New PC200 road trip launched in Wales

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The US has Route 66 and Scotland has the NC500, but not to be outdone, Wales now has its own long-distance road trip, the Pembrokeshire Coast 200 (PC200).

Put together by the people at CaravanCloud, the route is available as an interactive map or downloadable pdf to help caravan and motorhome enthusiasts enjoy the beauty of this area of Wales.

As well as breathtaking scenery and pretty towns and villages, road trippers can experience outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking or surfing on stretches of this stunning coastline.

Access to the route’s resources, including things to do and places to eat, is open to CaravanCloud members and it’s currently free to join.

The route has been conceived by CaravanCloud founder Connor Ennis, who is a Pembrokeshire native, living in the town of Tenby.

If the name sounds familiar, that’s because Mr Ennis comes from a caravan dynasty, his grandfather having founded Ennis Caravans in the 1940s.

Mr Ennis said: “I’ve lived in Pembrokeshire all my life and thought it would be good to actually help people discover all of it, because a lot of people only come to the south and don’t explore the north.

“Tenby is one of the main hotspots for tourists, and it’s a beautiful place, but so is the rest of Pembrokeshire. I don’t think there’s another county in the world that has such a diverse landscape of coastal areas, countryside and mountains – it’s got everything. Tenby is lovely, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg.

“I felt what was needed was a road trip that people could take part in and when I looked into it there wasn’t anything like it, so I decided to make one.”

It’s recommended that you spend between three and five days completing the PC200, taking in 30 different locations of note along the way.

Nick’s News – The Erwin Hymer Centre, the problem with names and the Buccaneer Commodore

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Nick HardingNick’s News – Nick Harding is an expert in all things motorhomes, caravans and camping. Each week, Nick explores products, locations, holiday ideas and essential community information on our behalf – It’s a Hard-ing Life for Nick, but here is what he found this week.

My week

That’s me back home now from my Grand Tour of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, so it’s time to catch up on the inevitable backlog of jobs that build up when you’re away for over three weeks.

Luckily, an incredibly slow puncture on my van was fixed whilst we were away. Thanks to the guys at CTS Tyres near Newtownards – not only did they repair it on the spot, the bill of £15 was so much lower than expected.

A cracked windscreen was a different matter and we nursed it back home. But again, lucky me as my insurance with Shield includes windscreen replacement cover.

Less a £125 excess, but do check yours. I have to say making the initial appointment with Auto Windscreens couldn’t have been easier. Now, I just have an out-of-control garden to tackle…

In the news

Erwin Hymer Centre – take a luxury break?

Fancy a bit of the motorhome high life? You might want to visit the Erwin Hymer Centre on the outskirts of Stafford, just off junction 14 of the M6 motorway, any time between October 2nd and 17th.

It’s a real state-of-the-art set-up here but, as well as the impressive premises, it’s a first opportunity to view new models from the Erwin Hymer Group marques that this retailer represents – from Niesmann + Bischoff to Dethleffs and Carado, not forgetting Hymer itself.

Potential visitors are being asked to pre-register via www.motorhomes.co.uk in the shows section. Events like this are, in my opinion, the best way to go and see the very latest from any brands you wish to explore further.

Also, you benefit not just from the expertise of those involved with selling and servicing the products, but it’s also a great chance to go and view the company you might be buying from.

Refreshingly honest – Auto-Sleeper Group

I rather like the approach that’s being taken to 2022 by the Auto-Sleeper Group. It’s the organisation that comprises not just Auto-Sleepers, but also the McLouis, Benimar and Mobilvetta brands, as well as the Marquis Leisure network of 13 sales outlets.

Emma Franklin, company spokeswoman, told me: “Putting it simply, there are no major changes on the habitation that we can sing and dance about for 2022 for Auto-Sleeper or McLouis.”

She also added that we should not expect any big things to come from McLouis or Mobilvetta either. But there are quite a few tweaks, like an uprated cab for any Auto-Sleeper based on a Peugeot Boxer, a couple of new upholstery choices and new “infotainment” system for McLouis.

So, is no news good news? Yes, if you’re happy with the adages don’t make changes for change’s sake and if it ain’t broke don’t fix it. An early exclusive for you too, because I can confirm all research and design efforts are going towards the 2023 season product.

What’s in a name? Time for a class act?

Sometimes, the motorhome market does itself no favours. The inability to define certain vehicle types is a particular bugbear with me. Can you believe there are no official definitions for the likes of campervans, van conversions, coachbuilts and A-classes?!

It’s a problem that goes right to the top, with even the DVLA having problems. It still prefers to stick with the catch-all term ‘motor caravan’, spelled with two words. It does however add: “also known as camper vans, motor homes, recreational vehicles”. There’s more here.

Over in America, they’re much clearer, keeping it to three class designations – A for the big stuff, B for more typical coachbuilts, C for van conversions and campers.

Does it matter? Well, there are implications for general parking, including covenants for outside homes; servicing; access to low-emissions zones; insurance; breakdown recovery; and plenty more. Anyway, over to you. What do you say?

Caravan crushThe Buccaneer Commodore

Buccaneer Commodore – a real swashbuckler

Perhaps every caravan review should start with a verdict on the comfort and support of the seating? It’s an instant indicator of what you’re going to get elsewhere and let’s face it, most of us spend proportionately more time sitting in our vans than doing anything else.

That puts the twin axle Buccaneer Commodore in a very good starting position, with its deep-set cushioning and curved backrests Indeed, even before you settle down onto those incredible settees, you’ll have probably picked up the distinctive smell of leather upholstery.

There’s also new bodywork for the 2022 season Buccaneers, with a more pronounced curve to the front end, improved front locker access and extra-wide skylight. Some further equipment upgrades for 2022 include options that extend to onboard Wi-Fi and a rack capable of taking e-bikes.
Transverse island double bed and en suite facilities, a separate toilet and shower rooms, forward of this, the floorplan ensures the best privacy from the other occupants for a four berth.

Three good: Sky-high extravagance, spacious interior and general 2022 upgrades
Two bad: The usual – heavy and pricey
Perfect for… Living the luxury life
Also consider: Coachman Laser Xcel 850 and Swift Elegance 580

Love Touring Expo returns in November

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After a pandemic-related hiatus, Love Touring Expo is returning to P&J Live in Aberdeen this November to showcase the latest caravan, motorhome, campervan and holiday home releases.

Running between November 4th and 7th, the event boasts an extra day and will be spread across a larger space to enable effective social distancing.

Jamie Taylor, organiser of Love Touring Expo, said: “We are excited to get back to exhibiting and to bring the first major consumer exhibition of its type to Scotland. Safety is paramount, and we are committed to ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience for exhibitors and visitors alike.”

Some 15,000 people are expected to attend the event next month, with a mix of seasoned tourers and those keen to find out more anticipated to enjoy the expo.

Anyone looking to invest in a new leisure vehicle in the near future will have the benefit of checking out many of the 2022 season’s models.

Such opportunities to see a selection of motorhomes in person have been sparse during the pandemic, but it hasn’t dampened sales.

New caravan sales are up 47 per cent in 2021 and the pre-owned market has grown by 65 per cent, as holidaymakers seek their own slice of the staycation trend.

As well as viewing a vast array of products, attendees will be able to ask experts questions about the caravanning lifestyle and join in with activities.

There will even be an indoor zipline, making the expo a fun day out for all the family.

In 2019, Love Touring Expo was a huge success and with the increased interest in caravan holidays due to coronavirus, it’s set to be popular again this year.

Tickets are priced at £12.50 for adults and can be purchased here. Children under 16 go free and there’s ample free parking on site.

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/lucas Favre

The Lake District launches initiative to make the great outdoors more accessible for everyone

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The Lake District National Park has launched a new initiative to make it easier for those reliant on mobility scooters, wheelchairs or walking aids to get around and enjoy its stunning scenery.

Marking its 70th birthday this year, the national park is considered one of the UK’s finest treasures and should be accessible to as many people as possible.

With this in mind, 49 ‘Miles Without Stiles’ walks have been created, which offer low-level routes for those unable to tackle the Lakes’ more traditional trails.

TGA Mobility is supporting the national park’s initiative to emphasise the wellbeing advantages of getting out into the great outdoors.

While many people with movement challenges may think the Lakes’ scenery is out of reach, TGA says the right scooter or powerchair can tackle all terrains.

Mychaela Green, a TGA scooter owner, recently spent a week exploring the Lake District by way of the ‘Miles Without Stiles’ routes.

She said: “The new accessible trail along the old railway line between Keswick and Threlkeld was so memorable, flat and easy for everyone, [and] really pretty. Considering what we have all been through during lockdowns, to get away was so lovely.”

Caravan holidays represent a great opportunity for anyone with reduced mobility to get away, as leisure vehicles can be adapted to suit individual needs and ensure accommodation doesn’t fail to deliver upon arrival.

Among the most common adjustments made to caravans to improve their usability are widening doorways, installing grab rails and creating wet rooms.

Emma Moody, recreation and sustainable transport officer for the Lake District National Park, said: “We’re delighted to welcome more people to places that they previously thought were inaccessible, [to] savour the memorable sights and take home lifelong memories.”

You can watch the initiative’s launch video here

Nick’s News – Trouble on the NC500, on-site rounders and the Benivan 120

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Nick HardingNick’s News – Nick Harding is an expert in all things motorhomes, caravans and camping. Each week, Nick explores products, locations, holiday ideas and essential community information on our behalf – It’s a Hard-ing Life for Nick, but here is what he found this week.

My week

Week three of our Grand Tour and we’ve made the crossing over to Northern Ireland. We’re pitched up at the Camping and Caravanning Club’s site at Delamont Country Park. Like last week in Scotland, it’s all rather quiet over here.

We arrived to a pretty full site on the Sunday evening, but by Tuesday I’d say around half the pitches are empty. It wasn’t us, honest! OK, Monday was a Bank Holiday, which as ever, I forgot, but our trips out so far – especially driving around the wonderfully atmospheric Strangford Lough, including the five-minute Portaferry-Strangford crossing – have been largely pretty quiet.

Call me lucky, but in pretty much all of our Wales, Scotland and now Northern Ireland travels we’re yet to encounter the hordes of fellow tourists we were secretly expecting.

In the news

North Coast 500 – stirring up a s***storm?

Gosh, this is tricky. The North Coast 500 (NC500) – the 516-mile route through the most spectacular scenery around the very top of Scotland – is suffering. And it’s motorhomers and campervan users who are in the wrong. Quite simply, it’s proving too popular and too many travellers are leaving behind a mess.

As one local told me: “It’s not even a small minority. We have public toilets here but there are plenty of stories of people defecating behind walls and leaving their rubbish everywhere. Why can’t they just take it with them?”

I must admit, we did a bit of the NC500 ourselves last week, around the particularly picturesque Applecross area and heading on up to the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Kinlochewe site before heading back south. There were definitely more VW-based campervans using the road than I’ve ever seen on any other road journey I’ve taken.

There are campsites along and near the route, but there are also spots where folk prefer to wild camp and I fully understand the attraction of such things, in the right circumstances. But the freedom to explore such areas does come with responsibilities.

Batting for England? Club hits first base with rounders pitch

No ball games here? I love the fact that the Camping and Caravanning Club has announced a tie-up with governing body Rounders England. Anything that encourages folk to get out and enjoy any sporting activities can only be a good thing, surely?

Both organisations are encouraging us to “pack a bat”. As ever, you’ll need to ensure you’re not going to upset any of your camping neighbours if there’s a ball involved, but any campsites that ban ball games outright should be able to point you towards some space nearby where you can go and enjoy yourselves.

As for rounders, apart from a few very informal games, I last played it at primary school. I’d happily give it another go though.

Motorhome for me?Cooking equipment in the Benivan 120

Benivan 120 – a superior Spanish conversion rate

It’s not hard to see why van conversions are so popular at the moment when you look closely at examples like this, the Benivan 120 from Spanish manufacturer Benimar.

Fiat’s Ducato is still by far the base vehicle of preference for vans of this ilk. In its six-metre-long guise, it manages exactly the right blend of interior space versus overall dimensions that aren’t too intimidating. I feel the Ducato shows its age in places, but it’s still well ahead of all others where it matters most – in the sales charts.

Possibly the biggest downside is it’s only a two-berth – featuring a much favoured two-settee rear lounge with kitchen and washroom mid-van. Note the sliding door is UK nearside. But I think that actually works in favour of the 120 as well as its rivals, of which there are more than a few. Converting the seating to a transverse double bed is pretty straightforward and there are all the facilities on board for full self-sufficiency.

Where the Benivan really scores is its overall specification, everything from the 160bhp engine to solar panel, gas tank, TV aerial and grill/oven are standard. Importer Marquis Leisure hasn’t just gone to town with the standard kit list, it’s also kept the price very sharp. In the world of Fiat-based van conversions, you could pay a lot more and get a lot less.

Three good: Competitive price, generous specification and popular two-person floorplan
Two bad: Small washroom and high-cost auto option
Perfect for: Full facilities in a six-metre-long package
Also consider: Auto-Trail Expedition 67, Elddis Autoquest CV20, Roller Team Toleno L, Swift Select 122

Gadget envy?

What’s new for 2022? Dometic and Lippert out of the blocks

With the 2022 season getting ever closer, it’s interesting to hear news of what some of our key leisure vehicle equipment suppliers are bringing to us.

Dometic has unveiled new window blind fittings for Fiat Ducato cabs, as well as a roof top tent for cars.
There’s also the CH Combo space heater/hot water boiler, which can be teamed up with one of its air conditioner models, plus a number of kitchen appliances from new hob tops in a choice of steel or glass to new sink designs.

It’s also giving us a glimpse of the future, with pipeline concepts such as a fridge camera – you can see what’s inside without opening the door – and motor-operated window coverings that can also be opened or closed remotely.

Lippert is another major European component supplier that has announced a raft of new products for the season ahead. It’s certainly wasted no time with Schaudt, the electrics company it took over earlier this year, revealing a new leisure battery booster, the WA 12545, a switch mode-up/step-down converter that compensates for the fluctuating alternator voltage and provides a high charging current.

Watch out also for another Lippert brand, Polyplastic, and its latest Piuma range of windows with integrated blinds. Another new addition is the Lippert R-Bike carrier designed for conversions using Mercedes’ Sprinter, Volkswagen’s Crafter or Ford’s Transit.

The Skia is an all-new blind system for Fiat Ducato cabs, while the Vela is an addition to Lippert’s range of elevating roofs for campervan conversions. I’m not sure if the future’s looking bright, but it’s certainly looking a lot easier.

How to prevent family road trips from becoming stressful

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While many of us are enjoying packing up the kids into the caravan or motorhome this summer, a whopping 87 per cent of parents find family road trips stressful, it has been revealed.

That is according to a survey of 2,000 parents carried out by Car Shades, which has subsequently shared its advice on cutting down on the stress and enjoying a holiday together.

The firm partnered with psychological therapist, counsellor and systemic life coach Michael Padraig Acton to provide the following tips:

Plan effectively

A successful road trip with the family starts with the planning and it’s important to ensure everything will be comfortable for the kids, including the space they have and the temperature of the vehicle.

Boredom can lead to tension among family members, so make sure there’s plenty of activities that the kids will enjoy, ranging from games to play together to things they can do on their own.

Be sure to pack snacks for the journey, but keep anything too high in sugar to a minimum, as this will only lead to excess energy with nowhere to go in a vehicle.

Manage your emotions

Getting road rage can lead to a tense atmosphere in the car or motorhome, so think about ways to stay relaxed if you experience traffic jams or inconsiderate drivers.

Have a strategy for dealing with the kids’ behaviour

If there’s more than one adult in the car then it should be the passenger who deals with the kids if they start misbehaving, so that the driver can concentrate on the road.

Remember to speak calmly but firmly to ensure the atmosphere in the vehicle doesn’t become confrontational and everyone can remain happy.

Take a break

Road trips can feel long for both children and adults alike, so be prepared to pause the journey and let everyone get out of the vehicle for a few minutes to stretch their legs and improve their mood.

Trying to stick to a strict schedule can exacerbate the level of stress experienced by parents, so plan in breaks and be realistic about how far it’s reasonable to drive in a day.

Include the kids in the itinerary

Providing kids with an idea of the route, how long it will take and the landmarks they can look out for along the way will help them to establish a feeling of control.

This is a good strategy for pre-empting issues and allowing children to adjust their expectations to the situation.

Steve Giles, managing director at Car Shades, said: “Everyone looks forward to their summer trips away and being able to relax with the family.

“However, as our survey has demonstrated, the journey can prove quite stressful when there is constant arguing, followed by ‘Are we there yet?’, and ‘I’m bored’, whilst the driver is trying to follow road signs and listen closely to the satnav’s last-minute directions.

“We want to make everyone’s holiday enjoyable from start to finish, and with that comes the initial drive to the destination. We hope the tips provided allow for a stress-free drive, enjoyed by all.”

 

 

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Anton Luzhkovsky

New Camper Van Cooking book is endorsed by Volkswagen

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A new book featuring 70 recipes to cook up and enjoy on your next campervan adventure has been endorsed by Volkswagen.

Camper Van Cooking by Claire Thomson was published earlier this summer and includes meals that can be easily created in the Volkswagen California.

A food columnist and author of six books, Ms Thomson has put the volume together to encourage holidaymakers to enjoy delicious meals on the road.

If you think that having just two gas rings at your disposal means all campsite ingredients must come out of tins and packets, think again.

Camper Van Cooking shows you the tips and tricks required to make gourmet cuisine from frying pan toad-in-the-hole to chicken satay with prawn crackers and cucumber.

While creating the book, Ms Thomson and her family road tested all of the recipes in a Volkswagen California 6.1, travelling throughout Dorset and Herefordshire.

Kate Thompson, head of marketing at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “We were delighted to loan Claire and her family a Volkswagen California earlier this summer as they ventured on a food safari of Herefordshire.

“The Volkswagen California offers two gas hobs, a fridge and running tap all as standard so with the help of Camper Van Cooking, customers can rustle up adventurous and delicious meals with ease this bank holiday weekend.”

Here are Ms Thomson’s top five tips for successful campervan cooking:

  1. Prepare your first night’s meal at home and freeze it, so it can thaw on the journey and help to keep the rest of your holiday ingredients cool.
  2. Store cupboard essentials like flatbreads and pitta breads can help to supplement local fresh produce throughout your trip.
  3. Substitute plant-based milks for regular dairy milk, as they don’t need to be refrigerated until opened.
  4. Establish a cooking area on your pitch with a table in the shade.
  5. Select flexible recipes that don’t require a lot of measuring or precision.

Motorhome holidays voted number one for freedom factor

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Getting away in a motorhome is the ultimate choice for enjoying the freedom factor, according to a new study by Goboony.

Experiencing the great outdoors was highly linked with a sense of freedom, as 41 per cent of respondents said motorhomes gave them this feeling, as well as 14 per cent for camping and eight per cent for caravanning.

The results from the motorhome hire company demonstrate how the coronavirus pandemic has seen a shift in holiday attitudes with a greater focus on enjoying trips more closely linked to nature.

Goboony has seen a 329 per cent year-on-year growth in the last 12 months and reports there’s no signs of demand for leisure vehicles slowing down any time soon.

Jake Stone, UK country manager for Goboony, said: “The pandemic has naturally cemented nature’s role as an antidote for modern living. This includes when on holiday too.

“With international travel in absolute chaos and the cost of PCR Covid tests now being investigated by competition watchdogs, it is no surprise that motorhome holidays and the UK’s great outdoors have come up trumps as choices which make holidaymakers feel free.

“The motorhome holiday is an ideal, safe alternative option for staycationers, and is carving itself a permanent position within the travel and tourism industry landscape. Naturally socially-distanced by design, they are an inventive way for Brits to travel safely.”

The survey revealed how integral the mode of transport is to a trip, with 34 per cent of respondents saying the moment they stepped into their motorhome or on board a plane was when their holiday officially begins.

And while the open road makes 27 per cent of holidaymakers feel free, 23 per cent happy and 12 per cent peaceful, it also comes with a few negative points.

The top three things most likely to cause an argument on a road trip were found to be traffic, directions and backseat driving.

Nick’s News – The Adria roadshow, pop-up campsites and the Elddis Xplore 304

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Nick HardingNick’s News – Nick Harding is an expert in all things motorhomes, caravans and camping. Each week, Nick explores products, locations, holiday ideas and essential community information on our behalf – It’s a Hard-ing Life for Nick, but here is what he found this week.

My week

Wales last week, Scotland this week. It was a long drive, which was luckily shared, but we arrived at Invermoriston on Saturday. Finishing with the last 150 miles or so of our drive on Sunday through the most glorious of scenery as we passed by lochs Lomond, Linnhe and Ness.

Even the weather is on our side now. I’m also pleasantly surprised the roads aren’t as busy as I’d expected. True, there are plenty of campervans and motorhomes around, but the general picture so far is of a country that’s coping admirably enough with its seasonal influx of visitors.

Driving over the Skye BridgeWe’ve got bookings for the Caravan and Motorhome Club sites at Kinlochewe and Strathclyde Country Park, hopefully squeezing in a day at the Oban Highland Games in between. Happy days!

 

In the news

Adria on the road

You can grab a slice of the Adria 2022 action at a dealer near you. September sees Brownhills, Geoff Cox Leisure, Tilshead Caravans, Black Country Caravans, Tenby Tourers and Swindon Caravans taking the stage on consecutive weekends, with others confirmed for October and November.

If you’re interested in an Adria, check out what your local dealer is doing as part of this roadshow. Not only will it be your first opportunity to view the very latest models, you’ll be able to get great advice too.

And, hopefully, like other manufacturers, things are getting back on track for managing to supply new vehicles based on orders placed any time this year for delivery before the touring season gets going next spring. If you have a caravan or motorhome to trade in, you’ll also be pleasantly surprised at how much it’s worth.

Cornish past it? Or is there still some space?

Have you made it to Cornwall yet, asks an email from the Visit Cornwall tourist organisation? Gosh, are they really open for even more visitors? Much as I love the county, all the reports I’ve heard this summer tell me it’s all full up and campsite bookings are all but impossible. Good luck if you’re planning a last-minute getaway.

Pop-up sites – the WTA way

Wales isn’t the only area of the UK where there’s been an avalanche of pop-up campsites – often nothing more than just farmers’ fields providing leisure vehicle and tent accommodation on a temporary basis – as the country struggles to keep up with demand for places to stay.

The Wales Tourism Alliance (WTA) is hoping to introduce a Register of Pop-Up Campsites to help councils manage unlicensed campsite accommodation across the country. The Welsh Government allows pop-ups to operate for up to 56 days, but such has been the explosion of sites, it’s deemed the time has come for them to have a bit of management.

The WTA itself admits it has no idea how many such sites there are, but it’s calling for a some more official regulation to ensure certain standards are met, as well as certain essentials, from basic hygiene provision (like a proper supply of fresh water and waste disposal facilities).

I’m all for a bit of wild camping – or even semi-wild, as pop-up sites can offer – but, as ever, with such power comes responsibility, and that includes to your neighbours.

Caravan crushInterior of the Xplore 304

Elddis Xplore 304 – Give a little, get a lot

Sprite’s all-new Compact (I’ve yet to see it) may have something to say, but the Xplore 304 from Elddis is a small wonder with few peers. It’s upped its game for 2022 too, with a general smartening up of its appearance as well as some key upgrades, like the Dometic 10 series fridge. You’ll want the £500 SE Pack to bring it up to a decent specification too.

But yes, it really can sleep four, with two a-piece at either end of the living quarters. And it comes with front and rear lounges, a decently specced kitchen and washroom, plus better storage than you’d expect in a diddy 5.5m overall length.

Light on weight as well as price, it currently starts from a smidge over £15,000.Interior of the Xplore 304

Three good: Ten-year bodywork warranty, four-berth capabilities and lightweight for easy towing
Two bad: A bit flimsy in places with compact dimensions mean space is a bit tight
Perfect for… Thinking big, but acting small
Also consider: Adria Action and Bailey Discovery D4-2

The North West tops the table for number of fixed speed cameras

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The north west of England has more speed cameras than anywhere else in the UK, a new study has revealed.

Data collected by the LeaseLoco website found there are 657 fixed roadside speed cameras in the North West, which is something to consider when taking a motorhome trip in this area of the country.

In comparison, the North East was found to have just 137 cameras, a fifth of those in the North West.

While motorhome drivers must stick to the same speeds as other road users, those towing caravans must drive more slowly.

In 70mph locations, caravans are limited to 60mph, which is why they have a reputation for slowing down traffic, but it’s important to keep safety in mind.

With 639 fixed cameras, the South East also has a high density, while there are just 78 across the West Midlands.

John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco, said: “Speed cameras have been a familiar sight on UK roads for years. And this data reveals the disparity between regions when it comes to the number of cameras surveilling our roads, with 500 more across the North West than neighbouring North East England.

“What this data doesn’t reveal is the percentage of these roadside cameras that are currently operational. If Police Authorities’ figures from 2017 are still accurate, then only half of speed cameras are active and motorists may be tempted to gamble in light of these odds.”

He added that it’s irresponsible to play such a game, and even when driving through an area where fixed cameras aren’t active, there’s no immunity from mobile speed cameras.

Those new to driving motorhomes and towing caravans should make sure they’re up to speed on the rules and regulations surrounding their vehicles.

For example, motorhomes over 3,050kg must observe lower speed limits, so it’s vital to understand your vehicles to stay safe and within the law.

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Titus Blair

Nick’s News – An update from Wales, the Benimar Benivan 120 and dogs

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Nick HardingNick’s News – Nick Harding is an expert in all things motorhomes, caravans and camping. Each week, Nick explores products, locations, holiday ideas and essential community information on our behalf – It’s a Hard-ing Life for Nick, but here is what he found this week.

My week

Greetings from Wales, or Pembrokeshire to be a bit more precise, and St Davids to be totally exact. We’ve started the first leg of our Wales-Scotland-Northern Ireland tour and already (four days in as I type) we’ve done loads. It’s busy, though.

St Davids on Monday was some eye-opener, as it was not just really busy, but it’s obvious the hospitality industry is having a real challenge getting staff during what should be its busiest season. We’re slowly learning the lesson that if you really want to go anywhere, book ahead and don’t just turn up on the day.

In the news

Site for sale? – It’s a cool £1million

It’s interesting to note the Camping and Caravanning Club has put one of its campsites up for sale. It’s Ashbourne in Derbyshire, which is perfect for the Peak District. The 70-pitch site, complete with a mixture of grass and hardstandings, also comes with a self-catering unit and a single glamping hut.

These options would be great for holidays with non-caravan/motorhome family members. The asking price for the entire site is one million pounds. Worth a punt? Purchasing a site is one thing, and it does seem particularly good value, but the huge variety of skills needed to run it is a totally different matter.

Setting records – Still not meeting demand

Sales of motorhomes and campervans have reached record levels, according to the National Trade Council (NCC), as 16,608 new motorhomes have been purchased for the year up to this July, if you want the numbers.

That might not sound much, but it follows what has been an upward sales growth for a few years now. Recent factors have no doubt helped, not least the fact that we’re a nation of staycationers, however temporary that may be.

Plenty of folk have missed out on welcoming a new motorhome into their families, of course, and it’s hard not to see the situation staying like this for a while yet. My own feeling is that there are plenty of newcomers to motorhomes who’ve launched into buying one and, for whatever reason, may well be looking to sell it on in the next two years or so. Much as I’ve always loved the motorhome lifestyle, we have to realise it’s never going to be for everyone.

Motorhome for me?

Benimar Benivan 120 – That great value/spec thing

The van conversion market continues its upward rise, but it’s amazing what choice you can get. There’s everything from the likes of independent specialists IH, Murvi and Vantage to mainstream offerings from Auto-Sleepers, Auto-Trail, Elddis and Swift. Then there’s all manner of imported marques, including Adria, Chausson, Hymer, Knaus Malibu, Pilote, Rapido, Roller Team and plenty more.

The Benivan from Spain’s Benimar almost falls into the latter category, although it’s actually built here in the UK and has the kind of specification a UK motorhomer would expect.

A two-berth with a rear two-settee/transverse double bed set-up is also a particular favourite here in the UK. Across Europe they still tend towards permanent beds, even in a 6-metre long vehicle like this. Note the sliding door is on the UK nearside too.

It comes with Fiat’s 160bhp engine as standard, as opposed to a less powerful variant, and the specification really does set it apart from a considerable list of rivals at this, the supposed budget end of the van conversion market.

With a solar panel, gas tank, Xzent stereo, satnav, rear camera system, oven and grill… it packs a real kit punch. Go compare, is what I say. With prices starting at £51,995, it’s Beni good value!

Three good: Favoured floorplan, top value kit levels and 2022 enhancements
One bad: Fiat auto option is expensive.
Perfect for: Measuring what you get for your money
Also consider: Auto-Trail Expedition 67, Swift Select 122

Dog days for the Club?

The Caravan and Motorhome Club reckons a whopping 17 per cent of its members got a new dog during lockdown, which in turn has affected touring habits. Although it hasn’t stopped folk travelling as far and wide as possible with their pooches. Maybe not abroad so much, of course, or indeed Northern Ireland. I speak from recent experience – it’s a nightmare!

When I worked for (ahem) the Other Club, we used to have a saying that a third of members had dogs and loved them, another third didn’t have dogs but were happy to tolerate them on site, and the final third really didn’t want dogs ruining their holidays. In other words, it pays to be considerate… or tolerant… depending on your point of view.

Have you ever considered a themed road trip?

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Since this year is the summer of staycations, just about everyone is planning a road trip, but have you thought about centring your next caravan or motorhome adventure around a theme?

CarParts4Less has put together a list of road trips based around a variety of themes to appeal to everyone from Potterheads to football fans.

The Harry Potter route – 449 miles

Setting out from London and taking in York on the way up to Edinburgh, this route features a number of iconic locations from the Harry Potter series of books and films.

In London, there’s of course Platform 9 ¾ at Kings Cross Station, as well as the Warner Brothers Harry Potter studios, while The Shambles in York was the inspiration for Diagon Alley.

Don’t forget to seek out the grave of Tom Riddle in Edinburgh once you’ve pitched your caravan or motorhome.

The period drama route – 404 miles

Soak up the grandeur of some of England’s most impressive stately homes as you drive your leisure vehicle around Greenwich, Hampshire, Frome, Cheshire and Bakewell.

Your route will include Highclere Castle, which featured in Downton Abbey, as well as Orchardleigh House, where the 2006 retelling of Tess of the D’Urbervilles was filmed.

Finally, channel your inner Elizabeth Bennett or Mr Rochester at Chatsworth House, where scenes for Pride and Prejudice and Jane Eyre have both been shot.

The literary locations route – 401 miles

Beginning in Yorkshire and heading south, there are literary references dotted all over this potential road trip, which takes you to Whitby, Haworth, Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford and East Sussex.

Enjoy the gothic horror of Whitby, where Bram Stoker’s Dracula first landed in England, before heading to the moors around Haworth, which are otherwise known as Bronte country.

Stratford is, of course, the land of William Shakespeares, while Oxford boasts links to Phillip Pullman and J R R Tolkien, and East Sussex is home to Winnie the Pooh’s beloved 100 Acre Wood.

The royal palaces route – 160 miles

Follow in the footsteps of royalty as you take in their residences in London, Windsor and Sandringham in your trusty caravan or motorhome.

No fan of the Queen could resist a stop at Buckingham Palace, while the glittering crown jewels at the Tower of London must be seen to be believed.

Meanwhile, take the Long Walk down to Windsor Castle for spectacular views of the Queen’s favoured residence and stop by the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, where many a royal Christmas has been celebrated.

The football stadium route – 800 miles

This is the ultimate road trip for any football fan, taking in Premier League stadiums from Norwich to Newcastle with London, Watford, Brighton, Southampton, Leicester, Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Liverpool, Manchester, Burnley and Leeds in between.

Whichever team you support it’s always interesting to see the pitches at other clubs, stand in the footsteps of sporting giants and experience the locations where home fans like to celebrate wins and drown their sorrows.

From Carrow Road to St James’ Park, you’ll see a lot of the country through its proudest monuments to sport.

A spokesperson for CarParts4Less, said: “Road trips are such a great way to see large areas of the country, and are a great holiday option for individuals and families who want to see and do a little more during their summer breaks.

“We hope that these themed tours offer some inspiration for anyone, no matter what your interest. Whether you do the trip in a couple of days, or a couple of weeks, they’re sure to keep you interested and engaged.”

 

 

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Karl Moran