Where to unplug for a mindful caravan escape

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Many modern caravans are equipped with the latest technology and numerous digital entertainment options, but the lifestyle still represents a good opportunity to unplug.

While you can now travel in the lap of luxury, there’s also a lot to be said for embracing the traditional side of caravanning, where you leave all mod cons behind.

Park Holidays has discovered that web searches for ‘how to unplug’ and ‘technology break’ have increased by 100 per cent and 150 per cent year-on-year respectively.

So, where are the best places in the UK to tow your caravan to and enjoy the relative peace and quiet of poor Wi-Fi signal and no 4G?

Dawlish Warren, Devon

The Devon town of Dawlish Warren topped Park Holidays’ research as a great place to escape the trappings of modern society.

An intoxicating mix of bad Wi-Fi, little-to-no mobile service and plenty of green space means the temptation to do anything apart from relax is removed.

So, if you’re not surfing the web, what might you be doing on a caravan holiday in Dawlish Warren?

For a start, there’s the vast, sand-dune backed beach, where you can kick off your shoes and listen to the sound of the waves.

Built in early Victorian and classic Regency style, the town is an attractive place to explore, while walkers, cyclists and golfers can enjoy their pursuits in peace.

Anglesey, Wales

The Isle of Anglesey, off the North Wales coast, has similar credentials when it comes to trying to connect via Wi-Fi or mobile.

Instead, you could tackle one or more of the 12 clearly defined sections of the Anglesey Coast Path, which stretches for 130 miles around the island.

It’s possible to park up the caravan and make your way to starting points for each day’s walking by public transport, which promises to reconnect you with nature.

To truly relax and let all of your worries disappear, take a soak in a mineral-rich seaweed bath from the Halen Mon sea salt company.

Being an island, Anglesey has no shortage of beaches to discover, each with its own personality. Church Bay is particularly beautiful and secluded, making it a great place to escape the crowds.

Amble, Northumberland

Amble in the northern county of Northumberland was found to have the most publicly-accessible green space and is known as ‘the friendliest port’.

Head here in your caravan to find pastel-hued beach huts and gorge yourself on freshly-caught seafood as you take in the bracing air.

Around a mile out to sea from Amble Harbour is Coquet Island, which hosts nesting colonies of birds each year. Be sure to take a boat trip to see the puffins if you’re visiting in season.

Rockpooling at low tide is a fun family activity on Amble Beach and if you continue to walk, you’ll eventually reach Low Hauxley Beach, with its nature reserve close by.

Not far from Amble is Warkworth, with its namesake castle, which makes for a good day trip.



 

 

Photo credit: Pexels/Kampus Production

Bailey leads the way with new product launches

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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.

Last night, Bailey of Bristol brought together many interested parties from the world of caravanning and motorhoming to launch three new models of leisure vehicle. The live launch of the 2025 Bailey range marked a significant step forward in the way that manufacturers present their products to the public.

Bailey’s two new luxury caravan ranges – the 7.6-foot-wide Unicorn and the eight-foot-wide Alicanto – as well as the updated version of the Adamo motorhome were shown for the first time. They did this through a direct digital live launch where anyone could ask questions.

It’s not the first time that Bailey have done this and they’re not the only manufacturer launching products in this way, but it demonstrated how well the format can work. It’s so much better than how it used to be, with launches having changed significantly over the last ten years.

A forward-thinking move

In the interests of full disclosure, it’s worth noting that we helped with the production, filming and broadcasting of the launch, so we’re slightly biased. But we think that this way of launching caravans directly to the consumer, allowing everybody to see it at the same time, feels very forward-thinking for what is often considered an old-fashioned industry.

As well as showing the audience the leisure vehicles, this format allows manufacturers to open the floor to comments, respond to them and give customers a much better feel for the products. All of this happens in real time and cuts out the intermediaries – the dealers and the journalists – who were previously tasked with relaying the information.

A departure from past launches

To understand how different this is to how caravans were launched in the past, we need to take a step back in time. Unfortunately, I’m old enough to recall the old process first hand. What would happen ten years ago is that the British and some of the European manufacturers would have a one or two-day event in the summer.

This occasion would be strictly for the trade dealers and retailers and press. A huge amount of money would be spent hiring out an entire hotel, where they’d bring their new ranges and present them to the assembled guests, along with a sales pitch. We’d then be given a very expensive luncheon where the wine flowed and told the information we’d just learned would be strictly embargoed for around two months.

A particular low point in my caravan career was attending a product launch where a manufacturer’s entire team of directors stood up and sang ‘Always Look on the Bright Side of Life’. Luckily, it seems that those days are now in the past.

Launching directly to the publicInstead of one or two pages covering the new ranges in a publication, or an article mentioning the highlights, manufacturers can do it themselves. They can demonstrate the different ranges and multiple layouts, while going into a lot more detail about the various features.

This leaves them free to focus on what they do best, which is making leisure vehicles. The caravan industry isn’t small and getting ahead of the curve in terms of direct-to-consumer communications is absolutely vital. Striking up a conversation with customers is what’s going to drive the industry forward.

Within 24 hours of the Bailey Live Launch, some 4,000 people had seen the footage and it’s full of comments from people trying to find out more. That allows Bailey to answer the most pressing questions that they hadn’t preempted. For example, one audience member asked how much the Adamo can tow, which was answered there and then.

As well as finding out more about the products, potential purchasers can also discover more behind the scenes information on the company. This includes both the design and testing processes, which are instrumental in bringing new models to market. It’s a more transparent way to address the public without relying on journalists.

Watch the Bailey Live Launch 2024 now.

Caravan Guard scoops two insurance awards

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Specialist insurer Caravan Guard has come out on top in two categories of What Motorhome magazine’s annual awards.

It was named best motorhome insurance provider and best campervan insurance provider for 2024, beating out 11 other firms for the prizes.

The judges highlighted Caravan Guard’s high level of cover and low premiums as the most important factors when choosing an insurer.

Among the benefits are unlimited windscreen cover, a £1,000 limit for replacement locks, high personal injury claims of up to £15,000 and legal cover.

While Caravan Guard has scooped the award in the motorhome category before, it’s the first time it’s won for campervans.

Ryan Wilby, managing director of the firm, said: “We’re delighted to have won another award for our motorhome insurance scheme.

“We’ve worked hard to make our motorhome and campervan cover benefits some of the best around and to maintain very competitive premiums.

“Combined with the brilliant service offered by our team seven days a week, we truly believe we offer an award-winning package to both motorhome and campervan owners.

“Thank you to all our existing customers for their loyalty and feedback that helps us to continually improve.”

Why do leisure vehicles require specialist insurance?

It’s a legal requirement to have insurance for your caravan, motorhome or campervan and standard car insurance doesn’t count.

As well as leisure vehicles being much larger than your typical car, they also perform many more functions, which should be reflected in your insurance.

For example, a good policy will cover accommodation in the event of a breakdown or an accident, because your caravan, motorhome or campervan is also where you sleep.

Before purchasing insurance, make sure it includes:

  • Cover for contents and personal effects, including expensive electronics and valuables you’re likely to have in your leisure vehicle.
  • Travel insurance for going abroad, if you’re planning on going overseas.
  • Cover for any damage caused by gas canisters or heaters.
  • Agreed-value cover, where a specific amount is paid out if the vehicle is written off or stolen.
  • Breakdown insurance like you would have for a car.
  • Key protection in case they’re lost or stolen.
  • Accidental damage, which should include important elements like the floor.

What influences the cost of leisure vehicle insurance?

Obviously some specialist insurers will charge more than others for cover, but there are also a number of factors that will influence your premium. These include the engine size, where you store your caravan, motorhome or campervan, how much you use it and any security features that are fitted.



 

 

 

 

Photo credit: Pexels/Third-man

Caravan Salon 2024 underway in Dusseldorf

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Germany’s premier leisure vehicle event is underway in Dusseldorf, after Caravan Salon had a successful preview day.

Running from August 30th to September 8th, some 778 exhibitors have descended on the city for the biggest show in the caravan and motorhome calendar.

Covering 250,000 square metres, there’s everything on display from the latest caravans, motorhomes and campervans to camping accessories, holiday destinations and caravan parks.

Dr Stephan Keller, Dusseldorf’s lord mayor, said: “Here, interested, enthusiastic and experienced campers are provided with the latest equipment and information on holiday destinations. 

“Thanks to the innovative strength of the industry, camping holidays can be made sustainable. I wish Caravan Salon a successful run.”

The 2023 edition of the trade fair saw record numbers attend and organisers hope to top those figures this year.

A total of 16 halls have been filled with specialist caravanning vendors, with some of the event’s highlights also happening in the outside areas of the venue’s grounds.

It’s an opportunity for prospective caravan and motorhome owners from the UK to see an even wider range of leisure vehicles than those on display at the NEC shows in Birmingham.

While many of this country’s larger manufacturers are displaying in Dusseldorf, it’s a chance to see what the European brands have to offer.

The leisure vehicle market on the continent varies considerably from the UK, offering a larger choice and different design priorities, making it worth looking further afield if you’re thinking of buying.

Among the exhibitors this year, you’ll spot the likes of Adria, Benimar, Chausson, Knaus Tabbert, Niesmann + Bishoff and Westfalia, as well as smaller manufacturers you may have never heard of before.

A special exhibit, the Erwin Hymer Museum, is designed to take visitors on a tour of the history of caravanning, as this brand celebrates its 60th year.

Marius Berlemann, managing director of the trade fair, said: “Caravan Salon once again proves its exceptional importance, because in Düsseldorf visitors can – besides the diversity of products and services – look forward to the total caravanning experience from vehicles to dream destinations.”

One-day tickets to the Caravan Salon are priced at €19 (£16) on weekends and €17 on working days for adults, while children aged between six and 12 cost €8 on weekends and €6 on workdays. 

The venue’s address is Lotzweg, 40474 Dusseldorf, Germany.



What makes a good caravan read?

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Having a good book on the go is an essential part of a holiday for many Brits, especially if you’re setting off in a caravan or motorhome.

Many of us have more time to read while away than during our busy everyday lives and if the weather isn’t cooperating, curling up in your leisure vehicle with a compelling book is time well spent.

So, what makes a good book to take on a caravan holiday? Some people like weighty tomes they can get lost in, while others prefer shorter novels they know they’ll finish before it’s time to return home.

The Works has analysed the top trending and best selling fiction books of the last 12 months to help us see which books might be appropriate for your next touring trip.

Two to four-hour reads

If you’re looking for a book to read in its entirety during a wet afternoon in your caravan, then The Works recommends First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston, Clear by Carys Davies or A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J Maas.

The list also contains a number of short story collections, which take less than four hours to read in their entirety.

These types of books are great to keep in your caravan, as you can pick them up whenever you’ve got some free time without the daunting task of having to complete a whole novel.

Among those recommended are Angela Carter’s The Bloody Chamber, After A Dance by Bridget O’Connor and Julia Armfield’s Salt Slow.

Four to six-hour reads

For something a bit meatier, choose a thriller from the list of longer books, like Jeneva Rose’s Home is Where The Bodies Are or Frieda McFadden’s One By One.

If that’s not your vibe, then you could opt for the romantic novel Night Shift by Annie Crown, which can be completed in less than five hours by an average reader.

Further suggestions include Green Frog by Gina Chung, Hiromi Kawakami’s I Won’t Let You Go and One By One by Freida McFadden.

Six to eight-hour reads

Caravanners whose main priority is getting stuck into their reading material might want to see what all the hype is about with the big BookTok trend that is Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors.

Alternatively, reach for You Are Here, the latest novel from David Nicholls, who wrote the hugely popular One Day.

Eight to 14-hour reads

If the weather forecast is for relentless rain or you’re simply a voracious reader, head to the nearest bookshop to your caravan site and pick up something longer.

Elsie Silver’s Powerless can be read in around eight hours, while Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros will keep you entertained for nearly 12 hours.

The longest novel on the list is House of Flame and Shadow, another offering by Sarah J Maas, which is sure to enthral fantasy fans.

 

Photo credit: Pexels/cottonbro studio



Redline Campers reintroduces its Classic model

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Redline Campers has made the decision to relaunch its Classic model to the campervan market after a hiatus of a number of years.

Not only is the much-loved van now available to purchase but it’s at a lower price point than previously, making it more accessible to those wanting to buy their own leisure vehicle than ever before.

With a starting price of £34,995, the four-berth campervan will be built on pre-owned base vehicles at Redline’s in-house production facility at Watford Gap in Northamptonshire.

The VW T6.1 campervan conversion will feature appliances and components from RIB Altair, Dometic, and BCA.

Customers can expect to see a RIB Altair 112 Bed with ISOFIX; a newly designed kitchen with additional storage and premium edge banded lockers; a bespoke 240/12v wiring loom and 16-inch Clayton alloy wheels.

Redline has said its decision to relaunch the Classic is the result of listening to customer feedback and identifying a gap in the market.

It’s able to achieve the relatively low price point as it doesn’t require the same level of customisation as other conversions in the range.

The Classic is therefore available in two choices of colours for the cabinets and worktops. These are Driftwood or Carbon Ash for the former and White or Black Sparkle for the latter.

This makes the Classic a good option as an entry-level model into the world of owning a van conversion.

Mark Turley, director of Redline Campers, said: “We are pleased to announce the reintroduction of the fantastic value Classic model to the Redline Campers range.

“This is a campervan for the customer who is not largely concerned about customisation but is still looking for a quality and functional conversion.”

Redline Campers was established in 1971 and is a VCA Type Approved and NCC Approved Manufacturer of van conversions.

Utilising VW and Ford base vehicles, its range comprises four dedicated campervan models and one day van. Its own and industry-leading appliances and components are fitted into the vehicles.



The AA’s top 5 campervan hotspots to visit

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Deciding where to go next on a campervan trip is a process of carefully weighing up lots of factors, both aesthetic and practical.

You want plenty of things to do and nice scenery, but also to be able to fuel up or recharge your EV with ease for a smooth holiday experience.

Luckily, the AA has done some of the hard work for you, working out which destinations are the best when all these elements are considered in relation to each other.

The criteria used to determine the rankings were:

  • Number of hikes and trails
  • Things to do
  • Amount of campervan sites
  • Average cost of a meal
  • Availability of fuel
  • Number of EV chargers
  • Traffic

  1. York

Nicknamed the Chocolate City, York is home to iconic medieval architecture and popular attractions like the National Railway Museum.

It has the highest number of nearby campsites of any of the locations studied, boasting no fewer than 72 in the vicinity, as well as more than 700 things to do, including 85 hikes and trails.

  1. Glasgow

Scotland’s second city is known for its friendly locals and the wonderful atmosphere. You can spend the day at the Glasgow Botanic Gardens and the Riverside Museum.

While there’s a massive 1,153 things to do in the city and Glasgow has the maximum 100 score for fuel availability, there are only five campervan sites.

  1. Edinburgh

Staying in Scotland, Edinburgh is famous for its culture, architecture and world-class places to eat and drink.

The AA found 140 hikes and 1,846 activities to enjoy in the capital, with 96 EV chargers per every 100,000 people and an average restaurant pricing a meal at £16.

  1. Bristol

Steeped in history both architecturally and culturally, Bristol is renowned as the home city of artist Banksy and musical acts such as Massive Attack, Portishead and Idles.

Bristol stands out with 165 nearby hikes and trails, 739 things to do and a fuel availability score of 98, while the average price of a meal is £15 and there are 17 campsites in the area.

  1. Exeter

The ancient city of Exeter is a fascinating place to discover, with its gothic cathedral and vaulted, medieval underground passages beneath its streets.

It’s the most convenient location for your trip, as it’s home to 35 campervan sites and an average of 155 EV chargers per 100,000 people, while there’s also more than 250 things to do in the area.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Scott Precious



Packing holiday clothes in your caravan or motorhome

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Packing clothes for a holiday is an artform, requiring careful consideration about what to take and how to match items with each other.

When it comes to fitting everything into your caravan or motorhome, however, there tends to be more space than the single bag you can take on most flights.

Despite there being lockers above the bed and down the side of the fridge, it’s still useful to employ clever techniques to make sure your holiday wardrobe doesn’t get creased.

Nic Shacklock from Online-Bedrooms.co.uk said: “Packing for a holiday doesn’t have to mean dealing with wrinkled clothes.

 “By choosing the right fabrics and using clever packing hacks, holidaymakers can ensure their clothes don’t look a mess when they unpack at the hotel.

 “When you arrive at your destination with clothes that are ready to wear, you save time and stress, allowing you to start enjoying your holiday immediately.

 “Packing carefully is especially important if you’re attending a special event during your trip, but even if you’re not, it’s always nice to look your best while you’re out and about, whether you’re sightseeing or going out for meals.”

Experts from the website have shared their tips…

Choose the right materials

The first thing to consider is selecting clothes in materials that are less likely to crease when stowed away in your leisure vehicle.

Linen has a reputation for wrinkling easily, but it’s not the only fabric to do so. Silk and cotton materials also hold onto lines where they’ve been folded.

Try packing garments made from synthetic materials such as lycra, nylon and polyester instead, as they’ll come out of the locker looking sharp.

Roll your clothes

The rolling technique has been widely accepted among travel bloggers as the best method for packing a suitcase and it applies to caravan and motorhome storage spaces too.

Not only will it help you to keep clothes wrinkle-free, but rolling has been found to be an efficient way to fit more items into a space.

Utilise the sushi method

Building on the rolling technique, the sushi method means bundling garments together, with larger ones spread over the outer layers.

Start in the centre with things like socks or underwear, then encase them with other items. While this could work for transporting clothes, it could all unravel once you want to wear things.

Make use of packing cubes

Packing cubes are great for organising your holiday wardrobe and fitting more in, as they help compress clothes down.

A favourite of the CaravanTimes editor, these essentials can be used like a travel version of your chest of drawers at home.

Either pack all similar items together in a cube or separate out a whole outfit for the day to avoid having to open more than once.

Fold with tissue paper

If your caravan trip involves a special occasion or event, then it can be worth going the extra mile to keep party clothes looking their best.

For these items, place tissue paper between the layers to reduce friction and therefore the likelihood of creases forming.

 

Photo credit: Pexels/Vlada Karpovich



National Caravan Council relaunches TowCheck website

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The National Caravan Council (NCC) has relaunched its popular TowCheck website with new and improved features.

Allowing drivers to easily match suitable towcars with caravans, the online tool is designed to ensure the combination they’re opting for is both safe and legal.

Now with more than 16,000 unique caravan model specifications and over 40 million cars, TowCheck provides caravan dealerships and customers with clearer, faster and more accurate towing information.

This process is based on the most up-to-date car and caravan market data and takes less than a minute to return the results.

The main improvement to the service is a more user-friendly website, which produces a matching report that’s accessible from all devices.

Such reports contain both details provided by car and caravan manufacturers and real-time data for the most accurate view on performance.

David Whitehead, director of technical services, touring caravans and motorcaravans at the NCC, said: “If you are considering buying a caravan, new or used, or changing your car if you have a caravan already, you must make sure that the car-caravan combination is correctly matched in relation to the relevant weights to ensure you remain safe and stay within the law.

“Each car and caravan match on TowCheck is produced by a weight calculation that also takes into account relevant towing expertise, giving everyone peace of mind before making a new purchase.”

Alternative options

Where the initial check returns an illegal and unsafe match, users will now be presented with a list of alternative caravans.

These will be from the same brand as the initial model that was inputted, wherever possible, and represent a good starting point for making a more informed choice.

Other services

As well as inputting a specific model of car and a particular caravan, users can:

  • Request a match using just the towcar or just the caravan
  • Obtain a list of suitable cars for a preferred caravan
  • Get a list of suitable caravans for a preferred towing car

About the NCC

Founded in 1939, the NCC is the UK trade association for the caravan industry, representing the touring caravan, motorhome, campervan, holiday lodge and residential park home sectors.

Speaking up for the entire supply chain, from suppliers workshops and manufacturers to dealerships, park operators and service providers, it offers a well-rounded view on the industry.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Salah Ait Mokhtar



A sneak preview of the Motorhome & Caravan Show 2024

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The Motorhome & Caravan Show will return to the NEC in Birmingham from Tuesday, October 15th to Sunday, October 20th.

Spanning 11 halls and with over 350 exhibitors, it’s the UK’s leading showcase of the latest motorhomes, caravans and campervans.

Approximately 1,000 new models will be on display, alongside the newest and most innovative gadgets and accessories to make the lifestyle as comfortable as possible.

The show offers a one-stop shop for everything needed to get travel enthusiasts road ready, whether they’re new to the world of caravanning or seasoned pros.

Among the highlights will be exclusive launches, which aficionados will be able to step inside and explore for themselves.

Chat to leading UK and European leisure vehicle manufacturers and dealers, awning manufacturers, accessory companies, destinations and tourist boards to have all your questions answered.

Big names such as Adria, Auto-Sleepers, Bailey, Benimar, Buccaneer Coachman, Elddis, Eriba, Etrusco, Hymer, Itineo, Knaus, Rapido, Roller Team, Swift and Westfalia will all be in attendance.

Karen Dodd, marketing director at NCC Events, said: “Whether you’re looking to buy your first campervan, motorhome or caravan, replace an existing unit or simply want to upgrade your current vehicle with the latest tech and accessories, there are so many exciting and innovative new models to see and products to explore at the show, you’re sure to find what you are looking for, as well as enjoying a fantastic day out.”

Exclusive first looks

Auto-Trail will be giving show visitors the chance for a first look at its brand new product for 2025, as well as an innovative feature it says will revolutionise its motorhome line-up.

UK manufacturer Swift will be showcasing the new Monza, which is built on the latest Ford Transit Custom and features an innovative touchscreen control panel and a stylish Panther soft furnishing scheme.

As previously reported by CaravanTimes, Coachman has completely redesigned its Acadia caravan range for the 2025 season, delivering modern and contemporary interiors alongside the brand’s renowned build quality.

If you’re on the lookout for a motorhome for the whole brood, Dethleffs’ new, spacious XL Family model has been compared to an apartment on wheels.

Kaktus Vans is making its October show debut, with a selection of custom-built adventure vehicles that not only offer high performance but also look the part.

Another first-time exhibitor is the family-run Sherwood Campers, which is a fully authorised installer for the German company Reimo, fitting its seats and pop-top roof systems to all its builds.

Learn new skills

Try towing a caravan or driving a motorhome in safe conditions by booking onto free Motorhome Manoeuvring sessions with the Caravan and Motorhome Club.

Caravan Towing Experiences are also being offered by the Camping & Caravanning Club and the Show’s Tow Car Partner Isuzu.

Getting behind the wheel of a leisure vehicle can be daunting, so it makes sense to try before you buy.



Coachman launches three new caravans

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Caravan dealers and industry experts have had their first look at three new Coachman vehicles that will be available to purchase for the 2025 season.

Interested parties gathered at the manufacturer’s annual showcase at Beverley Barn in East Yorkshire to see the Acadia 460, Acadia 675 Xtra and Lusso III unveiled.

Acadia 460

A new compact caravan, the Acadia 460 features a two-berth set-up, making it perfect for couples or solo travellers.

The parallel seating has been upholstered in herringbone fabric, while the kitchen features an extending worktop and improved storage space.

Style continues to take centre stage in the bathroom, with its Belfast sink, terrazzo style splashback and a mixer tap.

Acadia 675 Xtra

The Acadia 675 Xtra is a larger twin axle model with sleeping accommodation for up to four people and an L-shaped front lounge.

It includes a transverse island bed and a spacious end washroom, while off the lounge in the centre of the layout is a well-equipped kitchen with big fridge-freezer and additional storage.

The 460 and 675 Xtra are at the forefront of a refreshed Acadia range, which is known for its comfort, convenience and style.

Ben Parkin of Coachman said: “This is the range that’s had the most concentration for us, in terms of development. Internally it’s completely new, every piece of furniture has been redesigned, trying to save some weight but also moving it on from a styling perspective.

“We’ve modernised it in certain areas but still retained some of the Coachman characteristics and feel that customers are used to and love.”

Lusso III

The third model in Coachman’s luxury tourer range, Lusso, features wide twin beds and a vast washroom, complete with a shower and one-piece door at the rear.

A generous L-shaped lounge at the front has been upgraded in the Lusso III to include higher and more supportive backrests and is finished off with a coordinating footstool.

Integrating the two areas is a well-equipped kitchen with enhanced workspace and deeper cupboards for longer trips.

Coachman has been making caravans in Hull since 1986, with its first range – Coachman 440 – establishing the brand’s reputation for quality tourers.

The industry launch event earlier this month provided the manufacturer with an opportunity to let experts see the new vehicles in the flesh.

Mr Parkin added: “Trade shows are always a great chance for us to get a steer. Positive. Negative. What’s right. What’s wrong.

“Some of the feedback is personal preference, personal taste – but it helps validate what we’ve done is correct – and we’re confident we’ve headed in the right direction for the 2025 season.”



30 best days out with kids in the UK

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As we roll towards the end of the school summer holidays in England and Wales, families may be looking for additional inspiration to keep the kids entertained.

Packing up the caravan or motorhome and heading off to enjoy one of the UK’s best attractions could be just what everyone needs.

The experts at Boundless have put together a list of tried and tested experiences, ranking them based on the views of parents who’ve already been there and done that.

From 38 per cent of survey respondents recommending Cadbury World near Birmingham to 31 per cent championing Cornwall’s Eden Project, there’s lots to reinvigorate your end of summer holiday planning.

Darren Milton from Boundless said: “It’s clear that families up and down the country appreciate the amazing array of things available to see, do and visit in the UK, whether it’s screaming on a rollercoaster, eating as much chocolate as you can or looking back at what life was like when the dinosaurs were roaming the land.”

The top five

1.    Seeing the animals at London Zoo

Some 51 per cent of parents said visiting the animals at London Zoo was the best thing to do with kids this summer. With 698 species of animals to see, there’ll be plenty to keep everyone entertained.

2.    Visiting the creatures at Edinburgh Zoo

Up in Scotland, 42 per cent of families recommended the chance to interact with some of the 2,500 individual animals at Edinburgh Zoo. The attraction has recently welcomed its newest addition, Cleo the cheetah.

3.    Eating chocolate at Cadbury World, Birmingham                            

A day out with chocolate is likely to be a hit and 38 per cent of respondents would agree. Find out how chocolate is made, enjoy the rides and meet classic characters such as Freddo.

4.    A trip to Legoland, Windsor

It’s not just about bricks at Legoland, as there’s 55 rides and seasonal special events to enjoy. Join Lego divers on an underwater adventure or watch a film in 4D. With so many different Lego themes, there’s bound to be something to capture your kids’ imagination.

5.    Riding roller coasters at Alton Towers, Stoke on Trent

The UK’s biggest theme park never disappoints with over 40 rides, including ten main roller coasters. Don’t miss the chance to experience Wicker Man, Galactica, Nemesis, Oblivion, Rita, Thirteen and The Smiler.

Further inspiration

  1.   Going to the Eden Project, Cornwall 
  2.   A trip to Sealife, Blackpool 
  3.   Eating pizza on Polkerris Beach, Cornwall  
  4.   Getting spooked at the London Dungeons   
  5.   Enjoying the rides at Blackpool Pleasure Beach 
  6.   Going to Madame Tussauds, London 
  7.   Riding roller coasters at Thorpe Park, Chertsey
  8.   The Making of Harry Potter at Warner Brothers Studios 
  9.   Crabbing at Walberswick Beach, Suffolk 
  10.   Seeing the flowers at Kew Gardens, London 
  11.   Going on the rides at Brighton Palace Pier
  12.   Eating ice cream at the Ice Cream Farm, Tattenhall, Cheshire
  13.   Learning about dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum, London  
  14.   Seeing the caves at Cheddar Gorge, Somerset 
  15.   A trip to the New Forest 
  16.   Visiting the Titanic Museum, Belfast
  17.   Battlement climbing at Warwick Castle
  18.   A train ride through South Devon Railway
  19.   Riding roller coasters at Drayton Manor Resort, Staffordshire
  20.   Visit Peter Rabbit: Explore and Play, Blackpool 
  21.   A trip to Watergate Bay, Cornwall 
  22.   Playing arcade games on Barry Island, Wales 
  23.   Seeing the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London 
  24.   A trip to Peppa Pig World, Hampshire
  25.   Discovering the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Richard Cook