North Pennines gets brand new Caravan Club site

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by Holly Tribe

A new 76 pitch Caravan Club site opened last weekend at Teesdale Barnard Castle, in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The North Pennines site is situated in open countryside near the Teesdale Way and Pennines Way. Visitors can take a tour of England’s highest waterfall at High Force, followed by a pint at England’s highest pub, the Tan Hill Inn.

Head of sites Marketing, Catherine Ford commented: “It has everything our members have come to expect from a Club site, and the area has all they could wish for to make a perfect holiday or short break, whatever their interests.”

The £1.5 million development is built to the same exacting standards seen throughout all Caravan Club parks. “I’m very excited about how this wonderful site has come together in a major investment, exclusively for Club members” Catherine added.

The Club has been sympathetic to the surrounding landscape, ensuring the site is well screened using planting schemes that encourage biodiversity. Exemplifying the Caravan Club’s increased commitment to environmentally friendly design, it also incorporates energy saving technologies including rainwater collection, ground source heat exchangers, and the facility to pre-heat water using solar power.

Recent figures suggest that the surrounding region can look forward a significant boost in trade with Caravan Club visitors expected to spend over half a million pounds in the local economy a year.

Click here to find your local Caravan Club Centre in our online community.

First pictures of Marquis Lifestyle range based on Swift caravans

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by Marcus Dubois

Marquis Caravans has announced today the launch of a new range of entry-level caravans. As a dealership, Marquis is better known for its successful retail of new and used motorhomes from established manufacturers. Yet as the UK’s largest dealer network for Swift, its comparative buying power has led to the creation of an exclusive range of tourers.

The seven-model line-up has been custom-built for Marquis by award-winning manufacturer Swift Caravans. The keenly priced range is suitable for those starting out touring, and is based on the Sprite range from Swift. A host of layouts are offered from a lightweight two-berth up to a luxury fixed bed six-berth.

Every model in the Marquis Lifestyle range will come complete with the ‘Diamond’ pack usually offered by Swift Caravans on their Sprite models. On the exterior, this comprises of an AL-KO AKS 3004 stabiliser, a spare wheel and carrier, and a door flyscreen. Included in this pack for the interior is a radio/CD player and a pair of scatter cushions.

Luxury as standard


However in addition to the ‘Diamond’ pack Marquis has added its own improvements to the caravan. Each model is specified with a microwave, and the seating is upholstered with more luxurious fabrics. Keen observers will easily distinguish these from regular Sprites with the addition of sleek graphics to the exterior.

A variety of flexible layouts are available, with the top of the range 620 offering six berths with plenty of space and a flexible seating/sleeping layout. Both the 470 and 620 come with a fixed bed sporting an Ultra Comfort mattress as standard.

From motorhomes to caravans


Those familiar with Swift’s range of motorhomes may have come across the name of Marquis. As the UK’s largest network of dealers for Swift the connection between the two firms has always been a strong one. Yet in addition other unrelated events may have shaped the decision to launch the new Lifestyle range.

As Marquis entered 2010 the firm recently introduced caravan sales to their offering with the launch of Marquis Caravans. Offering new models alongside used caravans with what the firm proclaimed to be an “industry-leading warranty” called CaraMarq, the new venture has already proved successful. The addition of the Lifestyle range based on the popular Sprite should prove popular with buyers making their first entry into caravan ownership.

Caravan couple set for 10,000 mile honeymoon in Swift

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by Chris Malone

A couple of caravan enthusiasts are set to embark on a mobile home journey of epic proportions.

According to BBC News, James Kenny and Donna Collins will celebrate their honeymoon by taking their Corniche built by Swift Caravans on a 10,000-mile journey across Europe.

The pair have invested in a caravan that is 25 years old – the same age as Ms Collins – and hope it will last the journey across Norway, Finland, Russia, Ukraine, Spain, Portugal and a host of other countries.

Mr Kenny married his wife in a traditional ceremony in Yaxley, near Peterborough, on Saturday (July 31st).

The 26-year-old told the news provider that they are hoping to do the trip on the cheap, but that he has invested in a cheap plasma TV so he can still watch his Only Fools and Horses DVDs.

“People think we’re completely insane or they think it’s a great idea and wish they were doing something like it themselves,” he was reported as saying.

Meanwhile, mobile home supplier Homestead Caravans has invested in a new workshop facility.

Owners fight for Eastland Meadows caravan site

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by Chris Malone

A caravan park is set to learn its fate after it was decided that a government inspector will make the final decision on changes to restrictions placed on it.

Maldon District Council had imposed a limit of 28 days on those wishing to stay at Eastland Meadows Country Park, the Maldon Standard reported.

However, the owners are hoping to have it overturned and will welcome the official adjudicator after its February application was turned down by the local authority.

The council is reportedly worried that the site could be used for permanent accommodation if the regulations are relaxed.

This would “reduce the tourism potential and attractiveness of the site in the long term and would set an adverse precedent within the district for other similar caravan parks to respond in a competitive tourist location”, it claimed, according to the newspaper.

Although a date for the hearing is yet to be set, a government official will now have to visit the site and gather evidence before coming to a final decision on its future.

Meanwhile, BBC News has reported that one Northamptonshire couple are planning to visit 27 countries in their caravan to celebrate their honeymoon.

David Bellamy picks Witton Castle in Durham as favourite caravan site

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by Chris Malone

Botanist David Bellamy has revealed that Witton Castle in Durham is his favourite campsite in the UK.

He told the Daily Mail that the Bishop Auckland site is close to his home and features a medieval castle in the middle.

Furthermore, it has just been renovated by its new owners and has room for caravans.

The expert was discussing his David Bellamy Conservation Award Scheme, which is now in its 13th year.

It recognises camping and caravanning sites in the UK that are environmentally friendly and encourages others to follow suit.

It currently ranks 620 venues around the country and separates them into gold, silver and bronze categories.

Bellamy explained that he was amazed by the work of caravan sites when he started the project in 1997.

“There were so many super places,” he told the newspaper. “We soon found that people were very proud of their natural surroundings – all the wild flowers, rabbits, squirrels, even dragonflies.”

One company to be recognised by the David Bellamy Conservation Award Scheme is Haven, which has 31 gold award-winning parks and four silver ones.

Homestead Caravans installs new workshop

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by Chris Malone

Mobile home supplier Homestead Caravans has invested in a new facility that will help it to better serve the needs of its customers.

The firm has created a new workshop that will enable it to carry out a wide range of caravan repairs.

According to Homestead Caravans, the new facility has drawn praise from Abbey, Swift and Elddis – three of the top brands in the UK industry.

Users can rest easy knowing that their vehicles are in the hands of Gas Safe-registered engineers, who will guarantee that any work carried out to gas feeds meets legal requirements and those of insurance firms.

Customers can also have their mobile homes serviced and accessories fitted at the facility, with omnivents, alarm systems and ovens just some of the potential new additions available.

Meanwhile, the Maldon Standard has revealed that the fate of a local caravan park is to be left in the hands of an inspector, who will decide whether to allow guests to stay for longer than 28 days.

Bailey Unicorn: the all-weather caravan

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by Marcus Dubois

Alu-Tech. In the last two years the word has quietly become part of common parlance in caravan circles, such has been the impact of the new range from Bailey Caravans. The term refers to the interlocking aluminium framework, producing a shell which the manufacturer has proclaimed to be stronger than traditional methods. And the public appear to have agreed, with record sales of the Bailey Pegasus and Bailey Olympus in the last year validating the technology.

The Bailey Unicorn is the third range of caravans to use the Alu-Tech construction method, yet it is the first of its kind to carry the Alde heating system as reported recently in Caravan Times. The Alde Compact 3010 Wet Central Heating System will come fitted as standard in both single and twin axle models, and will distribute an even temperature throughout the caravan.

Conventional heating systems are considered adequate for short trips in colder weather, yet often require a fire to provide the heat output. The Alde system however is powered by a 12v circulator using a small current to draw heating fluid through the pipes. Providing an experience akin to central heating in your home it is a significant improvement on regular heating and allows caravanners to use their vehicle in the coldest of conditions.

Thicker panels, less joins

Yet those who have suffered problems in the home will already know that the best heating systems are rendered inadequate if the house is not properly insulated. With this in mind, Bailey has worked hard to improve the state of caravan insulation with Alu-Tech. Thicker body shell panels feature superior grade polystyrene, carrying extra insulation to pipe runs and wheel boxes.

In addition the new design interlocking framework in the construction method has greatly reduced the number of external joints and fixing points by ninety per cent. Timber-free body panels and added protection around doors and windows offer a second level of insulation. This greatly increases the heat containment properties of the Bailey Unicorn, and as such the caravan carries the Grade III Classification of Thermal Insulation for EN1645-I.

A caravan for all seasons

The appearance of radiators concealed behind the furniture has added weight to the Bailey Unicorn, and the manufacturer suggests as much as 50kgs more than the Pegasus range. However it is unlikely to deter potential purchasers who are likely to be true enthusiasts looking for a caravan for all seasons. Last year Caravan Times commented on the surge in popularity of winter caravanning in Britain. The Bailey Unicorn looks set to be the first in a number of well-appointed caravan models launched in 2010, suited for those who demand more from their vehicle outside of the summer months.

Why caravan insurance is a good investment

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by Oliver Knight

Stringent rules surrounding time off school for children and the financial recession have lead to an increase in people looking for budget caravan breaks, it has been suggested.

And with many recent and upcoming events, such as National Camping and Caravanning Week and the National Feast of Lanterns benefitting from this popularity, insurance experts are reminding holidaymakers to take out adequate cover to ensure that they are prepared should any incidents occur.

Currently, owners are not required to take out insurance on their units, but experts claim that in the long-term it should be viewed as a good investment, as money saved from opting for a low-cost break will be rendered futile if you are faced with reparation costs.

Citing statistics from the Camping and Caravanning Club, David Quick, director of Insure My Caravan, states that because of a significant increase in bookings caravans may well be a target for thieves and accidents this summer.

“In light of recent news regarding caravan figures increasing at such a high rate, no risk can afford to be taken to compromise your caravan’s safety, particularly with more expensive models,” he explains.

“Insurance is a small price to pay in relation to damage costs which may be incurred by common incidents such as tipping over, meaning it is well worth being insured simply for peace of mind to ensure an enjoyable holiday.”

To avoid accidents occurring during transportation, caravan owners are also reminded to carry out necessary vehicle checks before setting off.

Fifty percent more orders for Coachman Caravans

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by Oliver Knight

Strong sales at a recent trade show have left one caravan manufacturer confident about the future of the sector.

Hull-based Coachman Caravans has enjoyed its most successful preview to date, with orders 50 per cent higher than last year.

The organisation claims that this recent success at the event, which was held on July 13th and 14th, points to a renewed sense of confidence and optimism in the industry.

Coachman used the trade fair to showcase the 2011 season model updates to its VIP, Laser, Amara and Pastiche ranges.

All the caravans have been given new internal furnishing improvements, while the Amara has been completely revamped inside and out to hopefully appeal to the growing number of families opting for a UK-based break.

“Although the past few years have been very challenging for many in the caravan industry, we have seen strong sales across this period, with the 2010 season being our most successful yet,” Coachman managing director Jim Hibbs said.

The company explained that it has, so far, managed to defy the current economic crisis and invest heavily in innovative machinery and personnel which has led to it enjoying its most successful year to date.

Mr Hibbs reveals that Coachman has spent in excess of £700,000 this year on a new aftercare unit and new computer-controlled machinery.

“We’re still cautious, and we’re not about to make sweeping predictions about the economy, but this show was the strongest signal yet for us that there is cause for optimism among the quality sector of the industry,” he added.

Camping and caravanning more popular than B&Bs

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Camping and caravanning is now officially more popular than bed and breakfasts, according to the latest figures.

Data from the Office for National Statistics has shown that more people are now camping than staying in other forms of overnight accommodation.

It revealed that 5.43 million camping trips were taken during 2009 – a 29 per cent year-on-year rise.

Camping and Caravanning Club spokesperson Jon Dale explained that the situation is helped by the continuation of poor exchange rates and increased environmental awareness.

He noted that Brits are looking for the most cost-effective option and “going back to basics”.

“I think people realise that in this country you can’t guarantee bright sunshine every day, but they use our campsites as a base to get around and explore local countryside and help the local economy at the same time,” Mr Dale said.

A recent survey carried out on behalf of Argos found that TVs, laptops, ironing boards and games consoles are among the top things that Brits are willing to go without while camping.

Catterick Caravans launch Great North Caravan Show

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by Marcus Dubois

It’s the one-stop superstore for caravan enthusiasts in Yorkshire which recently underwent a major expansion to an eight-acre site. Now Catterick Caravans are using the site for their very own event called The Great North Caravan Show.

The caravan show will be a first for the dealership based in Richmond, Yorkshire and will be open from Saturday 18th until Sunday 26th September. Already a host of major caravan manufacturers have pledged to support the event including Buccaneer, Elddis, Lunar, Sprite, Sterling, Swift and T@b.

In contrast with many caravan events, the Great North Show will offer both free admission and free parking for visitors. Around 30 caravans will be on display in the indoor showroom, with space for over 200 caravans outside. As well as vehicle models will be an accessory supermarket and an awning and tent showroom. There’s plenty of fun for all the family with live music, a hog roast, barbeques and children’s entertainers.

“Exciting times for the industry”

Caravan Times spoke to show organiser Matthew Kinsell (pictured, right) of Catterick Caravans who confirmed that visitors could look forward to the new ranges from Swift Caravans.

“Swift will be showing their new ranges. We can’t confirm exactly which models, but I can tell readers that there are some revolutionary products coming from the Swift Group and they’ll be on display.”

He believes the launch of new ranges combined with the spectre of tax rises could make the show a busy one for Catterick. ” It’s exciting times for us because we’ve got this new expanded site, and it’s exciting times for the industry because there’s some very new products coming out that are going to turn heads. We feel a lot of people will be making a beeline for purchasing caravans before Christmas, what with the VAT rise in mind.”

How to get there

The show will take place at Catterick Caravans Outdoor Leisure World, Catterick Bridge, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 7JB. For more information telephone 01748 818391.

DIRECTIONS: From the North take the 1st Catterick exit off the A1 onto the A6136. From the South take the 2nd Catterick exit off the A1. The show ground is located at Catterick Caravans, Brompton on Swale, Richmond, North Yorkshire, DL10 7JB.

Caravan sites, gadgets and accessories for pets

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by Holly Tribe

For many, caravanning without their faithful canine friends is tantamount to leaving a member of the family at home – holidays just wouldn’t be the same without them.

But not all caravan sites are pet friendly, and concerned neighbours may not be as enamoured with your travelling companion as you’d like them to be.

Caravan parks often stipulate certain rules to protect the enjoyment of all holidaymakers. The Caravan Club asks for dogs to be tethered to a lead no longer than 3 metres. However, different parks will have different rules, so it’s always worth checking before you set off. One of our readers recently pointed out an amusing sign at one his favourite caravan sites which read “Dog’s welcome. Children must be kept on a lead”!


Responsible dog owners who abide by the caravan parks’ canine policy shouldn’t be penalised for the small number who let their hounds run amok. So, for all dog lovers out there Caravan Times have compiled a few pet friendly sites and services that can help make your canine’s holiday a happy one.

Pet accessories

Road Refresher is the latest innovation from Prestige Pets, and lays claim to be the worlds best selling ‘Non Spill’ pet water bowl. It’s a nifty devise that lets you put down a water bowl for your dog while in transit without spilling the contents and making a mess of the upholstery. You can transport your pooch and, no matter how bumpy the road or how fast you drive, your dog can arrive refreshed and happy.

Any dog owner will be familiar with the regular chore of removing dog hairs from car seats. This nifty pet hammock seat protector could be a useful solution. It’s a simple design which fits easily over the seats of your vehicle by looping through the rear and front car headrests. The benefit is protection for your upholstery from claw marks and fur detritus. Available in black heavy duty waterproof nylon, the hammock also helps prevent stains caused by any small accidents that might have occurred along way.

Looking for somewhere to stay?

‘Dog Friendly Britain’ has a search facility on their website www.dogfriendlybritain.co.uk that let’s users search for dog friendly camping and caravanning sites across the UK; search results displayed per county.

Trevornick Holiday Park in Cornwall is a beautiful dog friendly site near Newquay in Cornwall. Situated just five minutes walk from the dog friendly Holywell beach where dog owners are welcome to let their pets explore the coastline – just don’t forget to pick up after them!

The ultimate in doggy luxury


For the ultimate in doggy luxury, check out the Airstream 648. The stylish ‘silver bullet’ caravan design includes an impressive array of features including an external shower – perfect for washing muddy paws after an afternoon exploring the countryside.

What are your thoughts? Should dogs be welcomed on caravan sites? Join our discussion here