Celebrate 250 years of Jane Austen in Winchester

If you’ve ever curled up with a good book on a rainy day in your caravan, you’ll appreciate the power of an author who knows how to craft compelling fiction.

Some 250 years after her birth, the city of Winchester is set to celebrate such a writer with events to recognise Jane Austen.

Austen lived in Winchester for a time up until her death, giving the cathedral city a strong link to one of the world’s most famous writers.

So, if you’re a booklover looking for a literary destination to explore in your caravan in 2025, add Winchester to your list.

Number 8 College Street

Austen’s final home, where she wrote her last poem three days before her death, will open to the public for the first time from June 4th to August 30th, with displays prepared by Winchester College.

They will explain Austen’s connections to the city, along with the story of her last days through artefacts that have never been on public display before.

Tickets for tours of the College Street residence are on sale now and must be booked in advance.

Winchester College Museum

A selection of items associated with Jane Austen will be on display at the Winchester College Museum Treasury from May until the end of the year.

These will include first editions of her novels and manuscripts written by Austen and other members of her family.

Eight of Austen’s nephews were pupils at Winchester College and the school is mentioned in some of her surviving correspondence.

Winchester Cathedral

Unsurprisingly, Austen’s final resting place will be taking part in the 250th anniversary events, with the original manuscript of her poem To the Memory of Mrs Lefroy going on display.

Interactive light and sound installations will be used for The Storytellers exhibition, which will honour Austen and other writers at the cathedral from March 11th to 15th.

The cathedral will also be hosting a Regency ball on May 31st, with guests invited to don their finest attire for an evening celebrating the customs and traditions that were often seen in Austen’s novels.

The Great Hall

Another Regency ball is set to take place on August 16th, but this time at Winchester’s Great Hall, where guests will be taught how to dance in the style of the period.

Anyone not sure what to wear for such an event could attend the Regency fashion show being staged on July 26th for some inspiration.

On September 5th, the Great Hall will host an audience with historian and best-selling author, Lucy Worsley, who will discuss the life of Austen in detail.

Councillor Lucille Thompson, cabinet member for business and culture at Winchester City Council, said: “It is fantastic to see so many attractions and businesses coming together to mark the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth.

“Winchester is fortunate to be home to significant moments of Austen’s history, and we are thrilled to be hosting such a variety of wonderful events and exhibitions.

“We are proud of our city’s heritage and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the globe to be part of these special celebrations.”

 

 

Photo credit: Gilbert Yates Photography

Falmouth events to enjoy with your caravan or motorhome in 2025

Cornwall is a hugely popular place to visit with your caravan or motorhome and the region’s events capital, Falmouth, has released a schedule to ensure 2025 offers even more reasons to pitch up in the south-west.

So, if you’re planning your getaways for the year, think about coinciding them with one or more of these headline events.

Falmouth Spring Flower Show, March 22nd and 23rd

Looking ahead to the emergence of spring flowers is a nice way to get yourself through the dark winter months and celebrating them at a special show will ensure you truly appreciate the new season’s blooms.

The oldest spring flower show in Cornwall and one of the longest-running in the UK, this free event will captivate your senses with dazzling displays and beautiful scents.

WanderFAL, April 11th and 12th

WanderFAL is an enticing mixture of music played in venues across Falmouth and in a variety of genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Cornwall’s finest local talent will be joined by some more well-known performers to bring the sounds of singing and instruments to every corner of the town.

Falmouth Food Festival, May 23rd to 26th

Calling all foodies! Make your way to Falmouth waterfront in May to try some delicious food, alongside a portion of live music.

The best food vendors from Cornwall will set up shop for the duration of the festival with chef demos offering plenty of inspiration for future caravan cook-ups.

Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, June 13th to 15th

The largest free nautical music and song festival in Europe taps into Falmouth’s proud tradition of sea shanties, as the town was a safe port of call for deepwater sailing ships in the past.

Expect more than 80 groups from across the UK, Europe and further afield to be performing classic and contemporary shanties across Falmouth.

Falmouth Week, August 8th to 17th

Originally a local sailing regatta, Falmouth Week can trace its history back as far as 1837, but has now evolved into a major sailing competition.

It’s an opportunity for sailors and land lovers to enjoy a variety of activities on the water and by the sea, with the town experiencing a festive vibe.

Falmouth Oyster Festival, October 9th to 12th

Falmouth Oyster Festival is one of Cornwall’s biggest specialist food events, devoted to the mighty mollusc in all its forms.

The native Fal Oyster will be joined by other types of Cornish seafood, with four days of cookery demonstrations, feasting and festivities.

Harmony Choir, December 24th

Building on more than 100 years of tradition, the Falmouth Harmony Choir will once again fill the streets of Falmouth with festive songs to get everyone into the Christmas spirit.

They’ll be joined by choirs from across Cornwall, all making their way through town, inviting crowds to join in with the Cornish songs and carols.



 

 

 

Photo credit: Pixabay

Urgent care tips for your towcar in winter

Continuing to use your caravan is the best way to keep it in good working order throughout the winter, as long as you take precautions to stay safe.

This also applies to your towcar, which is responsible for getting you and your trusty caravan to its destination.

With this in mind, Ellie Macsymons, consumer expert at NetVoucherCodes, has put together eight tips to help towcar drivers avoid any nasty surprises.

Check your tyres before setting off

Tyres are your towcar’s first line of defence against icy roads, which are common in many areas of the country at present, making proper grip essential for safety and efficiency.

Ensure your tyres have at least 3mm of tread for driving throughout the winter months and keep them inflated to the recommended pressures, as underinflated tyres reduce fuel efficiency.

Keep your battery charged

It’s a little-known fact that cold weather reduces your battery’s ability to hold a charge, which can leave you stranded midway through your journey to a holiday park.

Check your battery’s voltage before long journeys and if you’re unsure how to do this, many local garages will test it for you, often for free.

Keep fluids topped up

Low or incorrect fluids can cause damage to your towcar in winter conditions, but winter-grade screenwash can prevent freezing and improve visibility while towing your caravan.

Some towcars also benefit from winter-grade oil, so check your manual to see if it applies to yours. It’s cheaper to top up than deal with engine damage, so be proactive in your approach.

Protect your windscreen and wipers

Ice and grit can pose a threat to your windscreen and wipers, but be wary of quick-fix hot water solutions such as running a bag of hot water over your windscreen, as these techniques can cause damage by cracking the glass.

Stock up on de-icer sprays and use a scraper to remove ice and a soft cloth for any grit on your windscreen to stay safe.

Monitor fuel efficiency

Cold starts and longer idling times often lead to more fuel use in the winter, but there are ways to improve fuel efficiency.

One useful tactic is to keep your caravan as light as possible, as towing a heavy load uses more fuel, so try not to pack any unnecessary items.

Check your lights

Winter’s shorter days and foggy conditions make lights more important than ever for visibility and safety.

Check lights on both your towcar and caravan regularly to make sure they’re in top condition and clean them for maximum brightness, replacing any dim or flickering bulbs promptly.

Wash your towcar regularly

Salt and dirt thrown up from winter roads can corrode your towcar’s body and undercarriage, making regular washing, including the underside, a must-do.

It’s easy to think that the rain at this time of year will do the job for you, but there’s really no substitute for specialist products and some personal attention.

Plan ahead for MOT and insurance renewals

Check your MOT date and ensure your car is in good condition prior to inspection to avoid any unexpected bills.

Shop around for the best insurance deals before renewing and you might find a bargain on your next insurance premium.

 

 

Photo credit: Pixabay/Eveline de Bruin

Roadtrips to take with your leisure vehicle in 2025

Having access to a caravan or motorhome offers the opportunity to go away on extended trips without blowing the budget.

A roadtrip enables you to fully explore an area and open yourself up to the possibility of spontaneous adventures along the way.

There are lots of potential roadtrips in Europe to undertake with your leisure vehicle in 2025, so which ones do we at CaravanTimes recommend?

Andalusia and Extremedura

Known as “the frying pan of Europe”, Andalusia is hot in the summer months and relatively warm throughout winter compared to other destinations.

Its historic cities, including Granada, Seville and Cordoba, are well-known as fascinating places to visit and easy to travel between in your caravan or campervan.

Extend your Spanish touring adventure beyond Andalusia and into Extremedura, which has long been unfairly overlooked.

This unspoilt, rural region of Spain borders Portugal and is steeped in history, wildlife and local cuisine, including Iberian hams, goats cheeses and chorizo.

Visit Monfragüe National Park, see the fascinating giant boulders in Los Barruecos and explore the walled city of Caceres.

The Norwegian fjords

Norway is a stunning country to explore with your leisure vehicle, with its impressive scenery and plentiful opportunities to pitch up.

Be sure to include the 15 km-long Geirangerfjord on your itinerary, as this UNESCO World Heritage Site with its deep blue waters is set against towering mountain peaks for dramatic impact.

Ferries depart from Harwich to Hoek van Holland, Hull to Rotterdam and Newcastle to Amsterdam, from where you can drive to Norway.

Plans to reinstate ferry routes from Newcastle to Stavanger and Bergen are slated for 2026, so you could start planning your Norway trip for next year.

Make sure your leisure vehicle is suitable for driving on the narrow and winding roads around the fjords, as well as in adverse Norwegian weather conditions.

Amalfi Coast and islands, Italy

Italy’s Amalfi Coast is an iconic roadtrip destination, not because of its size, as at just 50 kilometres in length, you could easily cover it in one day, but because of what it packs into that space.

Pastel-coloured fishing villages are dotted along sheer cliffs and hidden beaches can be found all along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula.

To make the most of having a leisure vehicle in this part of Italy, travel slowly and stop off at local trattorias for lunch and secluded swimming spots for a dip.

Then there’s the islands of Procida, Ischia and Capri to explore, each one with its own distinct personality and charm.

Plan your roadtrip to the Amalfi Coast to take in some stunning destinations on the way, with France, Switzerland, Germany and Austria all possibilities, depending on your route.

Escorted tours with the Caravan and Motorhome Club

If you’re new to the leisure vehicle lifestyle and want some extra assurance for your first trip to the continent, the Caravan and Motorhome Club offers escorted tours to more than 20 destinations in Europe.

These itineraries have been carefully put together by knowledgeable caravan and motorhome experts and give you the peace of mind that comes from having a tour host close to hand.

They’re a great way to gain confidence in this way of travelling before perhaps planning your own trip in the future.



 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Stijn de Vries

Stargazing locations with the most campervan-friendly campsites

The UK is home to some incredible stargazing spots, unspoilt by light pollution, offering unparalleled views of the night sky.

Due to the fact that they’re away from cities and often in national parks, they can seem inaccessible to those wishing to enjoy them.

This is where having a campervan comes into its own, allowing you to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life and explore the cosmos.

So, which locations in the UK have good stargazing conditions and the facilities and amenities to make visiting them in a campervan easy?

Select Van Leasing has created a rundown of the places that should top your list, taking into account everything from Dark Sky status and expert recommendations to elevation and the number of campervan-friendly campsites in the vicinity.

Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), Wales

Leading the way with an impressive 70 per cent of its campsites catering to campervans is Eryri National Park, as 109 out of 155 sites offer facilities designed for campervan visitors.

Eryri was designated an International Dark Sky Reserve in 2015 and with no fewer than 90 mountains over 2,000 ft, there’s plenty of opportunities to get up high to see the stars.

The Pen y Pass car park sits at an elevation of 1,180 ft, making it the perfect place to park up and watch the sky.

A representative from Select Van Leasing said: “Travelling in a campervan is a great way to explore Eryri, as it helps you discover all the different stargazing locations in just one trip.

“It’s not permitted to stay overnight in a car park in a campervan or motorhome, so booking one of the many campervan-friendly campsites is the best option.”

Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park secured second place in the rankings of the best stargazing destinations in the UK.

The largest national park in the country covers 4,500 sq km of unspoilt countryside, with the Glenlivet and Tomintoul area among the best places to look skywards.

In addition to its Dark Sky status, which was granted in 2018, Glenlivet and Tomintoul is home to Britain’s only herd of reindeer.

The Cairngorm Mountain car park near Aviemore is located at the base of the ski lift, but is a great spot for stargazing and even watching the Aurora Borealis.

Overnight stays are permitted at the car park, with provisions for campervans and motorhomes in place.

Northumberland National Park, England

Located in the north, Northumberland National Park, along with most of Kielder Water and Forest Park, holds the distinction of being England’s first International Dark Sky Park.

It was designated in 2013 and remains Europe’s largest protected area of night sky to this day, making it a must-visit for any budding astrophile.

On a clear night, thousands of stars are visible with the naked eye, as well as the Milky Way and the Andromeda Galaxy, which is located 2.5 million light years away.

Kielder Observatory holds events seven days a week, focusing on different areas, from relaxed astronomy to stargazing photography skills.

Lordenshaw Hill Fort car park near Rothbury is a good starting point to climb up to the Lordenshaw Rock ancient monument for uninterrupted views of the Cheviots and the night sky.



 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Amy Gatenby

Why you should make caravan and motorhome New Year’s resolutions

Research suggests most New Year’s resolutions fail by the second week of February, so is there any point in making them in the first place?

Here at CaravanTimes, we think New Year’s resolutions relating to your caravan, motorhome or campervan are a great idea and they don’t have to be as rigid as some people believe.

We’re not talking about vowing to clean your leisure vehicle every week or go to a different location each month.

For 2025, we’re championing smaller, more achievable resolutions, like taking more day trips in your caravan or always putting muddy gear in a large bucket when you return to your motorhome after a wet walk.

Owning a leisure vehicle gives you lots of opportunities to get out and enjoy nature no matter how busy your schedule gets.

So, with this in mind, the CaravanTimes team has some suggestions for micro-resolutions this year, which should help you get the most out of your caravan or motorhome.

Have more breakfasts in scenic spots

Your leisure vehicle is a kitchen on wheels, so you can drive it anywhere and brew a cup of coffee, warm up some pastries or cook a full fry up fairly easily.

If you haven’t got time for a weekend away or even a day out, breakfast in a scenic location not far from home can still be doable.

Croissants by the sea, coffee with a view of rolling hills or a bacon butty watching raindrops drip down the windows are all good uses of your caravan or motorhome.

Lend your leisure vehicle to others

Identify time when you’re not going to be using your van – like if you’re jetting off on holiday – and resolve to make it available for others.

This can have a number of benefits, such as letting someone who might not get a trip away experience vanlife or earning a little bit of extra money through a campervan sharing platform.

Either way, your leisure vehicle is better off being used than sitting on your drive and sharing is a great New Year’s resolution to make.

Meet more caravanners

The caravanning community is a very welcoming bunch and 2025 could be the year you get to know more of them.

Strategies to do this can vary, from joining an organisation like the Caravan and Motorhome Club or the Camping and Caravanning Club, right through to signing up for towing skills training.

Sometimes, the best friendships come from asking for help on site, so if your vehicle gets stuck in the mud or you forget to pack a tin opener, use it as an opportunity to create new connections.

Expand your cooking repertoire

While it’s true that many caravan and motorhome kitchens are smaller than those most people have at home, they’re also often very well equipped.

It’s easy to fall into the routine of cooking the same dishes every time you go away in your leisure vehicle, but adding new items to your repertoire can be a lot of fun.

There’s lots of cookbooks designed especially for helping caravanners and motorhomers to innovate and make delicious feasts, so it might be time to invest in one.

Create a wish list

Instead of settling on one resolution and vowing to repeat it throughout the year, a wish list for the months ahead can be a great idea if you want to mix things up.

Settle on ten to 15 things you’d like to do with your caravan or motorhome this year and try to tick them off by January 2026.

Ideas should be personal to you, but could include visiting somewhere new, returning to a location you love, taking your leisure vehicle on a ferry or creating an accessory like curtains for your van.



 

Photo credit: Pexels/Pavel Danilyuk

Stay on the right side of the law when driving this winter

Whether you’re driving a towcar or a motorhome this winter, it’s important to stay on the right side of the law, but new research shows one seasonal rule is often overlooked.

Motorpoint surveyed UK car owners about their attitudes towards de-icing their vehicle and driving in freezing conditions and found 42 per cent don’t fully defrost their windscreen before setting off.

Not only does having a partially iced over windscreen pose a safety hazard when departing for a trip in your motorhome or when towing a caravan, it’s also against the law.

Legally, all drivers must fully defrost their car windows and mirrors before embarking on a journey when it’s cold outside.

In reality, many people don’t leave enough time before their planned departure and only clear a portion of the windscreen to see out of.

According to the Highway Code, drivers must defrost the entire windscreen before attempting to go anywhere or risk a fine of up to £2,500.

Interestingly, the same research found 43 per cent of motorists know it’s illegal to start driving without visibility, but that doesn’t stop many from doing it anyway.

Tim Rodie, driving expert at Motorpoint, said: “Winter driving can be a daunting prospect for motorists, but there are some simple things you can do to help build your confidence and keep yourself and other road users safe. 

“The easiest thing motorists can do is to ensure they have full visibility and have taken the time to make sure they can see out of their windows and mirrors.

“I’d suggest giving yourself at least ten minutes to defrost your car and remove all condensation before setting off on cold mornings so you can be confident that your windscreen is fully clear and won’t risk refreezing.”

How to defrost your towcar or motorhome’s windscreen

As well as leaving enough time to properly defrost your windscreen before a journey, what are the best methods to do so?

Motorpoint has noted some people leave the engine running and turn up the heaters while they finish getting ready for a trip, which it points out is a very bad idea for environmental and potential theft reasons.

Here are some of the alternatives:

Use an ice scraper

Going old school and using an ice scraper is among the cheapest and most effective ways to clear ice off your vehicle.

Remember to wear a pair of gloves and to do the entire windscreen, as well as mirrors, lights and any driving sensors.

De-icer spray

Traditional de-icer is effective but the chemicals mean it’s not great for the environment, so it’s a good idea to make your own with a tablespoon of salt and two cups of water.

De-icer can cause your windscreen to fog over, so you need to factor this into the time it takes to prepare your towcar or motorhome for travel.

Dual method

Combining homemade de-icer and a scraper can be more effective than using one over the other and helps to cut how long you need to clear your windscreen.

Have both of these items to hand so you’re not scrabbling around trying to find them at the last minute while preparing for a journey.

Heated windscreen

If you have a heated windscreen, then this can be particularly helpful, but does require some time to work.

Don’t forget to defrost the side windows and the mirrors though, as you’ll still need these to drive safely.

 

 

Photo credit: Pixabay/Karolina Grabowska

Where to pitch up abroad in 2025

If the stress of Christmas is getting a bit too much for you, then now could be a good time to start thinking about your caravan or motorhome trips in 2025.

Throughout the last 12 months, a number of international destinations have been gaining in popularity, making them good candidates for your next adventure abroad.

With this in mind, Pitchup.com has provided a rundown of the places that should be on your radar in 2025.

Portugal

Bookings to Portugal reportedly rose by 251 per cent, which is not surprising when you realise it’s the only European destination to have made it into the 2024 Holiday Money Report’s top five.

Offering plenty of bang for your buck, Portugal has a tempting climate, stunning coastlines and historic cities, providing everything you need for a great camping holiday.

Pitchup recommends Bubulcus & Bolotas Camping, which is located half an hour’s drive from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Évora.

This shining example of Portugal’s golden age was completely rebuilt after an earthquake in 1755.

Hungary

Combining Hungary’s stunning landscapes, thermal spas, rich history and lively traditions with the low cost of holiday essentials, it’s easy to see why bookings have gone up by 229 per cent in the last year.

Head to Lake Balaton to the west of Budapest for a stay at Balatontourist Camping Napfény for watersports and a playground for children.

Local attractions include Szigliget Castle and a winery just a 20-minute drive away. Make sure you don’t indulge in the produce if you’ve got to drive the towcar or motorhome back to the site.

One reviewer of the holiday park said it’s “sooooo beautiful and the campsite with everything around it is a dream”.

Montenegro

Croatia has long been a popular destination for Brits, but its southern neighbour Montenegro has only recently started to get the recognition it deserves.

With 217 per cent more bookings, caravanners and motorhomers have tapped into the beauty of its rugged mountains, medieval villages and Adriatic coastline.

Just 20 minutes north-west of the capital Podgorica is Purple Eye Estate, which is set within its own winery, meaning you don’t have to go anywhere to sample the local produce.

The site also makes a convenient base for exploring Oströg Monastery, built into the cliff face 900 metres above the Zeta Valley in the 17th century.

Belgium

If you’re a foodie and owning a leisure vehicle helps to facilitate trips to tantalise your tastebuds, then Belgium should be high up on your list.

The waffles, chocolate and beer it’s known for are among the reasons for a 108 per cent uptick in books to this culinary hotspot.

While still relatively close to the UK, Belgium is cheaper than France, thus stacking the odds even further in its favour.

Camping Houtum near Antwerp is “an incredible campsite surrounded by some of the most stunning cycling routes I’ve ever experienced,” according to one reviewer.

Austria

Alpine meadows and mountains have led to Austria coming in fifth position in the fastest-growing overseas destinations for the past 12 months.

The landlocked country in central Europe saw an increase of 78 per cent in bookings in 2024, making it a good bet for 2025.

Camping Resort Reigersburg is located in the west of the country and is a newly opened site, which is already impressing guests with its facilities.

Highlights include swimming in the lake and hiking up to the medieval Riegersburg Castle, which is within easy reach of the camping ground.

Last-minute Christmas shopping for caravan enthusiasts

Are you among the 56 per cent of Brits who buy their Christmas presents at the last minute? And do you have a caravan or motorhome lover on your list?

If so, you’ve come to the right place…

Research from thortful found that searches for “Best last-minute gift ideas” are up by 222 per cent since September and 23 per cent compared to last Christmas.

With 14 per cent of people admitting to giving generic gifts as they never know what to buy people, this shouldn’t be the case for your leisure vehicle-owning friends and family.

Recently, we took a look at what are considered the most uninspiring Christmas gifts and how they can be substituted for something much better this year.

After all, there’s always something useful that can be added to a caravan or motorhome to make the experience more comfortable or exciting.

Always the practical gifter, our very own Dan Cartwright has previously presented guides on what to buy for caravan owners, motorhome enthusiasts and campervan lovers.

Extra tips for successful gifting

The gifting experts at thortful have provided the following tips if you’re still trying to find the right presents.

Take advantage of cookies

Take note of any ads that pop up on a shared computer or laptop if you live with the person you’re purchasing a gift for.

These targeted ads are an insight into the things they’ve been looking at online and the perfect way to get your loved one something they really want.

Personalise simple things

Personalised items they can use in their leisure vehicles are a great way to show a loved one you really care.

A calendar with a new picture every month, their favourite food and drink with their names on the packaging or inscribed gifts such as new glassware are good places to start.

Experiences over items

If the person you’re buying for has enough stuff, then gift them an experiential present instead to create memories together.

It could be a voucher for a restaurant near where you’re planning on pitching up somewhere soon, a day out or even a whole trip away in your caravan or motorhome.

Craft a gift

Sometimes a crafted present can say a lot more than a purchased one and there are lots of ways to incorporate caravan life into such items.

For example, you could create a book of memories from your trips or bake tasty treats to take on your next weekend away.

 


Photo credit: Unsplash/Denise Johnson

New motorhome insurance policy for extended European cover

A new insurance product has been launched specifically for people planning to spend extended amounts of time travelling around Europe in their leisure vehicle.

Specialist insurer Motorhome Protect is offering cover for trips up to 270 days, which is worth considering if you’re planning an epic adventure anytime soon.

You should always have adequate insurance for the way in which you use your leisure vehicle. This will ensure both you and your caravan or motorhome are fully covered, as well as your possessions.

Typically, standard motorhome insurance will cover 90 days in continental Europe, which is sufficient for most people’s needs.

If you’re taking a sabbatical or doing a stint as a digital nomad, then it’s important to get better protection.

A number of providers offer 240 days on their comprehensive motorhome insurance, which makes this newest product appear particularly generous.

Mark Sheppard, senior trading manager at Motorhome Protect, said: “With its extended EU cover, our new policy supports drivers hoping to spend the best part of nine months a year visiting Europe in the comfort of their own vehicle.”

At the other end of the spectrum, it’s possible to get 30 days’ worth of cover under what’s called temporary motorhome insurance.

This can be particularly useful if you’re just borrowing a leisure vehicle or trying one out for the first time and don’t want to commit to a long-term insurance policy.

If you’re not planning on using your caravan or motorhome for a while, it should still be insured while in storage to protect against fire or theft.

This is often referred to as laid up cover and is a basic level of insurance that can’t be used when touring with your vehicle.

Mr Sheppard also wanted to offer CaravanTimes readers some extra advice. He told us: “There are a couple of important points to note if you’re travelling to Europe this Christmas.

“First, motorhomes and campervans travelling on the continent now need to display a UK sticker, not a GB one.

 “Second, it’s important to be aware of the numerous low-emission zones that have sprung up in many European countries in recent years – Urban Access Regulations in Europe is a great source of information for drivers wishing to successfully navigate these areas and avoid costly fines.”

New circuit of Bath hiking trail launched

For many people, owning a caravan or motorhome is a great opportunity to get out into the countryside and enjoy some hiking.

With that in mind, it’s worth noting that a new 20-mile circuit of Bath hiking trail has been launched with the help of volunteers from Cotswolds National Landscape and the Ramblers.

The route can be tackled independently or as part of a guided walk, with the next one being held on the weekend of May 10th and 11th, 2025.

Taking two days to cover the circuit, hikers can spend the night in their leisure vehicle in between to rest their weary legs.

If you’re holidaying in Bath and would like to do just a short part of the route, it can also be cut up into smaller, more manageable sections.

During the 18th century, doctors in Bath recommended patients take to the surrounding hills and valleys to exercise and improve their wellbeing.

This tradition continues to this day, with the countryside around the city representing a clear opportunity for so-called green therapy.

Walking the route

The circuit of Bath hiking trail can be found on ​​Ordnance Survey maps and on the Long Distance Walkers Association website, helping you to plan your way.

Along the way, you can expect to see beautiful countryside, fascinating industrial and social history, and a number of quaint villages.

These include Southstoke, Englishcombe, Upper Swainswick, Batheaston, Bathampton and Monkton Combe.

Stop off at spots like Little Solsbury Hill, Southstoke, Millenium Viewpoint and Beckford’s Tower to take in the vistas along the way.

Habitats for wildlife

The chance to see interesting flora and fauna is another great reason to get out into the countryside with your leisure vehicle. The circuit of Bath route has a number of opportunities.

Beavers and otters can sometimes be seen in the River Avon, while a combination of ancient woodland and new planting gives a variety of species many different types of trees to use as homes.

The local community

Bringing the new route to fruition has involved many volunteers from the local community, with the Ramblers providing waymarking and improvements to the path.

The community-owned Packhorse pub in Southstoke is among one of the places hikers can take a break during the hike and enjoy some local hospitality.

Look out for the Primrose Hill Community Woodland, which was planted in the year 2000 and is still maintained by volunteers.



5 ways to protect your motorhome from theft

Darker, longer nights in December can be an opportune time for theft, especially for high-value items like motorhomes and campervans, which are often used less throughout the winter months.

Unattended leisure vehicles can become a target for robberies, but there are things you can do to reduce the risk of your beloved motorhome being broken into and Motorhome Protect has outlined them for us.

Mark Sheppard, senior manager at Motorhome Protect, said: “Around Christmastime, motorhomes are likely used less, which can make it a popular time for thieves to target them. At Motorhome Protect, we want to ensure every owner is protected.

“We hope by highlighting some common errors people may make when it comes to their vehicle’s safety, owners can take steps to avoid them and ensure their home on wheels is safe this festive season.”

Lock all access points

It goes without saying you should lock the doors to your leisure vehicle when leaving it alone, but it’s also important to secure all other access points too.

These include roof lights, hatches and exterior access doors to storage compartments, as they can all provide a way in for someone looking to steal.

Install extra locks and alarms

Additional locks and alarms beyond those your motorhome has been fitted with as standard are a good way to help keep it safe.

Steering wheel locks are not just an effective visual deterrent, but immobilise the steering wheel, making it difficult for potential thieves to drive away.

Similarly, clutch claws lock the clutch and the brake pedal in place, preventing thieves from stealing your leisure vehicle.

Consider installing an alarm and immobiliser, with loud noises deterring thieves and immobilisers making the act of stealing your motorhome all but impossible.

Invest in extra security measures

Longer nights in December present more opportunities for thieves to strike undetected, so installing outdoor security lights to illuminate your leisure vehicle can be a good idea.

Alternatively, invest in a CCTV system, with a camera positioned in a visible spot, so any opportunists can see they’re being watched.

If you know you’re not going to be using your motorhome at all during the winter months, it can be worth putting it into secure storage, but make sure you complete all the necessary preparation first.

Keep valuables out of sight

Leaving valuables on view in your leisure vehicle can entice thieves to break in, often causing costly damage and inconvenience.

Don’t leave the ownership documents inside your motorhome, as these would help a potential criminal to sell it on.

Writing your postcode on any items in your van with a UV pen can be useful in tracking them down in the event of a break in.

Buy the right insurance

While it’s important to have motorhome insurance that covers the vehicle itself, it’s sensible to buy a policy that also includes the contents.

That means you’ll be protected in the case of a burglary and not left out of pocket for any items that are stolen.