Caravan Sites - The Options

Looking for a caravan site?

There are a number of different types to choose from. Here, we take you through your options:

The Caravan & Motorhome Club

• Club Sites

The Caravan & Motorhome Club has more than 200 sites in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Options include family sites, open all year, and seasonal pitches, alongside Wi-FI, disabled facilities high standards of washing facilities. Become a member and get a discount at these club sites.

• Certified Locations

There are over 2200 certified locations across the UK, offering secluded spaces to Caravan & Motorhome members only. With no more than 5 plots on each site, these are ideal for peaceful getaways.

• Affiliated Sites

Affiliated sites are privately owned caravan sites carefully chosen for their high standards of facilities and excellent locations. Choose from 42 sites.

The Camping & Caravanning Club

• Club Sites

You don’t have to be a member to access these sites, but you’ll have up to 30% on each booking if you are. There is a network of over 2000 Camping Club sites, some of which are exclusive to members. As with The Caravan & Motorhome Club, there are also small, exclusive Certified Sites as well.

Premier Parks

Premier Parks are 100 independently assessed 4 & 5* graded touring sites. Whether you’re after an adults only site, one suitable for family holidays, a site you can take your dog to, or one by the coast, there will be one perfect for you.

National Trust  

The National Trust have a number of caravan sites in idyllic locations. Many have amenity blocks, but if you fancy something more basic, there are sites with minimal facilities in more rural locations.

Tranquil Parks

If you’re after a quiet escape with superior facilities, Tranquil Parks provide 43, adult only caravan sites across the UK. On site, you can expect to see excellently maintained washing and laundry facilities, free WiFi, and a range of pitch options.

Parkdean Resorts

Voted the Best UK Family Holiday Company in 2019, Parkdean Resorts are perfect for families

There are 32 sites offering touring facilities across England, Wales and Scotland, each offering a range of activities and entertainment to keep both children and adults occupied.

Haven

Haven have 22 sites in beachside locations offering touring pitches for caravans and motorhomes. If you’re after an action packed, family holiday one of these sites would be perfect. As well as the usual campsite amenities, these holiday parks have restaurants, swimming pools, entertainment and various adventure activities.

General Touring Parks

To search the plethora of independent caravan sites across the UK, head over to these websites:

• Pitch Up
• Campsites
• Caravan Site Finder

Great Caravanning Books

Make the Most of Your Caravan

Rob McCabe, £10.99

As well as practical advice, this book will show you how to enjoy your caravan to the max! From purchase and maintenance to towing and driving abroad, all aspects are covered. Suitable for newbies and seasoned pros, this guide is even recommended by Jeremy Clarkson!

The AA Caravan & Camping Guide 2020

AA Publishing, £10.69

The UK’s best-selling annually updated caravanning guide is a must buy. All sites within the book have been professionally inspected by AA inspectors, have all site facilities listed, and are handily split into sections including small sites, quite locations and those perfect for families.

The Caravan Manual

John Wickersham, £16.45

Having sold over 75,000 copies, the Caravan Manual is now in its fourth edition and contains everything you need to know about caravans old and new. The author is a caravanner of over 40 years and provides all the advice you could ever need, from legal issues, maintenance, repair work, gas and electrics.

Vintage Caravan Style

Lisa Mora, £11.38

If vintage caravans are your thing, this book is a delight! Whether you just want to browse through the wonderful retro caravans or fancy a project, Vintage Caravan Style explores the interiors and exteriors of a plethora of creatively restored small spaces.

Leisure Logs Journals

£13.50

These fantastic journals will inspire you to record adventures in your caravan or motorhome to remember the places you visit, the people you meet and the fun times had!

Caravan Cookbook

Monica Rivron, £7.72

Caravan cooking needs to be uncomplicated, easy to prepare and satisfying, and this collection of recipes are just that. As well as providing advice on store cupboard essentials, there’s plenty of inspiration to use locally sourced produce and foraged ingredients.

 

 All prices correct as of September 2020.

 

There are hundreds of caravan clubs out there, offering great benefits, events, rallies and discounts. Whilst there are far to many to mention in detail, here are a few of the top clubs you can join.

The Camping & Caravanning Club

• Over 100 club sites
• 30% off club sites
• Discounts at attractions, caravanning equipment, motoring services
• Over 1300 exclusive small sites
• European sites and tours
• Members only social events and meets
• Technical advice & support

From £41/year

The Caravan & Motorhome Club

• 2700 sites in the UK and Europe
• Discounts at club sites
• Savings at 900 UK attractions, services and products

From £54/year 

Historic Caravan Club

If you’re interested in vintage or classic caravans, this is the club for you. With the aim of promoting the preservation and use of vintage and classic caravans, this club organises rallies, encourages the rescue and restoration of old caravans, and provides a bi-monthly magazine.

From £25/year 

International Caravanning Association

The main aim of the International Caravanning Association is to encourage international caravanning in all parts of the world by all nationalities.

Members can join rallies throughout the world, receive a regular magazine and get access to the members only area of the website.

From £20/year

The British Caravanners Club

This club is a section of The Camping & Caravanning club (of which you must be a member to join this group) and welcomes tents, caravans and motorhomes.

Each area group is run by a committee of its own members who run all their own meets. If you’re looking for a smaller, more personal club, this could be the one for you.

You’ll need to be a member of the Camping & Caravanning Club first, which costs from £40/year. This club will then cost you £5/year.

Caravanning Etiquette

You'd think it would just be common sense, but given the number of grumbles we found when writing this blog post, it would seem that some need a reminder about how to behave on caravan sites!

Image via pngkey.com

Here are our top tips to ensure you don't get in trouble on your next caravan holiday.

• Try to resist waking across someone else’s pitch as a shortcut. After all, you wouldn't want people cutting through your back garden.
• Shouting, loud music or dogs barking continuously is a no-no. Whilst you may be enjoying Queen's Greatest Hits, your neighbours might not.
• Leaving rubbish outside your caravan is not only is this eyesore and potentially smelly, it’s likely to attract vermin.
• Don’t tip hot water onto the grass. That lovely green pitch won't be around for the next residents.
• TVs in awnings – will it really come as a surprise that an awning is not soundproof! Be mindful that your neighbours may not want to listen to your preferred boxset with you.
• Keep to the speed limit on roadways. Whilst this is primarily for the safety of pedestrians, it'll help to keep noise levels down too.
• Clean up after yourself – your pitch, toilets, laundry and washing up facilities. No-one wants to find a leftover bit of pasta in the sink. 
• Kids will undoubtedly be loud and excited when they’re on holiday, but not all your fellow campers will want to hear their glee. If you’ve got children, try and help them understand they need to keep the volume down.

Caravan Vloggers

There's a huge amount of video content available on You Tube for caravan and motorhome lovers.
We've collated some of our favorite vloggers.

The Trudgians

Caravan reviews, DIY tutorials, holidays and product reviews. This Wiltshire family has a wealth of content which is both entertaining and useful.

Popular vlogs include How to Set a Caravan Up On Site, Cleaning a Caravan Roof, and How to Level a Caravan.

Caravan Vlogger

Mandy and Graham started cavaranning in 2006 and now travel throughout the UK and France, documenting their travels, reviewing products and making useful ‘How To’ guides.

Caravan jockey wheel comparisons, getting a ferry from Dover to Calais with a caravan, caravan buying guides and sites are all compiled on their website and YouTube channel here .

Make Way with the Morleys

A family of five from the West Midlands who share their adventures throughout Europe and the UK, as well as reviewing caravan sites, caravan equipment and even crème egg challenges!

The Camping & Caravaning Club

This regularly updated channel includes a ‘How To’ series, caravan motorhome and accessory reviews, camping recipes and site tours. Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned pro, or a member of the club or not, this channel with keep you occupied for hours!

(Get Your) Legs Down

We’ve been a fan of the blog for ages, and the vlog is just as good. The site arrival videos are particularly useful, as are the site tours and there is travel inspiration aplenty. Head over to the Legs Down blog for more.

Bailey of Bristol

The Bailey of Bristol vlog does include plenty of Bailey caravan content, but there is also a wealth of useful information for new and experienced caravanners. From the grand Bristol to Bosphorus tour, to beginner’s guides and Tow Car of the Year updates, this channel is worth subscribing to.

Poshcats Camping

Trev and Sue travel with UK and further afield with their Swift motorhome all year round, and have over 35 years’ experience with both caravans and motorhomes. Expect travel tips, ideas, site reviews, days out and more.

Next Stop Everywhere

Claire and Sam travel throughout Europe and the UK recording their adventures, as well as reviewing all the latest caravans and motorhomes. Highlights include the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland, a Christmas trip to Amsterdam and a drive across the Outer Hebrides. You can also follow then on Facebook and Twitter.

Caravanning with the Cox’s

The Cox’s are a Somerset based family who are weekly vloggers, sharing their travels, tips, advice, repairs and general updates. For a wealth of useful information and entertainment, including caravan recommendations, a trip to Glastonbury, and how to use a motormover, make sure you subscribe!

What Do I Need To Start Caravanning?

Towing License?

First things first, you’ll need to check when you passed your driving test. If it was before 1 January 1997 you’ll be able to tow. If it was after that date, you’ll only be able to drive a vehicle up to 3500kg and a trailer (caravan) up to 750kg behind it. So, if you want to tow a heavier caravan you’ll need to pass an additional test. For more information, head over to the Camping & Caravanning Club information page.

Towbar

Choose the right towbar for your car. To do this, check manufacturer’s websites (Witter, Westfaila, AL-KO) to find one suitable for you.

Caravan Hitch Lock

Security

There are various devices on the market which can help to protect your caravan.

• Hitch lock
• Wheel clamp
• Alarm
• Tracker
• CRiS

Check out this useful guide to Caravan Security Devices for more information.

Insurance

Your car insurance will usually provide third party cover for towing your caravan, so would cover any damage to other cars if you had an accident. However, you would have to pay for any damage to your caravan, so make sure it’s protected against accidents, breakdown and theft with adequate insurance.

Caravan Awning

Awning

Extend your living space with a caravan awning. Our guide to caravan awnings may help you choose.

Motor mover

Caravan motor movers allow you to easily manoeuvre your caravan into position whether that be into a driveway, storage or touring pitch, or even hitching up. This guide gives more information.

Water Carrier

You’ll need to have a container suitable for collecting water to bring back to your caravan. An Aquaroll is a great option which can be rolled along the ground.

Caravan Water Container 

Water Pump

Connect your Aquaroll to your caravan taps with a waterpump. Popular brands are Whale and Truma.

Waste Water Container

Waste water, or ‘grey’ water needs to be collected by a waste water container, which plugs into your caravan waste drain points. Wastemaster is a popular brand.

Leisure Battery

Whilst most campsites will provide EHU (electric hook up), it’s still useful to invest in a leisure battery so you can power your fridge, heater and lights. There are several types of leisure battery, and all have their pros and cons, so make sure you do your research before you purchase. This guide to leisure batteries is very useful.

Gas Bottle

Power your fridge, heating, gas cooker and shower with gas. Bottles are typically butane or propane and come in 6kg or 7kg bottles. Butane gas is ideal for the summer months, but for winter, propane is better as it’s unlikely to freeze in cold weather.

Electric Hook Up Mains Lead

Mains Lead

To connect to an EHU, you’ll need a mains lead which costs around £50. Make sure it has an IP44 rating which indicates the level of protection given to sockets from water penetration.

Step

Don’t forget to pack some portable steps to make getting in and out of your caravan a whole lot easier.

Corner Steady Jack

When you pitch up you’ll need to lower your corner steadies. Wind them down with a corner steady jack.

Toilet Chemicals

Reduce unpleasant smells, break down all the nasty stuff, and keep your toilet working effectively with toilet chemicals. Pink chemicals are added to the fresh water tank to keep the flush clean and provide a nice aroma. Blue or green chemicals are put into the waste tank and break down waste matter.

Towing Mirrors

Caravan Towing Mirrors

If you’re towing a vehicle wider than your car, you’ll need towing mirrors. You can buy stick on towing mirrors, strap on towing mirrors or bracket style towing mirrors. Prices range from around £15 to about £150.

Easy Caravan Recipes

Eco-friendly Caravanning

It’s safe to say that we should all be attempting to become more eco-friendly and live more sustainably. This shouldn’t just apply to when you’re at home or work. We’ve got some advice to help you make your caravan or motorhome holidays better for the environment.

It would make sense to say that caravanning holidays reduce the need for air travel and if you’re staying in England, the ferry too, therefore saving tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions and other pollution every year.

Buying a Caravan

If you’re new to caravanning, why not consider buying second hand. Save a pre-used caravan from the scrapheap; it’ll still have plenty of life left in it, and it’ll cost you significantly less than buying new.

If you’re buying new, choosing a lightweight model will mean you’ll use less fuel to tow it, whilst effective insulation will help to reduce the need for air-con in summer and heating in winter.

Try Solar Power

Solar panels can be easily fitted to your caravan roof. Using sunlight, they can then charge your caravan’s batteries when no mains hook up is available.

There are many solar powered products which you could switch to: lights, speakers, toothbrushes, cookers, and even showers!

Rather than using electric chargers for your mobile devices, try solar powered alternatives. You can pick these up online from as little as £30.00 from retailers like Amazon and Mobile Solar Chargers.

Plastic, Plastic, Plastic!

Just as you would at home, try and avoid single use plastic.

• Invest in a metal flask for your drinking water
• Store foods in stainless steel containers – they’ll be lighter than glass jars.
• Use reusable wax paper to wrap leftovers or picnics in, rather than cling film or foil.
• Use eco-friendly tableware. OLPRO Husk plates, cups and storage sets are made from rice husk which is an agricultural waste. This tableware is biodegradable and doesn’t contain any harmful substances. Other alternatives to plastic would be bamboo or recyclable stainless steel.
• Colapz make collapsible products like water dispensers, portable showers, tableware and storage containers made from eco-friendly materials, and produce a smaller carbon footprint because they take up less space when being distributed.
• Avoid buying food wrapped in plastic by shopping at local markets and farm shops. 
• Bring frozen meat from home – it’ll keep other food items cold, and you can eat it once it’s thawed.

Cleaning

Rather than using harsh chemicals to clean your caravan or motorhome, try a non-toxic alternative. Companies like Sleek Clean Care provide a range of eco-friendly cleaning products which provide powerful cleaning whilst being biodegradable and not tested on animals. Even the container it comes in is recycled. 

Remove the need for toilet chemicals and install a SOG Toilet. A low powered extraction fan draws air to seal off odours and filters them via a charcoal filter to the outside of the caravan. The naturally treated waste has far less smell when emptying the cassette. 

Eco-Friendly Caravan Sites

The David Bellamy Conservation Awards program recognises caravan sites which do their best to minimise their impact on the environment. These sites encourage wildlife, reduce their energy and water consumption, reduce and recycle the waste they produce and support their local communities. Find an eco-friendly caravan site here.

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Caravan Awnings

Kampa Leggera AIR 260 Caravan Awning 2020

Whilst an awning isn’t an essential piece of caravan kit, they can extend your living space dramatically, giving you more space to relax and eat, even dry wet clothes, particularly during wet weather.

Think about what you will be using the space for; will it just be a storage space, or so you want to be able to dine or even sleep in there?

Will you want to remove side panels so that you can use your awning as a sun shade, does it need to be lightweight if you are restricted in terms of weight you can carry, and will it be exposed to the elements a lot and need to be highly water resistant?

Porch Awning or Full Awning

Firstly, you’ll have the choice between a porch and a full awning. Whilst generally smaller than full awnings, porch styles are easier to erect and less bulky.

For longer holidays a full awning may be a better option, giving you maximum living space. They’re heavier and can be trickier to erect, but you won’t be handling them as often. 

Bailey Discovery Air Awning

Caravan Awning Fabrics

Lightweight polyester dries quickly and makes for an easily constructed awning, making it perfect for short breaks away. Heavier polyester is more robust, so is likely to last longer than its lightweight counterpart.

Acrylic fabrics are more rigid, and more resistant to UV light because of the manufacturing process it undergoes. Acrylic coated polyester provides UV, mildew and water resistance.

Caravan Awning Frames

Steel awning frames can be good for longer stays & sturdy enough for a variety of weather conditions, but heavy if you have to frequently build & transport.

Aluminium & Glass-Fibre are lightweight & easy to handle, but can be compromised in bad weather.

Air (Inflatable awnings) are easy to erect & quick, especially if you have an electric pump.

What Size Awning Do I Need?

Awning sizes are called A-measurements and the size of awning you need will depend on the length of your caravan. The A-measurement is the distance around your caravan’s awning channel plus the distance from the end of the channel to the ground.

Head to your caravan manufacturer to find out your awning size – most will have a resource on their website to help you.

How Much Should I Pay?

Porch awnings start at around £150.00, whilst you can expect to pay upwards of £600 for a full awning. If you’re likely to be using your caravan awning frequently, for extended periods of time, it would make sense spend a decent amount – it’s worth investing in a good quality product which is designed to last. If you tour less frequently, or just for a few days at a time, a budget option may be a better choice. 

Caravan awnings are covered by quality standard BS ENISO 8936 – Awnings for Leisure Accommodation Vehicles. Before making a purchase, it’s a good idea to check that your chosen awning carries this award.

Caravan Awning Tips

• Never pack an awning away when it is wet, or even slightly damp, as this is highly likely to result in mildew forming.
• Avoid storing your caravan awning in your caravan over winder, as the conditions will be too damp.
• Re-proof your awning yearly.  

Are Caravan Covers a Good Idea?

As the touring season draws to a close, you may want to start thinking about storing your caravan for the winter.

Is a caravan cover necessary? 

Do the pros outweigh the cons?

A caravan cover will protect your tourer from rain, dirt, tree sap and UV fading, and even scrapes to the bodywork. However, some would say that they also cause damp and are a hassle to fit.

A caravan cover will need to be breathable in order to allow moisture and condensation to escape from the inside, and water-proof to protect your caravan from the elements. Covers which are only water resistant may let water through in heavy rain.

How to Choose the Correct Cover

If you do decide to get a caravan cover, size is everything. Measure the length of your caravan body (parallel to the ground) from front to back, including the gas locker but not the A-frame.

Ready-made covers, or universal covers, as they are sometimes called, come in a range of sizes, and will secured by way of a strap underneath and an elasticated skirt. If your caravan is between sizes, go for the smaller option, as the excess material in the larger size will prove difficult to secure and may tear in windy weather.

Semi-tailored covers are designed for specific makes of caravan so should take into account variations in profile design. However, they’re unlikely to align perfectly with doorways allow for roof lights.

An alternative option is to go for a made-to-measure cover. A tailor made caravan cover will fit your caravan exactly and allow for aerials, doorways and flues. Companies such as Pro-tec Covers and Specialised Covers offer this service.

How much do caravan covers cost?

Ready-made covers range from as little as £70 to around £100, whilst bespoke caravan covers start at around £300. Whilst they are considerably more expensive, tailor made covers are generally easier to fit, can be customised, and will be made from higher quality material allowing a greater degree of breathability, water resistance and durability.

Caravan Cover Care

• Always clean your caravan before fitting a cover, as this may cause scratching. 
• Caravan covers can be washed using warm water and soft sponges. Detergents could impair the breathability of the fabric.
• If your caravan is going to be in storage for a long period of time (over the winter) remember to check both your caravan and your cover regularly.

  

The Bottom Line

We think caravan covers are well worth considering, and you should spend as much as you can afford. If you’ve bought a brand new caravan, it makes sense to pay a reasonable amount on a cover to make sure your tourer stays in pristine condition.

How to Avoid Buying a Stolen Caravan

Guest Post from Caravans for Sale

When it comes to purchasing a new car, caravan, motorhome or any high value product it’s always best to do as much research as possible. Although the majority of the time there will be nothing untoward about the vehicle you’re viewing, there is always a risk, so it’s important to be aware. Buying a brand new caravan is great and comes with loads of benefits if you can afford to do so, however most people tend to buy second-hand which is where you need to be extra vigilant. 

There is no one sure fire way of knowing if you are buying a stolen caravan as thieves are becoming more and more wise to the tricks they need to use to get away with it. However,  there are some steps you can take to reduce the risk. Of course the majority of dealers and private sellers are completely trustworthy, but a few dodgy sellers mean you need to be aware of a few things. When looking for a new or used caravan for sale, it is best to either purchase directly from a dealer or look on a reputable marketplace website that moderates ads, for peace of mind.

Here are a few tips to avoid buying a stolen caravan:

Be wary of cash payments!

If the seller refuses to give you the caravan unless you pay cash this should ring alarm bells. Most transactions are typically done by bank transfer or card payment nowadays so a cash only sale is very rare. If the seller is insisting on a cash payment, it’s likely there is something dodgy going on and you should avoid the sale and look elsewhere. It’s much better to be safe than sorry. 

Too good a deal to miss?

If the price seems too good to be true - question it! Stolen caravans are not the easiest to hide so thieves would want to make a quick sale and therefore not price at the same level a reputable seller would. It’s likely that there’s a reason behind the bargain price you’re looking at and that could be for a variety of reasons but it is important to consider that the advert might not be genuine. If this is the case it is best to ask as many questions as possible to get a better idea of whether the sale seems genuine, but if you still have any concerns it is best to avoid the sale and maybe try a dealer instead.

Does the advert look legitimate?

Before taking time out of your day to contact the seller or visit the caravan it’s a good idea to ‘sense check’ the advert. Scammers will often use ‘stock’ images or maybe even images of interiors that are not of the model being advertised. Double check that all the information seems to match the manufacturer descriptions and photos before going any further with the seller. A legitimate ad is likely to have photos of the caravan on the drive (all in the same location) or from holiday photos so this is a good thing to look out for. 

Verification is key

Before you purchase the caravan you should have a CRiS check done online so you can verify the history and ownership of the caravan before committing yourself to the purchase. You should also check the VIN CHIP security label (normally located on the window) as it should be fairly obvious if this has been tampered with. VIN CHIP comes as standard on UK touring caravans that have been manufactured by NCC members after 2016 as it is a highly effective theft deterrent. 

Make sure you see it in person

Even if the caravan looks great in an online advert you should never hand over any money before seeing the caravan in person. If the seller insists on this, then alarm bells should ring. A reputable seller would be highly unlikely to ask for this. You may be asked for a holding deposit or full payment to secure to the caravan (with time wasters being a common reason) but until seeing it you should not do either. 

Inspect the caravan

Look out for damage to the towing hitch, this is a typical sign of a stolen caravan. Another thing to look out for is mis-matched wheels or alloys as this could be a sign that the wheel was removed in order to steal the caravan or damaged in the process of a rushed getaway. Again, make sure to check for the VIN CHIP.

If you were to buy a stolen caravan then not only would you be losing the caravan itself, you would likely lose all the money you have paid for it and any services paid for whilst in your possession. The best advice to avoid this is to be aware of all the points mentioned above and to ask questions and follow your gut, if something feels off it probably is.

Winter Caravanning

With caravans now providing the heating systems and insulation needed for even Arctic conditions, caravanning even in the depths of winter is now far more enjoyable that it used to be.

Here are some tips to make the most of your winter caravan break:

GAS

Butane gas is ineffective in temperatures below 0^oC so you’ll need to use propane. Check that you’re using the correct regulator.

KEEPING WARM

Using an electric hook-up can be more economical in terms of heating, especially if you’re going to leave your heating on a low setting all day to keep the unit warm for your return.

If you don’t have this option, a small oil-filled electric radiator can be safely left on throughout the day to take the chill off – just beware of the extra weight this may add to your payload.

Caravans manufactured since 1999 should all comply with European Standards which apply to insulation. For winter caravanning, a unit that complies with Grade 3 insulation will make it easier to keep warm and maintain a fully functioning water supply.

WATER

In sub-zero temperatures, wrapping your Aquaroll with some insulation to make sure the water doesn’t freeze. Even a charity shop puffa jacket will do!

Keep the level of water topped up, as more water will take longer to freeze in very cold weather.

Overnight, when temperatures are at their lowest, it’s best to drain your external tank, and bring your submersible pump inside in case there is any water left in it which could freeze and cause damage.

WASTE WATER

Specialist caravan anti-freeze which is glycol-free can be added to the waste water container to prevent freezing. Don’t be tempted to use car anti-freeze, as this can’t be disposed of into the drainage system for environmental reasons. Insulating your waste water container will also help.

CONDENDATION

Whilst opening your caravan windows first thing in the morning may not be ideal in cold weather, allowing any condensation to evaporate will help to prevent damp.

It’s possible that condensation can also affect the underside of mattresses if they’re over an unheated locker. Wherever possible, lift up the mattress during the day to allow air to circulate.

TOWING SAFELY IN WINTER

During the winter, when roads are likely to be wet and icy, winter tyres should be used to provide better grip on the road. An alternative to winter tyres are all-season tyres, which provide higher grip in the summer than winter tyres would, but better grip than summer tyres in the winter.

A grip mat and shovel may be useful additions to your kit in case you get stuck in snow or mud.

• Clear snow regularly from underneath your caravan to ensure vents are kept clear.
• Don’t be tempted to block permanent vents.
• Make sure all moving parts on your unit – like corner steadies are well oiled, to prevent them seizing up in low temperatures.
• Site your caravan with vents and ducts are directed away from prevailing winds to avoid drafts as much as possible.
• Always carry a supply of fresh water to drink, just in case your pipes do freeze.
• Place your external water tank on a piece of wood to avoid direct contact with the ground & prevent freezing.

Caravan City Breaks - Caravan Sites near Cities

You don't need to be limited to the countryside when caravanning. How about a city break? These caravan sites are ideally located for trips into UK cities. 

Edinburgh - Drummohr HolidayPark

Just twenty minutes away from the centre of Edinburgh, and offering both sea and countryside views, Drummohr Holiday Park is the idea spot for a Highland city break.

Facilities wise, the park provides generously sized pitches, electric hook ups, laundry facilities and a children’s play area. Lothian Buses run regularly into Edinburgh from the nearby Preston Grange Mining Museum.

Whether it’s the Fringe Festival, the Tattoo, or just the city itself you’re visiting for, Drummohr provides a great touring base.

York - Nurseries Caravan Park 

A short hop will take you into the historic city of York from the countryside location of Nurseries Caravan Park. Set amongst 7 acres of private grounds, the family run park provides hardstanding and grass pitches all with electric hook up and access to heated washrooms, laundry facilities, site shop and children’s playground.

From the ancient city walls, and York Minster, to the National Railway Museum and Jorvik Viking Centre, there are plenty of attractions to keep you busy. If you fancy something a little quieter, the North York Moors are right on your doorstep providing countless walking and cycling options.

Birmingham - Somers Wood CaravanPark

Whether you’re heading to Birmingham for the bi-annual Caravan Show, or just visiting the UK’s second largest city for its culture and shopping, Somers Wood is a fantastic adult only 5-star caravan site just 30 minutes away from the centre of the city.

The site is adjacent to a golf club fishing lake, and offers hardstanding pitches with electric hook up, heated shower block, disabled facilities and WiFi.

Bristol - Brook Lodge Farm

Bristol is the city of bridges, Banksy, and boats, and less than half an hour from the city lies Brook Lodge Farm, a family run caravan site completed with babbling stream, 5 acres of parkland, and 29 touring pitches all with electric hook up.

Facilities include a recently refurbished shower block, laundry facilities, free WiFi, fire pit rental, and chemical waste disposal point. The nearest village is less than a mile away and offers 4 pubs, whilst if you fancy heading into Bristol, an hourly bus service runs from a stop directly outside the site.

Cambridge - Highfield Farm Touring Park

The award winning Highfield Farm Touring Park is just 5 miles away from the historic university city of Cambridge, and offers hardstanding and grass pitches all with electric hook up.

Serving the quiet and peaceful site, there are four modern shower blocks, a well-equipped laundrette, chemical disposal points and small, well stocked shop.

A regular bus servic

e can transport you into the centre of Cambridge, or you could go further afield and explore the numerous picturesque villages, historic attractions and beautiful countryside of Cambridgeshire.

London - Crystal PalaceCaravan Club Site

For a trip to the Capital, Crystal Palace Caravan Club Site is the perfect option. Hop on a bus from the nearby bus stop and you could be in central London within the hour.

The site itself offers 71 touring pitches all with electric hook up, WiFi, washroom and laundry facilities and waste disposal points.

Should you need a break from the big smoke, Crystal Palace offers pubs, shops and restaurants all within easy walking distance.

Caravan Fire Safety

It’s easy to forget about fire safety in your caravan whilst you’re enjoying yourself on holiday, but some simple safeguards can help to keep you safe should the worst happen.

FIRE SAFETY EQUIPMENT

SMOKE DETECTOR

Fit a smoke detector. All NCC approved dealers and manufacturers are required to fit smoke detectors in all new and second hand caravans, but it’s worthwhile making sure that this is the case.

FIRE BLANKET

It’s easy enough to fit a fire blanket in your caravan. Ideally, it should be somewhere between your cooker and your caravan door. These can be picked up for as little as £5.00, but make sure it conforms to BS EN 1869.

FIRE EXTINGUISHER

A fire extinguisher should be in everyone’s caravanning kit, but it should only be used once everyone’s out of the caravan and safe. You should also know the type of extinguisher you’ve got and how to use it effectively.

Whilst dry powder fire extinguishers are effective at putting out most fires, they’re not recommended for use in small spaces like caravans. A fully charged water or AFFF foam fire extinguisher is ideal for use on small fires.

For more information about the different types of fire extinguishers please click here.

GENERAL FIRE SAFETY ADVICE

· When you arrive at your campsite, look out for Fire Points located around the site.

· Turn off appliances when not in use – unplug phone / device chargers

· Don’t leave clothes to dry on heaters.

· Be aware of pressurised containers (aerosols) stored in cupboards next to overs / heaters.

· When pitching up on a campsite, it’s recommended that 6 meters is allowed between each caravan to reduce the risk of fire spreading.

· Don’t block air vents.

· Never leave a cooker unattended when preparing food.

· Turn off gas cylinders when not in use, and keep outside your caravan.

· Never use a barbecue or camping stove in your caravan or awning.

And finally...

Should the worst happen and there’s a fire in your caravan, don’t attempt to tackle the fire yourself, and don’t attempt to start moving or unhitching a caravan. Your primary concern should be to evacuate the area to ensure yours and others safety.

Call the Fire & Rescue Service on 999 as soon as possible, giving your location and nearby landmarks to help them to find you.

Summer Touring - Caravan Sites near the beach

Dove Meadows

Marazion, Cornwall

Overlooked by St Michael’s Mount, Dove Meadows is a peaceful campsite less than 5 minutes’ walk from the beautiful beaches of the Cornwall coast.

Dove Meadows has pitches for caravans, motorhomes and tents, with electric hook-up points, showers and a twice weekly fish and chip delivery!

With the lovely town of Marazion just a few minutes away and Penzance and Land’s End within easy reach, this site is the ideal location to explore Southern Cornwall.

Nethercourt Touring Park

Ramsgate, Kent

Situated less than a mile from the beach and town centre of Ramsgate, Nethercourt Touring Park provides all year round touring pitches with electric hook up and free shower facilities. 

There are no less than 7 pubs within walking distance, and the site is perfect for trips to Ramsgate, Broadstairs and Margate, or if you’re feeling energetic, the Viking Cycle Trail is less than half a mile away.

Rhosson Ganol

St Davids, South Wales

As a small, peaceful campsite, Rhosson Ganol is perfect for a relaxing getaway by the sea. 

The site is situated on the tip of St Davids peninsula, just a 5 minute walk away from a blue flag status beach, and offers 35 grass pitches for touring caravans, campers and tents.

If relaxing isn’t on your agenda, coastal adventures include walking, climbing, sea kayaking, all within easy reach.

Seacroft Caravan Club Site

Cromer, Norfolk

Seacroft Caravan Club Site is a fantastic location for a coastal getaway, being within easy walking distance to the beaches at Cromer. The recently refurbished site also offers an outdoor heated swimming pool, bar and restaurant and is ideally located to explore the nearby towns of Sherringham and Wells-on-Sea.

Camusdarach

Arisaig, Scotland

Sitting on the West coast of Scotland this family run campsite has easy access to 3 beaches which regularly feature lists of top ten beaches in the UK.

The campsite itself offers panoramic views of the sea and provides free Wi-Fi, a modern toilet block and eco-friendly waste disposal facilities.

Camusdarach is the perfect spot to explore the Highlands of Scotland, and perfect if you’re a wildlife lover with the wealth of birds, seals, dolphins and whales to see.

Springhill Farm

Seahouses, Northumberland

Nestled in the Northumbrian countryside and less than a mile away from the coast, Springhill Farm provides 70 touring pitches all year round. The site offers hand standing pitches with electric hook up points, free WiFi access, shower and laundry facilities. 

When you’ve explored the windswept beaches, head over to Bamburgh Castle, do a spot of birdwatching at the Farne Island sanctuary, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery of the Cheviot Hills.

Gibraltar Farm Campsite

Silverdale, Lancashire

Voted best coastal campsite in the Northwest, Gibraltar Farm is 10 minutes away from the beautiful views of Morecambe bay. With a raw milk vending machine, homemade ice cream and 10 acres of ancient woodland, this campsite is a haven in the North of England.

When you’ve had enough ice cream, walk through the National Trust woodlands, try some sea fishing or enjoy a round of golf at the nearby 18-hole golf course.