Europe’s worst destinations for tourist scams

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Europe is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and bustling cities, nestled amongst breathtaking scenery, sandy beaches and charming towns, with weather ranging from the chilling lows of Scandinavia to the bright sunny spells of the Mediterranean.

For caravan and motorhome owners in the UK, this means there are plenty of international adventures to be had just a metaphorical stone’s throw from our doorstep.

But any destination that brings in hundreds of thousands of visitors is likely to suffer a certain level of scams and other criminal activities. From pickpocketing to online booking cons, one thing is for certain – you need to have your wits about you.

Many Brits will already be familiar with London’s tourist traps, as globally famous landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben unfortunately come with individuals looking to profit from unsuspecting holidaymakers.

That’s according to research from Quotezone.co.uk, which investigated the European destinations where tourists felt most cheated, based on online reviews from people who had recently visited.

But London’s not the only place on the list…

The European Scam Index

The European Scam Index saw France top the list by some distance, with 748 reviews on travel websites that mentioned authors being scammed. In fact, the Eiffel Tower alone made up 537 of those reports, making it the destination where tourists were most likely to fall victim to swindlers.

Spain and Italy rounded off the podium, receiving 91 and 72 reviews featuring scams respectively. The UK featured in sixth place, while Austria came in at tenth, with just 13 scams mentioned in reviews.

Greg Wilson, CEO of Quotezone, noted that these results only scratched the surface of how many tourists are being scammed while visiting Europe’s top destinations. He said: “Visitor hotspots are focal points for anyone looking to target tourist dollars, leaving many feeling they have been shortchanged.”

View the full list below.

Top European destination Reviews mentioning scams
France 748
Spain 91
Italy 72
Turkey 67
Greece 64
UK 37
Croatia 26
Poland 26
Portugal 17
Austria 13

The travel insurance comparison experts at Quotezone have advised tourists to avoid carrying cash in crowded areas and to ensure any credit or debit cards are kept in a secure bag, either strapped under your clothes or across your chest.

Additionally, if you wish to store your belongings in a locker at an attraction or station, be certain to get a key from an official, rather than anyone approaching you on the street attempting to sell fake items.

Be cautious of people offering to take photos of you or claiming to have gifts and always pre-order tickets to attractions from official sources with a high volume of positive reviews.

Photo credit: Pixabay / Pexels

Which Lake District pub has the best quiz?

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Tea and biscuits, fish and chips, salt and vinegar… These are just some of the world’s most synonymous pairings. Some things are just better together and when it comes to a British staycation, you can’t go wrong with a pub quiz.

In the UK, we’re very lucky to have such a diverse, interesting and beautiful landscape, including the ever-popular Lake District. A land of towering mountains, tranquil lakes and enchanting market towns, it’s an ideal destination for your next caravan or motorhome adventure.

We Brits have a charming habit of combining outdoor activities in serene backdrops with pub culture, but finding one with a quiz that’s worth staying for isn’t always as easy as it sounds. 

Luckily, the experts at Pure Leisure have unearthed the top five hidden gems in the Lake District pub quiz scene, in no particular order.

The Mardale Inn, Bampton

The Mardale Inn is a cosy, wholesome pub with a strong community feel. It serves both local ales alongside beverages you’d expect from any pub worth its salt, with tantalising food and, most importantly, a brilliant monthly quiz.

Local pubs with a strong sense of community are a Lake District staple, but The Mardale Inn is different. In 2022, the establishment had been closed for five years. However, 500 members of Bampton Valley Community Pub rallied together to raise £400,000 and purchase it.

The Sun Inn, Bassenthwaite

A traditional country pub, complete with muddy boots and paws, as well as cycle racks for anyone taking a quick break from their exercise to see off a pint or two.

The Sun Inn is immersed in beautiful greenery and always packed with charming, friendly locals. It hosts various charity quizzes for great causes, with recent participants raising £400 for Keswick Mountain Rescue.

The Pheasant Inn, Allithwaite

Family-run since 2005, The Pheasant Inn offers something that makes it unique – a free supper with the pub quiz. An authentic display of Cumbrian hospitality if we’ve ever seen one and, considering the quiz costs only £2 to enter, it’s certainly a local favourite.

The main bar area of the Mortal Man dates as far back as 1689 and it has always been a public house. Originally known as the ‘White House’, it was nicknamed ‘Mortal Man’ after the late 19th century carol of the same name.

The Mortal Man Inn, Windermere

Another scenic pub in the British countryside, The Mortal Man sits high on the edge of a valley near Windermere. This is a traditional, old-school venue, offering classic ales to enjoy in a setting of vintage decor and wooden ceiling beams.

Every Wednesday, locals rendezvous at The Mortal Man for its interactive pub quiz, featuring a mix of classic questions and exciting games. It’s slightly different every time, so you can always expect a treat.

The Royal Barn, Kirkby Lonsdale Brewery

This establishment opened its doors in 2016 and immediately became a fan favourite. Astutely nicknamed ‘The Barn’, it perfectly blends both the modern and traditional, with 12 hand pulls and eight taps to boot.

The Barn’s mix of contemporary and industrial aesthetics was thoughtfully considered to give it a unique yet cosy feel. To match, its pub quizzes offer slightly more production value than many and the ticketed events have plenty of prizes to be won.

Photo credit: ANNA B / Pexels

Best National Trust sites to up your Instagram game

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As our attention turns to autumn touring adventures, National Trust properties are the perfect addition to a caravan trip. After all, many combine beautiful gardens with an interesting indoor space, offering options for activities in response to the changeable British weather.

As well as representing fun for all the family, these destinations offer the chance to snap some seasonal content for your socials. So, which National Trust locations should you be including on your next caravan or motorhome trip if you want to up your Instagram game? The garden and outdoor experts at Hayter have the answers.

Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim

Not only is Northern Ireland’s most well-known natural attraction managed by the National Trust, but the Giant’s Causeway is also a World Heritage Site. Visiting the 40,000 interlocking basalt columns is bound to be the highlight of any trip exploring the 130 miles of rugged coastline in this part of the world in your leisure vehicle.

Some 346,000 Instagram posts have been created of the Giant’s Causeway.

Dunham Massey, Greater Manchester

The Georgian house at Dunham Massey on the outskirts of Manchester is exactly the kind of property that’s conjured up in the mind’s eye when you think of the National Trust. But it’s the architectural oddities and natural ecosystem found within its grounds that really make this northern gem stand out.

Dunham Massey has attracted 73,000 pics on the image-sharing site.

Stourhead, Wiltshire

When you visit the 2,650-acre estate at Stourhead in Wiltshire, it’s easy to see why it was once described as a ‘living work of art’. Yes, there’s Stourhead House, but it’s the gardens centred around a magnificent lake and ringed with enchanting grottoes that really steal the show. They’ll certainly look good on the grid.

Your posts will join the 71,500 of Stourhead already on the ‘Gram.

Fountains Abbey, North Yorkshire

How would the stately horns of a deer look on your grid? Well, Fountains Abbey is home to a deer park, as well as the vast ruins of a Cistercian monastery and a Victorian church. Wander through the 18th-century landscaped gardens and find corners of your own for the whole family to enjoy.

Add your pictures of Fountains Abbey to the 66,100 uploaded to Instagram.

Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire

More of a chateau in the style of the French renaissance than a manor house, Waddesdon is seriously impressive. Once owned by the Rothschilds, the property features turrets and an extensive art collection, as well as family favourites like a wooden playground and even an aviary.

Over 48,700 images of the picturesque estate can be found on Instagram.

Annual family membership to the National Trust costs £146.40 for two adults and two children and gets better value the more you use it. A tour of properties managed by the trust offers great focus to caravan or motorhome families, with many people ticking off multiple sites in a single trip.

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Sean Kuriyan

Caravan Design Awards 2024: the highlights

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Dan Cartwright has over 12 years of experience in the caravan and motorhome industry. He is a judge for a number of prestigious leisure vehicle awards and regularly heads off in his motorhome with his family. Every week, Dan shares his insights with the community. Here’s what he has to say this week.

I’ve just returned from Birmingham, having spent the last five days at the Motorhome and Caravan Show at the NEC. I got there on Saturday to spend a few days during setup adding the finishing touches to the judging of the Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Caravan Design Awards 2024.

For those unaware of the event, manufacturers submit models to certain categories, including layout, price or specific attributions to family caravanning. Then, they’re judged by a panel of eight expert judges – or seven expert judges and me!

We spent two weeks scrutinising every little detail against predefined scorecards digitally, in the same way a customer would when conducting research online. Then, we had four days at the show visiting each and every caravan submitted to ratify our results.

Physically, we inspect all of the things that, unfortunately, caravan manufacturers are not always entirely accurate or forthcoming about online. This allows us to double-check our scores in person.

Like I’ve said many times before, it’s truly a pleasure to be a judge at these events. Sometimes, it’s incredibly eye-opening, too!

For the full list of winners, head to the Caravan and Motorhome Club website. And for my judging highlights, get comfy and read on.

Adapting to the digital age

The caravan market is typically slow to adopt new technology. When it does, it’s usually implemented on the high-end ranges before funnelling down to more affordable models.

However, this year, I’ve seen what I would almost describe as an explosion of wonderful new tech, designed for people entering the market and in line with how we live at home, utilise media and consume entertainment.

USB-C adoption

Now, caravans have had USB sockets for a long time, but we’re finally starting to see the slightly more useful USB-C standard creeping into certain models.

Well done to Adria, who seems to be leading the way on this. It’s so useful to have USB-C ports available in the modern world because so much technology relies on them to charge. Now, I know that with my phone, laptop and other devices, I can rely on a caravan with the correct sockets and a reasonable amperage.

Portable lights

In certain Eriba and Adria models, we noticed lights that could be detached, with their own batteries. How useful that would be to guide you to the toilet block in the middle of the night!?

Obviously, most people would be using these to light up the awning on a nice evening and, surprisingly, you can even charge your phone from the same battery. No more big torches by the door, these are stylish, innovative and incredibly functional.

Stereo upgrades

The caravan industry is starting to pivot away from car stereos and favour Bluetooth technology. 

Bailey of Bristol implemented a SONOS speaker with a dedicated cradle, in which it can charge, but also can be detached to take anywhere you’d like – the beach, awning or even the toilet block if you want to!

It’s high quality, well thought out and much more in line with how people utilise technology in other areas of their lives. Another interesting point from Bailey is that this technology is in their entry-level Phoenix model, not hidden behind the curtain of luxury ranges.

Wireless charging

I’ve noticed a proliferation of wireless charging points this year. If you’re relaxing in your caravan, just pop your phone or other compatible device on the unit for a few minutes for a little boost, without cables going everywhere. 

Many also pop up to reveal additional USB sockets if your device isn’t compatible with wireless charging, which is fantastic to see.

Mood lighting

Mood lighting, dimmer switches and lighting modes are now a thing you can use to embrace a feeling of zen in your caravan and create the perfect atmosphere.

Some of these are controlled by apps, others by switches, but with LED lighting being so popular in features like edging, awning rails and countertops, controlling the colour, tone and overall mood is a welcome addition.

Layouts

I’m sure some of my fellow judges would argue they’re not all that new, but I’ve noticed some really innovative family layouts this year.

Previously, the options were just bunk beds, side dinettes and the like. Now, there are so many layouts, including those with full-sized bunks and rear lounges.

Regardless of how old your children are, the variety of large family layouts means you’re much more likely to find one that’s perfect for you. I think more families are now entering the caravanning world than ever before and to see manufacturers respecting this and considering the best use of space is fantastic.

The first integrated electric caravan

Finally, there’s an integrated electric caravan – the KNAUS YASEO. Whilst it didn’t win in its category, it must be said that the technology is really cool.

This two-berth caravan is designed to take loads of kit on an active holiday. It can plug into your EV and charge directly from your car, which is perfect if you want to do some wild camping.

The YASEO has induction hobs for that full off-grid experience and not having to worry about your leisure battery going flat is very reassuring. It’s fair to say there’s a little bit of work to do on the layout, but this kind of tech is amazing to see coming onto the market.

Final thoughts and the winners

If you’re visiting the NEC show this weekend and thinking about purchasing a caravan, the awards aren’t saying the winners are the only models you should consider.

However, if you’re looking within a specific category or pining for a certain layout, I’d strongly recommend you go and take a look at these as a guide. Use them as a benchmark to ascertain what’s considered to be good, as well as the specification and equipment for the price.

The full list of winners:

  • Any caravan up to £25,000: Swift Sprite Major 4 SB
  • Any pop-top caravan over 1,150kg: Eriba Touring 630 Legend
  • Any two-berth caravan: Bailey Unicorn Seville
  • Conventional caravan with three or four berths: Bailey Unicorn Madrid
  • Any fixed-bed caravan with three or four berths: Bailey Alicanto Grande Evora
  • Any caravan with five or six berths: Adria Adora 623 DT Sava
  • Any eight-foot wide caravan: Swift Elegance Grande 780
  • Any family caravan: Adria Altea 612 DL Tyne
  • Any large family caravan: Bailey Phoenix GT75 762
  • Any caravan over £45,000: Swift Elegance Grande 860

 

Photo credit: Caravan and Motorhome Club

6 iconic trees to visit in the UK

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The UK recently lost one of its most iconic trees in the Sycamore Gap at Hadrian’s Wall, with the 50-foot staple of Northumberland National Park being cut down overnight in an act of vandalism that authorities described as deliberate.

At CaravanTimes, we are choosing to look at the positive side. Although we have lost one of the country’s most famous trees, we’re lucky in that there are thousands of others to visit.

With the help of the experts at StressFreeCarRental.com, we’ve compiled a list of six UK trees that should definitely be on your radar for your next caravan or motorhome staycation.

John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com, commented: “As well as being stunning to look at, trees are a wildlife sanctuary and great for mental wellbeing, so consider taking a trip to enjoy them in their full glory this autumn.”

So, from Argyll’s Wishing Tree to the Horror Tree of Suffolk, here are some of the best Britain has to offer.

Major Oak, Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire

The second most famous resident of Sherwood Forest, following Robin Hood himself, Major Oak is one of Britain’s oldest trees. 

Although nobody knows its true age, it’s estimated to have been standing for between 800 and 1,100 years. That means it’s outlived the Vikings, the birth and death of Shakespeare, two world wars and more than 50 monarchs.

The Horror Tree, Stowlangtoft, Suffolk

There are no prizes for guessing the Horror Tree is rather unsightly. With its wonky eyes, crooked teeth and twisted snout, the 70-ft beech is not for the faint of heart.

The tree is known for its terrifying face, creepily reminiscent of Edvard Munch’s Scream, although others say the beech tree is very similar to the Whomping Willow in Harry Potter. 

So, If you’re planning a caravan or motorhome holiday over the Halloween period, this is definitely a spot that should be considered. Trees don’t often come as unsettling as this one.

The Ankerwycke Yew, Berkshire

Thought to be 2,500 years old, this yew is said to be the oldest tree in England and is steeped in history. Impressively, it is documented to be the tree where Henry VIII proposed to Anne Boleyn, so it’s a historical and romantic spot… despite the tragic fate of Boleyn.

In addition to the fantastic tree, which boasts wonderful views of the Berkshire countryside, visitors will also be able to wander through the ruins of Ankerwycke Priory. First erected in 1160, the site was home to Benedictine nuns for hundreds of years, until being finally dissolved in 1550.

Although the priory has been repaired several times, it has been in decline since the 1800s and only a small number of walls remain to be seen today.

Boscobel House English Oak, Stafford

King Charles II famously refuged in The Royal Oak Tree in Boscobel House, following the 1651 English Civil War battle to evade capture. 

The tree standing today isn’t the original, which is known to have been destroyed by tourists, but a 200 to 300-year-old descendent of the iconic Royal Oak – aptly named ‘Son of Royal Oak’. It is protected by iron railings, installed back in 1817 due to the prestige and significance of the tree. 

Birnam Oak, Dunkeld, Perth and Kinross

Celebrated in the play Macbeth, this ancient tree is a survivor of Shakespeare’s Birnam Wood. Located just outside the Perthshire village, it serves as a final reminder of the once bustling forest, which spanned the banks and hillsides of the River Tay.

Birnam Oak and its neighbour, the Birnam Sycamore, have a medieval feel. The lower branches of the oak rest on the ground, with the first three metres of its trunk being hollow. The sycamore is thought to be more than 300 years old and boasts especially impressive buttress roots.

Ardmaddy Wishing Tree, Argyll

Situated half a mile south of Ardmaddy Castle, the Wishing Tree has long been associated with rituals and magic. The nearly dead fallen hawthorn has hundreds of coins embedded in its bark.

This tree has an extensive history of being considered sacred, with thousands of visitors having surrendered coins in exchange for the chance to make wishes. Now, the Wishing Tree is fenced off to protect it from damage.

Photo credit: Luke Galloway / Unsplash

Creepy villages for a Halloween touring trip

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Spooky season is well underway, making now a great time to add some of Europe’s creepiest villages to your touring trip. If you’re taking the caravan or motorhome to the continent for October half term, it’s the perfect opportunity to get into the Halloween mood.

To help you find the scariest locations, StressFreeCarRental.com has put together a list of creepy villages to explore.

Bran, Romania

Nowhere conjures up Halloweeny thoughts quite like Transylvania, which is home to the iconic Dracula Castle. The imposing structure looms over the village and can be seen dominating the countryside. Celebrate Halloween in its shadows or explore the castle’s hidden passageways and discover its medieval torture instruments.

Triora, Italy

The Italian village of Triora has a dark history. After the poor harvest of 1587 was blamed on a group of women who lived secluded lives and understood the benefits of medicinal herbs, more than 300 of them were tried as witches. Some 50 individuals were tortured and killed as a result, giving it the reputation as the Salem of Italy. Visit the Museum of Etnografie and Witchcraft to discover this gruesome past.

Pluckley, England

If the Guinness Book of Records suggests a village is the most haunted in England, then you take note. No fewer than a dozen ghosts are said to be resident in the Kent village of Pluckley. Look out for the likes of a drowned gypsy woman, a hanged schoolmaster and a woman who haunts St Nicolas’ churchyard before you try to cosy down in your caravan or motorhome and get some sleep.

Ochate, Spain

Upon first sight, the abandoned village of Ochate feels spooky simply due to the potential for anything to be lurking around each corner. When you add to that the fact it was deemed cursed after three epidemics – smallpox, typhoid fever and cholera in 1860, 1864 and 1870 respectively – hit the village without affecting surrounding areas, things get even creepier. There have been reports of strange lights and mysterious voices telling those who explore Ochate to get out.

Roslin, Scotland

The Midlothian village of Roslin is famous for the late-gothic Rosslyn Chapel, which was featured in the Da Vinci Code. Its original crypt has been sealed off for many years, only adding to the mystery and allowing numerous rumours to take hold. Among them are that inside you’ll find the Holy Grail or the mummified head of Jesus Christ. Also, watch out for the ghosts of a knight on horseback and a woman in white.

Skrinjari, Croatia

Be careful towing your leisure vehicle in the vicinity of the Croatian village of Skrinjari, as it’s renowned for being the site of many traffic accidents. Not only this, but the Skrinjari House, which has now been abandoned, is said to be cursed after builders constructed the edifice on top of a cemetery, allegedly waking the dead. Many who visit say they feel an unidentified sense of unease around the property.

Tintern, Wales

Locals are said to stay away from St Mary’s Church in Tintern, as the ruins have a looming presence. Evidence of satanic rituals has been uncovered at the site in the past and ghosts of monks seen roaming around. Perhaps these lost spirits are visiting from the nearby Tintern Abbey, which was once home to some 400 religious men, many of whom died from the Black Death.

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Anna Mircea

Bailey to debut concept EV at NEC

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Dan Cartwright has over 12 years of experience in the caravan and motorhome industry. He is a judge for a number of prestigious leisure vehicle awards and regularly heads off in his motorhome with his family. Every week, Dan shares his insights with the community. Here’s what he has to say this week.

As Bailey of Bristol gears up to debut its electric concept panel van conversion, Endeavour EV, at the Motorhome and Caravan Show next week, I sat down with the team behind it. While the groundbreaking design isn’t set to hit the market any time soon, it’s a fascinating look at the future of leisure vehicles.

What’s clear to see from speaking to Simon Howard, marketing director, and Chloe Bartlett, lead designer, is that they’re incredibly proud of the innovation. It also appears that the designers were given free rein to work with many sustainable materials they hadn’t used before.

That’s the beauty of setting out to create a concept model that’s as sustainable as possible. There’s the discovery of products that hadn’t before been considered that may well make it into other areas of the range. For example, Simon said the recycled boucle fabric could become an added extra customers could opt for on a standard Endeavour.

The fully operational panel van conversion is based on the Ford Pro’s E-Transit platform, with all services and appliances being fully electric. Everything from the work surfaces, upholstery fabrics and furniture handles are made from low-carbon recycled materials. Other exciting features include an adaptable living space with working, lounging and sleeping modes, a voice-controlled lighting system and solar panels.

 

Inside the Endeavour EV.

 

Asking Simon about Bailey’s dedication to sustainability and the additional costs associated with it, he told me the approach was really driven by the younger members of the team. He said they want to work with a company putting the environment first and that’s reflected not just in Bailey’s manufacturing processes, but also things like waste removal at its HQ.

What I really wanted to know was whether the Endeavour EV was likely to be included in the Bailey Big Adventure. There’s still a long way to go before the concept vehicle becomes a reality and its range is up to a standard that would satisfy the market.

Range is currently at 108 miles, which rules it out of travelling to the likes of the Sahara or the Arctic. What the future holds for the Endeavour EV, however, is a case of watching this space. We’ll certainly be following its progress with interest.

The Motorhome and Caravan Show will be held from October 17th to 22nd at the NEC in Birmingham. The Bailey team invites you to approach their stand and find out all about the Endeavour EV for yourself.

How to protect your caravan from bed bugs

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Just the thought of bed bugs is enough to make your skin crawl and there’s been plenty of talk in the press about the fact that they’ve become a huge problem in Paris. Next stop, the UK. Bed bugs spread easily and the last thing you want is an infestation in your caravan.

Here’s what you can do to protect yourself against the dreaded critters:

Prevention is better than the cure

Once bed bugs move in, it’s very difficult to get them out, so the best thing is to be vigilant and prevent an infestation in the first place. When bringing any fabric-based item into the caravan or motorhome, check it carefully, as bed bugs love to hide along the seams.

Common places include sleeping bags and bedding, pet beds and clothing. Wash linens at a high temperature to destroy bed bugs and if you’re packing your leisure vehicle duvets away for the winter, consider storing them in vacuum bags.

Check your caravan or motorhome for any holes where bed bugs could potentially get in or hide. These include spaces between pipes or spaces under doors, both of which should be fairly easy to seal up.

Keeping as clutter-free as possible and regularly vacuuming are good ways to ensure bed bugs can’t take hold. These measures will also help you to spot telltale signs of the critters as early as possible.

Dealing with bed bugs

Evidence of bed bugs can come in a number of forms, including:

  • Spots of blood on your bedding
  • Bites in a row on your skin
  • Brown specks on your sheets
  • Exoskeletons left behind

If you discover any of these, it’s time to take action and quickly. The first thing to do is quarantine any affected areas or items to prevent the critters from spreading. Bed bugs are killed at 60°C, so washing fabrics at a high temperature or steaming them out are viable options.

Since bed bugs measure just five millimetres across, are tough, quick to reproduce and good at hiding, multiple approaches may be required to eliminate them. Vacuum infested areas and then remove the bag and dispose of it securely.

The next method is to treat your caravan or motorhome with an insecticide. Many of these are made from chemicals, but you can also get plant oil-based bed bug sprays that are very effective.

Last resort

Your bed bug elimination strategy needs to be well-considered and thorough if it’s to work. Even those who approach it with a multi-tactic approach sometimes have to call in the professionals to do a proper fumigation.

This usually means letting the treatment work for two to three days, so you may have to postpone any touring trips. Keeping out of the way of the chemicals is important for human health, but they should leave your caravan or motorhome bed bug-free.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Clay Banks

The best UK cities to improve your mental wellbeing

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As World Mental Health Day arrives on Tuesday 10th October, plenty of Brits might be considering ditching the hustle and bustle of city life for a leisure vehicle holiday to the countryside.

However, lots of UK cities are ideal for spending time away from everyday life, lowering your stress levels and relaxing to boost your mental wellbeing.

For instance, Norwich is a fantastic destination to practise ecotherapy, being Britain’s only city located within a national park. Elsewhere, you could soak up a stressless afternoon at Bath’s historic hot water spa, or get lost among a plethora of charming independent shops on the streets of Edinburgh.

To raise awareness for World Mental Health Day and encourage people to de-stress, the experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have compiled a list of eight UK cities offering a range of relaxing activities.

Of course, what appeals to some will seem stressful to others. So, here are some suggestions to decompress on your next caravan or motorhome trip:

Norwich

Ideally located within the Broads National Park, Norwich is connected to the countryside via miles and miles of walkable pathways. These routes are mainly flat and a great way to get outside to enjoy nature.

Brighton

Being by the sea is always a calming presence, but for those who don’t like their coastal retreats too quiet, there’s Brighton. Return from a bracing seaside walk to a nostalgic trip to the pier or the city’s bustling night scene.

Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital is a literary city and its selection of bookshops and cafes makes it perfect for purchasing some new reading material then sitting down and enjoying it. Arthur’s Seat is also conveniently located for an energetic walk right from the city.

Exeter

Sometimes the best way to reset your mental wellbeing is to spend some quality time on your own and Exeter is perfect for that. Wander its museums, parks and coffee shops on a solo date before reuniting with loved ones.

Bath

There’s nothing much more relaxing than having a soak, especially if you’re spending a week in a caravan, so a spa city sounds like an appropriate antidote. Submerge yourself in the hot spring waters at the Thermae Bath Spa.

Manchester

Music is a fantastic outlet for emotions from anxiety to elation, so a trip to the city that’s produced all manner of musicians from Take That to The Smiths is a great way to embrace this creative medium. Manchester’s music scene is known worldwide and features some impressive venues to discover.

Bristol

Vegans can travel to Bristol safely in the knowledge they won’t just be able to find a good plant-based meal easily, but they’ll be spoilt for choice. Even non-vegans might want to try out the alternative diet and enjoy a boost in mood from plenty of veggies.

Oxford

Hire a boat, pedalo or a traditional punt to explore the storied city of Oxford from its waterways. The slow pace of life encourages those on the river to relax and notice more of what’s going on around them in the natural environment.

John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com said: “We want to encourage as many people as we can to try and take some time out to do something good for their own mental health as well as the contentment of those around them.

“Cities can feel like stressful lonely places at times which is why we wanted to highlight that there are always things to do to unwind and let go of life’s troubles.”

 

Photo credit: Pexels/Kampus Production

Dan Cartwright’s leisure vehicle bucket list

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Dan Cartwright has over 12 years of experience in the caravan and motorhome industry. He is a judge for a number of prestigious leisure vehicle awards and regularly heads off in his motorhome with his family. Every week, Dan shares his insights with the community. Here’s what he has to say this week.

Being a part of the CaravanTimes team as a leisure vehicle journalist has afforded me some amazing experiences that I’m incredibly grateful for.

I’m acutely conscious of how privileged I am to be a judge for numerous Caravan and Motorhome Club (CAMC) staples, like the Towcar of the Year and Caravan Design Awards. On the job, I’ve travelled to far-flung destinations, tested the latest and greatest leisure vehicles and been on international tours. Don’t get me wrong – I know I’m a very lucky man.

But just like you, I have dreams. Unlike many people though, my dreams involve Arctic trailers and smashing land speed records. If you have any leisure vehicle bucket list items, I’d love to hear them.

But for now, here are four things I’d love to achieve. Some are more realistic than others and people may doubt me, but you can’t stop a man from dreaming.

1. Self-convert an Arctic trailer

Honestly, I’d just love to see the space available and what you could do with it. I think it would be heavenly to spend a year in my garden with the tools, just making it exactly how I want it to be.

I don’t know if I could afford the towcar, which would probably need to be an articulated lorry. But I could afford the trailer, so that’s a start. Although, I’m unsure if many campsites would let me in.

2. Beat the land speed towing record

This currently stands at 140 mph and is owned by an American, which to me, feels wrong. Additionally, that speed feels tantalisingly possible. Of course, this would require a lot of preparation and an appropriate runway, but with modern EVs, I think it’s becoming more realistic.

My understanding is that you’re not allowed to modify the caravan in any way and you must drive a production towcar. But, to bring a land speed record back to the UK would be a dream for me and the wider leisure vehicle industry.

3. Tour Europe all summer long

I want to spend an entire summer holiday touring Europe with the family. We’d use the CAMC site network to take advantage of places with expansive swimming pools and huge slides. Hopefully, there’ll be something for the kids too.

My children are five and seven years old, so realistically, I’ve only got about eight years left to achieve this bucket list item. In theory, it seems quite reasonable, but taking six weeks off from work suddenly makes breaking the land speed towing record seem easier.

4. Pass down my T25

I intend to keep my 1982 Volkswagen T25 in working order so that I can pass it down to my daughter as her first vehicle.

Whilst it doesn’t have airbags, it can only do about 40 mph anyway, so I always feel safe. Also, she’ll have to learn how to fix it, which is a very smart way of ensuring she’ll visit her parents regularly, as I’ll inevitably have to do it myself.

Having translated this from a thought in my head to an article on CaravanTimes, I realise that some of these are certainly more achievable than others, but that’s what a bucket list is for!

Photo credit: derwiki / Pixabay

The best autumnal walking trails in the UK

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With more than 60 million views under the #hikinglife hashtag on TikTok and a 200 per cent increase in searches for the term ‘hiking holidays UK’ in the past 90 days, there’s no doubt that Brits want to make the most of the season by lacing up their walking boots and hitting the trails.

Hiking often goes hand-in-hand with caravan and motorhome holidays. There’s nothing quite like taking in the great outdoors in all of its glory. With that in mind, the experts at holidaycottages.co.uk have highlighted some of the best autumn walks, with a mix of those more suited to the #softhiking group and some highly challenging trails.

Sarah Pring, PR manager at holidaycottages.co.uk, said: “Britain has fantastic walks at every corner, that suit a range of needs and abilities. We wanted to create a helpful tool where people can enter a postcode and see all nearby walks to their holiday accommodation.”

To use the interactive map, simply head over to the website and enter your postcode to see trails near you, with the option to filter based on distance, difficulty and other factors.

1. Heddon Valley, Devon

From the wooded valley to rocky beaches, this trail’s diverse landscape makes it a perfect walk for an autumn day. On the easier side of the scale, this two-mile stretch is ideal for beginners, or for more experienced walkers looking for a casual stroll.

2. Tintern Abbey and Devil’s Pulpit, Wye Valley

This moderately difficult, 7.5-mile path takes visitors through the breathtaking ruins of the 12th-century Cistercian abbey. When the leaves scatter throughout the grounds, it makes for a superb sight for experienced hikers, or beginners looking to push themselves a bit further.

3. Beatrix Potter Walk, Lake District

For fans of literature as well as hiking, a stroll around Windermere and the villages of Near and Far Sawrey and Hawkshead will transport you into the world of Beatrix Potter.

At 13 miles, this walk is ideal for those who would like a challenging hike on a brisk autumn day, while learning more about the history of one of Britain’s most celebrated authors.

4. Blakeney Freshes, Norfolk

Set against views of the stunning Norfolk Coast Path, this is a straightforward, three-mile walk with stunning scenery across the sea, marshes and Blakeney National Nature Reserve.

Bird lovers might be particularly interested in this one, with an abundance of wildlife waiting to be spotted. On a cold autumn morning, you’ll notice the mist rising and some lucky hikers will see the golden plovers.

5. Corfe Castle, Dorset

The National Trust’s Corfe Castle is one of the UK’s most iconic remnants of the English Civil War and makes the list of Britain’s most photographed sites. The beauty of walking here is that your route can be adjusted to suit however long or short you’d like it to be. 

For a longer stroll, head from Corfe Castle Square up to Kimmeridge Bay on the South West Coast Path. If a shorter hike is what you’re after, you can simply walk around the village and up to the castle.

Photo credit: Tatiana Syrikova / Pexels

Escape the crowds with these alternative Spanish attractions

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As the UK transitions into autumn, it can be tempting to head abroad in your caravan or motorhome looking for warmer temperatures. Spain, especially the south, is a good bet for some late sunshine, as well as plenty of fascinating attractions to discover.

Many of Spain’s cities have campsites within close proximity, meaning you can pitch up then head into the likes of Seville or Barcelona to explore. Even after the busy summer months, many of the headline sights can feel overcrowded, so it’s worth making your way to some alternatives instead.

With this in mind, Spain-Holiday and Holidu have put together a list of attractions to swap in for some of the more famous ones. So, forget the Sagrada Familia and the Alhambra and check these out on your next touring trip to Spain.

Swap Paseo del Prado for El Escorial

Madrid’s Paseo del Prado is an iconic promenade lined with historic buildings and museums. It’s been an important thoroughfare in the Spanish capital since the 16th century and as such has been granted World Heritage status by UNESCO.

Instead of facing the crowds on the Paseo, head to El Escorial just outside of Madrid. This monastery and accompanying gardens are just as impressive as the city centre attraction. Explore the chapel and library, as well as the green space that once grew vegetables for the monks, but now is an expansive botanical garden.

Skip the Sagrada Familia in favour of Palau de la Musica Catalana

Antoni Gaudi’s unfinished cathedral, the Sagrada Familia, has become synonymous with a trip to Barcelona and received nearly four million visitors last year. Its enduring allure may in part be due to the fact that on each visit tourists can see the progress that’s been made towards its expected completion in 2026.

Just as spectacular in terms of architecture but often overlooked is the Palau de la Musica Catalana. Lluis Domenech i Montaner’s art nouveau masterpiece features world-class stained glass and is open for both guided tours and musical performances.

Pass up the Alhambra for Medina Azahara

The high demand for tickets to the Alhambra and the need to book in advance are testament to the popularity of Granada’s hilltop Moorish palace. Its decorative arches and elaborate tilework have become iconic, while meandering around the formal gardens is an intrinsic part of the Alhambra experience.

Why settle for a Moorish palace when you could explore an entire city? Pack up the caravan or motorhome and head for Medina Azahara, just outside of Cordoba. Dating back to the 10th century and with a stunning backdrop of the Sierra Morena mountain range, the ruined city is a hidden gem worth discovering.

Replace Cathedral de Santa Maria de la Sede with Archivo de Indios

Seville makes up the third corner of Andalucia’s Golden Triangle, along with Granada and Cordoba, so a road trip between the trio is popular. Also appealing is the city’s gothic cathedral with its towering Giralda bell tower, which when scaled, offers unparalleled views of Seville and beyond.

Skip the queue at the Giralda and spend a day at the Archivo de Indios instead. Here you’ll find renaissance architecture, as well as historic tapestries, artefacts and documents telling the story of Spain’s exploits across the world.

 

Photo credit: Jocelyn Erskine-Kellie via Flickr