NC500 reminds caravanners and motorhomers to be responsible

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The North Coast 500 (NC500) has become one of the most popular destinations for caravan and motorhome trips in recent years.

With it has come some concern from locals in the North Highlands and other visitors that not everyone is acting responsibly along the route.

NC500 has therefore issued renewed advice for anyone thinking of tackling the 516-mile circuit from and to Inverness Castle in a leisure vehicle this summer.

The guidance includes:

  • While wild camping is allowed in Scotland, it only refers to those who arrive by foot or bike and is not permitted in a caravan or motorhome.
  • Park responsibly and in areas that allow overnight parking if you’re not staying in a formal campsite.
  • Drivers must be comfortable navigating single-track roads in a large vehicle.
  • Be aware that Scottish access rights and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code don’t apply to motor vehicles.
  • Chemical toilet waste should only be emptied in places specifically designated for this purpose.
  • Ensure the emptying methods for all on-board waste facilities are demonstrated when hiring a caravan or motorhome.

Craig Mills, operations director for NC500, said: “Experiencing the North Coast 500 by motorhome or campervan has become a popular way for visitors to enjoy all that the North Highlands has to offer.

“However, it is important that these users are well prepared for their visit and follow the appropriate advice and guidance.”

There’s a more in-depth guide to completing the route by motorhome or caravan on the NC500 website, complete with names of places to park overnight and locations to dispose of waste.

Once all of the logistics are in place, you’ll be able to enjoy the highlights of this world-class route, including the Castle of Mey, Smoo Cave and Corrieshalloch Gorge.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/john Higgitt

Interactive maps for your next UK road trip

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Many Brits are setting their holiday destination sights closer to home due to increasing air travel chaos and uncertainty at UK airports due to staff shortages. Whether you want to explore the country in a caravan or motorhome or pack up your tent and hit the road – there’s no shortage of fantastic family-friendly road trip destinations in the UK. 

From the iconic coastline in the south-west of England to the breathtaking Welsh countryside, all the way to the remarkable Scottish Highlands – there are plenty of tranquil staycation spots and summer touring destinations that are ideal for a UK road trip. 

To take the hassle out of navigation, the team at Just Kampers has created a series of interactive UK road trip maps spanning the whole of England. Pinpointed on each of the interactive maps are campsites to make it easier to find a place to park your leisure vehicle or pitch your tent along the way. 

Starting from the bottom of the country, the south-west coastline is ideal for visiting some of England’s best beaches and getting off the beaten track. Must-see historic sites include Saint Michael’s Mount in Marazion and the Minack Theatre perched on the Cornish cliffside. 

There are plenty of road trip highlights in the south-east. These include a stop-off at Beachy Head Lighthouse in Eastbourne and a visit to historic Hastings before finalising the route with a dip in the refreshing waters of Margate. 

Heading away from the coast, some of the UK’s best road trip destinations can be found in the Midlands. Take in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Malvern Hills in the West Midlands, or explore historic cities like Lincoln and Boston in the East Midlands. 

If you want to head to the hills, check out the road trip route through Yorkshire and the Humber. Further up the country, you can explore road trip trails that wind their way through the Lake District in the north-west of England. Or, if you fancy hiking and camping in the Pennines, check out the route that meanders through the north-east. 

Whether you fancy a relaxing road trip by the British seaside or a more adventurous romp through the best of the British countryside, there’s a route that’s guaranteed to pique your interest. 

Here’s what Josh Reynolds from Just Kampers had to say when he spoke to CaravanTimes about getting out and exploring all that the UK has to offer. 

“We’ve put together this list of interactive road trips to get people all over the UK out and about this summer, exploring new places and making new memories. Whether you’re just visiting or call the nation home, we’ve found over 300 unique points of interest across the country and made it easier than ever to enjoy them.

“The UK is filled with amazing things to see and do, so we hope these interactive road trips encourage people to get out and enjoy them.”

You can check out all of the interactive UK road trip maps on the Just Kampers website. 

 

 

 

 

Interactive road trips courtesy of Just Kampers and Just Kampers Insurance

2 new sections of the England Coast Path open

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Two new stretches of the England Coast Path – Tilbury to Southend-on-Sea and Southend-on-Sea to Wallasea Island – are opening to the public today (July 13th).

They represent even more opportunities to get out and enjoy hiking on a caravan or motorhome holiday in the UK.

Highlights along the route include the Tilbury Cruise Terminal, where SS Empire Windrush docked; and Tilbury Fort, which was the location of Queen Elizabeth I’s rousing speech to the troops as the Spanish Armada approached.

There’s also a fascinating beach of glass that was created when the Thames eroded the banks of an old bottle dump site; the Wallasea Island RSPB reserve to spend some time birdwatching; and the coastal resort of Southend-on-Sea to discover.

Marian Spain, CEO of Natural England, said: “The England Coast Path will be the longest coastal walking route in the world once complete, accessible to all via public transport and walkable in all weathers and by people of all abilities.

“I’m thrilled that today Natural England is opening this latest section, which takes us another step closer to being able to walk all the way around England.

“This stretch passes through areas rich in seaside heritage: industrial heartlands, coastal communities and nature reserves where precious wildlife, from flocks of wild geese to rare insects, thrive.”

When it’s finished, the England Coast Path will be a 2,700-mile continuous trail of well-maintained footpaths.

Some of it will include new public rights of access, offering walkers the chance to explore beaches, cliffs and sections of foreshore that were previously restricted.

Prior to the new stretches of route being opened today, the last part of England Coast Path to have been launched was the Grain to Woolwich section in January this year.

Caravanners and motorhomers keen to hike any section of the long-distance route are reminded to follow the Countryside Code on responsible enjoyment of the country’s natural environment.

 

Image credit: Natural England, Darren Braine

Dream destinations: Montenegro

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Despite its relatively small size, Montenegro is a country that’s jam-packed with stunning natural beauty, adrenaline-fuelled activities, fascinating history and delicious local fare. If you’re wondering where to explore on your next caravanning holiday, it could be just what you’re looking for. 

Montenegro shares its borders with Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo and Albania. Although temperatures can reach sweltering highs during the summer months, Montenegro experiences high levels of rainfall throughout the year, yielding lush greenery regardless of the season. 

Whether you want to embark on a mountain getaway to do some hiking or a beach break to enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, Montenegro has something for everyone. 

There are many affordable caravan sites dotted throughout the country, making it an ideal touring destination. One of the best things about Montenegro is its compact size, which means you won’t have to worry about overly long drives.

You’ll be glad to know that Montenegro offers some of the most stunning mountain and coastal roads to drive on, and there will be plenty of photo opportunities and mesmerising sunsets along the way. 

Montenegro is full of must-see tourist hot-spots that are definitely worth paying a visit to. But there are also numerous occasions to get off the beaten track and explore the country’s wilder side. 

No trip to Montenegro is complete without a trip to the Bay of Kotor. The best time to visit is outside of the summer season if you want to avoid an overload of tourists from cruises and temperatures that reach above 35 degrees Celsius. 

When you’re there, park up and explore the medieval old town, Kotor Cathedral and the Maritime Museum. Weather permitting, you can walk up to the hilltop fortress for unforgettable views over the bay before heading to the beach for a sunset dip. Be sure to visit the neighbouring town of Perast, which is much quieter than Kotor and a great spot to eat some fresh seafood for dinner. 

If you’ve had your fair share of beach time, the north of Montenegro is home to stunning forests and lakes that can’t be missed. 

Durmitor National Park in the north west offers dramatic scenery and tranquil nature like no other. Although wild camping is illegal in the park and everywhere else in Montenegro, there are countless campsites that you can pitch up at during your visit. 

Another must-see destination is Lake Skadar, which is the largest lake in the Balkans and lies on the border between Montenegro and Albania. Admire the views of the lake and surrounding mountains and marvel at the swirling patterns that the vegetation creates on the surface of the water. You can do a boat trip on the lake and see what wildlife you can spot along the way. 

You might be surprised to know that Montenegro is also home to Europe’s only rainforest, Biogradska Gora. If you’re interested in learning about its biodiversity, this is a great spot to explore in your leisure vehicle, with various opportunities to hike and take a dip along the way.

Whichever spots you decide to stop at, be sure to taste the local Montenegrin cuisine such as lamb in milk (found in the north of the country), Cevapi (grilled sausages), and Musaka (similar to the casserole found in Greece). Pair a delicious meal with a glass of local beer or wine before heading back to your leisure vehicle for the night. 

 

Image credit: Faruk Kaymak / Unsplash

The best 2-berth motorhomes for couples

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What could be more romantic than hitting the open road in a motorhome with your other half?! It’s a great way to explore and spend some quality time together.

Since your leisure vehicle is going to be both your accommodation and your transport, it’s important to think carefully about the features that will work best for you.

With this in mind, Shane Malpass, director at We Buy Any Motorcaravan, has rounded up the two-berth motorhomes he thinks are best for couples seeking adventure.

He said: “Everyone should be able to enjoy a motorhome and especially with a partner, family member or friend. And there’s an old saying: two is company, three is a crowd.

“There are a few motorhomes for couples on the market available right now, from brand new to still great second-hand models. Here is my list of the best small motorhomes for couples that have a little something for everyone.”

Auto Sleeper Nuevo EK

A traditional style two-berth, the Auto Sleeper Nuevo EK is low profile and the benches in the lounge area can be converted into a double bed.

EK stands for end kitchen, which is where you’ll find an oven, four-burner hob, grill and fridge, with a microwave located at the rear above a workspace.

What really makes the Auto Sleeper Nuevo stand out, according to Mr Malpass, is the washroom at the back complete with a shower.

  • Price when purchased new: around £60,000
  • Second-hand price: under £30,000
  • Mass in Running Order: 2874kg
  • Maximum Authorised Mass: 3500kg
  • Shipping length: 5.5 metres

Autotrail Tracker EKS

Not dissimilar in terms of layout to the Auto Sleeper Nuevo EK, the Autotrail Tracker EKS has the same type of sleeping arrangements, as well as kitchen and washroom layout.

What this model boasts, however, is more space, as it’s much roomier at 6.5 metres than most other two-berth motorhomes with the same configuration.

Mr Malpass’ top tip for grabbing a bargain is to source an Autotrail Tracker EKS from 2014, as it’ll come in at less than £35,000 and still be a great motorhome, just a bit older.

  • Price when purchased new: under £60,000
  • Second-hand price: under £35,000
  • Mass in Running Order: 2950kg
  • Maximum Authorised Mass: 3500 kg
  • Shipping length: 6.5 metres

Auto-Sleeper Kingham

For a more relaxing and romantic escape opt for a motorhome with a French bed, meaning you don’t need to set it up every night.

This feature alone puts the Auto-Sleeper Kingham high up the list of Mr Malpass’ favourite two-berths, and it can be found at the rear of the motorhome.

Seating consists of a long bench in the lounge area and the two cab seats swivelled round. A fitted kitchen and washroom including a shower complete its features.

  • Price when purchased new: around £68,000
  • Second-hand price: around £40,000
  • Mass in Running Order: 3102kg
  • Maximum Authorised Mass: 3500 kg
  • Shipping length: 6.4 metres

Carthago Liner for Two I53

If you’re prepared to blow the budget then the Carthago Liner for Two I53 has exceptional build quality and a host of mod cons.

That means an electric drop-down bed just above the cab, a waterfall shower and a button you can push to extend the lounge!

Integrated storage space throughout means you can keep everything tucked away, including your car in the large garage at the rear.

  • Price when purchased new: around £122,000 (minus any extras)
  • Second-hand price: about £105,000
  • Maximum Authorised Mass: 6,700kg
  • Shipping length: 7.8 metres

How to embrace Plastic Free July in your caravan or motorhome

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Many of us are trying to cut down on single use plastics in our everyday lives, but it’s easy to let these good intentions slide while away in our caravan or motorhome.

If you’ve been putting off making changes in your leisure vehicle, then Plastic Free July could be the perfect impetus to spur you into action.

Of course, there are three ways in which you can help stop plastic from ending up in landfill or our oceans: reduce, reuse and recycle.

Reduce

Think carefully about the plastic products you buy new for caravan holidays and whether there are alternatives you could purchase instead.

For example, you can get beeswax paper to wrap up the family’s sandwiches for a picnic as opposed to using clingfilm.

Think bamboo cutlery and crockery to kit out your motorhome, and a metal drinking bottle to refill throughout your stay.

Reuse

Of course, there are likely items that you already own that are made out of plastic and it makes sense to continue to use them to reduce their environmental impact.

If you always take miniature bottles of toiletries, cosmetics, sunscreen and washing up liquid away with you in the caravan or motorhome, refill the ones you’ve already got instead of buying new ones.

Recycle

All holiday parks should be providing onsite recycling facilities, so make use of them. Just as you’ve likely implemented a recycling box system at home, install one in your caravan or motorhome.

If you haven’t got room for individual boxes for each type of material, you can separate them later. Like a lot of things in our leisure vehicles, recycling storage can be done on a small scale.

Pitching up at a certificated location or smaller site without facilities means being responsible and taking your plastic waste home with you to recycle.

 

 

 

 

Photo credit: Pexels/SHVETS production

What to consider if you’re undertaking a van conversion

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Motorhome conversions are more popular than ever, as holidaymakers embrace van life and the freedom offered by having your own accommodation on wheels.

With this in mind, motorhome insurance comparison site Quotezone.co.uk has issued a list of things to consider for anybody thinking about undertaking their own conversion.

Turning any type of van into a leisure vehicle requires its details to be updated with the DVLA for identification purposes.

There’s also a checklist of internal and external elements that must be complied with to ensure it’s roadworthy and safe for use as accommodation.

Converters must update the V5C form and provide photographic evidence that sleeping infrastructure; seats and a table; and cooking and storage facilities have all been fitted.

It’s also important that the insurance provider is informed of all modifications, like fitting alloy wheels, a new kitchen, design tweaks or added branding.

This ensures the policy is accurate and there’s no risk of it being voided by the updates to the vehicle.

Insurers will not always change the price of premiums when modifications are made, but it’s always best to inform them of the work so the information they hold is accurate.

Greg Wilson, founder of Quotezone.co.uk, said: “There was an understandable boom in motorhomes across the pandemic when foreign holidays were restricted, with families exploring staycations and investing in motorhomes.

“Our latest data shows that this trend is continuing, with 29 per cent of our customers in the process or just finished converting their vehicles into motorhomes in order to enjoy a staycation closer to home.”

If you’re in the planning stages of a conversion, some of the most important areas to consider are:

  • Ventilation
  • Insulation
  • Electricity and gas installation
  • Fresh and waste water storage

 

Photo credit: iStock.com – Alisha Bube via Quotezone.co.uk

The most tranquil staycation spots in the UK

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Owning a caravan or a motorhome means you can head off on multiple staycations throughout the year and enjoy different types of holiday.

If you’re experiencing burnout and looking for a tranquil place to relax, Wellbox has put together a list of destinations that are perfect for unwinding.

It created an index taking a number of factors, including crime rates, population and peaceful outdoor activities, into consideration.

Some 53 destinations were analysed and each given an overall peace score out of 100 to reveal the top ten most relaxing destinations in the UK.

Based on the research, Devon looks like a good bet for getting away from it all, as the county boasts three destinations in the top five.

Dartmouth scored 81.1 out of 100 on the index, with visitors able to enjoy its seaside location and hike no fewer than 40 trails to get back to nature.

Kingswear came in second place with a score of 78.6 and Croyde in fifth at 71.3, so you could have a relaxing time in Devon staying in multiple locations in your touring caravan.

If you’ve already explored Devon, then Over Haddon in the Peak District could be a good alternative.

It was ranked third on the scale, with the peaceful village of just 255 residents achieving a score of 75.9.

Pitching up here means you’ll be surrounded by undulating hills and dales. There are 12 trails to choose from to hike locally, on top of six that are particularly good for birdwatching.

Further north, fourth-placed Reeth is something of a Yorkshire gem, while Scotland’s St Andrew’s in Fife came in at a respectable seventh.

While we all do different things to relax, getting away from busy areas and enjoying the countryside is a common feature of tranquil holidays.

 

 

Photo credit: Shutterstock/Alan Whitehead via Wellbox

Top YouTuber puts Route YC to the test

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Whitby native and social media adventurer Paul Hayes, who’s otherwise known as Haze Outdoors, recently put the latest long distance touring route to the test.

Route YC showcases the Yorkshire coastline and has been set up in the hope of promoting this part of England in a similar way to Scotland’s North Coast 500.

Mr Hayes, along with close friend Joey, documented his trip to the North Yorkshire coast with a YouTube video, which has received more than 38,000 views at the time of writing.

The pair camped on the route, swam in the sea, foraged for wild garlic and cooked lobster on an open fire as they discovered the best the new route has to offer.

They also cycled the Cinder Track, climbed Whitby’s iconic 199 steps and enjoyed refreshments at the Green Dragon Ale House.

Mr Hayes said: “To explore Whitby and the immediate surrounding area was like a dream come true and it helped us reconnect with the place that we grew up in.

“We found some places that we never even knew existed and all in all, just had a mint laugh.”

He added that the video format is a bit of a departure from the usual camping content he produces for his channel, but making it was really enjoyable.

The Route YC website outlines six itineraries, each based around a different town – Bridlington, Filey, Hornsea, Scarborough, Whitby and Withernsea.

While Mr Hayes and his friend opted for their hometown of Whitby, visitors can take their pick or join sections of the route together to explore more of the Yorkshire coast.

There’s also a guide on the site to help those keen to explore Route YC in a caravan or motorhome. It includes advice on overnight parking and access rights.

 

Photo credit: Pixabay/Tim Hill

 

Mumsnet names The Quiet Site best for families

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Popular parenting forum Mumsnet has recognised The Quiet Site in the Lake District as the best overall glamping site in the UK for families.

The award-winning holiday park has a selection of accommodation offerings, including pitches for caravans, motorhomes, campervans and tents.

Overlooking Ullswater, The Quiet Site is in the perfect location for exploring the surrounding area and making the most of being in the countryside.

With an emphasis on tranquillity and eco credentials, visitors can take advantage of a number of on-site facilities.

These include a zero-waste shop, pub and snack bar, as well as a playroom set up with table football, air hockey and pool tables to keep the kids entertained.

They can run free in the play field, making friends with other families and there’s laundry facilities and dedicated boot and bike washrooms to deal with any muddy kit at the end of the day.

Not far from the site is the imposing ruin of Lowther Castle, which boasts a huge children’s playground.

Then there’s the Puzzling Place World of Illusion, where you can experience an anti-gravity room and hologram gallery.

Head to the Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery to soak up some culture, and if you’re visiting between June 25th and September 10th, you’ll catch the Once Upon a Planet exhibition.

Focusing on climate change, this family-friendly event looks at how plants and animals are being affected by manmade pollution.

Being located so close to Ullswater, The Quiet Site also offers lots of opportunities to get out on the water.

Active types can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, while the Ullswater Steamer stops off at points all around the lake, allowing passengers to embark and disembark.

The Quiet Site still has availability for the summer holidays, making it an ideal choice for a staycation.

The definitive guide to caravanning and hiking

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Hiking is one of the best and most accessible ways to breathe some fresh air, reconnect with nature and get some exercise. It’s also an ideal activity to combine with a caravanning or camping trip.

Whether you want to climb the peaks of Snowdonia, explore the stunning natural beauty of the Isle of Skye or take a leisurely stroll through the Lake District – the UK is a hiker’s paradise. 

You’ll find a range of routes and trails perfect for all fitness levels, which is what makes hiking one of the easiest physical activities to get stuck into. 

The pleasures of hiking

There are so many reasons to lace up your boots and set out on a hike. 

First and foremost, hiking is a wonderful way to appreciate the natural world while providing a cardio workout that engages all of your muscles and senses. By giving you the opportunity to slow down and focus on simply placing one foot in front of the other, you have ample time to take in your surroundings and discover a sense of peace. 

Hiking is also proven to be beneficial to mental health and is often used as a tool to fight common conditions like stress, depression and anxiety. When you embark on a hike, whether it’s for a few hours or the entire day, you can switch off and unplug from the chaos of everyday life and totally immerse yourself in the world around you. 

What equipment do you need?

One of the best things about hiking is that it’s an activity that’s accessible for everyone. 

Similar to other activities like wild swimming, you don’t need any special equipment to immerse yourself in a simple day hike. Of course, you’ll need to have some sturdy walking shoes, particularly if you’re embarking on more challenging paths. 

However, if you are feeling more adventurous and want to undertake a multi-day hike – you’ll need to ensure you’re prepared with gear such as a hiking backpack, weatherproof clothing, a first aid kit, navigational tools, plenty of food and even walking poles if you require them. 

Planning and preparing for a hike

Before setting off on your touring and hiking adventure, you’ll need to do a little planning. 

First, think about which kind of hike you’d like to do, whether that’s a short day hike, more strenuous multi-day trekking or a challenging summit hike. 

To find the ideal route, take into consideration factors such as location, distance, elevation gain and time required. In the UK, you are spoiled for choice with gorgeous spots to explore on foot. 

Before setting out, be sure to check the weather forecast so you can prepare accordingly. The last thing you want is to find yourself soaked through because you didn’t expect a sudden change in weather. 

Although most hikes in the UK are well signposted, it’s always advisable to know the route or carry a map in case you stray from the path. 

When it comes to knowing where you’re going to sleep, many of the cheapest pitching spots in the UK are located near top hiking destinations. Be sure to do your research or ask the campsite for information or directions to ensure you make the most of the day. 

Best caravan sites for hiking

It’s a breeze to combine a touring trip with hiking. If you want to make the most of your surroundings, it’s a good idea to seek out caravan sites situated near the beginning or end of the trails you want to tackle. 

Here are some of our top choices for hiking and caravanning in the UK:

  • Moss Side Farm Campsite – Explore the stunning landscapes and glistening waters of the Lake District on foot from this charming, family-run campsite located in Ambleside.
  • Hayfield Camping and Caravanning Club Site – Situated in the Dark Peak area of the Peak District National Park, this is the starting point for many of the area’s most memorable hikes. 
  • Bryn Gloch Caravans and Camping Park – Enjoy the peaks and valleys of Snowdonia National Park.
  • Glenbrittle Campsite – Immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Scotland’s Isle of Skye while basing yourself in this quiet campsite surrounded by striking scenery. 
  • Riverside Caravan Park – Embark on some of the best trails in the Yorkshire Dales National Park when you park up at this well-regarding caravan park.

 

Image credit: Christopher Czermak / Unsplash

Newly refurbished Camping and Caravanning Club sites to reopen

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Two Camping and Caravanning Club sites that have been closed due to refurbishment are now taking bookings for later in the summer.

More than £2.5 million has been spent on the sites at Bowness on Windermere in the Lake District National Park and Chertsey in Surrey.

Nicola Simpson, director of marketing and insight at the Club, said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming campers to both our Chertsey and Bowness on Windermere sites, which have received a lot of care and attention in recent months.

“The sites boast high-quality facilities, making them perfect for much-needed holidays in lovely locations.”

Bowness on Windermere is the ideal location to explore the Lake District, situated as it is on the shore of the large body of water.

Families may wish to take advantage of its proximity to the World of Beatrix Potter while enjoying a caravan or motorhome holiday at the site.

It was previously known as Braithwaite Fold and has been under Club management since 2013.

The Chertsey Club Site has handy access to London and the Thames, offering entertainment for city lovers and those who enjoy activities based around the river.

It is one of the oldest sites in the Club’s network, having been acquired in 1927, but its facilities are now up to modern standards.

Visitors will be able to enjoy newly refurbished amenity blocks, a dog washing station, a children’s play area and brand new hardstandings.

Both of the sites will be open year round, allowing caravanners and motorhomers to visit during high and low seasons.

Stays at the Chertsey Club Site are available to book from August 22nd, while the Bowness on Windermere Club Site will open to the public a week later on August 29th.

The Camping and Caravanning Club was established in 1901 and has grown to include nearly 100 sites across the UK, encouraging members to take advantage of all the country has to offer.