK and Europe.
Why the Beta 2 Berth Is a Classic
- The Original Road Trip Machine: Born from the success of the NZ Beta, this Toyota Estima was the first Spaceship to land in the UK, setting the standard for compact, clever, and cost-effective travel.
- Sleep Under the Stars (or Not!): With dual sleeping options, internal for cosy nights or external for summer breezes—it gave you the freedom to camp your way.
- Self-Contained Power: The dual battery system meant 24+ hours of off-grid power for your fridge, lights, and DVD player. No campsite hookups? No problem!
- Clever Design: Swivel seats, sliding doors, and a lockable storage made it easy to live, cook, and explore without sacrificing comfort.
- Built for Adventure: 15-litre fridge, portable cooker, and a large side awning turned every pit stop into a home away from home.
- Easy to Drive: Automatic transmission and a compact size meant it handled like a car, but lived like a mini spaceship.
A Legacy of Freedom
The Beta 2 Berth wasn’t just a vehicle, it was a movement. It proved that big adventures could come in small packages, and it paved the way for the European-style campervans that followed. Whether you were chasing festivals, exploring the Highlands, or road-tripping through Europe, the Beta was your trusty companion.
Relive the Magic
Scroll through the photos, specs and stories below and remember the open roads, the campfire nights, and the unforgettable journeys that started with this iconic campervan. While it’s now retired, its spirit of adventure lives on in every Space Traveller who dared to hit the road.
