CaravanTimes Classic Gold: Coachman VIP 560/4

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By Chris Littley

As part of our Classic Gold series, we’re looking back at some of the best caravan and motorhomes of recent years. We’ve reviewed these models in the past, but we want to hear from you about your experiences.

We first reviewed the Coachman VIP 560/4 in February 2014, so we’re going back a bit of a way with this one. That said, when we reviewed the model the first time, we did highlight its excellent build quality, so we’d love to hear from those who can testify to its ability to stand the test of time.

At the time of review, Steve and Lisa Arnold from Northamptonshire had this to say about the Coachman VIP 560/4: “Best caravan on the road is the Coachman VIP. We have had three new ones, but the 2012 model is a fantastic caravan in every way. We also use a Specialised Elite towing cover, which fits perfectly. We recommend this caravan 100 per cent.”

The layout of the caravan was a considerable highlight, with plenty of space for Steve and Lisa, plus their small dog. Indeed, the spacious interior was given a 5/5 rating for the Coachman VIP 560/4.

Overall, Steve and Lisa described it as a “fantastic caravan, 100 per cent”.

Other aspects of the model that we’d love to hear more about include how it stacks up against the latest releases, so if you’ve owned or stayed in a Coachman VIP 560/4 in the past, we’d love to hear from you.

Times they are a-changin’: Caravans have come a long way in 70 years

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By Chris Littley

It’s not so long ago that the typical caravan experience consisted of not much more than sipping a cup of tea while sitting on fold-out furniture, using basic appliances and it wasn’t that much of a step up from camping.

Today, however, camping and caravanning has seen a huge boost in popularity and, in many ways, this surge in interest can largely be put down to the breadth of facilities that now come as standard in any modern caravan.

Over the last 70 years, Yorkshire-based static caravan specialist Willerby has seen it all. Now, the company has come forward with a look back over the evolution of the caravanning experience since its launch in 1946.

In the very earliest days of caravanning there were none of the mod cons that many enthusiasts take for granted these days. As we alluded to earlier, many of these vehicles were extremely basic; fold-out beds and furniture were commonplace, poor insulation, cramped spaces and a lack of electricals all meant that while a caravan getaway was sure to delight with spectacular scenery, the living conditions often left much to be desired.

However, with the rise in leisure time for the typical family and with more disposable income to spend, it wasn’t long before big changes were afoot.

Fast forward to today and the moden caravan is packed full of all the latest gadgets, appliances and modern conveniences that make all the difference for holidaymakers.

Indeed, Kirsten Bolton, marketing director at Willerby, told the Mirror: “Long gone are the days of old-fashioned, lacklustre static caravans; today, we are producing beautiful, luxury holiday homes which appeal to a range of holiday goers.”

Today’s modern caravans are often seen as a home away from home. They have everything the modern holidaymaker needs to enjoy a comfortable break, from spacious living areas and proper furniture to smart TVs on the walls, full internet connectivity, and double-glazed windows.

So, it’s fair to say there’s been plenty of changes in the more than seven decades since Willerby began building its luxury caravans. We’d love to know what you think is the best thing about your caravan.

77 Years Of Holiday Memories

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By William Coleman

Songs, dance and music helped Ladram Bay Holiday Park raise the curtains this March on its 77th year of providing quality family holidays by the sea.

Employees at the Budleigh Salterton park were given a sneak preview of the floor show lined up for this year by its in-house entertainment team.

The occasion was the park’s annual conference which traditionally takes place in the run-up to Ladram Bay welcoming its first guests of the new season.

In addition to the cabaret show, members of the Ladram Bay team – which number around 170 in peak season – enjoyed talks from a series of specialist speakers.

They included former Royal Marine and motivational guru Andy Grant who, despite becoming an amputee after being injured in action, went on to achieve fame as a fearless climber and athlete.

The day’s agenda also highlighted Ladram Bay’s plans to up still further in 2020 its commitment to the principles of green tourism and “holidays with a conscience”.

Delegates heard that the park’s headline objective is to reduce by 33% its carbon footprint through a series of measures designed to harness clean energy.

Providing a flying start is the business’s recent £300,000 investment in a solar energy system which will prevent a massive 171 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually from entering the atmosphere.

The park has also struck a blow against engine noise and air pollution by expanding its fleet of all-electric vehicles – and introducing car charging points for use by customers.

A raft of other measures include new recycling initiatives, more vegan and plant-based products in the restaurant and shop, and further moves to banish single-use plastics.

There will also be a focus on encouraging children to discover more about the importance of protecting the natural world, including new activities with an environmental theme.

Ladram Bay director Zoe House, whose family has owned the park since 1943, said that the business’s continuing commitment to a greener future is fully supported by its customers:

“Many families choose Ladram Bay because of its location in some of Devon’s most beautiful countryside, and like us want to see its future safeguarded,” said Zoe.

“We’re helped in our efforts by a fantastic team who work tirelessly to put our plans into action, and who often come forward with their own ideas.

“We are measuring the impact of all the changes being put in place, and I am confident of achieving our goal of a third less carbon output by the end of this year,” added Zoe.

Ladram Bay provides a wide range of luxury holiday caravans and holiday lodges to rent or own, glamping pods, and pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents.

As well as outstanding sea views and private beach, guests have use of many attractions such as an indoor climbing, swimming pool and splash zone, and adventure golf course.

Adria Introduce One Of Their Most Versatile Motorhomes Yet

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By William Coleman

As the warmer months approach we are all set to take to the roads and camp sites in search of the next adventure. To help guide you on your way we take a look at a very versatile motorhome.

According to the team at Adria the Matrix motorhome range is quite possibly one of their most versatile motorhomes to date. Which is quite interesting as their extensive range gives customers a lot to choose from already.

So what makes the Matrix stand out so much?

First of all you will need to look at each of the layouts. For 2020 you’ll find 5 to choose from which range from 4-5 berths. One thing that is worth noting is that each motorhome has the same amount of belts as sleeping spaces. This makes taking a family of 4 or 5 away a lot easier as there are plenty of seat belts.

Each model, including the Supreme Matrix UK Limited Edition 670 DC, comes with an electrically managed overcab bed which neatly tucks into the ceiling. This means you can use it as a motorhome which is perfect for both couples and families extending it up to 5 berths.

Adria made the decision to add new shorter models that are under 7 meters but have not compromised any of the onboard living space. Smaller vans are growing extremely popular with a lot of younger motorhome users as they enter the industry so it is smart to have a luxury van of this size to cater to this ever growing demand.

Speaking of the interior space, there are three different textiles to choose from to give your motorhome a unique touch of personal taste. Across the line up you’ll find a silver alu-metallic body and luxury hi-spec features. I have always been really impressed with how modern the Adria vehicles are, more hotel than caravan or motorhomes.

New lighting has also been added to ensure that no matter what time of day or year it is the van stays well lit. I especially like the lights around the washroom mirror because it means I would have free reign of the living space while the other half does her make up.

The on board storage is also well worth a mention as each van has so much. There are times when touring that you find yourself compromising what to bring with you but with the Matrix you will not be faced with such challenges.

The large rear garage makes the perfect area for storing your outdoor activity items like bikes, kayaks, tents and sports games. So if you want an action adventure weekend the rear garage on the models will soon become a staple part of your holidays.

Having a shorter van without compromising internal space is always a challenge, and one that few get right. One thing can be said about the Matrix range, it is smaller yet very practical for both long and extended trips.

Caravan Stolen In Germany End Up In Northampton

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By William Coleman

You never ever think it’s going to happen to you until the day comes where you head outside to find that your caravan has been taken away by vehicle thieves. And in the event it does happen I doubt you’d think it would end up hundreds of miles away in a totally different park of the world.

It’s not every day that the police uncover stolen caravans to find out they have travelled several hundred miles from the point they were pinched.

Local officers were not too sure what to make of the situation where they were able to recover two stolen caravans that, after some looking into, were actually lifted from Germany. Bit of a long way to tow a stolen van, I’d imagine you’d do your profit in petrol and toll crossings.

The two caravans were recovered from a woodland area not too far from the Silverstone race course and have yet to be reunited with the owners.

Police soon got word from German authorities that the vans were on a list of stolen vehicles and had travelled well over 500 miles from where they last seen in Germany.

The Northampton Chronicle and Echo got word from a Northamptonshire Police spokesman who said: “A stolen van and two caravans were seized from Hazelborough Forest, near Silverstone, on February 7.

“Enquiries led us to trace these caravans back to their rightful owners in Germany and the police there are now investigating.”

It just goes to show crime knows no length or boundaries and you really do need to keep both eyes on your property before someone has away with it.

Here are a few tried and tested methods to protect your caravan and motorhome from thieves and vandals.

Wheel Locks

Sometimes the most simple method can be the most effective. A wheel lock can be effective in more ways than one.

The initial effect of the wheel lock is that it cannot be easily removed, not without making a lot of commotion and noise. An opportunistic thief would take one look and instantly be put off by the amount of work needed to remove the lock.

Some owners I know use a chain with a padlock, a practice that I cannot recommend as they are extremely easy to remove. All it takes is a pair of bolt cutters and then just like that your van is gone.

So invest in a decent wheel lock which is both a visual and physical deterrent. Well worth the investment which will also work for short and long term storage.

A Block Can Be A Defence

Another really silly one, well not that silly as I see a lot of people not doing it, is to park your tow car or primary vehicle in front of your caravan.

If your caravan or motorhome is blocked in then it will make it extremely difficult to get to. This way you do not have to buy any additional kit, should you not already have it.

I realise that this only works if you have a front garden or drive at the front of your home so it may not work for everyone.

Another good system, which can cost under £100, is a hitch post of moveable security barrier. Something so small and simple is super effective. The hitch post in such a good invention which will immediately put off anyone who tries to make off with your vehicles.

The small movable security poll/barrier is universal, unlike the hitch post, so it is ideal for motorhome or campervan owners.

Door Locks

The lock on a caravan or motorhome doors are not exactly known for their durability. I have seen some doors removed with very little force and some locks picked within a minute or so.

If they cannot take the van you can bet they will try and walk away with something. So the next best thing is to get inside to see what they can make off with.

Pretty much anyone, especially someone who knows what they are doing, can get inside a caravan with little to no effort.

So to reinforce your caravan door I would strongly suggest adding an additional external door lock. If you shop around you can pick one up quite cheap, which I would avoid like the plague. You buy cheap, you buy twice, but on the second purchase you may have to replace most of the contents of your van.

I would speak to whoever you bought your van from to see who they recommend or if buying new get it fitted before you pick it up. A brand that always comes highly recommended is Fiamma so I would always point someone in that direction.

Why The Campsite Is The Best Way To Escape The Corona Hysteria

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By William Coleman

Let’s take a good look at why the campsite is the best place to go if you want to get away from all the hysteria and madness of this current Covid-19 situation. Space, fresh air, like minded people and a lot of open personal space, seems like the best best excuse to get away.

It seems as though there are two trains of thought when it comes to the corona issue, 1. It will be fine just relax and wash your hands. 2. Buy every single sheet of toilet paper known to man. But, there are some sensible soles out there who probably own caravans or motorhomes and should take this opportunity to take an extended “isolation” break.

On Friday, just after we were unfortunately informed that Morocco had closed their borders and ended the Bailey #SaharaChalenge, the question was asked “is a caravan site the best place to escape the corona outbreak?”. And I think the answer has to be a strong yes.

In no way is this article making light of the situation but I want to help everyone, if I can, keep a cool head and not worry too much about what is happening. And if anything I hope that reading this will lead you to get away for a well deserved break. Why not turn this negative into a positive and support the touring industry and your local economy during a time of need.

If you look at most touring sites across the UK, especially the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s CL Sites, they are off the beaten track and surrounded by woodland. It is in these locations that you’ll find a low rate of human traffic and an abundance tranquility, two things that are sure fire ways to slow the spread of this nasty virus.

So, how are pitching rules the saviour of this situation?

Pitch Distancing

The caravan pitch seems as though it knew this was going to happen and has some built in safeguarding rules for a global event like this. Due to fire safety laws caravans, motorhomes or campervans have to be a minimum of 6 meters away from another when pitched.

This gives you the perfect situation to both enjoy your surroundings while keeping a safe distance from other people should you want to self isolate.

Once you are located a safe distance away from your neighbour you can also erect your awning, set up the BBQ and make your mobile house a home for an extended period of time.

Keeping A Clear Head

Over the years the link between the great outdoors and good mental health have gone hand in hand together. Mental and physical health are both equally important; they can affect each other in many different ways. So it is safe to say that keeping a healthy mind and body will benefit your life greatly.

As time goes on the taboo of talking about mental wellness is diminishing, but it is not fully gone, and I think this current global situation is going to have a lot of people feeling uneasy. In some cases some may even feel embarrassed about mentioning the fact they feel anxious about it.

So, first of all, never hide how you feel and now is the best time to voice concerns because stressing yourself out will make you unwell.

Secondly, fresh air will make you feel a lot better in both body and mind. Get your van, get some supplies and embrace to freedom you longed for when buying your dream touring home.

The fresh breeze, open air, woods, walks and most importantly the peace of mind knowing you’re out in nature away from the hustle of bustle where all the stress is taking place.

Staying healthy is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself against illness, so get out there and get healthy.

The Perfect Self Contained Self Isolation

If you want to avoid coming into contact with this Covid-19 virus then the self containment in the caravan is the best way to do so, for many reasons.

The main one is the ease of maintaining a high level of cleanliness. Yes, caravans can be quite spacious but they are also quite small in comparison to static caravans and houses. It is this compact aspect that makes the cleaning so much easier.

Now, if a loved one does come down with corona you can make a decision, who stays in doors, who stays in the caravan. This is a much safer way to keep a close distance while still keeping an eye on another.

I would much rather be contained in a caravan where I have my own cooking and wash facilities than share in doors and risk passing it on to a family member.

Perfect For School Closure

We are not there yet, but if you look at the steps being taken across the world it shouldn’t be too long before the schools close for a few weeks. This looks like it could cause issues with both child care and containing your children from going out and possibly coming into contact with something nasty.

If and when the schools close there will be a lot of children with not much to do, so why not, if you can, take them on a trip.

This is a good way to keep everyone sane as well as stopping the children from popping to town centers, bowling and cinemas where it is believed contact can happen.

On Site Out Of Mind

When I go away on a trip in the van I do my best to avoid social media, the news or any extended internet use. For me it defeats the object of getting away from it all. And now is the time where we need that the most.

At the moment everywhere you look is doom and gloom, from print to online media all you’re shown is corona, corona, corona. So why not just switch off, relax and wait for the whole thing to blow over with a nice cup of tea and a few different cakes.

While onsite you can take full advantage of your surroundings and if you are lucky enough to find yourself near a local quiet high street you needn’t go home for quite a while.

The Club Support For Disabilities Scheme

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By William Coleman

The Caravan and Motorhome Club have just announced that they are now supporting the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme for both members and employees across its UK campsites network.

The caravan world is a community that very much loves to help and contribute when and where possible, so it is great to see the Club demonstrating their dedication to the community they have helped build and preserve.

Disabilities come in many different forms and each one is unique from person to person. Some people who have unfortunate ailments sometimes strive for independence and do not want to be defined by their disabilities, this is where the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme comes into play.

Not all disabilities are openly visible and are worth highlighting without causing any discomfort to those who may come into contact with someone who does not openly display signs of disability. The scheme’s concept is simple; people with a hidden disability can wear or display a sunflower product, such as a colourful lanyard or car sticker, so others are aware they need support.

The Club is introducing lanyards, pins and stickers on its Club campsites for people with hidden disabilities to wear and campsites will also display the scheme’s posters to help spread awareness and understanding.

Nick Lomas, director general of the Caravan and Motorhome Club said: “All of us at the Caravan and Motorhome Club are delighted to be supporting this excellent scheme that enables us all to be a little more understanding of each other’s needs. We hope that Club members and staff alike will embrace the scheme whether they have a hidden disability or can offer support to someone who does.”

Paul White, CEO Hidden Disabilities Sunflower said: “We’re really excited that the Caravan and Motorhome Club is introducing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme into their UK community, for staff as well as members. This can only help people who have hidden disabilities get the most from their time in the great outdoors.”

The scheme is supported by a number of high profile organisations across the UK, including M&S or Sainsbury’s, and is now receiving international recognition. To find out more, visit www.hiddendisabilitiesstore.com

There are a large number of hidden disabilities out there that we may come across every day without noticing, and those who have them may not want to highlight them and suffer in silence. It is great to see an organisation recognizing this and dealing with it so those affected do not have to worry about dealing with the alone.

Morris Leisure Hope To Ludlow Holiday Home Dream Come True

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By William Coleman

Opportunities to own a dream holiday home on the edge of the thriving medieval market town of Ludlow are few and far between.

Properties are in hot demand in the pretty South Shropshire town, which is regularly named in the list of best places to live in the UK.

Now Shropshire-based Morris Leisure is in a position to make dreams come true. The company has 15 pitches available on its new Ludlow Holiday Home Park, which nestles between the River Teme and the town centre.

Five pitches have already been sold on the first phase of the park, which is situated alongside the A49 near Richards Castle, just a five-minute drive or a bus ride from the town centre

The park has been developed alongside Morris Leisure’s successful Ludlow Touring Park and the available pitches are well spaced to offer privacy. Holiday home hunters will discover that the park is located perfectly to explore Ludlow and the beautiful South Shropshire countryside.

One of Ludlow’s greatest attractions is its location, within an hour’s drive of Birmingham and the West Midlands.

The historic town centre and the 11th century Ludlow Castle are situated on a cliff overlooking the River Teme. Renowned as the gastronomic capital of England, the town had poet John Betjeman waxing lyrical about “the loveliest town in England”.

With its buzzing market and popular food and arts festivals throughout the year, Ludlow is an architectural gem and an excellent base for walking and cycling, with the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty nearby.

Ludlow richly deserves its reputation for quality, artisan food and drink, with many excellent restaurants and cafes serviced by local producers. This is showcased every September when Ludlow Food and Drink Festival attracts food lovers from far and wide.
Walkers can explore the South Shropshire Hills of Longmynd, Caer Caradoc, the Stiperstones and Wenlock Edge, while to the west awaits the unspoilt countryside, towns and village of Mid Wales.

Morris Leisure’s managing director Edward Goddard said: “Ludlow is a very special place to live and visit. We are delighted to have been able to develop a caravan holiday home park alongside our successful touring park to bring even more sustainable tourism to the town.

“People who love visiting the area now have an opportunity to own an affordable holiday home in Ludlow and we hope many of the touring caravan and motorhome owners who regularly stay on our touring park will be encouraged to invest.

“We have holiday homes available from £30,000 to £75,000 and finance packages can be arranged for people who wish to exchange their touring caravan or motorhome.”

UK Budget To Reverse Motorhome Tax Hike

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By William Coleman

This week has been a bit of a crazy one following the Budget reform and has brought some amazing news for the touring industry as the Vehicle Excise Duty on new motorhomes sees a dramatic turnaround.

As I am sure everyone in the caravan and motorhomes world is aware, the VED on new motorhomes was set to increase up to 705%. Something that could have seen a potential collapse of sales and new people to the industry. Not to mention the loss of jobs and possible closure of companies due to people not wanting to buy new motorhomes.

This is all now set to change thanks to the new Budget review that was announced a couple of days ago. This news has been very much welcomed by dealers and manufacturers across the UK. The managing director of a leading Shropshire leisure business as “fantastic news for the industry and motorhome sales”.

As of the 12th of March 2020 the annual VED for most, not all, new motorhomes will be set at a flat rate of £265. This number will increase to £270 from April 1st 2020. Hopefully the £5 jump won’t break the bank too much.

When the the new VED was announced late last year it saw quite a lot of backlash and prompted the #fairmotorhometax campaign by the National Caravan Council (NCC), the trade association for the leisure vehicle industry, which was backed by 85 cross-party MPs.

Following Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s Budget statement, the NCC announced that its battle for Fair Motorhome Tax was won. Delighted NCC Director General John Lally thanked MPs, members and the industry for their support.

Mark Bebb, managing director of Shrewsbury-headquartered Salop Leisure, an award-winning caravan and motorhome dealership, said: “The Chancellor’s decision to reverse this extremely unfair tax is fantastic news for future motorhome sales and the leisure industry in general.

“Our thanks and congratulations go to the NCC and partners for working so tirelessly to reverse the huge tax rise which was bad news for British manufacturing jobs and potentially damaging for UK tourism.

“The industry can now look forward to a return of the strong demand for motorhomes which we as a business experienced last year.”

Mr Lally described leisure vehicle manufacturing as a British success story. “The steady growth the motorhome industry had seen up to the time of the tax hike was almost instantly halted,” he said.

“We are delighted that our new Chancellor has so quickly understood that motorhomes and campervans should not be taxed as cars, that he has shown concern about the threats to our industry and taken this action to preserve jobs.

“Motorhomes will now return to being taxed as vans, which is logical as the vast majority are based on a commercial vehicle chassis. This is an amazing result for us, for this vibrant manufacturing industry and for the many thousands who take motorhoming holidays – the vast majority in the UK – each year.”

At this time I can just picture in my mind dealers and manufacturers taking a seat and having a quiet moment to reflect on this enormous win and taking a sigh of relief.

For a while I was totally unsure how the industry would react, and more importantly how the consumers would react to such a gigantic hike in price.

For now though it seems that all is right with the world and things have gone back to the way they used to be. New vans can sell to new owners and sites can fill up with sparkling vans direct from the forecourt.

Is this the end of the chapter? Only time will tell. It is not like the Government to leave money on the table, but in light of current events the UK leisure industry might just be one of the saving graces that we have.

Caravan Park With Fishing Appeal Award Win

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By William Coleman

A family’s Somerset touring park, where a well-stocked fishing lake has a special lure for anglers, has landed a major environmental award.

Coming from a family that grew up with carp anglers and trout fishermen it is refreshing to see a site with such a strong focus on fishing, something I wish a lot more sites would do.

Withy Water park, near Burnham-on-Sea, has been announced as a winner of the prestigious David Bellamy Conservation Award at its top gold level.

The green tourism award scheme was founded 25 years ago by botanist David Bellamy who sadly passed away in December 2019.

Assessors for the award said that business owners Beverly and Jim Baker had created “a wildlife wonderland” on the park which is part of the couple’s dairy farm.

Located near the village of East Huntspill, Withy Water is set in 10 acres of tranquil countryside and provides pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents.

Beverly Baker said that the adults-only park, which first started welcoming guests a decade ago, has a particular appeal to lovers of natural beauty:

“Even though our roots here go back many years, we still feel very privileged to be able to live and work in the beautiful part of Somerset,” she said.

“Perhaps because of our farming background, we’ve always been concerned to manage Withy Water in a sustainable way, so this award is very special to us.

“We’ve received many congratulations from our friends, neighbours and customers – so I’m sure we’ll now be spurred on to even greater things!” added Beverly.

Helping the park to wing its way to David Bellamy’s award are its large areas of wild flowers which provide vital foraging for honey bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

The high nectar-bearing blooms flourish in Withy Water’s wildflower garden, and flowers also feature in upcycled planters such as milk churns and wheelbarrows.

The park’s lake, stocked with many types of fish to challenge angling holidaymakers, also acts as a magnet for a rich variety of wildlife including dragonflies and water fowl.

Award assessors praised the park’s planting of many native trees and shrubs, including a new stretch of hedging which has created additional animal habitats and food resources.

In addition, shielded illumination helps visitors to enjoy Somerset’s starry night skies.

The family was also applauded for its engagement with the nearby community, including fundraising for good causes and welcoming local folk to walk and fish in the grounds.

In addition to its main award, the park also received four extra commendations for protecting honey bees, creating new hedgerows, providing woodland habitats, and planting wild flowers.

Beverly said she hoped that the park’s accolade would also benefit other local businesses by shining the spotlight on what a wonderful area Somerset is to enjoy a holiday.

There is more information about the park on its website a www.withywater.co.uk

Coachman 2020 Lineup Revisited

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By William Coleman

Last year the CaravanTimes team saw the Coachman 2020 line up and it was hard to not like what was on display. As we enter the new season we take another look at what makes these caravans stand out from the crowd.

From the Arcadia to the Laser you will see as many similarities as differences as Coachman firmly believe in having a very high minimum standard across their range. And as I have said before there is not really an “entry level” van in the lineup, despite the differences in price.

Yes, there is a caravan that is an entry level price, the Arcadia 460, but you do get a lot of bang for your buck and anyone looking at a first time van on the smaller and cheaper side should be looking at Coachman.

Each caravan from every range comes from the factory with everything you need for a successful weekend or week away. If you want a much more advanced caravan there are quite a few optional extras with prices ranging from as little as £35 all the way to £3050, which gets you an E&P self levelling system just in case you were wondering.

The Acadia

This is what is considered, but is very different from others at this price, as the entry level Coachman caravan. From what I have seen of this range the only thing that makes this entry level is the price.

There are some manufacturers out there that do a lower price van just to keep up with their competition, but they are very much entry level and more often than not these vans go into the second hand market fairly fast.

The starting price, £21,800, will get you the 460 which is a twin bed 2 berth with a rear washroom and central kitchen.

Showing real innovation and market reach, Coachman have added staggering 10 different models to the Acadia range that have 2 to 5 berth options.

The VIP

The VIP has, for a considerable amount of time, been Coachman’s flag ship van when it comes to sales. Their best seller is a competitive price when you look at the amount of luxury you get on board, not to mention yet more high level of finish.

From the outside the VIP vans may not look as futuristic and overly decorated as some vans on site but this is actually a good thing. For a while now I have been seeing some over the top decals on vans and have grown to enjoy the more simple vans who have stuck to a more traditional look.

2020 brings 5 models to the VIP roster which range from single and twin axles with 2-5 berth options.

Throughout each layout there is quite a lot of space. Both the kitchen and boutique bathrooms are spacious and comfortable and look very modern, think more house than caravan.

One thing that I absolutely love is the addition of a contactless phone charging pad. This shows that Coachman are trying to keep an eye on the tech world without overloading the van and making it look like the inside of an Apple Store.

There are also several other new additions this year:

  • Tibero interior steel chassis including locker design
  • Seitz superior one piece exterior door with high security locker system
  • Domestic style ladder radiator in bathroom
  • High security ibe key locking system

On certain models you’ll find additional under bed access lockers, which is new for this year’s line up as well as a stainless steel sink with glass lid.

There is a lot to look at if you think the VIP is for you and I think the main choice you make will be based on who will be using the van, couples or families.

Your buy in price will be around £25,425, which will get you the 460 2 berth single axle. The highest you’d shell out would be VIP 575 which gives you a double island bed with and a fold out at the front.

Laser and Laser Xcel

In the Laser range you will find the top of the mountain when it comes to Coachman and here you also find the new Laser Xcel models which provide so much space they need to be seen to be believed.

Coachman truly feel that the Laser is the benchmark for caravan luxury and really do pack a lot of comfort on board, but it does come with a price.

Across the 5 models you’ll find all the models sit on twin axles and are all 4 berths. So it is safe to say there are no basic features to be found here.

For 2020 Coachman have introduced two 8ft wide models to meet the growing demand for vans that are larger inside without being too tricky to tow.

These new wider vans have some unique features to show off:

  • 8ft wide fully bonded aerodynamic body shell with full width panoramic window
  • Dual locker storage system with designated gas locker
  • E&P self levelling system system
  • Kitchen design with enhanced work space and additional storage

So it is safe to say that Coachman does offer quite a wide variety that will suit the novice user and the seasoned veteran alike. With the rise in popularity of the wider van Coachman have gone the extra mile to make their 8ft vans more than just a van that is bigger than the average.

Things Go Quiet At Devon Park

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By William Coleman

As the touring world becomes more aware of the impact it has on the planet and local environments caravan parks and companies are changing their ways to preserve the only planet we have.

Fossil fuels are slowly but surely being fazed out, which is something that the caravan and motorhome world has yet to openly deal with, and many companies across the world are doing all they can to move away from them and become “Green”.

One park who have totally embraced this green change is Ladram Bay Holiday Park in Devon who are tackling more than just pollution caused by fuels and one use materials.

Ladram are taking the fight noise pollution, which they know they have been creating over the year. So, how is a fairly large site going to reduce the noise created? Electric is the answer, the fleet on site down in Devon is now full electric and almost totally noise free.

This is not the first time the family-run park, winner of the David Bellamy Conservation Award, have swapped fossil fuel vehicles for electric to cut down on emissions.

This new move brings the total number of electric vehicles to 5 in use at Ladram Bay in Budleigh Salterton, and at its sister-park Castle Brake in Woodbury, near Exeter.

Plans have also been announced for electric charging points to be installed at Ladram Bay so that customers don’t suffer from “range anxiety” during their stays.

The move is the latest in a bid by Ladram Bay to become one of the UK’s most sustainable holiday parks where guests can enjoy their stays with a clear conscience.

Recently, the park announced plans to spend around £300,000 this year on a state-of-the-art solar energy system across various buildings in its grounds.

Energy experts forecast that after the work is completed next month, Ladram Bay will be preventing a massive 171 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually from entering the atmosphere.

Ladram Bay director Zoe House, whose family has owned the park since 1943, said that the business’s additional commitment to electric vehicles was a logical next step:

“Our team needs to make a lot of stop-start journeys around Ladram Bay and Castle Brake, and this isn’t an efficient use of petrol and diesel vehicles,” she said.

“We were also concerned about the noise they created, and the effect of the engine emissions on our wildlife as well as the atmosphere generally.

“Electric vehicles are a perfect solution as they are non-polluting and much quieter – something which I’m sure our guests who enjoy a lie-in will appreciate!” added Zoe.

Meanwhile, Ladram Bay is awaiting with excitement next month’s South West Tourism Excellence awards in which it is a finalist in the Holiday Park of the Year category.

The park reached the finals after taking the top gold award last autumn in the Devon Tourism Awards, and was described by judges as “a true leader of holiday parks in the South West.”

Ladram Bay provides a wide range of luxury holiday caravans and holiday lodges to rent or own, glamping pods, and pitches for touring caravans, motorhomes and tents.

As well as outstanding sea views and private beach, guests have use of many attractions such as an indoor climbing, swimming pool and splash zone, and adventure golf course.

There’s also a restaurant and take-away, a beach-side shack where watersports equipment can be hired, and first-class day and evening family entertainment.