The UK’s best beaches, according to new research

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There’s something about the smell of sea air and sand between your toes that makes a beach day hard to beat, but not every stretch of coastline delivers the same experience. New research from Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks set out to find which UK beaches really live up to the hype, using independent Tripadvisor reviews to reveal the five most-loved spots and what makes them so special.

The top five

Here’s how the top five beaches ranked:

  1. Bournemouth Beach with a 4.5 rating
  2. Weymouth Beach with a 4.6 rating
  3. Fistral Beach with a 4.6 rating
  4. Woolacombe Beach with a 4.7 rating
  5. Scarborough Beach with a 4.4 rating

All five are sandy beaches and four of the five sit along the south coast of England. Woolacombe claimed the best average rating overall.

What makes a beach five-star worthy

The research looked beyond ratings alone, digging into what reviewers actually praised. Cleanliness came up most often, followed by easy parking and, perhaps unsurprisingly, good ice cream nearby.

Kevin Darvill, director at Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks, said: “Sandy beaches are clearly the nation’s favourite, but the data shows what really makes or breaks a summer beach day is easy parking, a clean beach and good ice cream nearby. Nobody wants to spend their morning hunting for a road-side space, or leave the beach feeling they need a shower to get more than just the sand off.”

Planning your own coastal trip

If you’re planning a caravan trip to the coast this summer, this is a handy checklist to use. Look for a beach with good parking, a reputation for cleanliness and a decent ice cream van nearby and you’re most of the way to a great day out.

Image provided by Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks

How to keep a caravan holiday stress-free when touring with kids

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Caravan holidays can be brilliant for families, but a small space and a change of routine can test even the most easygoing kids. A bit of planning goes a long way towards keeping everyone happy on the road.

Make the most of limited space

Space is the biggest adjustment for most families. Pack light and give each child their own small bag for toys and books, so they know exactly what’s theirs and where to find it. Fold-away furniture and storage boxes that double as seating can help keep the caravan feeling less cramped once everyone’s settled in.

Keep routines as normal as possible

Children tend to cope better with new environments when familiar routines stay in place. Stick to usual mealtimes and bedtimes where you can and bring along a favourite blanket, toy or bedtime story to help younger kids settle at night.

Plan entertainment for downtime

Not every hour of a caravan trip is spent exploring, so it helps to have entertainment ready for quieter moments. Card games, colouring books and a few simple outdoor toys take up little space and don’t rely on a screen or signal. For longer journeys, downloaded shows or audiobooks can be a lifesaver.

Involve them in the trip

Kids are often more settled when they feel part of the plan. Let them help choose an activity for the day or spot landmarks on the drive. Small things like this give them a sense of involvement without much extra effort.

Build in flexibility

Overpacking the itinerary is one of the quickest ways to tip a family trip into stressful territory. Leave room for rest days, unplanned stops and early nights, especially with younger children who tire more easily than the itinerary might suggest.

A little structure, a lot of flexibility and a few well-chosen distractions can turn a caravan holiday with kids into one the whole family actually looks forward to.

Image credits: Pixabay

How to budget for your first caravan holiday

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Caravanning has a reputation for being a budget-friendly way to holiday and adventure, but the upfront costs can catch first-timers off guard. Here’s what to actually expect, so you can decide if it’s right for you.

Caravanning has a reputation for being a budget-friendly way to holiday and adventure. For many families it genuinely is, once the initial costs are out of the way. But that first step in can be more expensive than people expect and it’s easy to underestimate what you’ll need before you even hit the road. 

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what to expect, so you can decide with confidence whether it’s the right fit for you.

Buying or hiring

If you’re not ready to commit to buying, hiring a caravan for a trial trip typically costs a few hundred pounds for a long weekend, depending on the model and season.

Buying outright is a bigger step, with second-hand caravans starting from a few thousand pounds and new models running considerably higher. Don’t forget to factor in a suitable tow car or the cost of upgrading if your current vehicle isn’t rated for the weight.

One-off costs to plan for

Beyond the caravan itself, there are some upfront purchases most owners need:

  • A hitch lock and wheel clamp for security
  • Levelling and setup equipment
  • Basic kitchen and bedding essentials
  • Awning, if you want extra living space

Many of these are one-time costs, so they’re worth budgeting for in year one rather than spreading across every trip.

Running costs

Ongoing costs are where caravanning tends to stay affordable compared with other types of holiday. Expect to budget for:

  • Fuel, which increases when towing
  • Gas for cooking and heating
  • Caravan insurance
  • Breakdown cover, ideally one that includes towing
  • Storage, if you can’t keep the caravan at home
  • Site fees

Site fees vary widely depending on location and facilities. A basic touring pitch might cost £15 to £25 a night, while sites with pools, entertainment or premium locations can charge £40 or more. Booking in advance and travelling outside peak season can significantly bring costs down.

Is it worth it?

Once the initial outlay is covered, caravan holidays are often cheaper than equivalent hotel stays, especially for families or repeat trips. The key is being realistic about the upfront investment before you commit.

Start small, hire before you buy and build your budget around the trips you actually want to take.

Image credits: Pixabay

Yorkshire Dales named UK’s top stargazing destination ahead of the Perseids

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If you’ve never seen the Milky Way with your own eyes, this summer might be your best chance. The Yorkshire Dales has been named the UK’s top stargazing destination, according to new research from travel experts at Ski Vertigo, followed by Bodmin Moor in Cornwall and Stonehaugh in Northumberland.

The UK’s top three stargazing spots

Since the Yorkshire Dales gained International Dark Sky Reserve status back in 2020, the entire National Park has protected some of England’s clearest night skies, with roughly a third of the park falling within its darkest core zone. Head to Swaledale, the Rawthey Valley, Garsdale, Littondale or Wharfedale on a good night and you stand a real chance of seeing the Milky Way, planets, meteors and occasionally even the Northern Lights.

Cornwall’s own dark sky credentials go back further still. Bodmin Moor earned International Dark Sky Landscape status in 2017 and much of it remains open-access land, meaning walkers can wander freely into the protected zone and its two-mile buffer without needing to stick to a handful of official viewpoints.

For those who want stargazing without the faff, Stonehaugh in Northumberland is hard to beat. This Dark Sky Discovery Site in Kielder Forest has a purpose-built pavilion for shelter, sits within one of Europe’s largest expanses of protected night sky and has parking right next to it at the picnic site, so there’s no trekking involved.

Why now is the time to go

The 2026 Perseid meteor shower runs from July 17th to August 24th, peaking overnight on August 12th to 13th. A new Moon that night means darker skies and better viewing than usual, though autumn and winter offer longer hours of darkness for those who can’t make the peak.

Getting the most from your trip

Alex Dyer, managing director at Ski Vertigo, said: “Look for genuine darkness, but also check that the viewing point is publicly accessible, that parking is permitted and that your accommodation is not a long drive away on unfamiliar rural roads. 

“Check the cloud forecast and Moon phase before setting out, take warm layers even in summer and use a red-light setting rather than a bright phone screen. Your eyes need about 15 minutes to adjust and a poorly placed torch or car headlight can quickly spoil the view for everyone nearby.”

Image credits: Pixabay

 

Simple ways to make your caravan holiday more eco-friendly

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Caravan and motorhome holidays are a great way to enjoy the outdoors and with a few small changes, you can help protect the places you love to visit. Travelling more sustainably doesn’t mean giving up comfort. It simply means making thoughtful choices before and during your trip.

Plan to reduce fuel use

Careful planning can help reduce unnecessary mileage. Choosing a sensible route, avoiding heavy traffic where possible and combining nearby attractions into one outing can all help lower fuel consumption. Before setting off, make sure your tyres are correctly inflated, as this can also improve fuel efficiency.

Cut down on single-use plastics

Packing reusable water bottles, coffee cups, food containers and shopping bags is an easy way to reduce waste. Many UK campsites also provide recycling facilities, so take a few moments to separate your rubbish before leaving.

Respect nature and wildlife

Britain’s countryside is one of the biggest attractions for caravanners. Stick to marked footpaths, avoid disturbing wildlife and always take your litter home if bins aren’t available. If you’re travelling with a dog, keep them under control and clean up after them.

Save water and energy

Simple habits can make a difference, especially on campsites with shared resources. Turn off taps when they’re not in use, take shorter showers and switch off lights and appliances when you leave your caravan or motorhome.

Leave every campsite as you found it

Looking after the places you visit helps ensure they remain enjoyable for future holidaymakers. By making a few eco-friendly choices, you can reduce your environmental impact while continuing to enjoy memorable caravan and motorhome adventures across the UK.

Image credits: Unsplash

New research reveals the average Brit has visited just 10 UK counties

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Many of us enjoy exploring Britain in our caravans and motorhomes, but new research suggests we’re often returning to the same destinations instead of discovering somewhere new.

A survey commissioned by Ordnance Survey (OS) found that the average Brit has visited just ten of the 84 counties across England, Scotland and Wales. While 69 per cent of people describe themselves as adventurous, many admit they revisit the same cities, landmarks and holiday hotspots year after year.

Britain’s favourite destinations

England dominates the list of the UK’s most visited counties, with Greater London, Greater Manchester, Norfolk, North Yorkshire and Kent proving the most popular. Several Scottish areas, including Clackmannanshire, the Western Isles, West Dunbartonshire and Shetland, ranked among the least visited.

The research also found that holidaymakers would like to discover more of Britain’s hidden gems, with many keen to explore:

  • Coastlines they haven’t visited before (50 per cent)
  • Historic sites (36 per cent)
  • Lakes and rivers (32 per cent)
  • Less crowded destinations away from the tourist hotspots (30 per cent)

Why map reading still matters

For National Map Reading Week, Ordnance Survey encouraged people to use maps to venture beyond the usual holiday destinations and build confidence exploring unfamiliar places.

Olympic rowing champion Helen Glover believes basic navigation skills can help families get more from their time outdoors. She said: “It opens up much more of the British countryside by giving people the confidence to explore and spend more time outdoors, which is great for mental wellbeing and building connections with nature.”

For caravan and motorhome owners, choosing a different route or stopping somewhere new could reveal quieter campsites, scenic walks and attractions that many travellers overlook. Brush up on your map reading skills on OS Maps before exploring beyond the familiar.

Image credits: Unsplash

5 campsite rules every newcomer should know

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Your first caravan or motorhome holiday is an exciting experience, but every campsite has a few unwritten rules that help everyone enjoy their stay. Following basic campsite etiquette makes for a more relaxing trip and helps create a friendly atmosphere for all visitors.

1. Keep noise to a minimum

Most campsites have quiet hours, usually during the evening and overnight. Keep music, conversations and vehicle movements to a minimum during these times so everyone can enjoy a peaceful stay.

2. Respect your pitch

Stick to your allocated pitch and avoid spreading equipment onto neighbouring spaces. Keeping awnings, chairs and outdoor gear within your pitch gives everyone enough room and helps maintain safe access around the site.

3. Clean up after yourself

Whether you’re using shared facilities, cooking outdoors or walking your dog, always leave the area as you found it. Dispose of rubbish correctly and use the site’s recycling facilities where available.

4. Drive slowly around the campsite

Many campsites have low speed limits because families, cyclists and pets are often moving around the site. Driving slowly helps keep everyone safe and creates a more relaxed environment.

5. Be considerate of fellow campers

Simple gestures can make a big difference. Keep dogs under control, avoid cutting through other pitches and be courteous when using shared facilities. A little consideration goes a long way towards making everyone’s holiday more enjoyable.

Enjoy your stay

Every campsite may have its own specific rules, so it’s always worth reading the welcome information when you arrive. By following these simple guidelines, newcomers can settle in quickly, avoid common mistakes and enjoy everything caravan and motorhome holidays have to offer.

Image credits: Unsplash

Bailey unveils the Pegasus Black Edition Bologna for 2026

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Bailey has refreshed one of its most popular touring caravans with the launch of the Pegasus Black Edition Bologna, bringing a series of design updates and practical improvements to the well-established four-berth model.

The twin-axle Bologna continues to appeal to couples and families looking for a spacious touring caravan, combining an 8ft-wide body with a transverse island bed and a full-width end washroom. That layout has long been one of Bailey’s best-selling configurations, offering a balance of comfort and practicality for both touring holidays and seasonal pitches.

One of the most noticeable changes for 2026 is the updated interior. Bailey has introduced a brighter, more open feel by removing the wardrobes either side of the island bed, creating additional space around the sleeping area. The front lounge has also been refreshed with new fabric panels replacing traditional curtains, while an additional window helps flood the living space with natural light.

The C-shaped front lounge remains a key feature of the Bologna, providing generous seating during the day before converting into an additional double bed when required. The L-shaped kitchen also returns, offering plenty of worktop space alongside a four-burner hob, separate oven and grill, microwave and a large 137-litre fridge.

Away from the living areas, Bailey has continued to focus on year-round touring. The Pegasus Black Edition Bologna is built using the company’s Alu-Tech bodyshell construction and comes equipped with Truma Combi 6E heating, a 130W solar panel, AL-KO ATC trailer control and a stabiliser hitch as standard. Modern touches such as a wireless phone charger and integrated SONOS speaker are also included.

The Bologna is aimed at owners with suitably capable tow vehicles who want plenty of interior space without sacrificing touring capability.

As demand for spacious, home-from-home touring caravans continues to grow, the latest Bailey Pegasus Black Edition Bologna builds on an already popular formula with thoughtful updates designed to enhance comfort, practicality and life on the road.

Image: Bailey

Scotland’s biggest caravan and motorhome show returns for landmark 40th year

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For four decades, the Scottish Motorhome, Caravan & Holiday Home Show has inspired thousands of touring enthusiasts to plan their next adventure. Now, as it celebrates its 40th anniversary, the event is preparing to come back with a fresh new look and another packed programme for visitors.

Returning to Glasgow’s SEC from the 4th to the 7th of February 2027, the show has become one of the biggest dates in the UK caravanning calendar, attracting up to 23,000 visitors from across Scotland and the North of England each year.

Over the years, the event has evolved alongside the changing face of touring. What began as a showcase for caravans and holiday homes now features everything from campervans and motorhomes to e-bikes, tents, awnings, boats and the latest outdoor leisure products.

To mark its milestone anniversary, organisers have unveiled a new brand identity inspired by travel and discovery. Featuring a signpost design with Scottish influences, the refreshed look celebrates both the show’s heritage and its role in helping visitors plan future adventures.

With around 200 exhibitors expected, visitors will once again have the opportunity to compare the latest leisure vehicles, browse touring accessories, speak to industry experts and discover new holiday ideas, all under one roof.

The event has also become a favourite with families, thanks to attractions including a dedicated kids’ zone and a farmers’ market, while children under 16 continue to receive free admission.

“Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just starting to explore the open road, this is a great place to start your next adventure, with everything you need under the one roof,” said show manager Jillyanne Lamarra.

For those wanting to upgrade their caravan or simply gather inspiration for the year ahead, the show’s 40th anniversary promises to celebrate not only its own history, but the enduring appeal of touring holidays across the UK.

Image: Supplied, courtesy of Scottish Motorhome, Caravan & Holiday Home Show

Why police-approved caravan security could give owners greater peace of mind

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Whether your caravan is parked on your driveway, stored off-site or pitched on a campsite, security is something every owner should take seriously.

That’s why the latest announcement from Purple Line, a leading manufacturer of caravan and motorhome security products, is good news for touring enthusiasts. The company has become one of the latest manufacturers to join Secured by Design (SBD), the official police security initiative.

The accreditation recognises several products from Purple Line’s Fullstop® Security range, including its Excalibur receiver wheel lock, Saracen Gullwing hitch lock, Nemesis Plus wheel lock and Nemesis Ultra wheel lock.

Secured by Design is the only police-backed accreditation scheme for security products in the UK, with approved products meeting recognised standards designed to help deter theft.

As caravans and motorhomes continue to represent a significant investment for many owners, choosing reliable security has become increasingly important.

Purple Line says its accredited products have been developed to combine high levels of protection with simple, everyday usability. Rather than relying on heavy, cumbersome equipment, the wheel and hitch locks are designed to be lightweight, quick to fit and resistant to common methods of attack, including cutting, drilling and freezing.

“Our focus has always been on delivering products that combine high-level protection with genuine ease of use,” explained Jonathan Harrison, managing director at the company.

“As theft prevention becomes increasingly important for caravan and motorhome owners, we are proud to offer solutions that are not only highly effective but also simple and practical to use every day,” he added.

While no security device can completely eliminate the risk of theft, police-backed products can provide greater peace of mind, particularly when combined with sensible precautions such as secure storage, tracking devices and good campsite security habits.

Image: Purple Line

Best UK spots for your summer staycation

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Staycation season is well and truly here, with more families looking closer to home for their next break. If you are planning your next trip, the UK has plenty of destinations that offer the feeling of a proper summer holiday without the stress of airports or long overseas journeys. 

Here are some places we recommend visiting.

Cornwall

For a classic seaside escape, Cornwall remains hard to beat. Beaches, harbour towns, coastal walks, surfing and fish and chips all combine to create the full summer holiday experience. St Ives, Falmouth, Newquay and Looe are all strong bases for families looking to mix beach days with boat trips and local food.

South Wales

South Wales is ideal for anyone wanting a staycation that feels a little different. Cardiff offers a compact city break with its castle, waterfront, parks, markets and museums, while nearby Caerphilly Castle and Castell Coch bring Welsh history to life. It’s a great option for families who want culture, scenery and easy exploring in one trip.

The Cotswolds

If your idea of a perfect break involves countryside pubs, market towns and relaxed walks, the Cotswolds is a strong choice. Villages such as Moreton-in-Marsh and Kingham offer easy access to rolling countryside, gardens, farm parks and traditional pub lunches.

Bath

Bath is perfect for a hassle-free city staycation. Its bustling centre makes it easy to explore the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey, Pulteney Bridge and Royal Crescent on foot, with plenty of cafés, parks and riverside walks for slower afternoons.

Bristol

For culture and food, Bristol makes a lively summer escape. Its harbourside is packed with museums, galleries, boat trips and places to eat, while the city’s street art scene gives it a creative edge.

Plymouth

Plymouth is a great choice for families who love the coast but also want plenty to do if the weather turns. Plymouth Hoe, the Barbican, the National Marine Aquarium and Royal William Yard all make it a varied waterfront break.

With travel costs still front of mind for many families, the best UK staycations prove you don’t have to go far to enjoy a memorable summer holiday.

Image: Unsplash

Essentials to stay safe for your next caravan holiday

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For many caravan owners, summer is the highlight of the touring calendar. Whether you’re planning a weekend by the coast, a countryside escape or a longer UK tour, a little preparation before you set off can make all the difference.

While it’s easy to focus on booking campsites and planning routes, ensuring your caravan is equipped with the right essentials can help your holiday run smoothly from start to finish.

5 must-haves for your next caravan holiday

Here’s a checklist of what we recommend bringing on your holiday to ensure a stress-free break.

Start with the basics

Before any trip, it’s worth checking your caravan’s tyres, lights, brakes and battery. Make sure your gas bottles are topped up and test all onboard appliances before departure. A quick inspection at home is far easier than dealing with unexpected problems on-site.

Protect your caravan on the road

Long summer journeys can expose caravans to road debris, insects and general wear-and-tear. A towing cover can help protect the front of your caravan while travelling, particularly on longer motorway journeys.

Don’t forget levelling equipment

Levelling ramps are an essential part of any touring kit, helping ensure appliances work correctly and making your stay more comfortable. Few things are more frustrating than arriving on site and discovering your caravan isn’t sitting level.

Prepare for life on site

Small accessories can often make the biggest difference. Waste pipe vent plugs help reduce unwanted odours around your pitch, while environmentally friendly toilet fluids can help keep your sanitation system running efficiently throughout your stay.

Motorhome owners need preparation too

If you’re travelling by motorhome, don’t overlook cab protection. Windscreen covers, mirror protectors and cab mats can help keep your vehicle cooler during hot weather while protecting it from everyday wear.

The best caravan holidays are often the ones where everything simply works. A little preparation before you leave home, combined with a few carefully chosen touring essentials, can help you spend less time dealing with problems and more time enjoying the freedom of the open road.

Image: Unsplash