Natural outdoor swimming pool proves a hit at luxury glamping site

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Up to 50 people a day are making use of the Biotop natural outdoor swimming pool at the multi-award-winning Love2Stay resort in Shrewsbury.

The chemical-free pool is open to locals, as well as those staying at the luxury touring and glamping resort, which boasts 116 fully-serviced touring pitches for caravans and motorhomes.

Coldwater swimming has become very popular in recent years and can easily be combined with caravanning, as having a leisure vehicle close by to get changed in and warmed up afterwards makes things easier.

Among the apparent benefits of coldwater swimming are:

  • Reduced stress
  • Improved mental health
  • Better fitness, metabolism and circulation
  • Boosted self-esteem
  • Increased immunity
  • Decreased inflammation
  • Higher levels of mindfulness
  • Radiant skin

Mark Bebb, joint managing director at Salop Leisure, which owns Love2Stay, said: “Coldwater swimming is known for improving mental wellbeing, benefitting menopausal women, reduces chronic inflammation and helps to control breathing.

“The natural Biotop pool at Love2Stay is a fantastic resource for outdoor swimmers and anybody interested in cold water immersion.”

Competent swimmers over the age of 16 are invited to use the pool on the site and will be given a safety briefing prior to their session.

Anyone thinking about taking the plunge is encouraged to do their research beforehand and follow advice on acclimatisation techniques.

The natural swimming pool facilities at Love2Stay feature a hot tub, sun loungers and changing rooms.

Swimming is not the only activity you can enjoy at Love2Stay, with kayaking, archery and an assault course all set up on site.

There’s even a dog agility course available, so your four-legged friend can join in, and a wild bee and flower garden for those who are looking for a more sedate pastime.

Love2Stay

The Shrewsbury site is the original Love2Stay location, set within 22 acres of natural landscape, but the owners have taken the same wellness and luxury elements to create a second site in Mid Wales.

Fully serviced touring pitches for caravans, motorhomes, campervans, and trailer tents are available at the site near Caersws.

New app aims to enhance guest experience at 3 award-winning campsites

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Three award-winning campsites that are consistently popular with caravan and motorhome owners are hoping to improve the guest experience further.

Drummohr Camping and Glamping Site, near Edinburgh, Herding Hill Farm, close to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, and Longnor Wood in the heart of the Peak District often top lists of the best sites in the UK.

Now, they’re to benefit from the introduction of a new app with extensive functionality, including:

  • Information on accommodation, site facilities, events and optional extras
  • Reminders and packing lists
  • Interactive maps of the campsites
  • Recommendations for local attractions
  • Information on nearby walking and cycling routes
  • Special offers
  • Managing bookings
  • Leaving feedback
  • Loyalty programme

Guests are encouraged to create personalised holiday itineraries before they arrive using the app, so they can make the most of their trip from the outset.

Enabling pop-up notifications will provide visitors with useful information on everything from emergency road closures nearby and mobile pizza or ice cream vans being on site.

Jo Ritzema, executive chair of WCF, which runs the campsites, said: “Our guests are what make the success of our campsites, and we’re always looking at ways to improve the on-site experience to make their stays even better than before.

“The app boosts the services we already provide and helps ensure that our guests have all the information they need for an enjoyable and relaxing stay.

Each version of the app is branded with the campsites’ names and can be found in the App Store and on Google Play.

There are links to the app from the respective websites and anyone can download it, regardless of whether they’ve booked a pitch.

Award-winning sites

Drummohr Camping and Glamping Site, Herding Hill Farm and Longnor Wood are all five-star rated by the AA, with customer reviews reflecting the high standards of the parks.

Drummohr has been named best campsite in the UK in the Camping Awards 2024, while Longnor Wood won the AA’s Heart of England campsite of the year.

It has also been named the UK’s best adult-only site by Campsites.co.uk for two consecutive years. Meanwhile, Herding Hill Farm has achieved a coveted AA Platinum Pennant Award.

David Lakins, CEO of Holidaymaker, which helped develop the app, said: “Working with the WCF team has been a pleasure, and we’re excited that the Holidaymaker platform is continuing to enhance the guest experience.

“The app is already seeing an impressive number of downloads, enabling guests to better self-serve and fully explore the stunning surroundings.”



What are the rules for travelling with your dog in your motorhome?

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Love Your Pet Day falls on February 20th and raises the question, what are the rules when it comes to taking your dog away in your motorhome?

This is something the insurance specialist Safeguard has tried to answer, helping those planning a getaway with their four-legged friends.

Restraining your dog

Properly restraining your dog is essential when it’s travelling in your motorhome, both for its safety and to ensure you’re on the right side of the law.

Rule 57 of The Highway Code clearly states that drivers are responsible for making sure dogs are “suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly”.

There are a number of ways to do this, depending on your pet’s needs:

  • Pet carrier
  • Seat belt harness
  • Dog cage
  • Dog guard

Travelling with an unrestrained pet in your vehicle could leave you with a fine of up to £5,000 and penalty points on your  licence. In some cases, you can even be banned from driving and face compulsory re-testing.

Mark Sheppard, senior trading manager at Safeguard, told CaravanTimes: “Aside from ensuring your furry friend is safely restrained, there are a few other things you can do to make sure a comfortable and stress-free journey.

“Dogs need regular opportunities to stretch their legs, relieve themselves and burn off excess energy, so plan to stop every couple of hours for toilet breaks and short walks. If your pet tends to get carsick, consult your vet about how you can help them on the road.

“Check that your dog has access to fresh water throughout the journey, but avoid overindulging them right before hitting the road. Maintain a smooth, steady pace, and avoid sudden accelerations, hard braking or sharp turns whenever possible. Erratic driving can not only make your dog anxious, but also increase the risk of injury if they’re not properly secured.”

The EU and Northern Ireland

Before setting off on a motorhome trip to the EU or Northern Ireland, make sure you know the restrictions and legal requirements.

Pets should be microchipped and vaccinated for rabies 21 days before travel. If your dog needs a booster shot, the 21 days is waived as long as the vaccine cover has been continuous.

Another requirement for travel to the EU and Northern Ireland is an animal health certificate from the vet, which is valid for entry into the countries for ten days after issue.

You then have four months’ grace with this document for onward travel and re-entry into Great Britain, which is useful for longer motorhome touring trips.

Finland, Ireland, Malta, Northern Ireland or Norway

For visits to these countries, dogs must be treated for tapeworm no less than 24 hours and no more than five days prior to arrival.

The treatment must be recorded in either an animal health certificate or a valid pet passport and taken with you when you travel.



Gearing up for the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2025

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The Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2025 is nearly upon us, as it will take over the NEC in Birmingham from February 18th to 23rd.

More than 400 exhibitors will be in attendance showcasing the latest motorhomes, campervans, touring caravans and caravan holiday homes.

If you’re thinking about purchasing a leisure vehicle this year, it’s a great opportunity to step inside the newest models and compare layouts for yourself.

For the first time this year, there’ll be a whole hall dedicated to tents, trailer tents and camping equipment if you’re not looking for a caravan or motorhome.

Those who are already owners can get inspiration for their next getaway with UK and European campsites and holiday parks also represented.

There’s also the chance to take advantage of show-only offers on thousands of accessories and gadgets that will make touring holidays more comfortable.

Standout exhibitors

Among the exhibitors at the show will be some of the leading names from the world of caravanning and motorhoming.

Look out for:

  • Adria
  • Bailey of Bristol
  • Bessacarr
  • Buccaneer
  • Coachman
  • Elddis
  • Eriba Touring
  • Finesse
  • Freedom Caravans
  • Hobby
  • Swift
  • T@B
  • Xplore

What’s on at the Inspiration Theatre?

Head along to the Inspiration Theatre throughout the show to listen to ​​talks from adventurers, travel writers, wildlife presenters and organisations.

These special guests will help you make the most of the great outdoors and provide ideas to fuel future trips in your caravan or motorhome.

The likes of Annabel Croft, Bob Reeves and Martin Dorey will be talking about everything from emerging destinations to caravan cooking.

Caravan and motorhome help and advice

One of the most useful elements of the show for those new to the caravan and motorhome lifestyle is the help and advice available.

The advice hub in Hall 3 will be staffed with industry experts ready to answer visitors’ questions, as well as running its own schedule of events on everything from tyre safety to travelling with pets.

Free caravan towing and campervan test drive sessions are also available at the show, helping newbies and seasoned owners to improve their skills.

Dan Cartwright of CaravanTimes will be at the show next week and has some advice for those looking to buy a new leisure vehicle.

He said: “There’s been a proliferation in motorhomes, caravans and motorhomes being exhibited at the show. You’re never going to see that many caravans in one place anywhere else.

“This gives those looking to buy a unique opportunity to compare options, but don’t get too carried away. Read our previous articles on purchasing a leisure vehicle before you make the commitment.”

 

 

Photo credit: Pexels/Thirdman

Tips for prepping your caravan ahead of staycation season

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As the days slowly start to get longer and spring doesn’t seem so far away, it’s time to begin preparations for staycation season.

Caravan and motorhome owners who’ve put their leisure vehicles into storage or simply not used them much over the winter months will want to start readying them for use.

Now, the experts from Auto Finance have shared the essential checks travellers need to think about after winter hibernation in time for springtime adventures.

Steve Noga from the company said: “We know that thousands of Brits are planning ahead for their spring adventures, with Google searches for ‘staycation’ already up by almost ten per cent compared to last year.

“There are around 23,000 searches per month right now, and it’s important that travellers prepare their vehicles for the trip ahead.

“The harsh winter weather can wreak havoc on any vehicle, especially when it hasn’t been used in months, so it’s important to make necessary checks before heading on your caravan holiday.”

Assess for damage

Begin by inspecting your leisure vehicle for any damage that might have occurred during the winter, with cracks, damp spots, rust or wear and tear all potential problems.

Don’t forget to check the roof and its seals, as well as around doors and windows, where moisture is particularly prone to collect in the colder months.

Clean the exterior

Without giving your caravan or motorhome a good clean, it can be difficult to see if there are any issues hiding beneath the dirt or grime.

As well as the outside of the leisure vehicle, clean the awning too, as the build-up of mildew on the fabric can shorten its useful life.

Check the tyres

Just because your tyres were in good condition when you put your vehicle into storage doesn’t mean they’re still fit for purpose now.

Check the pressure and inspect them for cracks or bald spots on the tread, as rubber can deteriorate over the winter.

Recharge the battery

Recharging and reconnecting the battery after winter is a crucial job to ensure everything is working as it should.

If your caravan or motorhome runs on solar power, then check and clean the panels too, before testing all the electrics, inside and out.

Flush the water system

Draining the water system is an important job to do before winter hibernation, but it’s just as crucial to flush it when returning your leisure vehicle to use.

This will ensure any stagnant water or antifreeze is removed and it gives you a good opportunity to inspect the pipes, taps and pumps for cracks or damage before sterilising the system once more.

Conduct safety checks

Go around your caravan and motorhome and make checks on essential safety equipment, including:

  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit
  • Carbon monoxide detector
  • Towing hitch
  • Brakes

Update your documentation

The new caravan season is a good time to check all your documentation is in order, including caravan or motorhome insurance, breakdown cover and servicing for your towcar.

If you’ve bought a new car since the last time you towed a caravan, then it’s important to make sure it meets the legal standards for towing.

Clean the inside

Get inside your leisure vehicle, open all the windows and give everything a spring clean. This means washing bedding, wiping down surfaces and vacuuming the carpet.

Even if you cleaned carefully before putting your caravan or motorhome into storage, it will still need a thorough going over before being used again.



Photo credit: Pexels/Kampus Production

How to save on overseas caravan trips

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Trips abroad can often see the budget spiralling out of control, but staying in a caravan or motorhome is a good start when it comes to keeping costs low.

For other money-saving travel hacks, the experts at Quotezone.co.uk have offered advice on how best to go about it.

Greg Wilson, CEO at Quotezone.co.uk, said: “Despite rising costs on household essentials and annual bills, many of us spend the colder months dreaming of holidays and trips. 

 “When it comes to planning, we suggest travellers get started as soon as possible.”

Withdraw cash in the local currency

ATM machines abroad will always give you the option to withdraw cash in the local currency and this is the right thing to do.

Selecting your own currency means you can be charged at a higher exchange rate, depleting your holiday budget right from the start.

Always remember to choose the local currency when paying by card too, as the same rules apply in these transactions.

Make use of leftover currency

A recent survey conducted by Quotezone.co.uk found that 35 per cent of people have at least £50 of foreign currency left when they come back from a holiday.

Instead of putting it in a drawer and forgetting about it, change it back into pounds so it can be spent.

Alternatively, make it the basis for your next trip’s budget if you’re going away soon. This can work particularly well if both holidays are in the eurozone.

Plan for the tourist tax

Many cities and some countries have introduced a tourist tax recently and while €5 or €10 may not seem like a lot, it can add up.

The taxes are usually per person per day or night, so a week-long trip for a family can put a large dent in your budget.

Plan for this in advance and find out whether tourist taxes apply to your destination to avoid getting a nasty surprise.

Travel during off-season

Even when travelling to and from your destination in a leisure vehicle, and knowing your accommodation is taken care of, there are still bargains to be had during off-season.

Many campsites will charge less for pitches outside of peak times and attractions are often cheaper during these periods too.

Among the benefits of travelling off-season is having popular places to yourself without the crowds.

Purchase travel insurance

Trying to save money by not purchasing travel insurance can be a false economy, as it’s important to be covered should anything go wrong.

This includes health issues, robbery or problems with your leisure vehicle that need to be fixed or see you relayed home.

Uninsured travellers can be left with huge bills that make savings elsewhere almost obsolete.

 

 

Photo credit: Pexels/Nataliya Vaitkevich

Europe’s best ski resorts for beginners

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Many people who’d like to try skiing are often put off by how expensive the pastime is perceived to be, but using your leisure vehicle can help keep costs down.

In the past, our very own Dan Cartwright has spoken about the benefits of taking your caravan or motorhome on a ski trip, explaining how it can work.

Now, travel insurance comparison experts at Quotezone.co.uk have put together an index of ski resorts that are perfect for beginners.

Greg Wilson, CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, said: “Booking a ski holiday is really exciting but there are so many factors to consider that for first-time skiers it can be a bit overwhelming.

“Our research is designed to help point beginners in the right direction, with our ski index taking a look at key factors for learners and ranking them against Europe’s top ski spots.”

So, why not pack up your leisure vehicle and give a new hobby a try?

Ranking factors

The index ranks top-rated ski resorts on a number of factors, such as the total length of beginner slopes, average annual snowfall, airport transfer time, length of the ski season and the cost of a one-day ski pass.

As well as some of the world’s most famous ski resorts, like Val Thorens in the French Alps and Val Gardena in the Dolomites of Italy, it names some lesser-known resorts such as Bansko in Bulgaria and Glenshee in the UK.

Best ski resorts for beginners

Val Thorens – France

The highest ski resort in Europe boasts an incredible 336km of beginner slopes and a season lasting 163 days between November and May.

Val Gardena – Italy

Ranking highly in most factors, Val Gardena enjoys 291cm of average snowfall a year, making it a reliable destination for skiing. 

Trysil – Norway

With a season lasting for 136 days and the cost of an adult one-day ski pass coming in at a reasonable £52.12, Trysil represents a good alternative to the ski resorts found in central Europe.

Les Diablerets – Switzerland

Les Diablerets’ enviable position in the Swiss Alps sees an impressive 338cm of average annual snowfall. While you’re there, experience the only peak-to-peak suspension bridge in the world.

Rifflsee – Austria

Known for its wide selection of family-friendly slopes, Rifflsee’s ski season lasts 136 days, offering plenty of opportunities for everyone to learn the sport.

Bansko – Bulgaria

The largest and most popular ski resort in Bulgaria offers fantastic value for money and a gondola that takes visitors up Bundarishka to a gentle plateau that’s perfect for beginners.

Grandvalira – Andorra

Located in the Pyrenees, Grandvalira has 215km of skiable slopes split across seven sections, with runs suitable for a variety of different competencies, making it a good choice for groups of varying abilities.

Spitzingsee-Tegernsee – Germany

Complete with modern snow-production equipment, you can ski on Spitzingsee-Tegernsee’s 23km of slopes even if there hasn’t been any snowfall.

Rogla – Slovenia

Set within the Pohorje Hills, Rogla offers skiing from late autumn to early spring each year. There’s a large car park near the slopes with space for 40 campervans, with amenities such as water, power and sanitation available.

Glenshee – UK

Closer to home, Scotland’s biggest ski area can be found in the Cairngorms. Spread across four mountains and three valleys, boasting 21 lifts and tows, there’s plenty of chances to get on the slopes.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Melvin Trav



Iconic road trips celebrating anniversaries in 2025

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If you’re looking to plan a road trip in your caravan or motorhome this year, why not choose one that’s having a significant anniversary?

It could be the perfect opportunity to tick off the multi-day adventure in your leisure vehicle that you’ve always dreamed of taking.

Max Schmidt, chief adventurer at one of Europe’s leading camper tour operators, CamperDays, shares a selection of road trips celebrating something special in 2025.

He said: “Let 2025 be a year to travel differently with a road trip to get the most from these iconic spots.

“It’s a great time to visit a destination celebrating a milestone anniversary, as visitors can expect a range of special celebrations to mark the occasion.”

North Coast 500, Scotland – 10 years

It’s hard to believe that the 516-mile loop that makes up one of the most popular long-distance road trips in the UK has only been in existence for a decade.

The North Coast 500 (NC500) begins and ends in Inverness, making its way through over a dozen towns and settlements along some of Scotland’s most beautiful coastline.

This now iconic route celebrates its tenth birthday in March, coinciding with auroral activity expected to be at its peak in 2025, offering a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

And if you’d like to enjoy a quieter road trip this year, here are some alternatives in Scotland that don’t get as much hype as the NC500 but are just as beautiful.

Pennine Way, Lancashire – 60 years

The Pennine Way was the first National Trail when it launched on 24th April 1965 and was the culmination of secretary of the Ramblers’ Association, Tom Stephenson’s call for a “long green trail” in England.

It stretches for 268 miles from the Derbyshire Peak District, through the Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland National Park, before ending just over the border with Scotland in Kirk Yetholm.

Road trippers can take the easterly A1 passing through Leeds, Durham and Newcastle-upon-Tyne, or the westerly M6 through Manchester and the Lake District, using their leisure vehicle as accommodation for the walk.

Route 66, USA – 99 years

Arguably the most famous road trip in the world, Route 66 covers 2,400 miles and eight states, offering a glimpse of true Americana.

Think quirky roadside attractions, traditional diners and diverse landscapes as you travel from Chicago to California.

Obviously, getting your own leisure vehicle out to the States could be a challenge, so CamperDays can rent you an RV for £37 per person per night. If you do the route in reverse, it works out cheaper.

Caen, France – 1,000 years

The French city of Caen marks its 1,000th birthday this year, making it an interesting stop on a European road trip.

Its celebrations will culminate in the Millennium Parade on May 9th, when more than 1,000 performers will bring the city’s history to life across a five-kilometre stretch.

Explore the castle built by William the Conqueror and the two Romanesque abbeys that sit either side of it high up on the hill.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/john Higgitt

Europe’s most romantic city break destinations

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With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, you may be thinking about the most romantic places for a getaway in your caravan or motorhome.

Many of Europe’s cities can be exciting to explore with a loved one, but it’s easy to get stuck on the idea of Paris and not think any further.

With this in mind, travel insurance experts at Tiger.co.uk have put together a list of the continent’s most romantic city break destinations and the City of Love doesn’t get a mention until number four.

Factors taken into consideration included the price of a meal for two, the number of landmarks on offer, spa and wellbeing facilities and picturesque parks to stroll through.

Prague, Czech Republic

At the top of the list is Prague, aptly nicknamed the City of a Hundred Spires, which is blessed with charming baroque buildings.

Enjoy romantic walks through the Old Town to the Astronomical Clock, across the iconic Charles Bridge and to the largest castle in Europe.

To escape the hustle and bustle, seek out one of the many idyllic parks and gardens or set off in your leisure vehicle for a day trip to the fairytale city of Cesky Krumlov.

Rome, Italy

The Eternal City is often associated with love, so it may be no surprise that it was ranked in second place.

Explore the beautiful 17th-century Villa Borghese Gardens, unwind on a dinner cruise down the Tiber and throw a coin into the famous Trevi Fountain for luck.

Legend suggests that tossing two coins into the fountain increases the chance of finding true love, while three coins is said to ensure a marriage!

Istanbul, Turkey

Driving your caravan or motorhome to Istanbul may seem like a bit of an undertaking, but it’s certainly worth it if you have the time.

The Turkish capital is the third-cheapest destination on the list for dining out, while spa lovers can treat themselves to some pampering in one of the many luxurious bathhouses, known locally as hammams.

Admire the magnificent Topkapi and Dolmabahce palaces, experience a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus and soak up the atmosphere in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Souk.

Paris, France

In fourth place, Paris scored highly for its selection of relaxing spas, beautiful outdoor spaces and famous landmarks.

What could be more romantic than sharing a glass of champagne at the top of the Eiffel Tower or even with a view of the famous structure?! 

The City of Light was the joint second most expensive city in the index for a meal, while the cost of accommodation is almost twice as much as in Prague, but if you’re travelling by leisure vehicle, then that’s not a problem.

London, England

Closer to home, a night away in London might be a bit more manageable for some caravan and motorhome owners.

London was highly rated for its large number of parks, spa facilities and sightseeing opportunities.

Head to the Big Smoke to catch a show in the West End, take a Thames river cruise or soar above the city aboard the London Eye.



 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Anthony DELANOIX

Unbelievable staycation stories from Pure Leisure

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It’s not unusual to put a lot of time and effort into planning a staycation, but it’s often the unexpected things that stay longest in the memory.

As a well-established holiday lodge provider in the UK, Pure Leisure has heard some extraordinary tales over the years.

Here, we look at some of the funny situations that have taken place on the brand’s caravan sites.

A close encounter

Pure Leisure team member Anna remembers working in the main office on-site one day when she answered the helpdesk phone to find a concerned guest on the other end.

She requested pest control be sent to her lodge, but in fact what she needed was animal control, as she had returned to her holiday accommodation to find a deer was hanging its head out of the porch window.

Luckily nothing was damaged and the deer was safely herded out of the front door, which wasn’t too difficult as it was quite small.

While seeing wildlife on your staycation is often considered a highlight of the trip, sharing sleeping quarters with it is not ideal.

Those aren’t my flip flops!

One guest recounted the tale of the time she headed back to her lodge to use the facilities at South Lakeland Leisure Village whilst having a few drinks at the bar.

The cocktails must have been stronger than she thought, as it wasn’t until she was sitting on the toilet and reading the ingredients on the back of a conditioner bottle that she realised something was wrong.

Knowing she’d packed coconut conditioner for her staycation, she was perplexed to see that the bottle contained mint.

Looking up and around the room, she spotted a pair of flip flops that weren’t hers, which is when she realised she’d let herself into her neighbour’s lodge and fled quickly.

A romantic camping trip

One couple decided to leave the relative comfort of their lodge one night for a romantic camping trip in the Yorkshire Dales.

While the boyfriend thought he’d planned everything perfectly, down to the wine and chocolates, he unfortunately had no experience in putting up the spacious top-of-the-line tent he’d bought.

Neither of the duo had checked the weather forecast either and it wasn’t until the torrential rain started that they realised they’d erected the tent inside out, rendering the waterproof layer completely useless.

The pair returned to their lodge in the middle of the night, driving back in just their underwear.

Pure Leisure

Pure Leisure is a national holiday park provider, which is suitable for couples, friends and families.

Its parks can be found across the UK, from Wales to the Lake District, and the Highlands of Scotland to Norfolk, offering caravans, camping pods and luxury lodges.



Photo credit: Unsplash/Ben White

Tips for keeping your leisure vehicle free of clutter

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A tidy home may have been at the top of many people’s New Year’s resolutions, but a clutter-free leisure vehicle is just as important.

Graham Conway, managing director of Select Car Leasing, has highlighted the importance of removing clutter from your leisure vehicle, emphasising that it’s crucial for safe driving.

He said: “Many of us can be guilty of leaving rubbish on the dashboard – whether it’s empty bottles, coffee cups or even newspapers. If your vehicle becomes too messy, you could face a fine of up to £5,000.

“You could even serve prison time for your clutter.”

Mr Conway added that any clutter lying around on the floor that makes its way into the pedal area could become dangerous.

It’s not unusual for things to move around when a leisure vehicle is being driven, which is why caravan and motorhome owners know to stow things carefully before setting off.

Follow these tips for a safe, pleasant and clutter-free escape in your leisure vehicle every time:

Do a clearout after every trip

Once touring season starts and you’re taking your caravan or motorhome on trips regularly, it’s easy to let clutter accumulate.

While many items may need to stay in place for your next night away, take time after every excursion in your leisure vehicle to remove rubbish and unnecessary objects.

Give everyone a responsibility

Make sure every member of the family is responsible for their area of the leisure vehicle, whether it’s where they sit or where they sleep.

This means they should empty their pockets and put items back where they belong. You could incentivise this with a points system and rewards.

Don’t leave open food in your leisure vehicle

Having your caravan or motorhome stocked for the season sounds like a good idea, but while canned food can safely stay inside when you’re not using your vehicle, open packets can attract unwanted attention.

Mice and other critters can get into your caravan between trips, so take away anything that could invite them in until your next holiday.

Create places for everything

Storage solutions are just as vital in your leisure vehicle as they are in your house. If you don’t have a dedicated place for things, they’ll simply get left lying around.

Pouches on the backs of chairs, hooks and magnetic strips can all help to make the most of storage opportunities in a small space.

Accumulate souvenirs sparingly

It’s tempting to pick up souvenirs from your travels in your caravan or motorhome, but think carefully about where they’re going to be stored long term.

Even leaflets from attractions you visit can quickly mount up, so only take them if you’re going to look at them again, and regularly clear out any you’ve finished with.



Photo credit: Pexels/Nataliya Vaitkevich

The UK’s best car museums to visit on a touring trip

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The UK is home to a number of iconic car museums, and visiting one or even more can be a fantastic family activity on your next caravan getaway.

With this in mind, the specialists at Regtransfers have put together a list of their favourites and the ones they believe you shouldn’t miss.

British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwickshire

If you love classic cars, then this museum in Warwickshire is a must-visit, as it’s home to more than 300 models spanning several decades.

As well as rare prototypes and historic vehicles, there are fun, interactive exhibits designed to engage children.

From July, the museum will host the From Sketch to Street temporary exhibition, exploring how cars are designed and brought to life.

Caravan and Motorhome Club members receive a £2 discount at the British Motor Museum. Nearby Club sites include Manor Farm, Hampton House Farm and Harbury Fields Farm Touring Park.

National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, Hampshire

Nestled in the stunning New Forest, the National Motor Museum offers the perfect opportunity to combine a love of cars with a caravan holiday.

Among the highlights of the 250-strong car collection is undoubtedly those vehicles that have featured in films and TV shows.

There’s also Jack Turner’s Garage, a recreation of a 1930s mechanic’s workshop, complete with artefacts, fixtures, fittings and tools.

Campsites near the National Motor Museum include Roundhill, Matley Wood and Lepe Beach, meaning there are plenty of convenient places to pitch up.

Brooklands Museum, Weybridge, Surrey

Brooklands was the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit, making it an important part of automobile history.

The museum here showcases vehicles from the golden age of racing, as well as an aviation collection, which includes a Concorde.

Take a walk on the famous Brooklands track to truly experience the site’s heritage and imagine what it must have been like to race there in its heyday.

The Camping and Caravanning Club recommends its Chertsey site as a great place to stay near the museum.

Haynes International Motor Museum, Sparkford, Somerset

If you’ve always dreamed of owning a bright red Ferrari, head to the Supercar Exhibit at Haynes International Motor Museum.

The attraction is made up of themed zones to help you navigate the 400-plus vehicles, which range from British classics to 1950s Americana.

There are vintage models, muscle cars and cutting-edge supercars to explore, ensuring there’s something to captivate everyone.

Longfield Farm Certified Location offers a cost-effective place to stay nearby if you don’t need many additional amenities beyond those found in your leisure vehicle.